In the dramatic Chihuahuan Desert near Del Rio, Texas, Amistad National Recreation Area centers on the U.S. portion of the International Amistad Reservoir along the Rio Grande. This water-based escape invites RV campers to pull into one of several first-come, first-served campgrounds—Governors Landing, Rough Canyon, San Pedro, Spur 406, or 277 North—where spacious sites offer a dry camp under wide desert skies. A dump station is on-site, making it easy to extend your stay. Clear, quiet coves and rugged canyon scenery define this borderlands oasis, perfect for unwinding far from the crowds.
Best season — Year-round; spring and fall offer mild temperatures for hiking and water activities.
At a glance
The facts worth checking before you roll out
Conservative, source-minded facts for planning your visit — always worth confirming against current conditions before you travel.
Managing agency
National Park Service (U.S. Department of the Interior)
Defining feature
The U.S. portion of the International Amistad Reservoir on the Rio Grande — a water-based recreation destination in the Chihuahuan Desert
Location
Near Del Rio, Texas
RV / drive-in camping
Yes — vehicle-accessible first-come, first-served campgrounds (Governors Landing, Rough Canyon, San Pedro, Spur 406, 277 North) accommodate RVs; no hookups, but a dump station is available
On the ground
Amistad National Recreation Area protects the U.S. side of the International Amistad Reservoir on the Rio Grande, located in the Chihuahuan Desert near Del Rio, Texas. Managed by the National Park Service, this area is defined by its water resources and dramatic desert landscape. RV travelers will find a unique opportunity to experience both open water recreation and quiet solitude within this borderlands oasis.
RV campers at Amistad primarily enjoy water-based activities on the reservoir—boating, fishing, and paddling are all popular options. Vehicle access is provided to first-come, first-served campgrounds including Governors Landing, Rough Canyon, San Pedro, Spur 406, and 277 North. These sites offer dry camping, but a convenient dump station allows for extended stays while exploring the area.
Amistad National Recreation Area is accessible year-round, though spring and fall provide the most comfortable conditions. The Chihuahuan Desert brings warm days paired with cool nights, making these seasons ideal for both water activities and hiking among the limestone cliffs. Be prepared for potential heat during summer months and cooler temperatures in winter.
Consider establishing a basecamp in the general Del Rio area to explore Amistad National Recreation Area. This allows flexibility to visit the park’s five campgrounds—Governors Landing, Rough Canyon, San Pedro, Spur 406, or 277 North—and enjoy daily excursions to the reservoir and surrounding desert scenery, utilizing the available dump station as needed.
Official sources
- National Park Service — Amistad National Recreation Area National Park Service
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