The modern world asks quite a lot of us. If you’re growing tired of the constant go-go-go nature of our society, why not just leave it behind? For those of you who have wondered, “Can you live off grid in Texas?” the answer is yes. Terlingua, a ghost town nestled in the sprawling West Texas desert, is one of the best places to live off the grid. It’s isolated and surrounded on all sides by beautiful nature. There are so many things to do in Terlingua, Texas, and you won’t even miss all the creature comforts you’ve grown accustomed to!

When it comes to living off grid in Texas, we can't picture a more fitting place to do so than Terlingua. Surrounded by towering mountains and miles of vast desert landscape, this West Texas ghost town is the epitome of seclusion.
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Terlingua is home to just about 100 people, so if you're looking to escape the rat race that is the modern world, you will be in heaven here. Plus, the town is only about 10 minutes from Big Bend National Park, so you'll always be close to some of the best hiking trails in the state.
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In addition to its proximity to Big Bend, Terlingua is as far away from civilization as it gets. The nearest large city is Odessa, over 250 miles to the northeast.
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The town's isolation - and resulting lack of light pollution - give it some of the most striking sunsets you'll ever see, and the stargazing opportunities are second to none.
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We aren't the only ones who believe Terlingua is a wonderful place for off-grid living. The Field Lab, a sustainable living experiment created by a man named John Wells, is a 40-acre homestead with no electricity or running water. His endeavor has caught the attention of the New York Times, Texas Monthly, and many other celebrated publications.
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If you aren't quite ready to sell all of your possessions and move to the desert, why not test out going off the grid at Domeland? This solar-powered Airbnb about 20 minutes outside of town is the perfect place to unplug and recharge if you're feeling burned out.
Airbnb

Check out this YouTube video by Solo RV Living to see some of the best things to do in Terlingua, Texas:

Would you ever consider living off grid in Texas? Tell us your thoughts in the comments! Don’t forget to check out our previous article to learn more about Domeland.

If you know of any other towns perfect for living off grid in Texas, tell us about them via our nomination form! You just may see your suggestions featured in an upcoming article.

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Things To Do In Terlingua, Texas & Related Info

Katie Lawrence | March 29, 2023

What are some of the best things to do in Terlingua, Texas?

The best things to do in Terlingua, Texas include:

  • Starlight Theatre Restaurant & Saloon

This former movie palace is now a gourmet restaurant offering some of the best food, drinks, and live entertainment in Terlingua. Everything from burgers to filet mignon to Terlingua's world-famous chili is on the menu, and it's impossible to have a bad meal.

One of the most desolate cemeteries in Texas, this graveyard dates to the early 1900s. Most of those who are interred here passed away either in mining accidents or as a result of the 1918-1919 Spanish flu outbreak.

  • Terlingua International Chili Cook Off

For those visiting Terlingua on the first weekend of November, the annual Terlingua International Chili Cook Off is a can't-miss event. This long-running festival pits some of the best cooks in the state against one another to see who can create the best bowl of chili, and it's always a great time.

Besides Terlingua, what other small towns in Texas offer peace and quiet?

Some of the best small towns in Texas for peace and quiet are:

  • Brady
  • Wimberley
  • San Augustine
  • Alpine
  • Schulenburg
  • West
  • Jefferson
  • Canton
  • Nacogdoches
  • Uncertain

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Terlingua, TX 79852, USA