Guadalupe Peak

About

Guadalupe Peak Wilderness Campground is a primitive backcountry site at approximately 8,000 feet elevation in Guadalupe Mountains National Park. Located 3.1 miles from the Pine Springs Trailhead with 2,200 feet of elevation gain, it sits on a small knoll about one mile below the summit of Guadalupe Peak, the highest point in Texas at 8,751 feet. The campground has five designated tent pad sites, all exposed and minimally protected from high winds that can exceed 70 mph. Makeshift windbreaks and rocks left on tent pads are reminders of the conditions. Weather varies drastically with occasional showers in spring and summer, and potential snow and freezing fog in winter months. This is true backcountry camping with no water, no toilets, and no amenities. All campers must carry at least one gallon of water per person per day, pack out all trash, and use landfill-safe commercial toilet bags (minimum one per person per night, required for permit issuance). Fires are prohibited park-wide; only containerized fuel stoves are allowed.

Directions

From the Pine Springs Visitor Center off U.S. Highway 62/180, hike the Guadalupe Peak Trail 3.1 miles with 2,200 feet of elevation gain. A sign on the right side of the trail directs hikers to the campground area. The spur trail to the campground is approximately 150 yards on a rocky but well-defined path.