Your Desert Escape: ten minutes from Big Bend national park

Come make memories & feel the magic of Big Bend,Texas

Reviews

Jay

February 2026 · Airbnb

Mel's place was everything I was looking for and was exactly as described. The location is close to everything in Terlingua and with easy access to the park, and a very short drive to everything there is to do in the area. The property itself is close to all of the stores/restaurants/etc but feels as remote and serene as you can get. I've been to Terlingua several times, and Mel's place offered the best opportunity for looking at the stars and surrounding mountains that I've ever had in the area. This is essentially turn-key camping. No setup or gear required, just arrive to the campsite and enjoy the tent/table/other amenities and your surroundings.

Amelia

February 2026 · Airbnb

I was very impressed with Mel's Place- the setup felt very symbiotic with the dry desert environment. It was simple and cozy, and as described. The amenities were basic and nicer than I expected - the bathroom was very clean and had no odors. We stayed at the site right next to the bathroom and could not smell it at all. Unfortunately the shower was not working when we were there, but Mel was very communicative about that and provided wipes which sufficed well enough for our purposes. I had full phone service on site. We really enjoyed our stay here and would stay again if we come back to Big Bend. A few tips/notes: If the lows are in the low 60s or below, I would bring a sleeping bag - the blankets provided are not quite enough for those temperatures. There is not much shade, so either bring shade with you or don't expect to hang out there much during the heat of the day on hot days. Bring plenty of water.

Eva-Elisabeth

February 2026 · Airbnb

We had a magical stay at Mel’s place from the boho vibes to the tranquility of the desert to amazing stargazing. Melanie was extremely responsive to any questions we had especially considering the remote location. Speaking of being “off grid”, we had good cell service our entire stay at the cabin. The location was perfect- close to Big Bend and Terlingua. The cabin was more spacious than I had expected, and we took advantage of the outdoor shower after long hikes. This was a really special experience, and we would love to come back for another stay!!

Andy

February 2026 · Airbnb

Great tent, everything as pictured. Mel communicated everything and was extremely responsive. Location was perfect, out of the town just enough to feel secluded, close enough to be at the park or Terlingua ghost town in no time! Will be back!!

Dave

February 2026 · Airbnb

This is the 2nd time we’ve stayed at Mel’s Place. It’s an incredible place to stay. You’re close to town and the park, but the location is so private you feel worlds away. The house is small but Mel has thought of everything to make it comfortable. The kitchen is very well stocked for your cooking needs. Make sure to take advantage of the outdoor shower! The views from the cabin are amazing, you can stargaze right from the patio! Highly recommend!

Evan

January 2026 · Airbnb

Awesome stay def a real adventure. You have to go to el gordos food truck nearby and get a deluxe brisket cheese sandwich. It changed my life. Beautiful location and really cool area. Mel is very helpful and the tent setup is really unique. The national park is insane you basically just say wow everywhere you go. Thanks for the stay Mel. Go pats 💪

Sadie

January 2026 · Airbnb

Melanie was an amazing host! Any questions I had she was very responsive and beyond helpful. She truly went out of her way to make sure the stay was as comfortable and smooth as possible!

Morgan

January 2026 · Airbnb

It was such a beautiful stay. Our space felt very private, yet safe. Our campsite came with more things than we were expecting (Coleman stove, lantern, hand sanitizer, etc.). Melanie was super responsive and gave us good recommendations for things. We would love to come back!

Bonnie

January 2026 · Airbnb

Mel’s cabin was such a wonderful break from car camping. It was clean, cozy, and I felt right at home. The bed was super comfy, and the shower was fantastic! My favorite part was enjoying some Marfa coffee on the porch looking out at the Chisos Mountains in the morning and stargazing at night.

Ezra

January 2026 · Airbnb

Was awesome came here with my girlfriend had ZERO problems. The place was beautiful, especially the night sky. Had a critter poking at our tent on the last night but when staying in a tent that's to be expected. Overall 10/10