Lower Madera Canyon Campground

Lower Madera Canyon Campground, located in Big Bend Ranch State Park near Redford, Texas, offers a secluded and striking high-desert camping experience amidst rugged canyons and breathtaking views of the Rio Grande. This primitive campground is a haven for those seeking solitude, unparalleled stargazing in an International Dark Sky Park, and intimate access to the park's vast and untamed landscapes. Visitors will find picnic tables, fire rings, and a composting toilet at the site, enhancing the rustic charm while maintaining its natural essence.

The campground’s location along FM 170, also called the Camino del Rio, places it conveniently between the Rancherias and Fresno Canyon trailheads, making it an excellent base for exploring the park’s 238 miles of multiuse trails. The Rio Grande itself provides opportunities for paddling and wildlife viewing, while the distant silhouettes of mesas and peaks create a scenic backdrop. Campers should be prepared to haul out all trash and waste, as the site is minimally developed to preserve the fragile desert ecosystem.

Situated approximately 30 minutes from the eclectic town of Lajitas, the campground allows easy access to limited amenities and the rugged beauty of the surrounding Big Bend region. Whether enjoying a day hike, a weekend getaway, or an extended escape, Lower Madera Canyon Campground offers an authentic and immersive desert camping experience that caters to adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike.