Best Camping in New Mexico

From the vast Chihuahuan Desert to the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, New Mexico has a wealth of opportunities to get outside and explore. For outdoor adventurers, there’s skiing in Taos, whitewater rafting on the Rio Grande, and plenty of hiking, from the Southern Rockies to dusty desert canyons. That’s what makes camping in New Mexico such a varied and fulfilling experience.

Carlsbad Caverns provides ample opportunities to hike, explore, learn about desert wildlife, even appreciate a few thousand Mexican free-tail bats take flight. They swarm out of the cave every night at dust for an audience that often numbers in the hundreds. It’s a perfect excuse to stick around the park after dark and do some camping in New Mexico.

Of course, the only camping available within Carlsbad Caverns National Park is backcountry camping, so come prepared to Leave No Trace. Keep in mind that the desert landscape is often dry, so fire bans, even some backcountry cooking bans, are frequently in effect in the drier months. On the upside, backcountry camping permits are free and you can grab one at the visitor center when you arrive.

Visit White Sands National Monument for an unmatched, natural experience. Acres upon acres of white gypsum dunes stretch into the distance, offering hours of diversion, be it hiking across the dunes or sledding down them. If you forgot your sled, don’t worry, you can pick one up in the gift shop. Just be sure to enjoy these activities early in the morning or late in the evening during the summer months; it gets hot in the desert during midday!

As for camping in White Sands, it’s backcountry camping or nothing and sites require a short hike through the dunes. You’ll be camping on the gypsum, surrounded by shifting white hills, dark night skies up above, and no other campers in sight. It’s definitely a unique experience. Permits are $3.00 per person and can be picked up at the visitor center.

Wherever your adventures take you in the Land of Enchantment, get out there and let The Dyrt help you locate the best camping in New Mexico.

Best Camping Sites in New Mexico (827)

    Camper-submitted photo from Bottomless Lakes State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Bottomless Lakes State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Bottomless Lakes State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Bottomless Lakes State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Bottomless Lakes State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Bottomless Lakes State Park Campground

    1.

    Bottomless Lakes State Park Campground

    64 Reviews
    216 Photos
    407 Saves
    Dexter, New Mexico

    Located just 14 miles southeast of Roswell, Bottomless Lakes State Park is your place for bottomless fun! Enjoy non-motorized boating in your kayak or canoe, camp, fish, picnic, swim, hike, go birding or even scuba dive! The unique lakes at this park are sinkholes, ranging from 17 to 90 feet deep. The greenish-blue color created by aquatic plants is what gives the lakes the illusion of great depth.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $18 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Oliver Lee Memorial State Park — Oliver Lee State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Oliver Lee Memorial State Park — Oliver Lee State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Oliver Lee Memorial State Park — Oliver Lee State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Oliver Lee Memorial State Park — Oliver Lee State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Oliver Lee Memorial State Park — Oliver Lee State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Oliver Lee Memorial State Park — Oliver Lee State Park

    2.

    Oliver Lee Memorial State Park — Oliver Lee State Park

    58 Reviews
    181 Photos
    316 Saves
    Sunspot, New Mexico

    Set against the dramatic Sacramento Mountains, this park features a historic ranch house, quiet camping in the Chihuahuan Desert, and pools of water under the cottonwood trees of Dog Canyon. Springs flow year-round and ferns cling to the sides of mossy rocks. The water in Dog Canyon has attracted people to the area for millennia.

    The park’s namesake, Oliver Milton Lee (1865-1941) was a colorful figure in New Mexico history. In 1893 he settled at the mouth of Dog Canyon and built an extensive house at his ranch headquarters. At its peak, his holdings reached about one million acres. Oliver Lee explored ways of bringing water to the dry Tularosa Basin and was instrumental in establishing the town of Alamogordo. Lee is also credited for using his influence to attract the railroad to the area.

    Oliver Lee’s home at Dog Canyon Ranch has been completely rebuilt from ruins. It is authentically furnished providing visitors with a glimpse of Lee’s life at the ranch. The house is closed for renovations. Please monitor the park events page to find out when tours resume.

    Want to Visit?

    The campground, just southwest of the mouth of Dog Canyon, is dry and rocky with desert grasses, mesquite, ocotillo, creosote, yucca, and various species of cacti. The sites vary widely in elevation offering privacy and incredible views across the Tularosa Basin.

    Travel Tips:

    Peak season for the park is October through April Park Elevation 4,400 ft We are the closest campground to White Sands National Park (30 min. / 27 miles) The park makes an excellent base for day trips Ruidoso 1.25 hours / 66 miles Three Rivers Petroglyph Site 56 min. / 50 miles Cloudcroft 44 min. / 35 miles There are attractions in Alamogordo less than 30 minutes away Alameda Park Zoo New Mexico Museum of Space History Heart of the Desert Pistachios & Wine McGinn’s Pistachio Land The nearby Lincoln National Forest offers miles of trails ranging from very easy to very challenging

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $10 - $14 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Chosa Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Chosa Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Chosa Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Chosa Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Chosa Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Chosa Campground

    3.

    Chosa Campground

    50 Reviews
    103 Photos
    359 Saves
    Carlsbad Caverns, New Mexico

    Chosa Campground consists of a 3.5-acre, pipe-rail fenced pad that offers a trash container and a safe parking space for your Recreational Vehicle plus a protected area to set tents, whatever your camping style. Chosa campground provides visitors a fee free location strategically located between two national parks with Carlsbad Caverns a short 11-mile drive north and Guadalupe Mountains National Park 27 miles south on highway 62.

    • Dispersed
    • Trash
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from USA RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from USA RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from USA RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from USA RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from USA RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from USA RV Park

    4.

    USA RV Park

    47 Reviews
    153 Photos
    150 Saves
    Mentmore, New Mexico
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $25 - $35 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Aguirre Spring Recreation Area and Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Aguirre Spring Recreation Area and Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Aguirre Spring Recreation Area and Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Aguirre Spring Recreation Area and Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Aguirre Spring Recreation Area and Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Aguirre Spring Recreation Area and Campground

    5.

    Aguirre Spring Recreation Area and Campground

    46 Reviews
    137 Photos
    507 Saves
    White Sands, New Mexico

    The high wall, needle-like spires of the Organ Mountains curve dramatically around a semicircle of Chihuahuan Desert habitat at the Aguirre Spring Campground. The campground, nestled at the base of spectacular cliffs, overlooks the Tularosa Basin and White Sands National Park. Alligator juniper, gray oak, mountain mahogany and sotol are a few of the abundant plant species here. Seasonal springs and streams occur in the canyon bottoms, with a few perennial springs that support riparian habitats. Entrance Gate Hours (change with Daylight Savings Time) Winter Hours (Nov - March): 8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Summer Hours (March - Nov): 7:00 - 8:00 p.m. The campground has a total of 55 sites that are available at a first come, first served basis, and two group sites that can be reserved by calling 575-525-4300. Water is only available at the entrance of the recreation site by the Camp Host Site. RVs can camp in the campground but should be aware that the road up to the campground becomes narrow and winding. Due to safety precautions for vehicles, the recommended max length for RVs is 23 feet. All sites have a shade shelter, picnic table, grill and tent pad.

    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Equestrian
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from Las Cruces KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Las Cruces KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Las Cruces KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Las Cruces KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Las Cruces KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Las Cruces KOA

    6.

    Las Cruces KOA

    42 Reviews
    96 Photos
    86 Saves
    Mesilla, New Mexico

    This KOA is conveniently located one mile from I-10, overlooking the amazing views of Las Cruces, Mesilla Valley, and nearby mountains. Many upgrades have taken place over the last year, including Wi-fi with which you can stream and zoom, paved streets and a new playground. Choose from breathtaking view sites, big-rig friendly pull-thru sites, KOA Patio Sites with fire pits, Tent Sites or one-room Camping Cabins with refrigerator/freezer and fire pits. An RV wash area (Care Camps donation encouraged), 24-hr laundry and heated pool (seasonal) will complete your visit. Many come for one night and end up staying longer. Visit La Mesilla, known for its rich history and great cuisine. Shop for local specialties, chilies, and pecans at the popular farmers' market in downtown Las Cruces. Other area attractions include White Sands National Park & Missile Museum, Spaceport America Visitors Center, and the New Mexico Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum. Pool: Mid May – Sept 31st. Max pull thru 85 ft.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Albuquerque KOA Journey
    Camper-submitted photo from Albuquerque KOA Journey
    Camper-submitted photo from Albuquerque KOA Journey
    Camper-submitted photo from Albuquerque KOA Journey
    Camper-submitted photo from Albuquerque KOA Journey
    Camper-submitted photo from Albuquerque KOA Journey

    8.

    Albuquerque KOA Journey

    42 Reviews
    71 Photos
    144 Saves
    Monticello, New Mexico

    Welcome to Albuquerque KOA. We have a beautiful campground nestled close to the Sandia Mountains. Whether you are looking for a big rig friendly 80 foot RV sites, cabins , or just tent camping, we are your Albuquerque campground . We have a swimming pool, indoor hot tub, mini golf, playground, horseshoes and a huge park for your pets. We are definitely pet friendly . We are here to help you relax and take care of all your camping needs. There's plenty to do during your camping stay with us. Our KOA is conveniently located near attractions such as the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta , the world's longest aerial Tramway , and we are the closest campground to Expo New Mexico Fairgrounds. The campground is also conveniently located near a variety of restaurants, the aquarium, zoo, multiple museums and the fascinating Old Town shopping district.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Carlsbad KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Carlsbad KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Carlsbad KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Carlsbad KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Carlsbad KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Carlsbad KOA

    10.

    Carlsbad KOA

    39 Reviews
    64 Photos
    117 Saves
    Carlsbad, New Mexico

    From the KOA website: Kick back with family and friends at this beautiful desert oasis built in 2000. This award-winning KOA is big rig friendly: All sites are huge 30/50-amp pull thrus with free Wi-Fi and free cable TV. The staff will spoil you as you enjoy the 2,000-square-foot community room, meals delivered to your site, a beautiful commercial laundry, outstanding restrooms, a fenced dog park and a heated pool. From this KOA in the heart of SE New Mexico, visit Carlsbad Caverns, Living Desert Zoo & Gardens State Park, Sitting Bull Falls Recreation Area, Roswell's International UFO Museum and White Sands National Monument. Check out the Robert H. Goddard rocket collection at the Roswell Museum and Art Center and the "Billy the Kid" history at the campground. A horse hotel also is available. See how this KOA is going green with the help of a wind turbine. Pool: March 15 - October 15. Max pull thru: 75 feet. Your hosts: Scott, Susan and Brian Bacher.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
Showing results 1-10 of 827 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping in New Mexico

Recent Reviews In New Mexico

3756 Reviews of 827 New Mexico Campgrounds


  • Camper-submitted photo from Vista Linda Campground — Santa Fe National Forest
    September 13, 2024

    Vista Linda Campground — Santa Fe National Forest

    Great Campground!

    We just happened upon this 1st come 1st serve campground & so glad we did! The camp host "Brad" was so very nice & helpful. He gave us info on all the things to do and see in the Jamez area (which is alot)  Our campsite #12 was really nice. It has a large covered pavilion (not all sites have the covered pavilions) with oversized picnic table & a short path down to a private area at the Jamez River (which is really more like a creek) from our site. We left our chairs down there & frequently enjoyed relaxing there. The area is scenic & campground was very clean. There are water pumps outside the bathrooms. The cost for us was $5 per night using our America the Beautiful Senior Pass. This is a great home base for visiting the area. Would defiantly visit again!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Jag's Red Carpet RV Park
    September 10, 2024

    Jag's Red Carpet RV Park

    Best RV park in town

    By far the best RV park in town. Clean drinkable water. Clean shower and bathroom available to these who choose to not use their own. Lots of shade. Wildlife walk through the park often. Police patrol the area often. Owner lives on site and is very helpful when needed.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Six Mile Canyon - Dispersed Camping
    September 10, 2024

    Six Mile Canyon - Dispersed Camping

    Nice stay for two days

    We picked this free area for convenience (easy to get to from I40) and how it looked in photos.
    What other reviews say about the start of the road being rough is correct. The wash areas are really poorly maintained. Once you get past this the road is pretty good.
    We found a nice campsite and were able to get level in the pickup camper. Stayed two night and enjoyed the beauty.
    Some complain about noise form I40, but if you come back into the area you can’t hear it.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Moore's RV Park & Campground
    September 10, 2024

    Moore's RV Park & Campground

    Old KOA but better

    This is not desert Rose campground but Morris campground. An old KOA from the '70s. Very well maintained and clean. Very friendly staff and helpful. Would stay again.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Borrego Mesa Campground
    September 9, 2024

    Borrego Mesa Campground

    Quiet and small campground

    Very small, but quiet and secluded primitive campground.  Several sites appear to be overgrown or have too much debris to be usable.  There are a couple sites that could fit a small trailer.  All are suitable for tents or a van.  The bathroom is still out of order.  Mobile coverage was spotty, worked better if you went up to the nearby trailhead.   The road up to the campground is in good shape, 4x4 not required.  Overall traffic was very low.  There was a little bit of firewood cutting nearby, with a few trucks making multiple trips.  A few families were up on Sat for picnics.  UTVs were minimal.  There are a few dispersed options in the area.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Tucumcari KOA
    September 9, 2024

    Tucumcari KOA

    Not a KOA I expected

    Staff was nice. Sites are not level. Cable only offered a premium sites. Game room was half open. Bathrooms and showers were clean but no air... it wasn't working. Small pool. Just disappointed not a KOA expected.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Forest Road 558
    September 8, 2024

    Forest Road 558

    Dispersed Sites FSR558

    A good amount of dispersed sites off of FSR558. I just pulled off to one of the closer sites but looked like tons of other sites were further in on the road. Really quiet even with the highway close by. Great stars at night, decently clean (the sites that I saw). You could probably make it in a 2WD vehicle for the first few sites but it gets a bit more rugged as you continue in.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Tucumcari KOA
    September 8, 2024

    Tucumcari KOA

    Well run, clean, and great views

    We stayed for an overnight on the way to Arizona. Check in was very easy and well organized. There is a store and they will also bring breakfast to your site which is a great added feature. If you get a site at the very back of the park, like we did, you have an unobstructed view, of Tucumcari Mountain which was very nice to watch the sunset. Clean bathrooms, quiet aside from the interstate noise. Con - was a little pricey for the area and I’ve seen people complain it’s a little harder to get to then some of the other parks, but it was really a simple turnaround. It is on the east side of town so you reached the park before you reach anything in town but you can get DoorDash there if you want dinner delivered. Would stay again.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Rio Chama RV Park
    September 7, 2024

    Rio Chama RV Park

    Shaded Next To River + Steam Train

    The weather is perfect in the summer! The Cumbres & Toltec steam train goes by the campground twice a day at the trestle. The Rio Chama flows along the edge of the campground. The staff was friendly and helpful. The town of Chama is within walking distance. Definitely worth staying.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Holy Ghost Campground
    September 4, 2024

    Holy Ghost Campground

    Awesome campground

    Yes, it can get packed but be prepared to go early enough to find a good spot. I prefer camp sites 7 through 10, even the very first site when you first come in since they are right near the river. If you really want to experience the haunt of the campground I prefer the campsites in the back 11 through 16. 

    I have not experienced the haunts until I camped at spot 15, this past Labor Day weekend on Friday night August 30, 2024. I went to bed and about 12 am I heard a voice say Hello to me. Then the last night my friend and I were by the fire we did not have any more neighbors as they left that Sunday, we had our trash bag hanging from my friends canopy there was no wind and that trash bag was swaying back and forth rapidly. Was definitely an experience. 

    The hikes are the best especially if you have time to go to the lake which you  want to get an early start, just follow the trail in the back past the reservation spot to get to the trail and follow up get to the fork in the trail and hang a left to the lake. I love the camp site always clean restrooms and fun experience for the paranormal.

  • Camper-submitted photo from South Monticello — Elephant Butte Lake State Park
    September 2, 2024

    South Monticello — Elephant Butte Lake State Park

    Beautiful and quiet.

    Great campground. Good size spots with good distance between sites. Ramadas at each site provide precious shade. Lots of trash bins nearby. Long flat trail (bike/walk) starts at the campground. Note that is has a boat launch except there’s no more water in this area.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site
    September 2, 2024

    Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site

    Stunning Space for Small Vehicles

    Everything about this place is gorgeous. The 360 views from the top are incredible. I didn’t go down into the valley to see what was available but a man came through and mentioned there were options there too.

    On the top of the ridge you’re a little limited for spots but it wasn’t busy enough to cause me an issue. My closest neighbor was a few hundred yards away just like I like it.

    I car camp in a small SUV and the road is definitely not as well worn in as others. You’re also pretty close to the sides of the mountain on a winding rock path so larger or trailered vehicles are probably not ideal.

    The wild horses are active. I saw them in the neighborhood coming through and they came through camp a few times in the evening/night. Dog didn’t love it but they gave us about 30ft of space and didn’t bother much.

    Love this spot but definitely keep size and safety in mind.

  • Camper-submitted photo from South Monticello — Elephant Butte Lake State Park
    September 2, 2024

    South Monticello — Elephant Butte Lake State Park

    Primitive site just outside state park campground

    Great flat spot with great views. It’s inside the Elephant Butte lake state park, but seems to be a dispersed site. No one around. No amenities. There is a vault toilet maybe a half mile away. There are pay stations around. We had paid for a site on south Monticello campground but came here instead.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Sims Mesa Campground — Navajo Lake State Park
    August 29, 2024

    Sims Mesa Campground — Navajo Lake State Park

    Very secluded and quiet

    We spent two nights here. I think I would’ve chosen the loop with campsites 1 through 19 instead of the other loop that we stayed at. We were in campsite 26 and it was a little difficult to get our trailer into it because we had to back uphill. Also, the other loop most likely would have a view overlooking the lake more. The showers were very nice and they do have a dump station. My only complaint I guess would be the road in from the main highway was pretty rough and had lots of potholes. That road is about 17 miles long.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping Near Hopewell Lake
    August 29, 2024

    Dispersed Camping Near Hopewell Lake

    Plentiful dispersed options

    We spent a few nights in the dispersed area near Hopewell .  We rolled in at 5 and had plenty of sites to choose from.  We chose one of the lower areas, with one large open space surrounded by smaller sites.  There were many more up the road, and there was constant traffic headed uphill until about 9PM.   Once the traffic stopped it was very quiet, only the cattle calling through the trees.  It rained for several hours and our spot stayed solid.  Some offshoot roads were rutted out. The main road had minimal rocks and holes, didn't get very muddy.  TMobile\Google mobile service worked well enough.  Verizon did not work.

  • Camper-submitted photo from USA RV Park
    August 27, 2024

    USA RV Park

    Clean and reasonably priced

    Stayed here for one night on our way up to Farmington. Staff was very pleasant. We paid $41 for electric and water. Site was very nice and flat. Did have showers,pool, Wi-fi and laundry

  • Camper-submitted photo from Jemez Boondocking
    August 22, 2024

    Jemez Boondocking

    Jemez mountains

    Jemez is a popular camping destination.  There are boon docking and campgrounds available.   I do not recommend trying to bring a rig of any size through the Gilman tunnels.  Best access for large rigs is taking 126 and accessing FS 376 from that route.

    The Jemez are by far our favorite mountains to camp in within a 3 hr radius of my home.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Cuchilla Campground
    August 18, 2024

    Cuchilla Campground

    Wonderful creekside camping

    This is a wonderful little campground on the way to Taos Ski Valley. Sites are right on a creek & have picnic tables. From what we could tell, there are 2 different locations that we saw on the road, highway 150, one with sites 4-6 & further North where we stayed sites 1-3. We were able to find a level place to park the van & I took a dip in the creek in the morning. Refreshing! Camping is FREE at this campground for up to two weeks! There is no garbage here, so pack it in & pack it out.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Santa Fe BLM Dispersed Campsite
    August 17, 2024

    Santa Fe BLM Dispersed Campsite

    Good in a pinch

    Plenty of spots and easy to get to. The only catch is you will need to find a spot away from the multiple large piles of trash.

    The surrounding area was pretty and sunset was great!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Mallette Creek North
    August 14, 2024

    Mallette Creek North

    Peaceful

    Even with a couple and a new born up the hill I never heard them from our campervan! Serene surroundings and even and beautiful place to camp during a thunderstorm!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Meadow Creek Dispersed Camping
    August 13, 2024

    Meadow Creek Dispersed Camping

    Meadow Creek,NM

    Road is a little rough but well worth it. No one camped near us. Was able to let the dogs roam without fear. Lots of wood in the area. A small creek along the road. Good hiking area. Will definitely go back.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Cuchilla Campground
    August 10, 2024

    Cuchilla Campground

    Didn’t want to leave

    Absolutely magical! My tent got rained out but I just haven’t had the opportunity to waterproof the tent. When it’s not wet season I’m sure this would be just even more magical. The bathroom was easily accessible, fire pits are great. Picnic tables were marked up, but the sound of the River was so worth all of it.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Haystack Mountain OHV Area
    August 10, 2024

    Haystack Mountain OHV Area

    Beautiful overlook

    This is a great place not far outside of Roswell. Great overnight parking/car camping place. Stayed by myself at the best spot available. My company was a tarantula hawk wasp, very large blue dragonfly, some desert ants and an owl hooting down in the ravine. Melt. It was warm, of course but with the windows down and a little neck fan to encourage airflow, It was alright.

  • Camper-submitted photo from NomadLand RV Stay
    August 9, 2024

    NomadLand RV Stay

    A great place to stay with wonderful staff

    NomadLand was the perfect place to stay while we visited family in Rio Rancho for 3 weeks. We were undercover with full hook-ups, this was very helpful in the hot NM sun. All the sites are flat and paved. They offer free internet, free filtered water, free bags of ice, free coffee, free use of washer and dryer and a free RV wash bay that has an"upper level" so you can reach your rv roof. The park is impeccably clean with new and clean restrooms and shower. The park is gated with cameras so we felt very safe in the middle of the city in a camper. Jessica and Dan were super friendly and helpful. We actually left to go home to NC and had to turn around and go back to NM after my sister-in-law became very sick over the July 4th holiday. I called NomadLand on the outside change they might be able to find a spot for us. I explained everything to Jessica and she said they would find a spot for us somewhere--that spot was the same one we had our first visit. We ended up staying for a month on top of our original 3 weeks. There is a Walgreens, Walmart Neighborhood Market, a brewery and restaurants all within 1/4 of a mile from Nomadland. Neighbors' restaurant is a great place to eat with a great beer list. This is the perfect place to stay if your looking for a base to do some sight seeing and don't need all the things a RV resort has. We would definitely stay here again. There are some campgrounds out there that need see how to run a campground well, they should spend sometime at NomadLand.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Manzano Mountains State Park Campground
    August 6, 2024

    Manzano Mountains State Park Campground

    Quiet shady camp

    It was hot in the valley so we retreated to the nearest mountains. What a quiet little camp. No huge RV’s or anything. Our 6ft wide, 20ft long trailer seemed too big. Our spot accommodated us well. The trails are fabulous. There’s a Track Trail that just opened and a motorized track wheelchair making this park very accessible. Not very many electric sites but that was ok as the temps were cooler (60’s at night)

  • Camper-submitted photo from Little Arsenic Springs Campground
    August 4, 2024

    Little Arsenic Springs Campground

    Amazing Cliffside campsite

    There are two campsites I3 and I2 that are cliffside campsites with amazing views.

    It is first come first serve. I didn’t have any issues finding a spot, there was only one other campsite that was occupied when I visited.

    Hiking trails down to the Rip Grande river are close by.



Guide to New Mexico

Camping in New Mexico offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes and diverse campgrounds. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a quiet place to unwind, there's something for everyone.

What to do

  • Explore the outdoors: New Mexico is known for its beautiful parks and recreation areas. Check out the Valley Of Fires Recreation Area for hiking trails and breathtaking views. One camper said, “The RV area sits on a ridge. Great views.”
  • Visit local attractions: The Albuquerque KOA Journey is just a short drive from city attractions. A visitor noted, “The site is spotless and the security (urban location) is excellent.”
  • Enjoy stargazing: Many campgrounds in New Mexico are away from city lights, making them perfect for stargazing. One camper at The Box Recreation Area mentioned, “Great views and incredible star gazing.”

What campers like

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A reviewer at the Valley Of Fires Recreation Area said, “Park and bathrooms are very clean.”
  • Family-friendly amenities: The Albuquerque KOA Journey has a pool, playground, and mini-golf, making it a hit with families. One parent shared, “Jump pad, playground, mini golf and a really nice pool were the highlights.”
  • Scenic views: Many campgrounds offer stunning landscapes. A camper at the Turquoise Trail Campground remarked, “Great spot not too far from Albuquerque, very peaceful and quaint.”

What you should know

  • Noise levels: Some campgrounds are near highways or train tracks, which can be noisy. A visitor at Isleta Lakes & RV Park noted, “The trains sound their horns very late at night and early in the morning.”
  • Limited amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. A camper at Escondida Lake Park & Campground mentioned, “The campground has the basics but that's it.”
  • Wildlife encounters: Be prepared for wildlife. One camper at San Antonio Bosque Park shared, “There is a lot of fresh black bear scat throughout the campsite.”

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose kid-friendly spots: Look for campgrounds with activities for children. The Albuquerque KOA Journey has a playground and pool, which kids love. A parent said, “Clean, modern and convenient showers were pluses for Mom and Dad.”
  • Plan for noise: If you're camping near busy roads, bring earplugs for the kids. A reviewer at Route 66 RV Park mentioned, “While it seemed close to I40 you could not hear the traffic.”
  • Pack snacks and games: Keep kids entertained with snacks and games during downtime. A camper at Turquoise Trail Campground noted, “The campground is clean, the sites are well groomed with camp pads level.”

Tips from RVers

  • Check site sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Route 66 RV Park said, “The spot I was assigned had a 30-degree drop and 6-foot reach to the utilities...not doable for my 18-foot camper van.”
  • Look for full hookups: Many RVers prefer campgrounds with full hookups. The Valley Of Fires Recreation Area offers some sites with electric hookups, which is a plus.
  • Arrive early: Some campgrounds fill up quickly, especially on weekends. A visitor at Isleta Lakes & RV Park advised, “Campground doesn’t take reservations so arrive early.”

Camping in New Mexico can be a fantastic experience with the right preparation and knowledge. Enjoy the beautiful landscapes and unique campgrounds this state has to offer!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available in New Mexico?

    According to TheDyrt.com, New Mexico offers a wide range of camping options, with 827 campgrounds and RV parks in New Mexico and 166 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground in New Mexico?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground in New Mexico is Bottomless Lakes State Park Campground with a 4-star rating from 64 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping in New Mexico?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 166 free dispersed camping spots in New Mexico.

  • What are the best parks in New Mexico?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 14 parks in New Mexico that allow camping, notably Carson National Forest and Lincoln National Forest.