Bureau of Land Management
Aguirre Spring Campground

The Aguirre Spring Campground is nestled at the base of spectacular cliffs of tall, needle-like spires on the eastern slopes of the Organ Mountains. This is a piece of Chihuahuan Desert overlooking the White Sands National Monument and Tularosa Basin. This is an area where most springs and streams are seasonal, but several active riparian habitats indicate the presence of perennial water sources.

At the east end of the campground is the Baylor Pass Trail, a 6-mile foot and horseback trail (one way) that leads to the Baylor Canyon Road on the west side of the Organ Mountains. On the southern side of the campground is the Pine Tree Trail, a 4-mile foot-access-only loop that climbs into Ponderosa pines at the base of the Organ Needles. Both trails offer great views of the Tularosa Basin and Organ Mountains.

The campground has 2 group sites and 57 family sites. On weekends and holidays this is a hugely popular get-away. Aguirre Spring is the only up-country campground in the Las Cruces/El Paso/Juarez area. Each campsite and picnic site has either shade trees or shelters, a picnic table and fire grill. Restrooms, including handicapped accessible, are nearby.

To get there: From the I-25 and US 70 interchange in Las Cruces, go eat on US 70 for 14 miles. About 1.1 miles past the summit of San Augustine Pass turn south on Aguirre Spring Road. Go 6 miles. At mile 4 the road turns into a one-way loop and gets steep.

The Campground is open year round but day users must be off the property by 10 PM. From April to October the entrance gate is open from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM. From October to April it is open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Fees: $3 per vehicle for day use, $3 per vehicle to camp. $25 reservation fee for the 2 group campsites.

Firearms are not allowed.

Maps: BLM - Las Cruces