Bush Mountain Wilderness Campground sits 6.2 miles from Pine Springs Trailhead via the Tejas and Bush Mountain Trails. Five designated tent-only campsites feature prepared tent pads. The location offers views and western exposure, with semi-protected sites that still experience significant wind; the exposed approach trail can be difficult during high wind conditions. A Wilderness Use Permit (required, available through recreation.gov) costs $6 per person per night plus a $6 permit reservation fee. Campers must bring containerized fuel stoves (campfires prohibited), pack out all trash, and carry a landfill-safe toilet bag system (minimum one per person per night). No water, toilets, or food storage lockers are available.
✅ BOOK IF: You are an experienced backpacker comfortable with a 6.2-mile hike, prepared for exposed ridge hiking and wind, seeking wilderness solitude, and able to self-manage Leave No Trace camping. ❌ SKIP IF: You want facilities (water, toilets, shade), an easy-access first backpacking trip, shelter from wind, or companionship with other campers.
Tent-only sites with designated tent pads. No RV, group, or horse camping.
El Capitan Viewpoint, Guadalupe Peak Viewpoint, Frijole Ranch Museum, McKittrick Canyon Nature Trail
Not recommended for families with young children due to remote access, lack of facilities, and wilderness conditions. Older children with backpacking experience and proper supervision by experienced adults could camp here.
Late spring through early fall (May–October) generally offer more stable weather, though wind exposure remains a year-round consideration. Winter can bring snow and below-freezing temperatures; summer brings heat at lower park elevations.
Examine your site for wind protection before pitching. Orient your tent door away from prevailing winds. Drive all stakes fully and tension all guy-lines—don't skip attachment points in wind-exposed terrain. Camp only on designated tent pads to protect vegetation and maintain erosion control.
This is a wilderness backpacking destination for experienced campers seeking remote solitude. Expect no facilities, significant wind exposure, full Leave No Trace responsibility, and preparation-intensive logistics.
Tent-only sites with designated tent pads. No RV, group, or horse camping.
Backcountry hiking, backpacking, photography, scenic viewing
A Wilderness Use Permit is required for all overnight camping. Permits can be obtained up to one day in advance through recreation.gov and are also available through advanced reservations at the same site.
No Pets Allowed
To Park Entrance
6.2 miles from Pine Springs Trailhead via Tejas and Bush Mountain Trails
Yes. A Wilderness Use Permit is required for all overnight camping and costs $6 per person per night plus a $6 permit reservation fee. Permits can be obtained up to one day in advance through recreation.gov.
No. Fires, including charcoal fires, are prohibited park-wide. You must bring a containerized fuel stove if you plan to cook.
No. Pets are not allowed on trails or in the backcountry.
No. There is no water available at Bush Mountain. You must carry all water needed for your stay.
The 6.2-mile hike via Tejas and Bush Mountain Trails is exposed and crosses wind-swept terrain. High winds can make the approach trail difficult. Check weather forecasts and start early to finish before dark.
A landfill-safe commercial toilet bag system is required (minimum one per person per night). You must pack out all waste in these bags.
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