Grassy Banks Campground

For Texans eager to explore the rugged beauty and vast expanses of our state's wild west, Grassy Banks Campground offers an exceptional basecamp for your adventures. Nestled on Highway 170, one of the most scenic drives in Texas, this primitive campground provides a direct gateway to the majestic Rio Grande and the sprawling wilderness of Big Bend Ranch State Park. If you're looking for an authentic outdoor experience, where the stars shine brighter and the sounds of nature prevail, Grassy Banks is a destination that perfectly blends accessibility with a genuine connection to the desert landscape.

This isn't your typical resort-style camping; instead, Grassy Banks embraces the "primitive" designation, providing essential amenities while encouraging self-sufficiency and an appreciation for the natural environment. It's a place where you can launch your boat directly into the Rio Grande, explore world-class hiking trails, and unwind under the vast Texas sky. Whether you're planning a fishing trip, a kayaking excursion, or simply a peaceful retreat, Grassy Banks Campground serves as an ideal starting point for unforgettable memories in the Big Bend region.

The charm of Grassy Banks lies in its simplicity and its unbeatable location. It’s perfect for those who appreciate clean facilities, direct river access, and being within a stone's throw of iconic Texas landmarks like Big Bend Ranch State Park and the eclectic town of Terlingua. Prepare to be immersed in a landscape of dramatic mountains, ancient riverbeds, and unique desert flora and fauna, all while having a comfortable, well-maintained spot to return to each evening.

Location and Accessibility

Grassy Banks Campground is conveniently situated at Redford, TX 79846, USA, directly along the picturesque Highway 170. This prime location places it within incredible proximity to some of West Texas's most celebrated natural attractions. Redford itself is a small, historic community along the Rio Grande, setting the stage for an authentic Texas borderland experience.

One of the most significant aspects of Grassy Banks' location is its direct access to the Rio Grande. Campers can enjoy the convenience of a dirt boat ramp on-site, making it incredibly easy to launch kayaks, canoes, or other small watercraft directly from the campground. This is a huge advantage for those planning river excursions, offering unparalleled access to this iconic waterway.

Furthermore, Grassy Banks Campground serves as an excellent base for exploring the vast Big Bend Ranch State Park. This park, often referred to as the "other side of nowhere," offers a more rugged and less developed experience than its national park counterpart, boasting countless miles of hiking, biking, and equestrian trails, along with breathtaking scenic drives. The campground's close proximity to these hiking spots means less travel time and more time enjoying the trails.

The eclectic and historic town of Terlingua, known for its ghost town atmosphere, unique shops, and local eateries, is also easily accessible from Grassy Banks. This provides a convenient option for campers looking to resupply, grab a meal, or simply soak in the local culture after a day of outdoor activities. While there is no water or electricity directly at the campsites, the town of Lajitas, approximately a 10-mile drive away, offers essential services like gas and a small country store for any last-minute needs, ensuring that while you’re primitive camping, you’re not entirely cut off.

Services Offered

• Direct Rio Grande Access: The campground boasts a dirt boat ramp, providing immediate and convenient access for launching watercraft onto the Rio Grande.
• Clean Restrooms: Campers can utilize well-maintained, clean, and well-stocked bathrooms on-site, complete with plenty of toilet paper and hand sanitizer.
• Primitive Campsites: Each campsite is primitive, meaning there is no direct water or electricity hookup available at the sites. Campers must bring all necessary supplies with them.
• Fire Rings and Picnic Tables: Every campsite is equipped with a fire ring for campfires and a picnic table for meal preparation and dining.
• Covered Structures: Some campsites offer covered structures, providing shade and protection from the elements, which can be particularly welcome in the West Texas climate.
• First-Come, First-Serve Basis: Grassy Banks operates on a first-come, first-serve basis, particularly for popular sites like Lower Madera and Arenosa campgrounds. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early, even before the posted 2 PM check-in time, to secure a desired spot.

Features / Highlights

• Prime Location on Highway 170: Grassy Banks is situated directly on the incredibly scenic Highway 170, known for its breathtaking views and winding roads through the Texas desert.
• Direct Rio Grande Access: A standout feature is the on-site dirt boat ramp, allowing for direct and easy access to the Rio Grande for boating, fishing, and water activities.
• Proximity to Big Bend Ranch State Park: The campground is very close to numerous great hiking spots within Big Bend Ranch State Park, making it an ideal basecamp for explorers.
• Close to Terlingua: Its proximity to the unique and historic town of Terlingua offers convenient access to local amenities, quirky attractions, and dining options.
• Well-Maintained Facilities: Despite being a primitive campground, the restrooms are consistently kept "spic and span" and are well-stocked, a significant plus for campers.
• Site 15 Recommendation: A particular highlight is campsite 15, highly recommended by a past visitor for its privacy, ample space for a large tent, shaded picnic table, and close proximity to both the river and the bathrooms. It even has a romantic history for one couple!
• Windy Conditions: Be prepared for potential windy and dusty conditions at certain times of the day, a characteristic of the desert environment. Proper tent staking and sealing are advised.
• Community Atmosphere: While sites can be close together, creating an opportunity to hear neighbors, this can also foster a friendly, communal camping experience.
• Flexibility for Last-Minute Plans: As a first-come, first-serve option, Grassy Banks can be a great choice for last-minute camping trips, especially during busy seasons when Big Bend National Park sites might be fully booked.

Contact Information

Address: Redford, TX 79846, USA

Phone: (432) 424-3327

Mobile Phone: +1 432-424-3327

It is always recommended to call ahead, especially if you have questions about site availability, current conditions, or specific park regulations, as operating hours and conditions can vary.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Texans, Grassy Banks Campground isn't just another place to pitch a tent; it's a quintessential West Texas experience that's perfectly suited for our local adventurous spirit. We understand the vastness and the unique beauty of our state, and Grassy Banks delivers an authentic taste of that wilderness without being overly complicated. Its location on the legendary Highway 170 immediately appeals to those of us who love a scenic drive, and its direct access to the Rio Grande is a golden ticket for anyone looking to explore the river by boat, fish its waters, or simply enjoy its tranquil presence.

The fact that it's a primitive campground with no water or electricity at the sites isn't a drawback for many Texans; rather, it's an invitation to truly disconnect and embrace self-sufficiency, a value deeply ingrained in our state's heritage. We appreciate the ability to bring everything we need and truly immerse ourselves in the natural environment. The clean and well-stocked restrooms are a welcome touch, showing that while it's primitive, comfort and hygiene haven't been overlooked.

Furthermore, Grassy Banks’s proximity to Big Bend Ranch State Park means that world-class hiking, mountain biking, and unparalleled stargazing are literally on your doorstep. For those moments when you need a bit of civilization, the short drive to Lajitas for supplies or to Terlingua for its unique charm provides the perfect balance. The first-come, first-serve policy, while requiring a bit of early planning for popular sites, also offers flexibility for those spontaneous road trips that Texans are known for. It’s a place where you can guarantee a genuine connection with the land, create cherished memories with loved ones – perhaps even get engaged, as one happy camper did – and return home with stories of an unforgettable Texas adventure. Grassy Banks Campground is truly a local gem, offering a slice of the wild Texas we all love, accessible and ready for your next escape.