This park protects the world's most extensive Permian fossil reef, the four highest peaks in Texas, an environmentally diverse collection of plantlife and animals, and the stories of people that have survived here through conflict, eventual cooperation, and lasting survival. Come here to experience the mountains and canyons, deserts and dunes, and night skies and spectacular vistas all in this single park.
Current Park Alerts
Live from the National Park Service · Official park site →
Plan Your Visit
Hours & Season
The Pine Springs area, including the campground, visitor center, trailhead, and associated parking areas are open and accessible all of the time during normal operations. Camping is permitted in designated campsites only.
Entrance Fees
- $10 – Entrance - Per Person
- $0 – Entrance - Education/Academic Groups
Weather
The Guadalupe Mountains are known for high winds year-round; gusts can reach 60MPH or higher. In winter the mountains experiences occasional, light snowfalls which seldom last more than a day. From May through October, temperatures vary with highs between 80F-100F+ with lows in the 40F-60F range. November to April is generally milder with highs in between 50F-70F with lows in the 30F-50F range. Elevations above 8,000’ will be about 10F cooler than headquarters, with corresponding wind-chill.
Things to Do
Hiking off-trail
Reservation requiredA new kind of experience in the Guadalupe Mountains starts where the maintained trail ends. However, off-trail hiking requires planning and preparation and carries a great deal of risk. Any person or persons planning to hike off trail in the park must stop by the Pine Springs Visitor Center and be issued an off-trail hiking permit.
The Notch
The hike to "the Notch" is a challenging day hike that proceeds through McKittrick Canyon to a dramatic viewpoint about half way up toward McKittrick Ridge.
Overnight on Wilderness Ridge
Reservation requiredThe lesser used Permian Reef Trail leads to sheltered campsites and spectacular views into McKittrick Canyon, making a great destination of a one night, two day backpacking trip into the Wilderness.
Drive to Williams Ranch
Reservation requiredIf you have a high-clearance, four wheel drive vehicle, the primitive dirt road to Williams Ranch provides a unique opportunity to get off the beaten path and get close to the remote and imposing western escarpment of the Guadalupe Mountains. The Williams Ranch Road is currently CLOSED.
Backpacking Preparation
Reservation requiredA backpacking trip in Guadalupe Mountains Wilderness requires some prior planning and decision-making to ensure the best experience.
Guadalupe Peak Viewpoint
This viewpoint, located just to the southeast of the park boundary alongside U.S. Highway 62/180 provides an excellent view to the summit of Guadalupe Peak.
Getting There
Address: 400 Pine Canyon Salt Flat TX 79847
Guadalupe Mountains National Park is located on the north side of US Hwy 62/180. If you are traveling east from El Paso, TX, we are 110 miles East of the city. Follow US Hwy 62/180 North to the Pine Springs Visitor Center. If you are traveling from Van Horn, TX, you will travel north on US 54 and make a right-hand turn at the junction of US 62/180 to arrive at the park. If you are traveling west from Carlsbad, NM, you will travel on US Hwy 62/180 South and cross into Texas. Follow signs to the park.
Get driving directions → Official NPS directions →Where to Stay – Campgrounds
Blue Ridge Wilderness Campground
5 sites · $6/night
A Wilderness Use Permit is required for all use of these campsites. Blue Ridge Campground is surrounded by ponderosa pine and Douglas fir; wild roses and grass…
Bush Mountain Wilderness Campground
5 sites · $6/night
A Wilderness Use Permit is required for all use of these campsites. A favorite of many for the exceptional vistas and western sunsets. Though the campsites at …
Dog Canyon Campground
15 sites · $20/night
Dog Canyon is a two-hour drive from the Pine Springs area. The Dog Canyon Campground sits at 6,300 feet in elevation and has 9 tent and 4 RV sites. There is on…
Frijole Horse Corral Campground
1 sites · $20/night
The Frijole Horse Corral Group Campsite is the only facility for horse users on the east side of the park. The visitor horse corrals and campsites may be reser…
Guadalupe Peak Wilderness Campground
5 sites · $6/night
A Wilderness Use Permit is required for all use of these campsites. This primitive campground is located on the Guadalupe Peak Trail, 3.1 miles from the Pine S…
Marcus Wilderness Campground
5 sites · $6/night
A Wilderness Use Permit is required for all use of these campsites. From Dog Canyon, hikers travel through grassy areas then cross Manzanita Ridge to view West…
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to enter Guadalupe Mountains National Park?
The entrance fee for Guadalupe Mountains National Park is $10. See Plan Your Visit above for vehicle, per-person, and annual-pass rates.
Do I need a reservation or permit to visit Guadalupe Mountains National Park?
Some entry windows or activities at Guadalupe Mountains National Park require a reservation or permit. Check the Current Park Alerts and Things to Do sections above, and confirm on the official NPS site before you go.
When is Guadalupe Mountains National Park open?
The Pine Springs area, including the campground, visitor center, trailhead, and associated parking areas are open and accessible all of the time during normal operations. Camping is permitted in designated campsites only.
What are the best things to do in Guadalupe Mountains National Park?
Popular things to do in Guadalupe Mountains National Park include Hiking off-trail, The Notch, Overnight on Wilderness Ridge, Drive to Williams Ranch. See Things to Do above for photos and details.
Are there campgrounds in Guadalupe Mountains National Park?
Yes — Guadalupe Mountains National Park has 13 campgrounds, including Blue Ridge Wilderness Campground, Bush Mountain Wilderness Campground, Dog Canyon Campground. See Campgrounds above for site counts, fees, and booking links.