Best Tent Camping near Carlsbad, NM
Looking for the best tent campgrounds near Carlsbad? The Dyrt is an easy way to find tent camping spots near Carlsbad. You're sure to find the perfect tent campsite for your New Mexico camping adventure.
Best Tent Sites Near Carlsbad, NM (7)
1. Rattlesnake Canyon - Backcountry Camping — Carlsbad Caverns National Park
5 Reviews•26 Photos•93 SavesWhites City, New MexicoHigh ancient sea ledges, deep rocky canyons, flowering cactus and desert wildlife - treasures above the ground in the Chihuahuan Desert. Hidden beneath the surface are more than 119 caves - formed when sulfuric acid dissolved limestone leaving behind caverns of all sizes.
Carlsbad Caverns National Park offers no overnight lodging or campgrounds. Primitive camping is allowed in the backcountry only and requires a free permit which is issued at the park's visitor center when you arrive (not reservable in advance). Overnight RV parking is not permitted in the park. Seven miles (11 km) from the visitor center you will find a campground (RV/tent/cabin) and amenities in White's City.
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2. Tejas Wilderness Campground — Guadalupe Mountains National Park
8 Reviews•57 Photos•2 SavesSalt Flat, TexasA backcountry use permit is required for all use of these campsites. The extra distance to the Tejas Wilderness Campground is worth the time for those who wish to stay in a more densely forested surrounding. The tall trees provide deep shade in the morning and late afternoon and protection from high winds aloft. Centrally located, the Tejas campground is 5.5 miles from Pine Springs trailhead or 6.2 miles from Dog Canyon.ADA Access: The Tejas Campground is a primitive camping area accessible only by foot trail.
- Tents
3. Mescalero Wilderness Campground — Guadalupe Mountains National Park
5 Reviews•8 PhotosSalt Flat, TexasThe extra distance to the Tejas Wilderness Campground is worth the time for those who wish to stay in a more densely forested surrounding. The tall trees provide deep shade in the morning and late afternoon and protection from high winds aloft. Centrally located, the Tejas campground is 5.5 miles from Pine Springs trailhead or 6.2 miles from Dog Canyon.
- Tents
4. Mckittrick Ridge Wilderness Campground — Guadalupe Mountains National Park
3 Reviews•8 Photos•7 SavesSalt Flat, TexasThe extra distance to the Tejas Wilderness Campground is worth the time for those who wish to stay in a more densely forested surrounding. The tall trees provide deep shade in the morning and late afternoon and protection from high winds aloft. Centrally located, the Tejas campground is 5.5 miles from Pine Springs trailhead or 6.2 miles from Dog Canyon.
- Tents
5. Shumard Canyon Wilderness Campground — Guadalupe Mountains National Park
1 Review•8 Photos•1 SaveSalt Flat, TexasA backcountry use permit is required for all use of these campsites. The extra distance to the Tejas Wilderness Campground is worth the time for those who wish to stay in a more densely forested surrounding. The tall trees provide deep shade in the morning and late afternoon and protection from high winds aloft. Centrally located, the Tejas campground is 5.5 miles from Pine Springs trailhead or 6.2 miles from Dog Canyon.ADA Access: The Tejas Campground is a primitive camping area accessible only by foot trail.
- Tents
6. Bush Mountain Wilderness Campground — Guadalupe Mountains National Park
1 Review•16 Photos•7 SavesSalt Flat, TexasThe extra distance to the Tejas Wilderness Campground is worth the time for those who wish to stay in a more densely forested surrounding. The tall trees provide deep shade in the morning and late afternoon and protection from high winds aloft. Centrally located, the Tejas campground is 5.5 miles from Pine Springs trailhead or 6.2 miles from Dog Canyon.
- Tents
7. Wilderness Ridge Wilderness Campground — Guadalupe Mountains National Park
Be the first to review!•2 SavesGuadalupe Mountains National Park, TexasA Wilderness Use Permit is required for all use of these campsites. An interesting hike along the Permian Reef Trail meanders up 2,000 feet to Wilderness Ridge where the sudden transition from rock to trees is refreshing. Once on top, the trail is level through forested and open areas and takes you to the edge of the escarpment where the view is outstanding. Wilderness Ridge Campground is in the trees, and worth the extra distance to save the resource from unnecessary damage.
- Tents
$6 - $48 / night
Recent Tent Reviews in Carlsbad
280 Reviews of 7 Carlsbad Campgrounds
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Teresa A.
Guide
Sunset Reef Campground
Three nights base camp
We stayed three nights for free while hiking and exploring Guadalupe Mountain NP and Carlsbad Caverns NP. Plenty of space and a room to let the dog explore. Close to both parks. Even in January the spots stayed full but there is lots of room around the parameter. We preferred those spots as it kept more distance from the other campers.
ron R.
Ranger
Whites City Road Dispersed Camp
Looks like the area is no longer available for camping
I drove up to the area and a long the path they have put a row of rocks and gravel about a foot foot and a half tall to keep people from driving through so you can't access the dirt path to get to the area anymore. Also there was some clearing about two miles before that closer to the highway that had a sign that said area closed road closed no camping no soliciting
- SSteven L.
Traveler
Hackberry Lake OHV Area
Nice but can be noisy
Several level Gravel sites with covered picnic table. Pit toilets. OHV access point so it can be noisy. This time not too bad just a small group of rvs group together. Last time it was empty. 14 day limit
Kara S.Guide
Parks Ranch Campground
Beautiful and quiet
We headed past the open campsite, first dirt road on the right then veered left and ended up at a fire ring site. It was quiet and we were far enough from the road that the cars were not a bother. Unfortunately it was extremely windy that night and we had to close up our rooftop tent and sleeping the truck. But overall site was lovely.
- SSteven L.Traveler
Hackberry Lake
Beautiful nothing
Large open area with washed out hills. Access was easy but the road back does have issues because of gully wash. It was lightly raining when I arrived and I did a bit of a walkabout before it got dark. Many flat spots to choose from. Ground is a white flaky soil. But saw no problems with sinking into it. Might be a different story if there is a hard rain.
- SShawnGuide
Brantley Lake State Park Campground
Windy but peaceful
Way off the beaten path. It happened to be extra windy the day I was there. Nice desert/lake view. Quiet. No working dump station right now. Ranger was very friendly and helpful.
- KKim G.Ranger
Brantley Lake State Park Campground
Well-priced overnight stop
We stayed here before going to Carlsbad Caverns. Pros: only $14 for electric and water site. Sites well spaced and private. Easy to make online reservations. Clean bathrooms with flush toilets and showers. Friendly staff. Cons: ran out of hot water when no one else was showering. Not much to do here if you are not using the lake (which seems low). Pretty far from anything. I’d stay again if needing a spot while passing through, but wouldn’t make a point of coming here just for the campground.
- mmichael T.Guide
Sunset Reef Campground
Sunset campground is near perfect
The road in is a bit rough to travel but it’s less than one mile off the paved road . The sites are well marked and each site has a canopy over a cement slab with a grill , trash can and a picnic table . Five outta five stars …. It very close to Carlsbad Park
- MMark M.Ranger
Pine Springs Campground — Guadalupe Mountains National Park
GREAT locale for hiking in Guadalupe Mtns.
If not for the great locale for hiking, this would be a 2 star (nice views). As noted in other reviews, this is a paved parking lot, with sites in middle being parking spaces. Parking on perimeter have some tables. Due to middle spaces being pull through parking spaces, with the markers on ground and receipt post across street there was a misunderstanding with a couple of hikers who parked in wrong place and so camper who paid waited and waited for them to finish their hike (hikes here can take all day). IF you can, mark your spot with something before you leave.
We did not reserve but got last spot 27 for a Mon/Tues stay. Nice clean bathrooms with flush toilets and soap. Campground is adjacent to trailhead parking so busy and some parked cars overnight. Nice view of stars and milky way. Only 1 short trail for dogs.
We also used this as base to go to Carlsbad Caverns.
- AAndrew M.Ranger
Brantley Lake State Park Campground
Another great example of a NM state Park
Well appointed. Easy to make the reservation online. Clearly marked sites with convenient stone-marked pathways to the restrooms/shower. Hot showers, clean bathrooms.
All states should be this good
Campsites all have covered eating area although early and late sun can get under it.
Palma G.
Scout
Shumard Canyon Wilderness Campground — Guadalupe Mountains National Park
love
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David J.Scout
Tejas Wilderness Campground — Guadalupe Mountains National Park
beautiful
This is the place where nature is most generous with beautiful scenery like in a picture. If I have the chance, I will definitely come here Geometry Dash Scratch once in my life with my companion.
Krajcik J.ScoutTejas Wilderness Campground — Guadalupe Mountains National Park
good
This tourist area Fall Guys has many interesting activities
Hưng N.Scout
Mescalero Wilderness Campground — Guadalupe Mountains National Park
thanh you
I really like natural places like this, the air here is definitely good and that is strands something that many people want to enjoy. I will try to arrange time to come here and explore it.
Kaloo D.ScoutTejas Wilderness Campground — Guadalupe Mountains National Park
a dream destination for true nature lovers
Tejas Wilderness Campground neal fun in Guadalupe Mountains National Park sounds like a dream destination for true nature lovers and those seeking a break from the hustle of modern life. The remote, tent-only setup offers a pure, immersive experience, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and deep shade from tall trees—perfect for those hot Texas summers. While the absence of amenities like electric hookups or showers might be a drawback for some, it’s exactly what makes this spot ideal for a peaceful retreat. Just be sure to come prepared with water and enjoy the beauty of the wilderness!
- Mary T.Guide
Carlsbad KOA
Nice place to camp
Nice gravel sites. Wide roads to get into sites. Pool, playground. Restrooms OK. Only issue not great Wifi.
Oren A.TravelerMescalero Wilderness Campground — Guadalupe Mountains National Park
thanks
For those who prefer a more densely forested slitherio setting, the extra distance to the Tejas Wilderness Campground is well worth the effort.
- Oren A.Traveler
Tejas Wilderness Campground — Guadalupe Mountains National Park
thanks
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Mescalero Wilderness Campground — Guadalupe Mountains National Park
very good
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Arrington M.ScoutMescalero Wilderness Campground — Guadalupe Mountains National Park
great
It's a great spot known for its scenic beauty and Drift Hunters opportunities for hiking and exploring.
- RRobert F.Guide
Avalon Lake Dispersed
Lakeside camping
Cool spot, but beware of NAILS! Other than that, some night you might get some loud locals riding OHV on the other side of the lake.
Texas Roving RangerGuideBrantley Lake State Park Campground
Limestone Campground
Arrived towards the end of July on a Sunday evening. Campground was largely empty. Some sites are marked "Reservation Only" however there were plenty of walk up sites to choose from. Sites were spaced out very well. Each site has the usual grill, and picnic table. Tables were shielded from the elements by a shade shelter roof. Fire rings were absent.
We especially liked the QR code on the campsite number post that allows you to link directly to the website and pay for your site. No need for exact cash or a visit to the park office.
All facilities were well maintained. Trails were easy to follow.
As with most desert like environments, all the plants want to kill you. Be careful going off trail and don't let your pets wander.
RV dump station was convenient on our way out.
Danielle P.Traveler
Dark Canyon Dispersed
Off the grid
This was a great camping spot off the beaten path. I would make sure to have high clearance and even 4 wheel drive for the steep rocky drive up if you plan to go past the main camp area. I was worried it would be busy this time of year, but we were the only ones there. We drove up the road a way past the camp site. Beautiful views. It did get very windy at night. Very quiet and far off from traffic noise.
Adarsh S.Traveler
Mckittrick Ridge Wilderness Campground — Guadalupe Mountains National Park
Go to
Adventurous place
Brian and Janet S.GuideBrantley Lake State Park Campground
Affordable stop
We stopped here for 2 nights to escape the heat after dry camping outside of Carlsbad. I booked this easily online, and the other campers that weekend were very friendly. Overall this place is accommodating and quiet at nights. The sunsets are incredible. We biked to the lake for a swim and cool down. Would stay here again!
Great T-Mobile service. Bathrooms clean. Showers okay. $18 a night, booked last minute
They have an entire first come first serve section that had a lot of availability.
Dump station under construction- can dump for free at Eagle Draw Park in Artesia.
Mike B.GuideBrantley Lake State Park Campground
Good place to stay in south east NM
You can reserve a few van/RV spots but most are first come first serve. Don't worry about the check in time - all hookups and bathrooms/shower are unlocked. If you get a reserved spot you can pay online, otherwise self pay AT the campground, not at the gate (just in case they're full). Showers are good. Ok playground for little kids (4-5 age). Every site has a covered picnic table with stationary grill.
Convenient to Carlsbad, 30- 40ish minutes? north of the caverns, little over an hour south of Roswell.
Ari A.
Legend
Carlsbad RV Park & Campground
Good location, dedicated staff
This place makes a good basecamp for Carlsbad Caverns NO, Guadalupe Mountains NP and more. Even Roswell is less than 90 minutes away and Living Desert Zoo State Park is close, too. Staff does a good job with upkeep and the bathrooms seem new, they are really nice. Laundry room well maintained, as are the sites, which are mostly level gravel. Road noise near front can be a bit annoying, but the front sites seem bigger and nicer, so worth the trade-off.
Guide to Carlsbad
Carlsbad, New Mexico, offers some fantastic options for tent camping, allowing outdoor enthusiasts to immerse themselves in stunning natural landscapes while enjoying the serenity of the wilderness.
Tent campers should check out Rattlesnake Canyon - Backcountry Camping
- This site provides a unique hike-in experience, with several cleared spots available for setting up your tent.
- A free permit is required, ensuring that campers can enjoy the area while maintaining its natural beauty.
- The terrain is rocky and sandy, giving you a true feel for the rugged landscape of the region.
Tent campers appreciate these amenities
- At the Tejas Wilderness Campground, you can enjoy a peaceful retreat surrounded by breathtaking scenery and tall trees that provide ample shade.
- The Mescalero Wilderness Campground offers a serene environment perfect for those who love nature, with no amenities to distract from the wilderness experience.
- The Mckittrick Ridge Wilderness Campground features stunning views and a variety of hiking trails, making it an ideal spot for adventurous campers.
Explore local attractions while camping
- The Bush Mountain Wilderness Campground provides access to beautiful landscapes and opportunities for rock climbing and exploration.
- Campers at the Shumard Canyon Wilderness Campground can enjoy the tranquility of the area while being close to the stunning Guadalupe Mountains.
- The nearby Carlsbad Caverns National Park offers breathtaking underground formations, making it a must-visit attraction for those camping in the area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Carlsbad, NM?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Carlsbad, NM is Rattlesnake Canyon - Backcountry Camping — Carlsbad Caverns National Park with a 4.6-star rating from 5 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Carlsbad, NM?
TheDyrt.com has all 7 tent camping locations near Carlsbad, NM, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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