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

Wilderness Ridge Wilderness Campground

Open — Open year-round. Wilderness Use Permit required and must be obtained through Recreation.gov up to one day in advance. Fees are $6 reservation fee plus $6 per person per night.

About

Wilderness Ridge Campground is located in the heart of Guadalupe Mountains Wilderness, accessible via the challenging Permian Reef Trail that ascends 2,000 feet from the desert floor to a forested ridgeline. The trail showcases the dramatic transition from desert to forest ecosystems, following the ancient Permian Reef formation. Once on the ridge, the trail levels out and meanders through alternating forest and open areas before reaching the campground sites positioned near the escarpment edge. The campground contains 5 designated wilderness sites situated in the trees, providing natural shelter and helping minimize resource impact. From the ridge, campers enjoy spectacular views across the Chihuahuan Desert and surrounding canyons. The extra distance and elevation gain required to reach this campground ensures a more pristine wilderness experience compared to lower-elevation sites. This is primitive wilderness camping with no facilities whatsoever. Campers must be completely self-sufficient, carrying all water, food, and gear. Campfires are prohibited throughout the park, so a backpacking stove is essential for cooking. All trash must be packed out, and the park requires use of commercial toilet bag systems for human waste disposal. Pets are not permitted on any backcountry trails or campsites.

Directions

Accessed via the Permian Reef Trail from the Pine Springs Trailhead area. The trail climbs 2,000 feet over several miles to reach the ridge. Obtain specific trail directions and conditions at the Pine Springs Visitor Center before departing.

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