McKelligon Canyon lies on the southeastern side of the Franklin Mountains in El Paso, Texas, where steep walls enclose a canyon that is both a recreation area and an event venue within Franklin Mountains State Park. Its modern history began after El Paso County bought the land in 1931 following an ownership dispute; it was named for realtor M. J. McKelligon, who had grazed cattle there. A road and dam were built with federal relief funds. Today the canyon draws hikers, climbers, runners, walkers, and bikers, and it is especially known for its outdoor amphitheater, pavilion, and productions of Viva El Paso!