Situated in the Chihuahuan Desert, Guadalupe Mountains National Park features diverse ecosystems from pine forests at 8,751 feet to desert lowlands at 3,650 feet. Temperature swings can be dramatic, with summer days often exceeding 100°F while nights cool rapidly. The area surrounding the park offers several dispersed camping options where visitors can base themselves while exploring the park's 80+ miles of trails.
What to do
Hike to scenic vistas: Pine Top Wilderness Campground inside Guadalupe Mountains National Park requires a 4.2-mile hike from Pine Springs, but rewards with impressive views. "You must carry your own water in. These are primitive desert backpacking sites. Since it is the first camp at the end of a fairly tough hike, it is often full," notes Charles A.
Explore nearby parks: Sunset Reef Campground makes an ideal basecamp for visiting both national parks in the region. "I stayed one night when going to Carlsbad Caverns NP. Then went to Guadalupe Mountains NP. Beautiful spot sunset, sunrise and stars," shares Kara D.
Night photography: The minimal light pollution creates exceptional stargazing opportunities. At Sunset Reef Campground, one visitor noted, "We came across this place and loved it. The stars were stunning. Worth noting: We came in late at night and missed the turn off for this campground a few times before finding it."
What campers like
Free camping options: Budget-conscious visitors appreciate Sunset Reef Campground's no-cost sites. "We stayed three nights for free while hiking and exploring Guadalupe Mountain NP and Carlsbad Caverns NP. Plenty of space and room to let the dog explore. Close to both parks," reports Teresa A.
Peaceful desert settings: More Travel Less Talk offers a quieter alternative to park campgrounds. "Great small family owned and lived at campground... literally setting right in front of the Guadalupe Mountains. This is a quiet, secluded place. NOT A BIG CAMPGROUND. This is a great option to the overcrowded Pine Springs Campground," explains Raymond C.
Upgraded glamping accommodations: Modern yurts provide comfort while maintaining mountain views. "We stayed here two nights and absolutely loved it. Very remote and quiet but close to Guadalupe Mountains and Carlsbad Caverns National Parks. The sites are very well maintained with solar lights to guide you at night," writes Arthur M. about More Travel Less Talk.
What you should know
Extreme weather conditions: Desert camping requires preparation for harsh conditions. "The winds can be very brutal (50 mph plus)" at Pine Top Wilderness Campground, warns Charles A.
Limited facilities at free sites: While economical, dispersed camping offers minimal amenities. "Just a pit toilet. No water," notes a Sunset Reef Campground visitor, while another adds, "it's a byotp situation with the bathroom."
Reservation requirements: Whites City RV Campground fills quickly during peak seasons. "Remember if going to the caverns you need a timed entry ticket which you buy online," advises Alisa P., adding, "The only restaurant near the campground is the Cactus Cafe but they have limited hours in the off season."
Wildlife encounters: "If you are lucky you will see elk" at Pine Top, notes one camper, while others frequently mention rabbit sightings at several campgrounds surrounding the park.
Tips for camping with families
Choose camps with amenities: Carlsbad RV Park & Campground offers family-friendly facilities. "Great amenities including: a heated indoor pool, small camp store, huge laundry facility with a change machine, dvd and book exchange, tire swings, horseshoes, very clean and very updated bathrooms," reports Amy & Stu B.
Consider weather timing: Desert heat can be challenging for children. "We stayed for 5 days in April 2022. They had just remodeled their bathrooms. Great job. 2 new toilets and 4 new showers (1 handicap) in mens and ladies restrooms. Clean and new. Hot water for days," shares Wayne F. about Carlsbad RV Park & Campground.
Look for playground access: Some campgrounds feature play areas. Whites City RV Campground has "a great park and playground for kids," according to Alisa P., who adds, "They have bathrooms and showers that were clean."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Buds Place RV Park offers electric hookups and facilities for larger rigs. "Nice bathroom, friendly staff. A few trees, but mostly desert," notes Rhianna W.
Consider site spacing: Carlsbad KOA offers more room between sites than many RV parks. "Sites are spacious and level and you don't feel packed in like sardines. They have all the amenities expected," shares one visitor.
Expect gravel surfaces: Most RV sites in the area are on gravel pads. "Normal gravel lot found in Southwest. Level sites," writes Wayne F. about Carlsbad RV Park & Campground.
Check for gate access: Some campgrounds restrict after-hours entry. "Appreciated the carded gate access after hours for added security," notes a visitor to Carlsbad RV Park & Campground.
