Camping spots near El Paso, Texas span from high desert terrain to mountain environments with elevations ranging from 3,800 to 5,700 feet. The Chihuahuan Desert location creates dramatic temperature variations between day and night, particularly in spring and fall when overnight temperatures can drop 30-40°F below daytime highs. Primitive camping options outside established campgrounds often require high-clearance vehicles due to unpaved access roads.
What to do
Mountain biking at Franklin Mountains: The state park offers technical trails with steep descents and rocky terrain. "Gorgeous views and there was hardly anyone else around - it was great. Stayed at Campsite 25 in my Subaru Outback with my dog. No problems. Composite toilet within walking distance. Walmart 12 mins away," notes Coy B. about Franklin Mountains State Park Campground.
Pictograph tours at Hueco Tanks: Reserve guided tours several days in advance to access restricted areas with ancient rock art. "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," explains Moe F. about their experience at Hueco Tanks State Park Campground.
Desert hiking trails: Multiple trail options range from beginner-friendly to advanced routes requiring navigation skills. "There is a lovely 4 mile hike that loops up in the mountains by the sites," reports Kara S. about Aguirre Spring Campground, located about 60 miles northwest of El Paso.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer natural spacing despite limited facilities. "I arrived late and had no reservation but the ranger was extremely kind and let me in and I paid in the morning. It is a safe, clean, and lovely place. It even has sites where, if you have four wheel drive you can go and be very isolated," shares Tiffany Ann G. about Franklin Mountains.
Wine tasting options: Some camping areas near El Paso provide unique amenities beyond traditional campgrounds. "We stayed one night and really enjoyed the stay. They have a large outdoor covered wine tasting area that allows dogs. An excellent wine sampling set helped choose a good wine," writes Arthur K. about Sombra Antigua Winery, which offers camping spaces about 20 miles from El Paso.
Desert astronomy opportunities: Clear desert skies create optimal stargazing conditions at most camping areas. "Remote desert camping with plenty of amenities. From primitive camping for $5/night to limited RV hook-ups. Quiet nights with low light pollution for amazing stargazing opportunities!" notes Charlie O. about Gleatherland, located 5 miles from Hueco Tanks.
What you should know
Gate closures affect access: Most state park campgrounds restrict entrance/exit during specific hours. "Gates locked from 1700-0800. They give you the padlock combo for entry/exit but took a couple minutes to figure out how the gate latch worked particularly at night (needed flash light)," reports Mark M. about Franklin Mountains.
Weather considerations: Sandstorms and sudden weather changes occur frequently in spring. "We happened to arrive on one of the rare rainiest days of the year. Almost every site was open except for 2-3 other campers. The rain stopped for about 3 hours in the evening giving us amazing sunset views," shares a camper at Aguirre Spring Campground.
Water availability limitations: Most desert camping locations near El Paso require carrying in water. "Had our own water, no electric sites. But El Paso, AKA The Sun City, provides plenty of sun for solar. Could use some more bathrooms, LOTS of tent spaces, some hike-in," notes a camper about conditions at Mission RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Yurt accommodations: Alternative lodging offers comfort for families with young children. "We had a great time glamping in Yurt 1. What can I say? Good times. Great clean bathroom nearby. The Yurt had pretty much everything except a bathroom. Very comfy," reports Jacob W. about accommodations at Gleatherland.
Site selection for shade: Locate sites with natural or constructed shade elements for midday heat relief. "Each site shaded table and trash bin. Only vehicles up to 23 ft," notes Christopher P. about Aguirre Springs Campground.
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer ranger-led programs focusing on desert ecology. "Very scenic BLM campground. $7 a night ($3.50 seniors with pass)," adds the same reviewer about affordable options for multi-generational family groups.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions on mountain roads: Many camping areas limit RV length due to narrow, winding access roads. "Stayed here one night the park is very nice. Has lots of hiking trails and scenery. The rv parking is small only has 5 sites and no amenities. Be cautious if you have a big rig the spots are not very long," advises Chelsea P. about Franklin Mountains.
Full-hookup alternatives: Military families have additional options for comfortable RV camping. "This RV park is military ship-shape. Clean, level cement pads. Nice wide sites with aprons to set out chairs and barbeque. Weather was perfect. It's FCFS but calling ahead made us confident we could get a site. Military ID required," explains Dennis P. about Fort Bliss RV Park.
Parking surface considerations: Determine your RV leveling needs before selecting a site. "Parking for sites is SLANTED, very few flat! 1 bar Verizon. Gorgeous here but tough in a camper van. Also very windy," warns Lucy P. about challenges at Franklin Mountains State Park.
