Dog Canyon Campground lies in the northern section of Guadalupe Mountains National Park, located about 110 miles from El Paso. The campground sits at approximately 6,300 feet elevation, providing significantly cooler temperatures than surrounding lower areas. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing at night, while summer daytime temperatures average in the 80s with nighttime lows in the 50s.
What to do
Hiking to McKittrick Ridge: From Dog Canyon Campground, hikers can access McKittrick Ridge via connecting trails. "We got the chance to hike the mejas trail which took up half the day. Absolutely one of the better camp spots," notes Jasmine L.
Visit Sitting Bull Falls: This spring-fed waterfall is about 25 miles from Dog Canyon. "About 25 miles away is Sitting Bull Falls, a spring-fed waterfall that is a nice side trip," shares Lee D., who camped at Dog Canyon.
Stargazing opportunities: The remote location offers exceptional night sky viewing. "Beautiful night sky's. The winds can be very brutal (50 mph plus)," reports Charles A., who camped at Pine Top.
What campers like
Quiet atmosphere: The remote setting appeals to those seeking solitude. "Beautifully located in a tranquil setting. Campgrounds are clean. Very quiet," shares Stacy R. from their stay at Dog Canyon Campground.
Comfortable temperatures: The higher elevation provides relief from Texas heat. "Though it is located in the desert in the middle of December it was still pretty warm," writes Jasmine L., who enjoyed camping at Dog Canyon.
Wildlife viewing: The area provides opportunities to spot local fauna. "If you are lucky you will see elk," mentions Charles A. about their backcountry camping experience in the Guadalupe Mountains.
What you should know
Remote location requires preparation: Gas stations are scarce in the area. "This place is REMOTE! Like 1.5 hours away from any gas station remote. First and foremost make sure you fill up before you get off that highway," warns Kurtis S. about their stay at Dog Canyon Campground.
Permit requirements: Backcountry camping requires permits. "You must get a permit from the rangers to camp here," notes Charles A. regarding wilderness camping in the park.
Weather conditions can be extreme: Be prepared for significant wind. "The winds can be very brutal. (50 mph plus)," warns Charles A. from their camping experience.
Time zone confusion: "Be aware that the park is on mountain time but close enough to the central time zone border that your smartphone/watch may not display the correct time," advises Lee D. from their camping trip.
Tips for camping with families
Pack plenty of water: Limited water sources mean planning ahead. "You must carry your own water in. These are primitive desert backpacking sites," explains Charles A. about Pine Top Wilderness Campground.
Utilize heated facilities in winter: "Although there was no hot water, the restrooms were heated, which was a nice bonus," shares Lee D. about their winter camping experience at Dog Canyon.
Choose sites strategically: Some locations offer more privacy. "RV-A and RV-D are on the ends. These are the best sites," advises Roger W. from their experience camping at Dog Canyon.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations for horse campgrounds near Dell City, Texas: "I cannot imagine that these sites will accommodate rigs over 25'," cautions Roger W. who stayed at Dog Canyon Campground.
Solar power works well: "Solar: Excellent," notes Roger W., indicating that solar setups function effectively at Dog Canyon equestrian camping areas.
Site orientation matters: "RV-D is the best site if you can park your RV nose first. This makes sitting area more private," recommends Roger W. based on their stay at the horse-friendly campground.
