This article about camping near El Paso was brought to you by Wenzel. Their pop-up shelters will keep you shady at the crag at these campgrounds.
The city of El Paso, Texas is surrounded by outstanding natural scenery including desert landscapes, natural rock formations and of course, The Franklin Mountain Range. The best way to experience this stunning environment is to go out and recreate it. The landscape surrounding El Paso offers hiking trails, dessert camping and of course, world class rock climbing.
From luxurious and well-equipped RV parks to remote and wild camping sites in the desert hills, here’s a list of a few fantastic campgrounds in and around El Paso to use as a base camp for these activities.
1. Hueco Tanks State Historic Site
This desert haven is 33 miles northeast of El Paso and has 16 RV sites with full 50-amp hookups, drinking water, and picnic tables. There are clean and well-kept restrooms on-site.
The lack of light pollution in this hilly region means that you’ll have an unobstructed view of the stars on a cloudless night, and you can head to the nearby interpretive center to learn more about the area’s culture.
Hueco Tanks is also a world renowned bouldering spot for rock climbers.
“It is on a Native American Reservation. It has wild mountain goats roaming right next to your tent and off-path trails that lead to incredible views.” – Sara C.
Campground Details:
- Price: $10-20
- Number of sites: 20
- RV sites: Yes
- Fires allowed: No
- Pets allowed: Yes
2. Hueco Mountain Hut
Hueco Mountain Hut is a rock climber’s oasis. This campground located right outside of El Paso, TX is located beside VCRUX, a climbing gear shop, which offers rentals and guided climbing trips in Hueco Tanks. This tiny spot has 5 RV sites and 30 of tent sites, they also have a stationary RV that you can rent for $20 a night. The reasonable prices and convenience of El Paso camping spot is sure to attract climbers by the dozens.
Use this spot as a base camp if you plan to spend time within the park. Only 45 minutes from downtown El Paso and just a mile down the road this campsite is situated perfectly for park visitors and climbers alike.
Campground Details:
- Price: $3-20
- Number of sites: 35
- RV sites: Yes
- Fires allowed: No
- Pets allowed: No
3. El Paso Roadrunner RV Park
If you want to stay in the heart of the city, head to this RV park, which is located just 10 miles to the east of downtown El Paso. There’s a well-stocked shop on-site, and you’ll appreciate the nearby 24-hour laundromat.
The site’s Wi-Fi is free for all guests, and you’ll find that there are plenty of high-quality restaurants within a mile of the campground.
“The grounds were neat and clean and we had everything we needed. Highly recommended for a low-frills, easy-to-access RV park.” – Danielle W.
Campground Details:
- Price: $40-50
- Number of sites: 55
- RV sites: Yes
- Fires allowed: No
- Pets allowed: Yes
4. Las Cruces KOA
This KOA campground lies on a hillside, offering breathtaking views of the nearby Mesilla Valley and surrounding New Mexico mountains. It should take you fewer than 50 minutes to reach this site by car from downtown El Paso.
You can pick up a complimentary breakfast roll and a cup of coffee every morning from the campground’s kitchen. There’s also a dog park and swimming pool on site.
“Our campsite was near the bathrooms and on a grassy area with plenty of shade. We were provided with a grill station and picnic table as well as water at the site.” – Crystal C.
Campground Details:
- Price: $30-65
- Number of sites: 99
- RV sites: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
5. Hacienda RV Resort
If you follow I-10 west from downtown El Paso for 40 minutes, you’ll find this scenic and well-equipped RV park. Those wanting to work out on their vacation will appreciate the on-site gym, while others looking to relax should check out the campground’s hot tub.
Each RV site is evenly paved, and all guests have access to the resort’s community clubhouse and TV room.
“The staff and office are very organized, and the park is very clean. The spaces are close together, graveled and raked.” – Randy B.
Campground Details:
- Price: $30-57
- Number of sites: 113
- RV sites: Yes
- Fires allowed: No
- Pets allowed: Yes
6. Gleatherland
This unique campground is situated near the stunning Hueco Tanks State Park, around 30 miles east of downtown El Paso. You can book a yurt or vintage-style retro camper for a couple of nights or opt to camp at one of the primitive sites.
The views from this campsite are gorgeous. You can watch the sunlight flickering across the nearby Franklin Mountains and the rocky vistas of Hueco Tanks.
“The owners of the property are very nice and accommodating. Would stay again!” – Adam H.
Campground Details:
- Price: $5-60
- Number of sites: 20
- RV sites: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
7. Aguirre Spring Campground
It’ll take you just over an hour to get to this campground by car from downtown El Paso, but you’ll find that the longer journey is well worth the effort. This gorgeous site lies among the Organ Mountains of New Mexico and offers stunning views of the serene Tularosa Basin.
The price of camping is affordable, and there are plenty of excellent hiking trails in the surrounding area.
“The view of the valley below from this site was a beautiful sight in the mornings.” – Katie M.
Campground Details:
- Price: $7-15
- Number of sites: 20
- RV sites: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
8. Franklin Mt. State Park – Tom Mays Unit
This campsite is located just under 20 miles north of central El Paso, in the middle of Franklin Mountains State Park. Rock climbers are in their element when they stay here. The nearby McKelligon Canyon and Sneed’s Cory sites provide ample opportunities for bouldering, scrambling, and scaling shear surfaces.
“Vaulted toilets are located near tent pads. There are many trails to explore which extend all the way into New Mexico.” – Megan E.
Campground Details:
- Price: $10-30
- Number of sites: 21
- RV sites: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
Whether you want to camp under a vast night sky or relax at a high-quality RV resort, there are lots of excellent camping opportunities in and around El Paso. If you’re searching for even more inspiration, take a look at The Dyrt’s full list of the best camping in El Paso.
This article about camping near El Paso was brought to you by Wenzel.
Wenzel’s fleece sleeping bags will keep you warm no matter where you go