RV camping near Arroyo Seco, New Mexico provides access to high-elevation sites with varied terrain. Most campgrounds sit between 7,000-8,600 feet elevation, creating cool summer temperatures that contrast with daytime highs in the 70s-80s F. Winter camping options are limited, with Monte Bello RV Park among the few facilities maintaining year-round operations in this mountain region.
What to do
Fishing access at Eagle Nest Lake: Located about 30 minutes from Arroyo Seco, Weathers RV Park offers sites with views of Eagle Nest Lake. "Views are awesome, price is reasonable at under $200/week," notes one camper who appreciated the lakeside setting at 8,000 feet elevation.
River activities: Road Runner RV Resort in Red River features sites along the water. "The river runs through the park... a fare amount of spots that back right up to the river," according to a visitor. The resort operates seasonally from May 1st to October 15th, with water access being one of its primary attractions.
Downtown exploration: The proximity to Taos makes local culture accessible. "The location is so prime for visiting all the sights in Taos, and there are many. Restaurants are really close enough to walk to and there is an Ace Hardware store across the street for emergency repairs. Old Town Taos is 3 miles away," reports a visitor at Taos Valley RV Park.
What campers like
Mountain views: Taos Monte Bello RV Park offers panoramic vistas from its elevation. "We just watched an amazing sunset from our spot. Conveniently located and super affordable," writes one camper about the Taos Monte Bello RV Park experience. The park's position northwest of Taos provides unobstructed mountain scenery.
Riverside camping: The sound of moving water adds to the camping experience. At Questa Lodge & RV Resort, one camper noted: "My site backed up to the river and the sound of the rushing water was the perfect lullaby." This resort features river walks and landscaped grounds with two ponds.
Wildlife viewing: Evening wildlife sightings enhance the natural experience. "Deer come in every night," reports a camper at Road Runner RV Resort, adding to the appeal of its canyon setting with large pine trees and tiered camping spots.
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies significantly by location. "There is NO cell service. Not a bar to be found. And the wifi (free) is REALLY spotty," reports a camper at Sierra Village Lodge & RV Park. If connectivity is essential, ask specifically about current conditions or plan to drive to locations with better service.
Tight entrances: Some parks have challenging access points. At LUXX Lodge - Glamping & Taos RV Park, one reviewer noted the "single entrance is a high center risk with lots of scrape marks from RV dragging." Similar challenges exist at other facilities, so approach slowly when entering unfamiliar campgrounds.
Elevation effects: The high elevation affects both vehicles and people. One camper at Monte Bello observed that they felt "like I was in the Scottish highlands or something, not New Mexico" due to the weather at elevation. Allow time for acclimation if coming from lower elevations.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some parks offer dedicated children's areas. "There is a dump station, a dishwashing area, bathrooms with very hot showers, a playground, and office," notes a camper at Taos Valley RV Park, making it suitable for families with younger children.
Dog-friendly facilities: Many parks accommodate pets with dedicated areas. LUXX Lodge - Glamping & Taos RV Park features "Dog friendly, with a small dog park to boot," according to one reviewer who appreciated the convenience for pet owners.
School proximity awareness: Consider site location within campgrounds. "Our site row backed up to an elementary school, so if you are there during the week and don't want to listen to children enjoying their recess, you should request another site," advises a camper at Taos Valley RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Water pressure variances: Be prepared for varying water systems. "Water pressure is a smidge low, but not a big deal," notes a camper at Sierra Village Lodge & RV Park. Having a pressure regulator and additional water storage is advisable.
Site spacing considerations: Privacy between sites varies considerably. At Golden Eagle RV Park in Eagle Nest, a camper observed, "A bit crowded, but lovely in all the right ways... some spots that are a tight squeeze." Many parks have implemented creative solutions for this common challenge.
On-site activities: Some parks offer entertainment options. "They have live music on Friday and Saturday nights, and a farmers market that set up on property on Wednesday," reports a camper at Golden Eagle RV Park, providing activities without leaving the campground.