Franklin Mountains State Park

4.28

43 reviews

2900 Tom Mays Access Road, EL PASO, Texas, 79911, United States

Scenic ViewsPeace & QuietGreat Hiking

Quick Facts

4,613 ft

Price

$5/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Franklin Mountains State Park site

Official Website

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Quick Facts

4,613 ft

Price

$5/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Franklin Mountains State Park site

Official Website

Get Directions

Franklin Mountains State Park

$5.00 - $5.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Day use fee is $5 per person for visitors aged 13 and older.

Standard Site Fee$0.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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What Campers Say

4.28

Satisfactory

Based on 43 reviews

2384 Google reviews

Most mentioned

quietpeacefulhikingwell-maintained

"The park receives high praise for its natural beauty, tranquility, and opportunities for outdoor recreation. Many users highlight the courteous staff and well-maintained facilities, although the lack of running water and showers is a common critique."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

2900 Tom Mays Access Road, EL PASO, Texas, 79911, United States

Franklin Mountains State Park

2900 Tom Mays Access Road, EL PASO, Texas, 79911, United States

Driving directionsFrom I-10 take the Canutillo/Trans-Mountain exit, turn toward the mountains, the Tom Mays Unit park entrance is located 3.5 miles East of I-10; or take loop 375/Trans-Mountain Road going West up and over the scenic Franklins and find the park entrance 7.5 miles from the intersection with Hwy 54.

Accessible via paved roads; signage may be easy to miss based on user reviews. Seasonal gate closures impact access after 5 PM unless prior arrangements are made.

Nearby places

El Paso is approximately 15 minutes away.

Nearby supplies

Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in El Paso, approximately 15 minutes away.

Best Time to Camp at Franklin Mountains State Park

The park's desert climate creates a tale of two seasons that shapes every outdoor adventure. Winter months bring crisp, crystalline days perfect for ambitious hikes, with cool temperatures that make even the most challenging trails inviting. As summer arrives, the desert transforms into a land of early morning adventures and spectacular evening explorations, when the fierce midday sun gives way to magical golden hours. Throughout the year, desert winds sweep across the mountains with enough vigor to test your tent stakes, adding an element of wild authenticity to your camping experience.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

2.0 / 5

High summer temps and limited shade make summer visits less enjoyable.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Autumn noted as an ideal season with moderate weather for hiking and biking.

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.5 / 5

Top 24% in TX

Spring highlighted for moderate weather and blooming wildflowers; peak season noted.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

4.0 / 5

Top 24% in TX

Crisp winter days ideal for ambitious hikes; park open year-round.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: First Saturday in April through the first Saturday in September.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open year-round; Tom Mays Unit gate operates daily from 8 AM to 5 PM, with extended hours during peak season (April to September).
Current Alerts: No specific alerts mentioned in provided materials.

About Franklin Mountains State Park

Rising dramatically from the Chihuahuan Desert floor, Franklin Mountains State Park beckons adventurers to explore one of the largest city wilderness parks in Texas. This rugged paradise serves as a natural playground where hiking enthusiasts traverse ancient trails, mountain bikers navigate challenging terrain, and rock climbers test their skills on sun-baked granite faces. After a day of exploration, visitors can retreat to well-appointed camping areas, enjoy leisurely picnics with panoramic views, or simply pause at scenic overlooks to watch golden eagles soar above the desert peaks.

Franklin Mountains State Park accommodates various camping styles, emphasizing primitive and dry camping setups. It supports RVs without hookups, tent camping, and backcountry camping accessible via off-road conditions.

Historical Significance

Indigenous Heritage

These ancient mountains hold stories etched in stone and whispered by the wind. Expert-led nature tours unveil the fascinating geological timeline written in the park's rocky layers while revealing traces of the indigenous peoples who first called these peaks home. The mysterious Aztec Caves serve as a portal to the past, where visitors can explore naturally formed shelters that have provided refuge for countless generations, their walls holding secrets of both human history and the natural forces that carved these remarkable formations.

Weather and SeasonsThe park's desert climate creates a tale of two seasons that shapes every outdoor adventure. Winter months bring crisp, crystalline days perfect for ambitious hikes, with cool temperatures that make even the most challenging trails inviting. As summer arrives, the desert transforms into a land of early morning adventures and spectacular evening explorations, when the fierce midday sun gives way to magical golden hours. Throughout the year, desert winds sweep across the mountains with enough vigor to test your tent stakes, adding an element of wild authenticity to your camping experience.

ElevationPerched high above the surrounding desert basin, Franklin Mountains State Park offers a vertical escape from the valley floor below. These sky-reaching peaks create their own weather patterns and ecosystems, providing hikers with the exhilarating experience of climbing from desert scrubland into cooler, more diverse mountain environments where the air grows thinner and the views become increasingly spectacular with every step upward.

Natural Features and SceneryThis desert wonderland paints an ever-changing canvas of natural beauty across its rugged terrain. Jagged peaks and weathered rock formations create a dramatic skyline that transforms throughout the day, from rose-tinted dawn to fiery sunset displays that set the mountains ablaze with color. The rocky slopes provide perfect vantage points for watching roadrunners dart between ocotillo blooms, spotting elusive desert bighorn sheep navigating impossible cliffs, and observing hawks circling on thermal currents. Below, the vast valley stretches endlessly, offering a stunning contrast to the intimate desert details found along winding trails.

Geological RegionThe Franklin Mountains stand as a testament to millions of years of geological drama, where ancient seas, volcanic activity, and relentless erosion have sculpted a landscape of extraordinary beauty. These desert sentinels showcase exposed rock layers that tell Earth's story in vivid detail, from prehistoric ocean floors to volcanic intrusions. The rocky vistas reveal a painter's palette of mineral hues - rust-red iron deposits, gleaming white quartzite, and dark volcanic rocks - all framing breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding valley that stretch to distant mountain ranges on the horizon.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

8:00 AM

Check-out

5:00 PM

Stay Limit

Specific stay limits not provided.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Exact guest limit per site not mentioned.

Groups

No information provided about group sites.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutCampsites are spread out with ample privacy.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Texas State Parks platforms, but exact details on third-party services are not provided.

Walk-in AvailabilityLimited; reviews indicate reservations may be required for access after 5 PM due to gate closures.

Cancellation PolicyVisitors are encouraged to modify or cancel reservations as soon as possible to allow others to enjoy the park.

AccessibilityThe information provided does not include specific accessibility features.

Site SizeNo explicit details about site sizes are described.

PrivacyAccording to user reviews, campsites are spread out, offering a sense of privacy. For instance, Anna noted, 'The sites are very spread out.

Recommended SitesMundy's Gap for sunrise; Aztec Caves for a short but intense hike.

Amenities available

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Camp Store

Activities you can enjoy

Franklin Mountains State Park offers a broad array of activities, emphasizing outdoor recreation. Visitors can engage in hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, and wildlife viewing. The park also offers guided tours focusing on geology, cultural history, and nature twice a month.

HikingHiking is a central activity at the park, with trails ranging from easy to challenging. User reviews highlight specific trails like the Aztec Caves and Mundy’s Gap. Jake Hewitt shared, 'Some [trails] were quite challenging like to the Aztec Caves and Mundy’s Gap.' The trails offer scenic views but are sometimes steep and not clearly marked according to some reviews.

ClimbingClimbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.

BikingMountain biking is a featured activity, with trails varying in difficulty. Katina Bohrer mentioned, 'The mountain biking was tougher than I'm used to, but still mostly doable.'

Wildlife viewingThe park is a great spot for observing local wildlife. Jake G mentioned the 'beautiful bird garden' and bird blind as highlights, stating, 'We sat in awe as we watched all different kinds of song and garden birds.'

Cultural and Educational ProgramsThe park hosts educational programs like guided nature tours and talks. For instance, Gary Samaniego attended a talk on water conservation presented by the El Paso Master Gardeners.

Winter Activities

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsStrong winds may pose challenges for tent camping. Trails can be steep and slippery due to erosion. User reports mention wildlife including tarantulas and small mammals.

Active AlertsNo specific alerts mentioned in provided materials.

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Fire PolicyCampfires restricted to designated fire rings.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are Specific quiet hours not mentioned.

Emergency ServicesEmergency services are available in El Paso, approximately 15 minutes away.

Trash & RecyclingTrash receptacles are available, as noted by Anna. Recycling facilities and schedules are not detailed.

Water FeaturesNo proximity to major water bodies; dry camping only.

Camp HostPark rangers are knowledgeable and courteous, offering guidance and maps to visitors.

Weather at Franklin Mountains State Park

Reviews

4.3

43 reviews

Satisfactory

Franklin Mountains State Park is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

The park receives high praise for its natural beauty, tranquility, and opportunities for outdoor recreation. Many users highlight the courteous staff and well-maintained facilities, although the lack of running water and showers is a common critique.

Review Summaries

Based on 43 reviews

What Campers Love

The park's scenic beauty and quiet atmosphere are frequently praised. Sarah Markel noted, 'Quiet, peaceful, well-maintained,' while Marco Hernandez commented on the variety of camping and hiking...

Based on 43 reviews

Common Concerns

Common issues include the lack of running water and shower facilities, as well as challenges with trail signage. Jake Hewitt noted, 'The trails aren’t the most clearly marked,' and Shelby Gebhart...

Based on 43 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Users recommend bringing plenty of water due to the lack of running water. Strong tent stakes are suggested for dealing with the park's windy conditions. Arriving early is advised to avoid issues...

Based on 43 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring and autumn are highlighted as ideal times to visit, with moderate weather and blooming wildflowers. Summer visits may be less enjoyable due to high temperatures and limited shade.

Based on 43 reviews

Camper Quotes

- 'Quiet, peaceful, well-maintained.' - Sarah Markel - 'The landscape is worth everything.' - Karen Ale. P L - 'Trails range from easy to very challenging.' - Julie Schlichte - 'No showers and only...

Based on 43 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Anna mentioned, 'The sites are very spread out,' while Jake Hewitt noted wind-related challenges for tents. Specific trails like the Aztec Caves and Mundy’s Gap are commonly cited as highlights in...

Based on 43 reviews