5 Best Hotels in Terlingua, West Texas and the Panhandle

Next door to Far Flung Outdoor Center and just 3 miles from the western boundary of Big Bend National Park, the outfitter operates 12 freestanding casitas with hardwood floors, flat-screen TVs, kitchenettes, two pillow-top queen beds, and back porches with rocking chairs. There are two common courtyards with propane grills, dining tables, and tidy Southwestern landscaping.

The quirky denizens of old Terlingua ghost town have renovated these long-abandoned miners' homes into one-of-a-kind retreats. Artistic flair complementing traditional Southwestern features such as kiva fireplaces, Saltillo tile, and ceiling vigas (wooden beams) define accommodations named El Patron, Cinnabar, Candelilla, and the Rockhouse—the latter sleeping up to eight—as well as six rooms in the elegant Perry Mansion. The faraway vibe of the property works for those seeking romance, adventure, or simply an escape from civilization.

The former cavalry post turned ghost town is now a privately owned collection of Western-theme tourist attractions with a golf resort, spa, riding stables, convenience store, RV park, and hiking trails, adding up to the nicest place to eat, shop, and overnight within 25 miles of the park. The main lodge is the Badlands Hotel, a two-story affair with a lobby staircase and an opulent Tiffany chandelier. Upstairs hallways have the slightly saucy aura of an old bordello. The rooms, to be sure, are outfitted with everything modern. In addition, there are time-share condos across the "boardwalk," a Pueblo-style motel, the Cavalry Post, down the street, and a nearby RV Park. Badlands guests can use the motel's swimming pool. An upscale but casual restaurant and lounge are a walk through a breezeway.