Texas / Culberson County / Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Guadalupe Peak

Open — Open year-round with advance reservations available through Recreation.gov or same-day permits at Pine Springs Visitor Center. Requires Wilderness Use Permit with $6 reservation fee plus $6 per person per night. All permit holders must possess landfill-safe toilet bags and check in at the visitor center before heading to the campground.

About

Guadalupe Peak Wilderness Campground is a primitive backcountry camping area accessible only by hiking 3.1 miles up the Guadalupe Peak Trail from the Pine Springs Trailhead. Situated approximately one mile below the summit of Texas's highest peak, the campground sits on a small knoll at roughly 7,000 feet elevation, representing a 2,200-foot gain from the trailhead. The campground features 5 designated campsites defined by tent pads. Due to its exposed location on a knoll, the area offers minimal protection from the high winds that are common year-round, with gusts frequently exceeding 70 mph during fall and winter months. Makeshift windbreaks and rocks left on tent pads serve as reminders to prepare accordingly. The rocky but well-defined trail to the campground is approximately 150 yards from the main trail, marked by a sign. This is a true wilderness experience with no amenities. No water, toilets, or trash facilities are available. All overnight permit holders must carry and use landfill-safe commercial toilet bag systems, with a minimum of one bag per person per night required. Campfires are prohibited throughout the park, so containerized fuel stoves are necessary for cooking. Weather conditions can be extreme, with snow and freezing fog common in December and January.

Directions

Located on the Guadalupe Peak Trail, 3.1 miles from the Pine Springs Trailhead. From the trailhead, hike 3.1 miles gaining 2,200 feet in elevation. Look for a sign on the right side of the trail directing you to the campground area. The trail to the campsites is approximately 150 yards off the main trail and is rocky but well-defined.

Nearby Campgrounds