Pine Springs Campground
4.28541 reviewsPine Springs 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 tent-only sites are $60 per night. Individual cancellations are allowed for a $10 fee, with additional forfeitures for late cancellations.
About this campground
Nestled at the gateway to adventure, Pine Springs Campground offers an authentic wilderness experience with 20 secluded tent-only sites, 13 well-positioned RV spots, and 2 spacious group camping areas. This cherished basecamp serves as your portal to extraordinary hiking trails and breathtaking vistas that have captivated travelers for generations.
The campground offers hike-in tent sites, RV camping, and group sites. RV sites are basic and resemble a parking lot, while tent and group sites provide more natural surroundings.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time along the short nature trail that leads to the haunting ruins of the Butterfield stage station, where dusty coaches once brought weary travelers through this rugged frontier. These weathered stones whisper tales of cowboys, pioneers, and adventurers who traversed this ancient route, making your camping experience part of a storied American journey.
Weather and SeasonsMother Nature showcases her dramatic personality here, where spring and winter winds can howl with exhilarating gusts surpassing 50 mph. These powerful winds sweep across the landscape, bringing crisp, star-filled nights that remind you of the raw beauty of the high desert. Pack your warm layers and secure your tent stakes – the elements here are part of the adventure.
ElevationPerched at an invigorating 5,730 feet above sea level, the campground offers a refreshing escape from desert heat. This elevated sanctuary provides naturally cooler temperatures that make for comfortable days and crisp, refreshing nights perfect for campfire conversations.
Natural Features and SceneryFrom your campsite at 5,730 feet, wake up to panoramic views of the magnificent Capitan Reef rising like an ancient fortress, while the vast Permian Basin stretches endlessly toward the horizon. Gray oaks and twisted alligator junipers provide welcome shade, while resilient sotols and dramatic yuccas paint the landscape with their distinctive desert architecture, creating a photographer's paradise at every turn.
Geological RegionSituated at the dramatic entrance to Pine Springs Canyon within Guadalupe Mountains National Park, this campground places you at the crossroads of geological wonder. Here, the towering Capitan Reef – an ancient fossilized barrier reef – dominates the skyline, while the sprawling Permian Basin below tells a 250-million-year-old story. Desert-adapted flora clings to the rocky slopes, creating a stunning tapestry where mountain meets desert in spectacular fashion.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground offers accessible parking and walkways. Group sites have nearby handicap parking, making them suitable for individuals with mobility challenges.
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size, with tent sites offering specific tent pads, and RV sites being paved parking spaces. Group sites accommodate 10-20 persons.
Sites PrivacyTent sites provide moderate privacy due to scattered trees and shrubs, while RV sites are closely spaced and resemble a parking lot.
Total Campsites35 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites with partial shade, such as site #12, and be prepared for high winds.
Best CampsitesSpecific recommendations include sites 18 and 9 for privacy and views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time is not explicitly listed.
Check-out
Check-out time is not explicitly listed.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
6people or 2 tents per site for individual sites. Group sites allow 10–20 people.
Groups
Group sites accommodate 10-20 persons and require a reservation. Groups larger than 20 need 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 tent sites that are 38–277 feet from parking, RV sites in a parking lot layout, and two group sites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come-first-served sites are not mentioned; reservations are advised due to high demand.
Cancellation PolicyIf canceled at least two days in advance, a $10 fee applies. Late cancellations forfeit the first night's fee in addition to $10.
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
Cell phone service
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Pine Springs Campground is an ideal base for hiking enthusiasts, offering access to multiple trails of varying difficulty in the Guadalupe Mountains. Visitors can also explore historical sites and enjoy bird watching.
Hiking
Trail access includes the Guadalupe Peak Trail, Devil’s Hall Trail, and others. Trails vary in difficulty, from strenuous 8-9 mile hikes with 2,500-3,000 feet elevation gain to moderate options like the Frijole/Foothills Trail. Users appreciated the trails’ scenic views and challenges.Wildlife viewing
Bird species commonly seen include Canyon Towhees and Turkey Vultures. Night skies offer excellent stargazing opportunities.Cultural and Educational Programs
Visitors can explore the ruins of a Butterfield stage station and the Frijole Ranch & History Museum. The museum is staffed intermittently.Winter Activities
Pine Springs remains open year-round but experiences high winds in winter, making it less ideal for certain activities.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- No open fires, including charcoal; only stoves and lanterns using containerized fuel are allowed.
- Quiet hours are 8:00 PM to 8:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsHigh winds, cold temperatures, and wildlife such as skunks and rodents.
Active alertsHigh winds are common; visitors should prepare accordingly.
Weather forecast
83
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 27%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 13.9 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
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
Closest emergency services are available at the Pine Springs Visitor Center during operating hours. For higher-level emergencies, visitors must travel to Carlsbad, NM (55 miles away) or Van Horn, TX (65 miles away).
Good to know
Peak season datesMarch-May and September-November.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling bins are available within the campground. Specific schedules for pickup were not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresNo major water features near the campground, but water stations are in the RV area.
Common complaintsVisitors report issues with wind, limited privacy in RV sites, and occasional facility closures.
HostCamp hosts are generally available and helpful but have received mixed reviews from visitors.
Campground Map
Driving directionsThe Pine Springs area of Guadalupe Mountains National Park is located on the north side of US Hwy 62/180 near Mile Post 130. From Interstate 10, take the Van Horn, Texas exit. Follow TX Hwy 54 (56 miles/17 km) north to the intersection of US Hwy 62/180. Turn east on 62/180 and travel (9 miles/14.5 km) to the park. From El Paso, TX, follow US Hwy 62/180 east for (110 miles/177 km) to the park. From Carlsbad, NM, take US Hwy 62/180 west for (55 miles/88.5 km) to the park.
The campground is easily accessible from major highways, including U.S. Hwy 62/180. Roads are paved and suitable for all vehicles, though visitors should be prepared for potential congestion due to its proximity to a popular trailhead.Nearby places
Van Horn, TX: 65 miles, El Paso, TX: 110 miles, Carlsbad, NM: 55 miles.
Nearby supplies
Limited supplies, including camping and hiking essentials, are available at the Pine Springs Visitor Center bookstore. Visitors should purchase fuel and other supplies before arrival due to the park's remote location.
Camper Reviews
4.3
541 reviews
Pine Springs Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are polarizing; while some appreciate the proximity to trails and natural beauty, many criticize the RV sites as resembling a parking lot. Tent campers generally report better experiences due to site privacy.
Review Summaries
Based on 541 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviewers praised the cleanliness of facilities, proximity to trails, and stunning views. The night skies and accessibility to hiking were frequently highlighted.
Based on 541 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints centered on the lack of amenities, such as showers and hookups, and the congested, parking-lot-like layout of RV sites. Wind conditions and maintenance issues were also noted.
Based on 541 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing extra water, securing tents against high winds, and preparing for potential closures of facilities. Opt for tent camping for a more immersive experience.
Based on 541 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Winter and spring bring harsh winds, while summer offers better conditions but requires careful planning due to limited shade. Fall is considered the ideal season by many.
Based on 541 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The views from the Guadalupe Peak trail are worth it, but prepare for winds up to 85mph," noted one user. Another remarked, "This is a parking lot with picnic tables—stay for the hiking, not the...
Based on 541 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 16 was noted for its proximity to bathrooms but lacked shade, while Site 18 was praised for its privacy and views. Several users noted issues with overbooking or inaccurate site descriptions.
Based on 541 reviewsAccessibility Features
Group sites and parking facilities are accessible for visitors with mobility challenges. However, some issues with site layouts and elevated pads were mentioned.
Based on 541 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are permitted but must remain leashed at all times. Trails are generally off-limits to pets, with the exception of the Pinery Trail.
Based on 541 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025