RV campgrounds near Bent, New Mexico sit at elevations ranging from 4,300 to 7,300 feet, creating significant temperature variations between locations. The Sacramento Mountains create a diverse camping environment with cooler temperatures at higher elevations and desert conditions in lower areas. Summer temperatures can exceed 100°F in Alamogordo while staying in the 70s in mountain campgrounds like Cloudcroft.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Rainbow Lake Cabin & RV Resort in Ruidoso, campers can access nearby fishing spots. "We fished about 1&1/2 miles away at Grindstone Lake. Was just what me and my Family needed," reports one visitor. The resort provides easy access to several stocked lakes in the area.
Hiking trails: The Lincoln National Forest offers extensive hiking directly from several campgrounds. At Midtown Mountain Campground & RV Park, campers appreciate the location for exploring trails. "Ruidoso is an amazing city that we fell in love with," mentions one camper, highlighting access to natural areas despite being in town.
White Sands National Park: Located approximately 30 minutes from Mountain Meadows RV Park, White Sands offers unique outdoor experiences. "The host is very responsive and helpful via call or text. They even provide sleds and wax for free to use at White Sands," notes one camper. Several campgrounds in the area offer sled rentals for the dunes.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: Many campgrounds in the Bent area offer wildlife encounters. "During our stay we had regular visits from a group of about 11 male mule deer! Bring your hummingbird feeders you won't be disappointed!" shares a visitor at Eagle Creek RV Resort. The higher elevation campgrounds frequently report wildlife sightings.
Creek access: Several campgrounds feature creeks or water features. "Some of the campsites back up to a nice running creek. Beautiful bridge crossing over the creek," notes a visitor at Bonito Hollow RV Park & Campground. The Rio Bonito runs alongside several properties, providing natural water features.
Pet accommodations: Most RV parks in the area welcome pets with specific amenities. "The park is pet friendly, has an enclosed run where you can take them off the leash for a bit, also has several locations with poop bags available," mentions a Bonito Hollow visitor. Dedicated pet areas are common at campgrounds throughout the region.
What you should know
Elevation considerations: The dramatic elevation changes between campgrounds significantly affect temperatures and camping conditions. At Cool Pines RV Park, one camper notes, "Just came from Midland TX where it was around 98, today at Cool Pines RV Park 72° at 3pm in the afternoon." Mountain campgrounds can be 20-30 degrees cooler than those in valley locations.
Fire restrictions: Several campgrounds in the area prohibit open fires due to wildfire danger. Cool Pines RV Park and some other locations don't allow fires at all. When planning meals, check current fire restrictions at your specific campground.
Internet connectivity: Many campgrounds offer WiFi, but speeds and reliability vary widely. "The wifi was a struggle. It was barely adequate the first day, but absolutely miserable the second day," reports a Bonito Hollow visitor. Cell service is similarly unpredictable, with T-Mobile generally providing better coverage in mountain areas than other carriers.
Tips for camping with families
Playground availability: Some RV campgrounds near Bent offer playground facilities. "Smaller campground with plenty to keep the kids entertained. Playground," notes a visitor at Bonito Hollow. Ask about play equipment when making reservations for family stays.
Educational opportunities: The proximity to White Sands National Park and space museums creates learning experiences. A Mountain Meadows RV Park visitor mentions, "A good spot to have as a homebase to visit White Sands National Park and Alamogordo, where the Space museum was." Many campgrounds provide information on educational activities within driving distance.
Water features: Creeks and ponds at certain campgrounds offer child-friendly entertainment. At Edgington RV Park, a camper reports, "My kids also enjoyed the playground and the ducks and chickens by the pond." Several campgrounds maintain stocked fishing ponds that don't require licenses for children under 12.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Most campgrounds offer level sites, but preparation for some adjustment is recommended. At Slow Play RV Park (formerly Circle B), a visitor notes, "The site we had was#32 and was a gravel pull-thru and almost level." Bring leveling blocks for minor adjustments.
Power considerations: RVers should check specific amperage availability when booking. "All size vehicles welcome. 30and50 amp service available. Has buddy sites as well as individual sites," mentions a visitor at Slow Play RV Park. Not all parks offer both 30-amp and 50-amp service.
Weather preparation: Mountain campgrounds can experience sudden weather changes. "We had a massive thunder storm in the middle of the night, which was slightly terrifying. I'd check the weather in advance," advises a Mountain Meadows RV Park visitor. Pack for temperature swings and rapid weather shifts, especially in mountain locations.
