Camping in the high desert of northern New Mexico provides access to diverse terrain from mountain slopes to mesa tops. The Arroyo Seco area sits at elevations ranging from 7,000-8,500 feet, creating dramatic temperature shifts between day and night even in summer months. Most campgrounds near Arroyo Seco remain open from May through October, with limited winter accessibility due to snowfall at higher elevations.
What to do
Hiking at Wild Rivers Recreation Area: Access the 850-foot descent into the Rio Grande Gorge via trails from Big Arsenic Springs Campground. "This is where the magic happens, beautiful moonrise's and sunrise, sunsets. Clean wasteland clean bathrooms. I camp here as often as I can," notes camper Robert R.
Fishing the local waterways: Columbine Campground offers access to Columbine Creek just before it joins Red River. "One of the most beautiful campsites I seen. Two nights tent camping in the valley where two rivers meet. No showers but restrooms were adequate," reports Adam C. The campground features well-maintained sites along the creek.
Mountain biking the mesa trails: The dispersed camping area at Cebolla Mesa Campground provides direct access to off-road trails. "Very beautiful spot. Lots of dispersed camping a few fire pits. There's a 1.25 mile hike down to the river to cool down. Plenty of shade and lots of off road trails for driving/running/biking," reports Toni K.
What campers like
Dark skies for stargazing: The mesa setting at Hotel Luna Mystica offers exceptional night sky viewing. "Our view is spectacular and the showers are the cleanest I've ever seen. The hotel staff is super friendly and our starlink really works super fast here," shares Michelle T. who recommends this spot for both its amenities and stargazing potential.
Proximity to breweries: Campers appreciate easy access to craft beverages. "We paid $10 to park our van essentially. Parked in the gravel lot, had access to showers and bathrooms. There was also tent camping for $10 a night as well and that looked really legit with unobstructed views. 10/10 will 100% go back to this spot and support what they are doing," explains Dave L. about Hotel Luna Mystica's connection to Taos Mesa Brewing.
Year-round accessibility: Multiple campgrounds remain open throughout winter. "We stayed here for 10 days during the 'off season' at the end of April. It was beautiful and quiet. The snow was melting and the river was beautiful. George and Chris very friendly and helpful," notes Corrie L. about Red River RV.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds have spotty connectivity. "We had very minimal luck just checking email. Forget about streaming anything. Just be prepared...it was hardly a major issue for us. But if you need good cellular, you'll have to drive up the road a half mile or so," advises Reuben at Sierra Village Lodge.
Weather variability: High desert conditions mean dramatic temperature swings. "Surprise! The weather went from day-time highs in the 60's to blizzard conditions with overnight lows in the teens," reports Shari G. about a Thanksgiving weekend at Hotel Luna Mystica.
Road conditions: Some access roads require careful navigation. "Long and slightly rough dirt road entry. If it rains or storms you'll have a tough time getting out with a camper if you don't have a 4x4. Amazing views and the campground is right on the edge of the gorge," explains Tyler S. about Cebolla Mesa.
Tips for camping with families
River access for children: Several campgrounds feature streams or rivers for water play. "Great creek access making for enjoyable moments sitting creekside. Beautiful area with the exception of the moly mine which is in process of restoration. Tall trees, big tables, fresh water, lots of shade, hiking trail, clean, informative host," reports Mike W. about Columbine Campground.
Yurt camping for families: Yurt accommodations at Taos Valley RV Park provide sturdy shelter with some amenities. "This park is very nice and well maintained, with distant mountain views on 3 sides of it. It is in the middle of town, which makes it convenient but also comes with the drawbacks of being in town," explains Stefanie S.
Educational opportunities: Nearby attractions provide learning experiences. "Close to town, the Rio Grande Gorge and hot springs as well as ski valley. Awesome food, drink and music next door at Taos Brewing Mothership. Earthship Biotecture is down the road as well," advises Mary C., pointing out educational destinations near Hotel Luna Mystica.
Tips from RVers
Winter camping considerations: RVs can handle winter conditions with proper preparation. "Great views surrounded by mountains...right on the red river. Minutes away from town and skiing.... Level spots host are amazing, super helpful and attentive. Wifi was pretty decent, showers and laundry were really good as well," shares Marcela R. about winter camping at Red River RV.
Site selection for privacy: Some RV parks offer better spacing than others. "I like how their sites are arranged so that you are not looking and eating with your neighbors sewer. I guess technically, they are 'buddy sites,' but they have cleverly added angled dividers to maintain your privacy if you don't know your neighbors," explains Stefanie S. about Taos Valley RV Park.
Hookup availability: Know which facilities provide full services. "We had a full hookup site and all services worked as expected. Wifi was available, with repeaters around the park. Mobile service was solid. The showers worked well and were clean. The only negative was the noise from the adjacent streets with what sounded like street racing, finally quieting down around 1AM," reports Timothy N.
