Hueco Tanks State Park and surrounding camping areas sit in the Chihuahuan Desert region at approximately 4,500 feet elevation, characterized by arid conditions and dramatic temperature fluctuations between day and night. The area receives minimal rainfall, averaging less than 10 inches annually, creating ideal conditions for stargazing and desert wildlife observation. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing overnight, requiring appropriate gear for tent and yurt camping near Clint, Texas.
What to do
Explore ancient rock art: Hueco Tanks State Park features significant pictographs requiring orientation before access. "This is an active and protected archeological site. 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. Once registered, you will be sent on to a 10 minute orientation," notes visitor Lisa S. about Hueco Tanks State Park Campground.
Rock climbing and bouldering: The park's unique geological formations attract climbers. "It is on a Native American Reservation. Has wild mountain goats roaming right next to your tent and has off path trails that lead to incredible views," reports Sara C.
Guided tours: Reserve spots for ranger-led explorations. "We stayed in the campground and did the self guided hike the first day, then decided to book a tour for the next day. Both were well worth doing and the guided tour was only $5 p/person and lasted about 3 hrs," shares Moe F.
What campers like
Dark skies for astronomy: The minimal light pollution creates exceptional stargazing conditions. Charlie O. mentions the "Quiet nights with low light pollution for amazing stargazing opportunities!"
Cultural and historical significance: The park preserves important indigenous history. "April 12, 2019 Loved this park. People wait in line in hopes they can get in for day visit. There are areas that require a guide and some where we can hike alone. They are very protective of this sacred place," explains Annell N. about her experience at Hueco Tanks State Park.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Desert species frequent the campgrounds. "It is on a Native American Reservation. Has wild mountain goats roaming right next to your tent," mentions Sara C.
Year-round accessibility: The area maintains camping availability throughout all seasons. "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," reports BJ A. about their experience at Gleatherland.
What you should know
Reservations and access limitations: The park strictly controls visitor numbers. "Cant get in between the hours of 8am & 10am, unless you have a online reservation to even just stay for the day. Closes at 5pm sharp. First come first serve," warns Jamie F.
Water conservation measures: Facilities may request water usage limits. "The campground sites are pretty level, have electric & water. However, when we were there they asked to conserve as much water as possible & even use our own if possible," notes Moe F.
Internet connectivity varies: Signal strength depends on location within campgrounds. "Internet access is spotty near campground restrooms, but non-existent at campsites (unless you have Starlink, etc)," advises David S. about Hueco Tanks State Park.
Alternative accommodations: The area offers various camping options beyond the state park. Charlie O. describes options at Gleatherland: "Has all the amenities, tons of primitive campsites, RV sites (electric/gray water & potable water hookups), yurt rentals and camp trailer rentals. Primitive sites are only $5/person nightly."
Tips for camping with families
Plan extended stays: Multiple days allow full exploration of park features. "It's an incredibly beautiful place, so unexpected. It is kind of a pain to get access to hiking the trails (must be on the waiting list/or with a guide) but so worth it," recommends Linette G.
Weather considerations: Be prepared for sudden weather changes. "We only intended to stay one night, but just as the tour ended a wicked sand storm moved in, so we asked if we could stay another night. The staff was very understanding and knew it was not safe to send us out in that," recounts Moe F.
Pet restrictions: Note limitations for traveling with animals. "Nice place to visit and stay for a night or two. Wish they would allow pets," mentions David L. about the main park, while Gleatherland offers more pet-friendly options.
Educational opportunities: Take advantage of ranger programs. "I love it here, great educational and helpful Rangers. There are great caves, bouldering, and cave paintings," shares Jessica M.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Reserve in advance for serviced sites. "Hueco Tanks is a very small Texas state park and we couldn't get a campsite. We were extremely pleased with what Gleatherland offered us. Great hot shower, internet, a dump station and campsite hook ups for our RV," advises judy E.
Campsite amenities: Sites include practical features for comfortable stays. "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," describes Lisa S.
Alternative camping options: Nearby facilities offer yurt camping in Clint area. "We stayed in a yurt. It was really cool. It was in the 40s outside and was warm inside. You have a beautiful view of Hueco Tanks, which you could almost walk to, as well as the Franklin Mountains," shares Adam H.
