Camping options around Arrey, New Mexico center on the Rio Grande watershed at an elevation of approximately 4,500 feet. The area features hot, dry summers and mild winters, making it accessible for camping year-round with temperatures frequently exceeding 100°F in summer months. Water levels at Caballo and Elephant Butte Lakes fluctuate seasonally, impacting shoreline camping availability.
What to do
Boating at Caballo Lake State Park: Water recreation remains popular even when lake levels are lower. "A little rocky but beautiful lake. You can either stay on the north side of the damn where the lake is or stay on the south side where the Rio Grande runs," notes a camper at Caballo Lake RV Park.
Day trips to White Sands: Located within driving distance from Elephant Butte area. "Took a short drive to La Mesilla and the farmers market in Las Cruces—definitely recommend both. White Sands is also not too far if you're up for a day trip," shared a visitor at Elephant Butte Lake RV Resort.
Winter stargazing: Desert night skies offer exceptional astronomy opportunities. "It's a dark sky area you can see a lot of stars," reported a camper at Little Vineyard RV Park, though some locations have more light pollution than others.
What campers like
Comfort during extreme weather: RV parks provide shelter from harsh desert conditions. "We were going to dry camp, but there was a windy, rainy storm going on. We pulled in to Elephant Butte RV Park in the dark, called the security number, and he directed us to a spot," reported a visitor about their experience during difficult weather.
Clean facilities: Bathroom maintenance varies but receives positive mentions. "Very clean park. Concrete roads and gravel sites. Very nice shower/laundry facility," noted a reviewer at Las Cruces KOA, which reportedly features marble floors in the restrooms.
Wildlife viewing: Local fauna adds to the camping experience. "Wildlife: Qual, Dove, Lizards, Rabbits, Deer and more," reported a camper at Lower Ridge Road Camping Area in Elephant Butte Lake State Park.
What you should know
Wind conditions: Constant winds affect camping comfort and equipment. "The winds will keep your awning rolled up," warned a camper at Dream Catcher RV Park, with another noting "winds must blow year round in one direction, the trees are actually leaning."
Temperature extremes: Summer heat requires preparation. "We were here in early June and the day temperatures were in the low 100's with very low humidity," reported a visitor to Elephant Butte Lake RV Resort.
Variable site sizing: Space between sites differs significantly between parks. "The spaces are close together," noted multiple reviewers about Cedar Cove RV Park, while at Dream Catcher RV Park, a camper mentioned "nice level spot" and "we had a site with plenty of room for our dog fence."
Road noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some locations. "This RV park is right off of highway 10 so there is quite a bit of road noise and train noise," reported a Dream Catcher RV Park visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Dog-friendly facilities: Most rv parks near Arrey, New Mexico accommodate pets with dedicated areas. "There is a free dogwash!" exclaimed a visitor to Hacienda RV Resort, while another noted they "have one of the best dog run areas I've found at an RV park or resort! There is actually room for the dogs to run."
Recreation options: Activities for children vary by location. "The kids enjoyed cornhole, basketball, tetherball, and the playground," shared a family staying at Hacienda RV Resort, adding "we will definitely be back to explore the area more."
Swimming availability: Pools provide relief from summer heat. "Very clean, well kept resort... WiFi is good. Didn't try the cable. Location is convenient to the lake and shopping. Boat rentals are available at the nearby state park," noted a visitor to Elephant Butte Lake RV Resort.
Tips from RVers
Water pressure management: High pressure systems require equipment protection. "Water pressure here is really high, so we used a reducer," advised a camper at Hacienda RV Resort.
Security considerations: Vehicle and property security measures vary by location. "Staff is friendly and let us know water pressure is high so use a reducer, and also cautioned us that there have been some bike thefts in area and let us know that if we wanted, we could keep bikes inside their office at no charge."
Arrival timing: Late check-ins require planning. "If you are arriving late, call ahead so they have your documents waiting outside," recommended a visitor to Dream Catcher RV Park, adding "if you don't have a reservation, documents are available to self-register, but it is cash only."
