Hueco Tanks State Park And Historic Site
00 review6900 Hueco Tanks Rd #1, El Paso, Texas, 79938, United States
Hueco Tanks State Park And Historic Site
$0.00 - $7.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Day use fee is $7 per person aged 13 and older. Texas State Park Pass holders pay no reservation or day-use fees, covering up to 15 people per vehicle. Reservation payments made by non-pass holders aren't refunded if they later purchase a pass.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of the Chihuahuan Desert, Hueco Tanks State Park and Historic Site offers an intimate camping experience where ancient history meets modern comfort. This hidden gem features pristine facilities including heated restrooms and hot showers, all set against a backdrop of massive rock formations that have drawn climbers from around the world. Whether you're here to scale the legendary boulders, explore millennia-old rock art, or simply soak in the desert's profound silence, this meticulously maintained campground serves as your gateway to one of Texas's most extraordinary landscapes.
The campground caters to both tent and RV campers, with limited spots available (20 sites). Reviews mention good privacy and views, making it an appealing option for those seeking a quieter camping experience.
Historical SignificanceStep back thousands of years at Hueco Tanks, where massive rock basins have served as a vital water source and sacred gathering place for countless generations. The park's crown jewels are its extraordinary pictographs ancient artwork that adorns hidden rock shelters and tells stories of the people who once called this desert home. Join expert-led tours that unlock these prehistoric galleries, revealing vibrant masks, intricate designs, and mysterious symbols that have survived centuries in the desert sun, making every visit a journey through time.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the desert's dramatic seasonal personality at Hueco Tanks, where each time of year paints the landscape in different hues. From October through April, crisp winter nights dip to a refreshing 33°F, perfect for campfire gatherings, while pleasant days reach 56°F ideal for exploring ancient pictographs. As summer arrives from May to September, the desert truly comes alive with temperatures soaring between 85°F and 94°F, creating those magical golden hours at dawn and dusk when the rocks glow amber and wildlife emerges from daytime shelters.
ElevationNull
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape sculpted by time, where colossal syenite rock formations rise like ancient castles from the desert floor, creating a natural playground of hidden tanks, narrow passages, and secret alcoves. These weathered monoliths frame sweeping vistas of the Chihuahuan Desert, while closer inspection reveals a thriving ecosystem where desert cottontails dart between prickly pear cacti, javelinas forage in the early morning light, and sure-footed mountain goats navigate impossible ledges. Each sunrise and sunset transforms these rocks into a canvas of gold and crimson, offering photographers and nature lovers endless moments of desert magic.
Geological RegionDiscover the geological wonder of Hueco Tanks, where 34-million-year-old magma intrusions have created one of North America's most unique rock climbing destinations within the vast Chihuahuan Desert. These ancient syenite formations, weathered into fantastic shapes by millennia of wind and rain, harbor natural water catchments or 'huecos' that have sustained life in this arid landscape for thousands of years. The interplay between rugged geology and delicate desert ecology creates a rare environment where barrel cacti bloom beside prehistoric rock art, and where every boulder tells a story written in stone.
Campsite details
AccessibilityMandatory orientation on arrival, though specific features for disabilities are not outlined in the data.
Sites Size: Limited details, but some reviews mention good privacy and adequate space.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is generally rated positively, with comments like 'I felt like I had a lot of privacy.'
Total Campsites20 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCampsites near the restrooms offer convenience and shade, as noted by Patricia Adkins.
Best CampsitesNull
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
- Campers must arrive by 5 PM or 6 PM on summer weekends
- check-in includes orientation.
Check-out
Null
Stay Limit
Stay limits are not explicitly stated in the source material.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Group sizes of up to 15 are covered by the Texas State Park Pass.
Groups
No details about group sites provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutCampground consists of 20 sites, spaced for privacy, with proximity to restrooms noted as beneficial by some reviewers (Patricia Adkins).
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round with varying gate hours based on season: October 1 - April 30, 8 AM to 6 PM; May 1 - September 30, 8 AM to 6 PM (Monday - Thursday), and 7 AM to 7 PM (Friday - Sunday). Late arrivals are not accepted.
Reservation PlatformsCall (512) 389-8911 for reservations. Online reservations for campsites and North Mountain permits are unavailable.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is limited; reservations are highly recommended. Visitors without reservations may be turned away even if sites are available.
Cancellation PolicyModify or cancel reservations as soon as possible to allow others to enjoy the park. Day-use reservations not claimed by 10 AM will be released without refund.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Flush toilets
Water hookups
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
The park offers a variety of recreational activities, including guided tours, hiking, rock climbing, biking, bird watching, and stargazing. Rock climbing and historic pictograph viewing are particularly popular activities. Several reviewers highlight the breathtaking natural features and suggest that the park offers some of the most impressive climbs.
Hiking
Numerous hiking trails available. Guided hiking tours operate October through April at 9:30 AM and May through September at 8:30 AM. Trails are well-maintained and offer access to historic sites and climbs.Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Biking
Surfaced biking roads and trails are available. Further details about trail difficulty or distance are not provided.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife, such as goats and rabbits, can be observed. One review mentions seeing javelinas on the road at night.Cultural and Educational Programs
Guided tours focusing on rock climbing, pictograph viewing, and bird watching are offered Wednesday through Sunday. These tours require reservations made at least a week in advance.Winter Activities
Climbing and hiking tours continue in winter months, with adjusted tour times for daylight.Water Sports
No non-motorized water sports mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Only containerized fuels such as gas grills and stoves are allowed. Wood and charcoal fires are strictly prohibited.
- Quiet hours are Null
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife such as rabbits, javelinas, and goats roam the area. Dry brush increases fire risks, so containerized fuel is mandatory. Roads are locked after hours, and late arrivals are denied entry.
Active alertsLate arrivals are strictly not allowed due to mandatory orientation requirements. Gates lock promptly at closing times.
Weather forecast
91
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 21%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 11.8 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services are in El Paso, approximately 24 miles away, including hospitals, police stations, and fire services.
Good to know
Peak season datesOctober through April is the peak season for guided tours and cooler weather.
Trash and recyclingNo specific details about trash and recycling facilities mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresNull
Common complaintsStrict rules and limited facilities (e.g., single restroom and shower for all campsites) are noted by reviewers. "Restrooms are not the best but clean" (Charles Buford).
HostNull
Campground Map
6900 Hueco Tanks Rd #1, El Paso, Texas, 79938, United States
Driving directionsFrom El Paso: Take Hwy 62/180 (Carlsbad Hwy, Montana Ave) East for 24 miles. Turn North on RR 2775 (at the Flying Saucer shaped building). Stay on RR 2775 to the Park Headquarters. There are signs showing where to turn onto RR 2775 from Hwy 62/180.
From Houston: Take I-10 West to Van Horn. Take Hwy 54 North to Hwy 62/180. Turn West to RR 2775. Turn North (at the Flying Saucer shaped building on RR 2775). Stay on RR 2775 to the Park Headquarters. There are signs showing where to turn onto RR 2775 from Hwy 62/180.
The campground is accessible from paved highways (Hwy 62/180 and RR 2775). Signs guide visitors, and roads are open year-round, though late arrivals after office closure are not accepted.Nearby places
El Paso (24 miles, approximately 30 minutes by car), Van Horn (approximately 120 miles, 2 hours by car).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in El Paso, approximately 24 miles away. A crash pad rental and coffee shop are located just 8 minutes from the trailheads.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Hueco Tanks State Park And Historic Site has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground is widely praised as 'the best' by multiple users, with emphasis on its natural beauty, cleanliness, and quiet atmosphere. Common highlights include excellent restroom and shower facilities, as well as the breathtaking views and privacy at campsites.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Guests consistently note the cleanliness of the bathrooms and showers, the scenic views, the quiet atmosphere, and the well-spaced campsites. One reviewer called it 'the best campground we have ever...
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Common Concerns
Several users mention strict rules, such as needing to check in before 6 PM and the lack of campfires due to dry conditions. Another complaint is the limited number of restrooms and showers relative...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive early to check in and attend the required orientation video. Bring appropriate clothing for winter visits as campfires are not permitted. For climbers, consider visiting the nearby Crash Pad...
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Seasonal Insights
Reviews emphasize the park's strict arrival policies, which users should plan around. In winter, layering is recommended due to the prohibition on campfires. The park's beauty and activities are...
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Camper Quotes
1. 'The bathroom is heaven. Clean, shower is hot, the bathroom is even heated.' 2. 'The campsite is very well kept, some of the nicest bathrooms I've seen camping.' 3. 'This is the best campground...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Sites are generally regarded as quiet, clean, and private, with some being closer to restrooms than others. No specific site numbers are mentioned.
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews addressing accessibility features were found.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but specific reviews about pet amenities or experiences were not found.
Last updated August 10, 2025