Dispersed camping options near Angostura, New Mexico extend beyond the well-known state parks into BLM lands and lesser-known campgrounds. The region sits at approximately 4,200 feet elevation where summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F in July and August. Winter camping offers more moderate daytime temperatures in the 50-60°F range with nighttime lows frequently dropping below freezing.
What to do
Stargazing and astronomy events: Percha Dam State Park hosts monthly activities with the local astronomical society. According to a camper, these events include "live music, refreshments, and stargazing" making them particularly popular during cooler months.
Trail hiking at Aguirre Spring: Located about 30 miles southeast of Angostura, Aguirre Spring Recreation Area and Campground offers a "lovely 4 mile hike that loops up in the mountains by the sites" as noted by one visitor. The trail system provides views across the Tularosa Basin.
Kayaking the Rio Grande: The river corridor offers paddling opportunities when water levels permit. Campers report early morning is ideal, with one mentioning: "Been here before but staying was nice. Quiet and somewhat off spaces but very well maintained" at Leasburg Dam State Park Campground.
What campers like
Adobe shelters with picnic tables: Several campgrounds feature distinctive covered areas. One camper at Leasburg Dam noted: "We had water, electricity, fire pit and an Adobe structure covering the picnic table. Some spots were a little close which would be great if you were visiting with friends."
Accessibility features: Riverside Campground — Caballo Lake State Park earns praise for accessibility, with a visitor mentioning "ADA campsite was more than adequate for a wheelchair. It was nice to walk along the riverbank with the dogs."
Privacy between sites: Despite proximity to neighboring campers, many campgrounds use natural landscaping effectively. At Caballo Lake's Appaloosa Campground, "The sites are spacious and spread out on flat level gravel. There are a few tall trees but there are shrubs and some small Juniper and Pinyon tree's."
What you should know
Water levels fluctuate significantly: Rio Grande water flow is unpredictable. One camper at Sierra Vista noted: "The water was high so we couldn't camp to close to the river edge." Low water levels are common in summer and fall.
Bathrooms vary widely between parks: Facility quality differs dramatically between campgrounds. While some offer "marble floors" in restrooms, others provide basic outhouses. A Percha Dam visitor reported: "Poor restrooms. No soap dispensers. One-holers. This is in the regulars with water."
Wind can be challenging: Afternoon gusts are common, particularly in spring. A camper described one site as "Super crazy windy in the afternoons," requiring secure tent stakes and proper RV positioning to minimize impact.
Road dangers near campgrounds: Several campground access roads have blind curves with fast-moving traffic. A visitor to Hacienda RV Resort warned: "Pay attention when pulling out on the main road near the office. We almost got hit by an oncoming vehicle turning left when departing the RV park."
Tips for camping with families
Dog-friendly options: Most campgrounds welcome pets, with some offering special facilities. Las Cruces KOA features "cornhole, basketball, tetherball, and the playground. The store was well stocked," making it popular with families.
Water recreation timing: For water activities, plan around seasonal flows. During spring runoff, the Rio Grande provides more recreation options. A camper mentioned: "We camped with water and electric for a few days then parked down on the lake and primitive camped for a few more...fire pits, grills, covered picnic tables."
Avoid goathead thorns: These puncture-causing plants are prevalent throughout camping areas. A visitor to Percha Dam warned: "Goathead thorns are everywhere, watch your dog's paws," so bring appropriate footwear and tire repair kits.
Tips from RVers
High water pressure caution: Multiple campgrounds report strong water pressure that can damage RV plumbing. A visitor to Appaloosa Campground — Caballo Lake State Park advised: "Water pressure is high so use a reducer."
Size restrictions at scenic locations: Larger rigs face limitations at some of the most scenic sites. Aguirre Spring restricts vehicles to "nothing more than 23' long" according to BLM recommendations, with "most sites uneven and short."
Pull-through availability: For easier access, several parks offer pull-through sites. A camper noted that Riverside Campground has "very easy access and large pull through sites" making it convenient for larger rigs.
