Dog Canyon Campground
4.28171 reviews400 Pine Canyon Drive, Salt Flat, TX 79847
Dog Canyon Campground
$20.00 - $60.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$60.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Tent and RV sites are $20 per night, while group sites are $60 per night. Additional fees include a $10 service fee for modifications or cancellations, and late cancellations incur a forfeiture of the first night’s use fee. Separate $10 per person park entrance fee applies (16 and older).
About this campground
Tucked away on the remote north side of Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Dog Canyon Campground offers an intimate escape into one of Texas's best-kept secrets. This peaceful sanctuary features just 13 thoughtfully spaced campsites nestled among towering trees, where tent campers and RV travelers alike can disconnect from the world and reconnect with nature. Here, the Milky Way blazes across unpolluted skies, wildlife roams freely through camp, and some of the park's most spectacular hiking trails begin right at your doorstep.
Dog Canyon Campground offers tent sites, RV sites, and a group site. "RV sites are gravel and tightly packed," noted one user.
Historical SignificanceStanding within an ancient seabed that tells a 260-million-year-old story, Dog Canyon sits at the heart of the Permian Period's Capitan Reef formation—once a massive barrier reef teeming with prehistoric marine life. Today's visitors can explore this geological wonderland while also venturing to nearby treasures like the otherworldly chambers of Carlsbad Caverns National Park or the frontier heritage preserved at Fort Davis National Historic Site, creating a rich tapestry of natural and cultural experiences.
Weather and SeasonsWhile sharing similar daytime temperatures with nearby Pine Springs, Dog Canyon transforms into a naturally air-conditioned retreat each evening as cool mountain air settles into the protected canyon. The surrounding ridges and canyon walls create a natural windbreak, offering welcome relief from the fierce gusts that often sweep across the exposed peaks above. This unique microclimate makes for comfortable camping conditions and peaceful nights under the stars.
ElevationPerched at 6,300 feet above sea level, this high-altitude haven offers a refreshing escape from desert heat. The significant elevation creates a mountain oasis where temperatures drop delightfully after sunset, providing natural air conditioning for comfortable sleeping. The canyon's protective embrace shields campers from harsh winds while the altitude delivers crisp, clean air that makes every breath feel rejuvenating.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into an enchanted forest where massive alligator junipers twist skyward alongside stately oaks, vibrant maples, distinctive madrones, and aromatic piñon and ponderosa pines. This verdant canyon creates a living cathedral where fragrant ceanothus and colorful sumacs paint the understory. Early risers are rewarded with visits from graceful mule deer browsing through camp, while ruby-throated hummingbirds dart between blooms and acorn woodpeckers tap out nature's rhythm. The cheerful calls of western scrub jays provide the soundtrack to this mountain paradise.
Geological RegionDog Canyon reveals itself as a dramatic geological masterpiece carved into the ancient Guadalupe Mountains. This spectacular gorge showcases nature's artistry through wooded drainages that spill into wildflower meadows, grassy hillsides that roll toward rugged outcrops, and towering canyon walls that display millions of years of Earth's history. Born from powerful faulting and patient erosion during the Permian Period, the canyon's exposed limestone cliffs and sandstone layers tell the fascinating story of the prehistoric Capitan Reef—a massive barrier reef that once thrived beneath tropical seas where mountains now stand.
Campsite details
AccessibilityOne handicap-accessible raised tent site is available near restrooms and parking.
Sites SizeSites can accommodate 6 persons and up to 2 tents. RV sites are limited to small trailers under 25 feet.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies; "Sites are close together with little to no privacy," according to user reviews. Sites 5 and 6 are recommended for shade and some privacy.
Total Campsites13 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 6 is considered the best overall for privacy and positioning. Sites 1 and 2 are close to the bathrooms, which may detract from the outdoor experience. Avoid RV sites if seeking privacy.
Best CampsitesSites 5 and 6 are noted for having shade and some privacy. Reviews mention site 8 as having the best views of the canyon.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in available from 12:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out required by 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Up to 6 persons or 2 tents per individual site
- Group site allows 10-20 persons.
Groups
Group site accommodates 10-20 people. Groups larger than 20 require a special use permit.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features individual tent sites scattered across an acre, RV sites in a gravel parking lot, and one group site.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online at Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not allowed; all sites must be reserved online in advance.
Cancellation PolicyCancelling your reservation prior to 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time two nights before your stay will incur a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations (the day before or day of arrival) incur the first night's use fee and a $10 cancellation fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Picnic tables
WiFi
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Dog Canyon Campground offers hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and star gazing among other activities. Popular trails include Lost Peak and Marcus Overlook. "The Tejas Trail is the main thoroughfare and offers gentle inclines," one reviewer stated, while others noted mule deer and wild turkeys frequently roam the area.
Hiking
Several trails including Lost Peak (6.4 miles round trip, strenuous, 1500’ elevation gain) and Marcus Overlook (4.5 miles round trip, moderate, 800' elevation gain) are accessible from the campground. The Indian Meadow Nature Trail is a short, easy loop.Wildlife viewing
Typical wildlife includes mule deer, wild turkeys, and a variety of birds like western scrub jays and acorn woodpeckers.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not specifically mentioned, but heated facilities accommodate cold weather.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not available.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- No open fires or charcoal are permitted. Only containerized fuel stoves are allowed.
- Quiet hours are 8:00 PM to 8:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include slippery roads during wet weather, wildlife encounters (deer and turkeys), and limited emergency communication due to no cell service.
Active alertsGuadalupe Mountains National Park is under a 'High Fire Danger Rating.' Smoking is confined to inside vehicles, and no open fires are permitted.
Weather forecast
80
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 31%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 11 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Mainly clear
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
Closest emergency hospital and services are in Carlsbad, NM (approximately 70 miles away). The nearest ranger station is intermittently staffed and located within the campground.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak seasons are March-May and September-November.
Trash and recyclingTrash bins are available near campsites, but recycling is not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresNo major water bodies are immediately present. The area includes creek beds, but these are dry due to porous rock.
Common complaintsSites are closely spaced, leading to a lack of privacy. RV sites are described as parking-lot style and tightly packed. Internet connectivity can be spotty, and the remote location requires preparedness.
HostThe campground has a volunteer host and intermittently staffed ranger station. Reviews mention helpful and friendly hosts including 'Jeffrey' and 'David.'
Campground Map
400 Pine Canyon Drive, Salt Flat, TX 79847
Driving directionsFrom Carlsbad NM to the Dog Canyon area of Guadalupe Mountains National Park, take US Hwy 285 north to NM Hwy 137 and turn south. Travel (62 miles/100 km) to Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Dog Canyon entrance. From the Pine Springs Visitor Center to Dog Canyon, take US Hwy 62/180 east. Once you enter New Mexico, travel 25 miles (40 km) and turn left onto County Road 408 (Dark Canyon road). Travel approximately 23 miles (27 km) to the intersection with NM Hwy 137/Queen Hwy, turn left/south. Follow Queen Hwy 25 miles (40 km) to the Dog Canyon entrance. The drive time between Dog Canyon Campground and Pine Springs Campground is 2 hours. Use extreme caution on open rangeland as cattle are frequently on the roadway.
The road to Dog Canyon Campground is mostly paved but includes approximately 0.4 miles of gravel road. Open rangeland makes driving conditions challenging as cattle are frequently present on the roadways. The route is subject to flash flooding at low-water crossings during heavy rains.Nearby places
Carlsbad, NM (70 miles, approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes)
Queen, NM (6 miles, approximately 15 minutes)
Whites City, NM (approximately 70 miles, 1 hour and 45 minutes)
Pine Springs, TX (110 miles, approximately 2 hours).
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are in Queen, NM (6 miles away), which has a small convenience store and café. Carlsbad, NM, has larger supply options, including fuel and groceries, approximately 70 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.3
171 reviews
Dog Canyon Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews highlight the campground's cleanliness, remote location, and peaceful atmosphere. Positive feedback includes the well-maintained facilities and scenic beauty, while complaints focus on cramped sites and the lack of cell service.
Review Summaries
Based on 171 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers praised the cleanliness of the bathrooms, availability of potable water, and serene environment. "Bathrooms were clean and had heaters," one user stated. Wildlife sightings such as mule deer...
Based on 171 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common issues include sites being too close together and lack of privacy. "The tent pads at campsites #3 and #4 are less than fifteen feet apart," noted one reviewer. Other complaints involve the...
Based on 171 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing all supplies due to the remote location and visiting Sitting Bull Falls en route. "Fill up on gas and get all provisions you need," wrote one reviewer. Sites 5 and 6 are...
Based on 171 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Peak seasons are March-May and September-November. Summer temperatures can exceed 80°F, while winter nights drop below freezing. Snowfall is rare but can occur.
Based on 171 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Bathrooms were clean, with almost no bugs or spiders." "The campground is small and peaceful. Turkeys and deer are frequent visitors." "No cell service, but Wi-Fi worked at the ranger station."
Based on 171 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Sites 5 and 6 are recommended for privacy and shade. "Site 8 has a beautiful view of the canyon side," one camper noted. Sites 1 and 2 are near the bathroom and less private.
Based on 171 reviewsAccessibility Features
A handicap-accessible tent site is available, located 50 feet from restrooms and parking with a raised tent pad.
Based on 171 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are permitted but must be leashed at all times and are not allowed on trails. "Pets causing a disturbance may be asked to leave, no refunds of fees."
Based on 171 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025