Aguirre Spring Recreation Area And Campground
4.66137 reviewsAguirre Spring Recreation Area And Campground
$7.00 - $50.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$7.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$50.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Camping fees are $7 per campsite per night. Group sites are $50 with reservations required. Day use fees are $5 per vehicle and $15 per bus.
About this campground
Nestled at the dramatic base of the Organ Mountains, Aguirre Spring Campground welcomes adventurers to a world where jagged peaks meet endless desert vistas. From your choice of 55 individual campsites or two spacious group areas, you'll wake each morning to breathtaking panoramas of the Tularosa Basin stretching toward the gleaming white gypsum dunes of White Sands National Park in the distance.
Aguirre Spring Campground caters to tent campers, small RVs, and group camping. The lack of hookups and more rustic facilities make it ideal for campers seeking a primitive experience. Group sites can be reserved, but all other sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Weather and SeasonsWinter brings crisp, clear days with temperatures dancing between 30°F and 50°F, perfect for hiking without the desert's summer intensity. While gentle 4 mph breezes typically whisper through the mountain passes, spring awakens more spirited winds that rush down from the peaks—a reminder to secure your tent stakes extra tight during these months. The dry climate means stargazing is spectacular year-round, with countless stars illuminating the desert sky.
ElevationPerched in the high desert foothills where the air is crisp and the views are endless, this mountain sanctuary offers a refreshing escape from the lower desert floor. The elevation provides cooler temperatures and a unique perspective of the Chihuahuan Desert ecosystem transitioning into mountain terrain.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering above your campsite, the Organ Mountains thrust their needle-sharp spires and sheer cliff faces into the azure sky, creating a dramatic backdrop that shifts from rose gold at sunrise to deep purple at dusk. Hidden within the canyon folds, seasonal springs bubble to life after rains, creating temporary oases that attract wildlife and nurture surprising pockets of greenery in this arid landscape.
Geological RegionThis remarkable convergence of ecosystems showcases the rugged beauty of the Chihuahuan Desert as it climbs into mountain territory. Ancient alligator junipers twist from rocky outcrops while gray oaks and mountain mahogany cling to sheltered slopes. Where perennial springs persist, ribbons of riparian habitat create verdant corridors through the landscape, offering glimpses of cottonwoods and willows that seem almost magical against the backdrop of sun-baked stone and desert thornscrub.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground has accessible vault toilets and some campsites are described as easy to navigate for certain disabilities. One reviewer stated, "Camp hosts go out of their way to help you find the best place to camp if [you're] handicap."
Sites SizeSites vary in size, accommodating smaller RVs and tents. It is recommended for RVs under 23 feet due to the narrow and winding road leading to the campground. Some reviews noted that certain sites, such as 53, may be undersized or rocky for tents.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies across campsites. Some sites closer to trails and bathrooms are less private, while others deeper into the loop offer more seclusion. Reviewers often mentioned sites with better privacy, such as site 14 described as "sooo private, with your own little private hiking trails and rocks."
Total Campsites55 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite #8 offers excellent views and privacy. Sites in the upper loop provide solitude but are less suitable for large RVs. Sites in Loop A are more protected from wind.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Entrance gate opens at 8:00 AM during winter and 7:00 AM during summer.
Check-out
Entrance gate closes at 6:00 PM during winter and 8:00 PM during summer.
Groups
The campground has two group sites available, each for $50 per night. Reservations are required for group sites. Details about capacity were not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of 55 individual sites and two group sites distributed across loops. A one-way road system facilitates navigation.
Open and Closed SeasonEntrance gate hours: Winter hours (November to March): 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Summer hours (March to November): 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
Reservation PlatformsGroup reservations can be made by calling 575-525-4300.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is offered for all 55 individual campsites on a first-come, first-served basis. Sites tend to fill up quickly during holidays and weekends.
Cancellation PolicyNo reservations are offered for individual sites as all are first-come, first-served. Cancellation policies do not apply for individual sites. Group site reservations are subject to a $10 cancellation fee and forfeiture of the first night's fees if canceled late.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Aguirre Spring Campground is a hub for outdoor activities, offering hiking, wildlife viewing, and scenic photography opportunities. The Pine Tree Trail, a 4-mile loop, and the Baylor Canyon Trail, a 6-mile one-way hike, are connected to this campground. Hikers have praised these trails for the stunning desert and mountain vistas. The area is also popular for photography, particularly the dramatic views of the Organ Mountains and White Sands National Park.
Hiking
The campground provides direct access to the Pine Tree Trail and Baylor Canyon Trail. Pine Tree Trail is a 4-mile loop with moderate difficulty, offering panoramic views of the Tularosa Basin and Organ Mountains. Baylor Canyon Trail is a 6-mile one-way trail traversing the Organ Mountains. Multiple reviewers praised the trails, with one stating, "The hike to the Pass was moderate and wonderful. The hike to the peak was easy to follow but very difficult."Wildlife viewing
Wildlife is abundant in and around the campground, including deer and birds. One reviewer remarked, "Lots of wildlife. Peaceful." Another mentioned hearing wild cows while hiking.Winter Activities
The campground remains open during the winter, offering a quieter experience with cooler temperatures and snow-covered peaks. It is particularly scenic during this season.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not applicable due to the absence of a water body at the campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted within designated fire rings at each campsite. Campers must bring their own firewood, as gathering wood is prohibited.
Hazards
General hazardsFrequent high winds can damage tents and awnings. Wildlife such as skunks and deer are common; precautions should be taken with food storage.
Weather forecast
77
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 22%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 12.3 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services can be accessed in Las Cruces, which is approximately a 30-minute drive from the campground.
Good to know
Peak season datesMarch to November is considered peak season with extended entrance gate hours.
Trash and recyclingTrash cans are available near each site, and reviewers noted that the campground is generally clean but expressed concern about litter during busier times. One reviewer highlighted, "Every site has a picnic table, grill, and trash cans."
Proximity to water featuresSeasonal springs and small streams are located within the canyon bottoms. Perennial springs support limited riparian habitat.
Common complaintsSome reviews mention unclean vault toilets, noisy neighbors, and crowded campsites during peak seasons. Limited water accessibility requires campers to bring their own or fill containers at the host site.
HostCamp hosts are friendly and available at the entrance gate. They provide water and general campsite information.
Campground Map
Driving directionsTake U.S. 70 for 14 miles east of the I-25/U.S. 70 interchange in Las Cruces, then turn south on the Aguirre Spring Road (1.1 miles after San Augustine Pass) for six miles. At mile 4 the road becomes a one-way loop and climbs steeply.
The road to the campground becomes narrow and winding with steep inclines and declines. It is paved but is not recommended for trailers longer than 23 feet due to sharp turns.Nearby places
Las Cruces: approximately 14 miles east (30-minute drive)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies, including groceries and camping essentials, are available in Las Cruces, 14 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.7
137 reviews
Aguirre Spring Recreation Area And Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Aguirre Spring Campground generally receives high praise for its breathtaking views, cleanliness, and affordability. Visitors emphasize the natural beauty, with comments frequently mentioning the Organ Mountains and proximity to White Sands National Park.
Review Summaries
Based on 137 reviews
What Campers Love
Visitors rave about the views, affordable camping fees, clean vault toilets, and hiking trails. Multiple users highlighted the peaceful atmosphere and starry nights.
Based on 137 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints include the narrow, winding road to the campground, limited water access near campsites, lack of showers, and occasional noise during busy periods like Easter weekend.
Based on 137 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring plenty of water due to the limited access at the entrance. Use a long hose to refill RV tanks. Arrive early to secure a good campsite, and consider scouting sites in a smaller vehicle. Prepare...
Based on 137 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Winter brings a quieter experience with cool temperatures, while spring is windy. Summer and fall are popular, but gates close as early as 6 or 8 PM depending on the season.
Based on 137 reviewsCamper Quotes
"For $7/night you can't beat the views." "The wind comes down from the mountains with epic bursts. Tents and awnings can easily get ruined." "No hook-ups but very nice." "Spot 14 was sooo private,...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site 14 is noted as private and secluded. Site 36 provides wind shielding due to a boulder and bushes. Site 9 is recommended for big rigs but requires careful maneuvering.
Based on 137 reviewsAccessibility Features
Camp hosts are helpful in finding accessible spots. Vault toilets are available and generally accessible.
Based on 137 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and the campground provides a good environment for camping with pets. No specific amenities for pets are mentioned in reviews.
Based on 137 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025