El Cosmico, a self-described 21-acre campground “Nomadic Hotel” for “Intrepid travelers from near and far in Marfa, Texas,” cannot be described as anything other than counterculture tourism at its finest. Owner and Texas hotelier Liz Lambert says despite its humble exterior, design is of primary concern in this unique campsite hotel.
Let’s take a closer look.
This is by no means a luxury hotel. You won’t find fresh towels every day or a cleaning service in the morning. The bathhouse won’t have a continental breakfast or high-end shampoo bottles. You will find a once-in-a-lifetime “Glamping” experience unlike any other and a starry night sky that could very easily ruin you for all other skylines. Located deep in Texas seclusion, you can see an unmatched view from your quaint little sleeping quarters. Here you can see the beautiful stars in the dark Marfa sky. Tents, of course, have electric outlets. It wouldn’t be Glamping without them!
The atmosphere itself is intoxicating, complete with some fantastic combination of rockabilly and nomadic counterculture that applies to the 60s and now. When choosing the type of shelter, you will be taken to El Cosmico. There are various options: Vintage Trailers, Safari Tents, Yurts, and good old-fashioned campsites with tents.
This eye-popping trailer, “Little Pinky,” is famous obviously for its striking raspberry shade and retro interior. This minimal abode is a minor quarter on the lot but still has given many a well-traveled hipster their most-liked Instagram photo. Tents are similarly adorned, with a comfortable bed and chair. You’ll have everything you need to sit on your front porch and stargaze into the Marfa night sky.
Like many campgrounds, El Cosmico has a bathhouse equipped with toilets, showers, sinks, and the essentials. They also have a small store where you can buy toiletries and other amenities if you find yourself in need. Fully efficient, well-kept, and adorned with greenery for extra privacy, the bathhouse is right on par with your average campsite bathhouse but with an extra dose of Americana. It has, however, been known to freeze during the winter months of November-March.
You can also opt for a less private but so much more spacious, soak in the outdoor bathtubs. They are kept warm by wood-burning fires.
Dinner time at El Cosmico is quite often a community affair. The outdoor communal kitchen has all the fixings, a sink, a refrigerator, and barbecues. A common site for festivals, concerts, and other events, good food is never too far away but remember to contribute!
El Cosmico does not allow outside beer or wine, so you must purchase from their well-stocked bar. Live entertainment, small music festivals, craft shows, and more are common occurrences on-site, allowing you to share a cold one with new friends.
Marfa is located in the high plains desert at a 4800ft altitude, and in the winter months, November through March, the temperatures will reach freezing. So if you book during these months, a tepee might not be the best bet.
It would be a complete understatement to say El Cosmico is dog friendly. Four-legged fur babies are, as expected, a guest as their human companions.
Yes, wood-burning hot tubs are available most nights after 6. Staff will light and stoke the fire and provide you with a wood pile.
You’ll know you’ve arrived when you spot that “sign out front” aka a re-painted old station wagon at the front of the camp. While they don’t stay fully occupied all season long, you will have to make a reservation if you want a specific trailer. I.E there is only one mansion-sized trailer, one “little pinky,” and one Yurt.
El Cosmico isn’t for the high-maintenance, but if you’re looking for a wild west adventure, you’ll be glad you made the trip. It’s the perfect definition of “Glamping.” Sleeping outdoors, but well within reach of the comforts of home. Plus, nobody ever complained about being able to charge their phone, or having some wifi at their fingertips.
Interested? You can find out booking information here.
