Best Campgrounds near Jal, NM

Camping near Jal, New Mexico, offers a unique experience with stunning landscapes and a variety of campgrounds to choose from. Whether you're looking for a quick pit stop or a longer stay, there are plenty of options that cater to different camping styles.

What to do:

• Explore the Dunes: The Monahans Sandhills State Park Campground is famous for its beautiful dunes. One camper mentioned, "Gorgeous dunes and sunrises and sunsets from anywhere at this camp."
• Visit Nearby National Parks: The area is close to both Carlsbad Caverns and Guadalupe Mountains National Parks. A reviewer noted, "Great location for both Guadalupe Mountains NP and Carlsbad Caverns."
• Enjoy Stargazing: The clear skies around Jal make for excellent stargazing opportunities. One camper shared, "Great night sky. Quiet."

What campers like:

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers at the Monahans Sandhills State Park Campground. A visitor said, "The bathrooms are always super clean and there are even showers!"
• Unique Scenery: Many enjoy the unique landscape of the dunes. One review stated, "A wonderfully unique campground amongst the dunes."
• Convenient Location: Campers love the easy access to attractions. A reviewer mentioned, "This is a great free area of land located conveniently between the Guadalupe mtns and The Carlsbad Caverns."

What you should know:

• Limited Privacy: Campsites can be close together, which might not suit everyone. A camper noted, "No privacy, close each campsite. Great for walking and sunset views."
• Weather Conditions: Be prepared for windy conditions, especially in the spring. One camper warned, "I was caught in a two-day dust storm with 70mph winds."
• No Amenities at Some Sites: Some campgrounds, like Chosa Campground, lack amenities like drinking water and electric hookups. A visitor mentioned, "It’s just a huge free dirt lot to camp in."

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with clean facilities and activities for kids. The Carlsbad RV Park & Campground has a well-maintained laundry room and clean bathrooms, making it a good choice for families.
• Plan for Outdoor Activities: Bring along games and outdoor gear. One camper suggested, "Great for walking and sunset views," which can be fun for the whole family.
• Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having food on hand can make family outings easier. A reviewer mentioned, "The market is not available, so bring your own supplies."

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Size: Make sure the campground can accommodate your RV size. A camper noted, "Most have water, electricity, and sewer," which is helpful for larger rigs.
• Be Prepared for Dust: Dust storms can happen, so keep your RV clean and secure. One RVer shared, "It was hard to be outside, but we survived just fine."
• Use Good Navigation: Some campgrounds can be tricky to find. A visitor advised, "Even camped right off the highway, the noise didn’t bother us," suggesting that GPS might lead you to unexpected spots.

Camping near Jal, New Mexico, has its quirks, but with the right preparation, it can be a memorable adventure. Whether you're in an RV or tent camping, there's something for everyone in this beautiful area.