Top of New Mexico Dispersed Site offers free camping with scenic vantage points 35 miles north of Bernalillo. This dispersed site sits at over 7,000 feet elevation along rough gravel roads, providing panoramic views toward Albuquerque. Campers consistently report wild horse sightings at this location, particularly during sunrise and sunset hours when the animals graze nearby.
What to do
Visit nearby hot springs: Several natural hot springs can be accessed within a short drive from campgrounds in the region. Vista Linda Campground is located just 3 miles south of Jemez Springs where visitors can soak. "Jemez hot springs (a few miles north on HWY 4) and Gilman Tunnels (a few miles south on HWY 4, then north on another road) are awesome spots," writes Israel E.
Explore dark skies: The region features excellent stargazing opportunities away from city lights. At Top of New Mexico Dispersed Site, campers experience exceptional night sky views. "This is a perfect hidden gem for campervanning. You can clearly see the Milky Way. No light pollution except the beautiful view of the city far away," notes Lauren I.
Visit local breweries: Some campgrounds offer easy access to craft breweries. "There is a brewery you can walk to from the campground. They serve organic pizza and cold beer," writes Doug W. about his experience at Albuquerque North/Bernalillo KOA.
What campers like
Wildlife encounters: Many campers highlight unexpected wildlife sightings as memorable experiences. "Woke up in the morning to a herd of wild horses moving through the area," writes Taz G. about Top of New Mexico. Another camper at a different location mentioned: "My first morning I was surrounded by a group of 5 cows grazing. They ended up laying 30 feet from the trailer all morning," according to Josh F.
Privacy options: Rancheros de Santa Fe offers sites with natural separation. "Campsites are small yet private due to the wonderful shrubbery and small trees. There is a great trail that winds through the back of the property," writes Cheryl E. This feature is particularly valued by tent campers seeking seclusion.
On-site hiking trails: Several campgrounds feature walking paths for quick nature access. "We also enjoyed the on-site hiking trail. It is only 0.5 miles, but making the circle a couple of times was nice on our last morning," notes Reuben about Rancheros de Santa Fe.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to some sites requires careful driving, particularly Top of New Mexico. "Pretty rough getting here as neighbors are sabotaging the road making it narrow using loose gravel & boulders on turns. There is now a locked gate on Palomino to keep non-locals out!" warns Cher & Walter P. Multiple reviewers advise against using GPS directions as they often lead to locked gates.
Water limitations: Water access varies significantly between locations. At Turquoise Trail Campground, "a dishwashing station" is available, but tent campers should note that "this is also the only water access for the tent loops," according to Dave V.
Weather preparedness: The region experiences significant temperature variations. "We stayed here in October 2020... the campground itself is very well-maintained and the staff are extraordinarily friendly," explains Drew S. about Albuquerque KOA Journey. High desert locations can see overnight temperatures drop significantly, even during summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Albuquerque North / Bernalillo KOA offers family-friendly amenities. "The playground has the best swing set and is all sand, very fun for kids of all ages," according to Karla D. Several KOA locations in the region also provide outdoor movies in the evenings.
Educational opportunities: Historical sites near campgrounds provide learning experiences. "There's two waterfalls, a fishing lake a few miles away... there are two tiny cities nearby, one with a wonderful historical site (I highly recommend), and nice neat little shops," writes Jillian P. about camping near Vista Linda.
Cabin options: For families not ready for tent camping, Santa Fe KOA offers alternative accommodations. "We did not get a tent spot but opted for a small trailer site with electric and water. Each site has native trees and plants, so everyone has privacy," reports Traci M., noting the site had "plenty of room to set up our awning for a dining area."
Tips from RVers
Size constraints: Check campground vehicle limits before booking. "The RV Park is about 20 minutes from the old town shops and restaurants so it's a good location not far off the highway... sites are decent distance apart, not on top of each other but can certainly see each other," notes Karen B. about Rancheros de Santa Fe.
Service differences: Many campgrounds offer varying hookup levels at different prices. "We stayed twice - once with full hookup, once with water/electric. The full hookup was a far better location with concrete pad, much less highway noise, and much better bathrooms," explains RichMichelle M. about Albuquerque Central KOA.
Dump station locations: At some facilities, sewer connections can be awkward to access. "On our full hookup site the dump sight was in a bad place. We would have had to unhook from our truck to fully hook up," writes Frank about his experience at Albuquerque Central KOA, highlighting the importance of checking hookup locations before setting up.
