Backpacking Preparation

Setting up camp.

Laurence Parent

A backpacking trip in the Guadalupe Mountains Wilderness requires some prior planning and decision-making to ensure the best experience.

Backpacking Permit Checklist:

1. Plan your itinerary: Read about our wilderness campsites and pick your destination. Be realistic about elevation gains and water weight.

2. Download Planning Information: Print or download our park map to plan your trip. Always have a backup itinerary. It's your responsibility to know and follow all wilderness camping regulations.
3. Prepare and Pack: See below for important logistical and planning considerations while planning your trip. Don't forget to check the weather to make sure that you pack appropriately.
4. Obtain A Wilderness Use Permit. All overnight trips into the Wilderness require a permit which can be obtained at the Pine Springs Visitor Center.

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Water is an Issue!

There are no water sources in the backcountry. To insure you have enough water for drinking and cooking, please carry one gallon per person per day (water weighs approximately 8 lbs. per gallon). Water is obtainable at the Pine Springs Visitor Center, Pine Springs Campground, McKittrick Contact Station, or the Dog Canyon Ranger Station.

Equipment Considerations

• Fires, including charcoal fires, are not permitted anywhere in the park. Bring a backpacking stove if you plan to cook.
• Consider bringing a sturdy, lightweight tent for protection against the weather elements, particularly wind and precipitation.
• The use of hammocks, slacklines, tarps or similar devices tied to natural and/or manmade features is prohibited.
• Sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support are highly recommended; trails are steep, rugged, and rocky. Hiking poles are a good addition too.
• Be aware of the current weather forecast and bring/wear appropriate clothing.
• To protect yourself from glaring desert sun (year-round) bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
• Carry a first aid kit that includes tweezers for spines, band-aids and adhesive pads for blisters, compresses for severe cuts, and a triangle bandage which can be put to many uses.

Steep Trails, Difficult Climbs

Most backcountry trips begin with an elevation gain of over 2000 feet along exposed desert trails. This is strenuous; allow one hour per mile for ascent. Give yourself plenty of time for your hike; consider distance and elevation, your physical condition, the amount of weight you are carrying, the potential for sudden weather change, and the daylight hours remaining. Steep and rugged terrain, and lack of available water, can limit both the distance of your hike and the total number of days of your backcountry stay. Please plan your itinerary wisely.

Entry and Exit Locations

Given the variety of routes available for your hiking excursion, you might choose to enter and exit the backcountry through different trailheads. As the park does not provide shuttle service between locations, you are responsible for arranging your own transportation back to your vehicle. McKittrick Canyon is a day-use area. If your planned exit is through McKittrick Canyon, please allow enough time to be out of the canyon by the posted closing time of that location.

Dog Canyon

Many backpackers enjoy camping at Dog Canyon as a planned part of their itinerary because Dog Canyon is an excellent location for acquiring additional water. Sites in the developed Dog Canyon Campground can be reserved up to six months in advance. 

Peak Visitation

During peak visitation times (holiday weekends, spring break, fall colors) the Pine Springs and Dog Canyon campgrounds are likely to be full to capacity. Parking at the trailhead and the Pine Springs Visitor Center may also fill early in the day.

Details

Activity

Backcountry Camping

Pets Allowed

No

Pets disturb wildlife and are not allowed on trails. Your pets should remain at home as opportunities for pets are very limited in the park.

Activity Fee

Yes

Park entry fee required for all adult visitors.
A Wilderness Use Permit fee is required for all overnight use of any wilderness camping sites. 

Reservations

Yes

A Wilderness Use Permit is required for overnight use of any wilderness camping sites.

Accessibility Information

All wilderness campgrounds in Guadalupe Mountains National Park are accessible only by foot trail.