Franklin Mountains State Park Tom Mays Unit El Paso
Vast desert park with challenging hikes, stunning views, wildlife, and primitive camping near El Paso.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Franklin Mountains State Park Tom Mays Unit El Paso
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Vast desert park with challenging hikes, stunning views, wildlife, and primitive camping near El Paso.
"The scenery is unmatched if you're looking to reconnect with nature."
Carry Plenty of Water 🧂
Desert heat is no joke! Bring more water than you think you'll need for any hike.
Wear Comfortable Shoes 🥾
Sturdy hiking boots or shoes are essential for rocky and steep trails.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Aztec Caves Trail
Tom Mays Unit
A moderately challenging 1-mile hike leading to fascinating caves. Great for a rewarding adventure!
Sunset Views
Various overlooks
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of El Paso and New Mexico as the sun dips below the horizon.
Wildlife Spotting
Throughout the park
Keep an eye out for diverse desert wildlife, including bighorn sheep and coyotes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Hydration is Key
Timing Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Carry Plenty of Water 🧂
Desert heat is no joke! Bring more water than you think you'll need for any hike.
Wear Comfortable Shoes 🥾
Sturdy hiking boots or shoes are essential for rocky and steep trails.
Hike Early or Late 🌜
Avoid the scorching midday sun by hiking in the cooler morning or evening hours.
Check Trail Conditions 📍
Some trails can be steep and challenging, especially towards the end.
Tips
from all over the internet
Carry Plenty of Water 🧂
Desert heat is no joke! Bring more water than you think you'll need for any hike.
Wear Comfortable Shoes 🥾
Sturdy hiking boots or shoes are essential for rocky and steep trails.
Hike Early or Late 🌜
Avoid the scorching midday sun by hiking in the cooler morning or evening hours.
Check Trail Conditions 📍
Some trails can be steep and challenging, especially towards the end.
Look for Wildlife 🐇
You might spot bighorn sheep, coyotes, and other desert creatures.
Sunscreen & Hat 🌞
Protect yourself from the intense desert sun, even on cooler days.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning desert scenery and the sense of isolation offered by the primitive campsites. The variety of hiking trails, from easy to challenging, is a major draw, with the Aztec Caves Trail being a particular highlight. Some campers noted issues with the after-hours gate access, but overall, the park is highly recommended for its natural beauty and outdoor activities.
"We had a memorable time camping in the Franklin Mountains State Park this weekend. The scenery is unmatched if you're looking to reconnect with nature, and even though there are other campers nearby, it still feels pretty isolated compared to other places we have camped, which is awesome. The trails are never-ending and it is such a peaceful overall camping experience. Watch for rattlesnakes, and enjoy other wildlife sightings as well. There are trails for all levels of hiking experience. Just make sure to bring plenty of water. We chose to hike early morning and early evening to avoid the scorching sun and it made all the difference in the world. We camped with our little Casita, a generator, and our two dogs though there were plenty of people roughing it in tents around us. The campsites are pretty nomadic (no hookups, no street lights at night, etc) but there is an outhouse for doing your business. If you are looking for a phenomenal camping experience that truly puts you in the center of nature's majesty, this is the place you have been searching for. If you're looking to be lined up beside other campers in neat little rows, have no privacy, but have slightly more amenities, this is not it. The only suggestion I would notation for the park to improve upon is the gate for after hours coming/going. We were given a code for gate access if we needed to go anywhere outside of the parks normal operating hours of 8-5. The code is for an actual padlock and you have to manually swing open the gate, drive through, and then get out and close it behind you. While this is a pretty straightforward process and we are not lazy individuals, the issue arose when we were bombarded by other patrons trying to gain access to the park at 6:30 AM on a Saturday morning. People showing us receipts where they had paid for access online, people trying to follow our vehicle through the gate, etc. This put us in a very uncomfortable position since we are not supposed to let anyone in. With an automatic gate that requires keypad code entry and operates on a timer to only let 1 vehicle through at a time, this issue could be remedied. The office/facilities seem new/updated so my only suggestion for improvement would be to update the gate/ how campers and patrons are able to enter the park. Overall, best camping experience we have ever had, even with the gate issues."
Taylor Westbury
"What a wonderful surprise overlooking El Paso! Very nice camp sites, and even a trail to a cave. Covered picnic tables and level parking with extensive trails to hike."
Cindy Rhodes
"Family fun outside, enjoying nature, a hike (50 minutes climb/hike to Aztec cavws) only 5bux to park. We'll go again soon! Sooo pretty!"
Michelle
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Tom Mays Unit is located off Trans-Mountain Road in El Paso, Texas. It's easily accessible by car. Many visitors use GPS to navigate directly to the park entrance. +1
Public transportation options to the park are limited. Driving is the most convenient way to access the park and its various trailheads.
The Aztec Caves Trailhead is within the Tom Mays Unit. Follow signs for the Aztec Caves Trail once you enter the park. Parking is available near the start of the trail. +1
Parking is available at most trailheads, but it can be limited, especially at popular spots like the North Franklin Mountain Summit Trail. Arrive early to secure a spot.
The park has operating hours, typically 8 AM to 5 PM. After-hours access for campers may involve a manual gate with a code, which can sometimes lead to issues with other patrons trying to enter.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entry fee is typically $5 per person for those over 13 years old. This fee grants access to the park for hiking and exploring.
Advance booking is generally not required for day use. However, if you plan to camp, it's advisable to check the Texas State Parks website for reservation availability.
Information on specific discounts is not widely available, but it's always a good idea to check the official Texas State Parks website for any potential offers or passes.
The park generally operates from 8 AM to 5 PM. However, specific hours can vary, so it's best to confirm with the Texas State Parks website or local information before your visit.
The $5 per person entry fee covers access to all areas of the park, including the Aztec Caves Trail.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
Popular trails include the Aztec Caves Trail (moderate, 1 mile), Lower Sunset Loop (easier, 2 miles), and the more challenging North Franklin Mountain Summit Trail. +1
Yes, the Lower Sunset Loop is considered an easier option with moderate elevation gain, suitable for beginners.
Franklin Mountains State Park offers opportunities for rock climbing and biking in addition to hiking.
Visitors have reported seeing bighorn sheep, coyotes, and various bird species. Remember to observe wildlife from a safe distance. +1
The park has outhouses available for use. Some reviews mention new/updated office/facilities, but campsites are generally primitive with no hookups.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants within the park itself. You'll need to bring your own food and drinks or dine in El Paso before or after your visit.
Yes, picnic tables are available, making it a great spot for a packed lunch amidst nature.
Pack plenty of water and snacks. For longer visits or camping, bring all the food you'll need, as amenities are limited.
The nearest dining options will be in El Paso. It's recommended to stock up on supplies before heading into the park.
Some campers use generators for their needs, but it's best to check park regulations regarding noise and usage, especially if camping.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for scenic overlooks, especially during sunrise and sunset, for stunning landscape shots of El Paso and the surrounding desert. +1
Yes, with patience and a good zoom lens, you can photograph wildlife like bighorn sheep. Remember to maintain a safe distance.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for landscape photography. +1
The Aztec Caves offer unique photographic subjects, and the vast desert landscapes provide endless possibilities. +1
Drone usage is typically restricted in state parks to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. Check the official Texas State Parks regulations for specific rules.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Budget Travelers
Adventure Seekers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Hiking Trails for Every Level
When planning your hike, always prioritize safety. The desert climate can be unforgiving, so carrying ample water is crucial, regardless of the trail's difficulty.
Camping Amidst Desert Majesty
While the campsites offer a rustic experience, basic amenities like outhouses are available.
Capturing the El Paso Vistas
Beyond the sweeping landscapes, the park also presents unique photographic subjects. The Aztec Caves offer intriguing textures and formations, providing a more intimate and adventurous photo opportunity.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit