Yurt camping near Socorro, Texas provides access to desert landscapes with mountain views and dark skies for stargazing. Located about 20 miles southeast of El Paso, the area experiences minimal rainfall and mild winter temperatures with summer highs often exceeding 100°F. Campgrounds near Hueco Tanks State Park offer varying levels of amenities from primitive sites to fully furnished yurts.
What to do
Explore ancient pictographs: Hueco Tanks State Park Campground offers guided tours showcasing Native American rock art. "There are great caves, bouldering, and cave paintings," notes Jessica M., who appreciated the "great educational and helpful Rangers."
Hike desert trails: The park features unique geological formations with several hiking options. "There are areas that require a guide and some where we can hike alone. We enjoyed exploring the park and climbing the mountains," shares Annell N., who visited in April.
Wildlife viewing: The natural desert setting provides opportunities to see desert wildlife. According to Sara C., the area "has wild mountain goats roaming right next to your tent and has off path trails that lead to incredible views."
What campers like
Dark sky stargazing: The minimal light pollution creates exceptional stargazing conditions from campsites. Charlie O. mentions Gleatherland has "quiet nights with low light pollution for amazing stargazing opportunities!"
Convenient location: Proximity to both natural attractions and urban amenities is a key benefit. "Only five miles from Hueco Tanks SP. Has all the amenities, tons of primitive campsites, RV sites, yurt rentals and camp trailer rentals," notes Charlie O. about Gleatherland.
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention the well-maintained bathrooms and showers. As Lisa S. describes Hueco Tanks State Park Campground: "The bathrooms with showers are well maintained and clean." Similarly, Jacob W. noted at Gleatherland: "Great clean bathroom nearby."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Access to Hueco Tanks State Park is strictly controlled. Jamie F. advises: "Can't get in between the hours of 8am & 10am, unless you have an online reservation to even just stay for the day. Closes at 5pm sharp."
Limited daily access: The park restricts visitor numbers to protect the site. "They only allow 70 people through a day, so it is not crowded at all," explains Moe F., adding that their guided tour "was only $5 p/person and lasted about 3 hours."
Orientation process: First-time visitors should allow extra time for check-in procedures. "About two or three miles before the park, you will be stopped and questioned regarding your intent. The attendant then radios the park registration desk to inform of your pending arrival," describes Lisa S.
Tips for camping with families
Educational opportunities: The historical significance of Hueco Tanks makes it ideal for educational family outings. "It's an incredibly beautiful place, so unexpected," shares Linette G., adding "The history of the place is amazing."
Alternative camping options: When the state park is full, nearby accommodations are available. "I know about this campground because I'm an American Alpine Club member, but non-members can also access the lodging and campsites," Les R. says about Hueco Rock Ranch, noting it's "a 3 mile drive to the park, but a nice option, given that the park only has about 20 campsites."
Winter visits: Consider winter months for more comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds. Judy E., who stayed at Gleatherland, recommends the "Ranger tour of the pictographs in the park that is so close by" and appreciated the "great hot shower, internet, a dump station and campsite hook ups."
Tips from RVers
RV site amenities: For those seeking more comfort, several campgrounds offer hookups. "The level gravel campsites are spaced well apart and have plenty of natural landscaping for privacy. The sites have cabanas over the picnic tables, nearby trash disposal and on site water and electric are available," notes Lisa S. about Hueco Tanks State Park.
Off-season availability: The shoulder seasons may offer more flexibility for RVers. BJ A. shares their experience at Gleatherland: "We came off season and it looked like everything was closed up but we found the primitive camping that we were looking for and then were greeted by the host within 5 minutes."
Self-contained camping: Some sites accommodate self-sufficient RVers. "They allowed our stay since we are fully self-contained, with a porta potty and carrying our own water," explains BJ A., adding that the "host is very congenial."
