Best Campgrounds in Guadalupe Mountains

The park has two developed campgrounds that charge fees, and 10 designated primitive, backcountry sites where you can camp for free. First, obtain a permit at Pine Springs Visitor Center or Dog Canyon Office. Visitors haul their supplies for miles to stretch out on the unspoiled land of these backcountry sites. In the backcountry, no restrooms are provided; visitors may dig their own privies, but toilet paper and other waste should be packed out. Wood and charcoal fires are prohibited throughout the park, but you can use a camp stove with containerized fuels at both the developed and backcountry sites.

Dog Canyon Campground. This campground is remote and a little tricky to find, but well worth the effort. The very well-maintained camping area is in a coniferous forest, with nine tent sites and four RV sites (no hookups, 23-foot maximum). Hwy. 137, just within park northern entrance 575/981–2418.

Pine Springs Campground. You'll be snuggled amid pinyon and juniper trees near the base of a tall mountain peak at this resting place behind the Pine Springs Visitor Center. It has 19 tent sites, 18 RV sites (no hookups), one wheelchair-accessible site, and two group sites. At park east entrance, off U.S. 62/180 915/828–3251.