Frijole Horse Corral Campground Pit Toilet

Overview

This is the basic pit toilet serving the Frijole Horse Corral Campground, about a mile east of the Pine Springs Visitor Center just off US 62/180. It’s exactly what you want in a remote desert park: straightforward, clean enough, and close to the action. An accessible path leads to the toilet, and there’s a drinking fountain and picnic table in the immediate campground area.

What to Expect

Think utilitarian, not glamorous—it's a pit toilet with no flush. The wider corral area is built for stock users, with corrals, hitching posts, and extra trailer parking, and it doubles as parking for the Foothills and Frijole trails. The park doesn’t offer showers, hookups, or a dump station, so plan your water and waste logistics before you arrive.

Noise and Weather

The corral sits roughly 100 yards from US 62/180, and you’ll hear truck traffic day and night. High winds are common, especially in winter and spring, with gusts that can top 50 mph—expect flapping doors and dust if it’s blowing.

Wildlife

Campers sometimes mention coyotes yipping after dark—classic Chihuahuan Desert soundtrack. Keep food and scented items secured and give wildlife space.

Nearby and Trails

From the corral area you can hop right onto the Foothills and Frijole trails, and the historic Frijole Ranch is close by. If you’re bringing stock, remember this is the east-side hub for horse users and your jumping-off point for designated stock routes (permits required from the Pine Springs Visitor Center).

Best Time to Visit

Anytime you need it, it’s here—but if you’re sensitive to wind and blowing dust, avoid the windiest winter/spring days. Traffic noise is a constant due to the highway, so don’t expect a quiet stop even late at night.