Beginning January 1, 2022 all overnight use of the Guadalupe Mountains Wilderness will require a Wilderness Use Permit reservation fee of $6.00 plus a $6 per-person-per-night recreation fee. This fee will be payable upon issuing the permit. Permits are issued on a first come, first serve basis at the Pine Springs Visitor Center in the park. Wilderness use permit reservations will be offered on Recreation.gov later in 2022.
In an effort to minimize resource impact, wilderness use permits may be issued for no more than seven (7) nights, with no more than four (4) persons per campsite. Permits will be issued for no more than 3 campsites for the same group, with a maximum of 10-person occupancy.
Campers should plan to pack in all water needed for their backpacking experience. The park recommends at least one gallon per day, per person. There are no water stations along backcountry trails and scarce, natural water sources in the park are protected and must not be disturbed. Hikers should be prepared to pack out human waste, toilet paper, diapers, and hygiene products. Human waste disposal bags are highly recommended to transport solid waste.
The use of hammocks, slacklines, tarps or similar devices tied to natural or manmade features are prohibited. All wood or charcoal fires are also prohibited. Only containerized fuel can be used for cooking while in the park. For more information regarding Wilderness Use Permits check the website at https://www.nps.gov/gumo/planyourvisit/backcountry-use-permits.htm
