Texas / Culberson County / Guadalupe Mountains Wilderness / Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Shumard Canyon Wilderness Campground

Open — Open year-round. Wilderness Use Permit required and available through Recreation.gov up to one day in advance. Permits cost $6 reservation fee plus $6 per person per night.

About

Shumard Canyon Wilderness Campground offers a true wilderness experience in the remote Chihuahuan desert landscape of Guadalupe Mountains National Park. Located 9.0 miles from the Pine Springs Trailhead, this primitive camping area is accessible only by foot trail with less elevation gain than many other park trails, though the route is far from flat. The trail traverses exposed desert terrain without tree cover, demanding preparation for intense sun, wind, and variable weather conditions. The campground features 5 designated wilderness campsites, all requiring advance permits through the Recreation.gov system. This is a completely primitive backcountry experience with no amenities whatsoever. The landscape showcases the unique geology of the Guadalupe Mountains and the harsh beauty of the Chihuahuan desert ecosystem. Backpackers must be entirely self-sufficient, carrying all water, food, and supplies. All wilderness camping in Guadalupe Mountains National Park requires strict adherence to Leave No Trace principles. Campers must use containerized fuel stoves only as campfires are prohibited throughout the park. A landfill-safe commercial toilet bag system is mandatory for all overnight wilderness permit holders, with a minimum of one bag per person per night required. All trash must be packed out, and camping is restricted to designated sites only.

Directions

Access via Pine Springs Trailhead. The campground is 9.0 miles from the trailhead via foot trail only. Trail is exposed with no tree cover.

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