About Pine Springs Campground — Guadalupe Mountains NP
Home to the highest peak in Texas (Guadalupe Peak, 8,749 ft) and one of the world's greatest fossil reef
exposures, this remote national park near the New Mexico border is one of America's best-kept secrets. Expect
solitude, dramatic desert mountain scenery, and exceptional fall foliage.
Highlights
- Guadalupe Peak — highest point in Texas (8.4-mile RT hike)
- El Capitan — iconic sheer cliff face
- McKittrick Canyon — finest fall foliage in Texas (October)
- Ancient Permian fossil reef geology
- One of America's most uncrowded national parks
Directions & How to Get There
From El Paso, TX: Take US-180/US-62 E approximately 110 miles (2 hours). From Carlsbad, NM: Take US-62/US-180 S
approximately 55 miles (1 hour). The visitor center and Pine Springs Campground are directly on US-62/180.
Nearby Attractions
- Guadalupe Peak Summit Trail (from campground)
- McKittrick Canyon (5 mi)
- El Capitan Trail
- White's City and Carlsbad Caverns (55 mi)
- Whites City KOA for supplies
Insider Tips
- Fill up on gas and supplies in either El Paso or Carlsbad before arriving
- Wind is nearly constant and often extreme — secure your tent thoroughly
- McKittrick Canyon in October has exceptional fall color — often the only fall foliage in Texas
- Combine with Carlsbad Caverns NP for an epic West Texas/New Mexico road trip
Best Time to Visit
Best months: March–May, September–November
Season: Year-round
Access difficulty: Remote (easy access once you're there)
What to Pack for Texas Camping
- Navigation: downloaded offline maps, compass, and GPS device
- Water: at least 3 liters per person per day (more in desert parks)
- Food: bear canister or use provided bear boxes where required
- Shelter: 3-season tent, rain fly, and ground tarp
- Clothing: moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layer, waterproof shell
- First aid kit: including blister treatment, pain reliever, and any personal medications
- Sun protection: SPF 50 sunscreen, wide-brim hat, UV-blocking sunglasses
- Lighting: headlamp with extra batteries, lantern for camp
- Safety: whistle, emergency bivy, and knowledge of your emergency exit route