70 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Valley Of Fires Recreation Area permits pets at all campsites with both RV and tent camping options. The campground features covered picnic tables, fire rings, and water spigots at most sites. Tent campsites toward the back offer excellent privacy with natural lava walls between sites, while RV sites include electric hookups and water. Dogs must remain leashed throughout the campground, including on the paved 1-mile interpretive trail through the lava fields. The campground fills quickly, especially on weekends, with some sites requiring advance reservations and others available first-come, first-served for $7-$35 depending on amenities and passes.
Sands Motel & RV Park and Bonito Hollow RV Park & Campground also welcome pets but with varying amenities. Bonito Hollow offers cabin accommodations for travelers with dogs, while Guebara Tank Camp provides free dispersed camping for those seeking a more primitive pet-friendly experience. When camping with dogs in this region, be aware of prickers near the lava fields that can cut paw pads. The area experiences significant temperature fluctuations, with the black volcanic rock holding substantial heat during summer days. Evening walks with dogs are more comfortable, particularly around sunset when temperatures cool and wildlife becomes more active. Several campgrounds report seeing bighorn sheep in the camping areas, so keeping dogs leashed is essential for wildlife protection.
"The lava tubes, the town of Carrizozo White Oak and Capitan."
"Due to New Mexico Governor’s decision to close state owned campgrounds, we scrambled to find a place to stay prior to visiting White Sands...thank you BLM!!"
from $15 - $35 / night
Check Availability"I was looking to get away from the heat in Albuquerque and maybe even do a little fishing. I picked a site next to the upper river (Rio Bonito)."
"Beautiful surroundings, not far from downtown shopping in Ruidoso, most helpful hosts on site. My husband was not in the best of health when we went."
from $40 - $54 / night
Check Availability"The sites are spacious with beautiful open New Mexico views, and check-in was simple and stress-free."
from $25 - $35 / night
Check Availability"Has one handicap accessible & next to bathroom)."
"Must see recreational site with 2 trails, 11 picnic areas with shelters and grills, and really clean restrooms located south of Carrizozo, NM, and north of Tularosa, NM."
from $18 / night
Check Availability"My family and dog tent-camped at Three Rivers campground on Labor Day weekend 2014. There were shaded spots. The water in the river was running and fresh. There were a couple nice bathing holes."
"It was also super quiet since it was so far away from the road. The actual camp was in the trees and great views of the surrounding mountains. Each spot has a table, fire pit, and gazebo."
"I think the ease of picking a spot that worked for our situation, the clean park and bathrooms and friendly staff and neighbors made it surprisingly one of the best RV experiences we’ve had."
"So close to everything, super clean PRIVATE bathrooms and the management is amazing and super attentive!"
from $45 - $70 / night
Check Availability"Me and two of my buddy's went there and had a great time hiking and just hanging around camp and chilling."
"Lots of camping spots and great hiking trails to go on! Gets a little windy since you’re at the top, but totally worth it!"
"Not to many trees that are tall so u get cover but not complete seclusion but enof to where it’s enjoyable and u see the sky at nights so path ways are very down sloap if ur in a car know how to drive"
"Enjoy this nice and quiet getaway surrounded by a beautiful desert oasis. I love the upgrades inside the home, and that fireplace is GORGEOUS!!"
from $285 - $350 / night
Check Availability
RangerStayed at this Rv park in march of 2019. A clean park located in the middle of Capitan New Mexico. The location is very convenient about 20 miles from Reuidoso 25 or so miles from Carrizozo and Fort Stanton in the east the receptionist Sharon is very contentious and helpful.
RangerNice clean restrooms full amenities electric, water, tank dump, this area has a lot of history. The lava tubes, the town of Carrizozo White Oak and Capitan. These are all towns that Billy the kid frequented back in the day also the ghost town of White oak was the largest gold mining town in New Mexico.
GuideWe were able to get in last minute for a two night stay. We stayed in Site 604. Pull through, level spot. Very close to neighbor RVs. But, nice and quiet. Dogs enjoyed the fenced dog park (although gravel). Full Hookups.
Location great for White Sands National Park, Cloudcroft, NM (Brewery up there at 9000 ft) and Las Cruces, NM.
LegendHas one handicap accessible & next to bathroom). There is a group site that has three picnic tables under a shelter and two grills. 2 RV sites have covered picnic tables and grills and water and electric hookups. Five tent sites. One of the tent locations is at the handicap accessible site. CLEAN restrooms with flush toilets and drinking water are available. Pets are allowed in the campground(on leash), but are not allowed on the trails. Petroglyph trails are rocky, but not difficult (keep your eyes peeled, there are petroglyphs everywhere). Hosts were very nice. Campground has well-functioning electronic/pay check-in. Great BLM campground. Other places in area include Malpais lava flows. Sierra Blanca hovers to the east. Sunset was early in Nov. so if hiking trails in late afternoon take a flashlight. Nearby Carrizozo reportedly has a photo gallery or three that we were told were well worth checking out but we did not get chance to do so.
TravelerMust see recreational site with 2 trails, 11 picnic areas with shelters and grills, and really clean restrooms located south of Carrizozo, NM, and north of Tularosa, NM. Quick day trip after White Sands National Monument, Alamogordo, NM.
Open daily from 8 am to 5 pm. Fee area. Only $5 for day use but cash or check only. National Park Passes such as America the Beautiful, Golden Age, Active Military are free day use and half off dry camping/RV hookup. No camping yet.
Three Rivers Trading Post located 4 miles from site can make change. Park Hosts on site are very friendly and helpful but cannot make change.
Free Trail maps are available at Display Board next to fee drop box. The trail map explains petroglyphs at 11 stations. Covered rest area with scenic views of Sacramento and Godfey Mountains located after station 11.
Dogs and other pets must be leashed in campground (no camping in the 11 sites and 2 RV sites since March 2020 due to Covid). No dogs on trails allowed.
Main petroglyph trail is moderate, not easy, as steep in some parts. Be careful to stay on trail due to sharp thorns from mesquite and the possibility of rattlesnakes. Bring lots of water as this is Chihuahuan Desert. Hiking boots recommended.
Village trailhead begins in the campground and continues across the road from the entrance sign. This easy flat 1/4 mile loop showcases 3 reconstructed Jornada Mogollon pit homes.
Camping not open. When open, the 2 RV sites have electricity and water. No dump station. Closest dump station is BLM Valley of Fires, Carrizozo, NM. When open, 11 dry campsites with upright grills and garbage cans. Five of the 11dry sites have clean elevated tent boxes. Water spigot located by Village trailhead. Don' wash dishes in the bathrooms. 14 day limit for both RV and dry camping. First come, first serve.
When open, RV hook up is $18 a day, and dry camping is $7 a day.
This is a great day trip. Most people take an hour on the main trail and then picnic.
ScoutStayed here recently and honestly loved how peaceful and quiet this RV park is. The sites are spacious with beautiful open New Mexico views, and check-in was simple and stress-free. It’s a perfect place if you want a calm, safe stop away from busy highways but still close enough to town for essentials. The atmosphere feels relaxed and welcoming, especially at night when the sky is full of stars. I would definitely stop here again for a comfortable and easy RV stay.
GuideThe pictures I saw didn’t do this park justice. That’s a switch. Yeah, the RV spots are gravel. But it’s southern New Mexico. There is an actual spring here. The trees around it have a couple of Great Horned owls who have come out nightly. But it’s the New Mexico sunsets and stars that make this such a nice place. Good price for full hook ups, and John our host is a really nice guy
ScoutI was looking to get away from the heat in Albuquerque and maybe even do a little fishing. I picked a site next to the upper river (Rio Bonito). The water was clear and moving, but no sign of any fish. The river is more of a creek (expected for New Mexico), but still pretty. It was barely visible from my camp, but just a short hike away. No ATT or Verizon cell service at my site, but I did find a weak signal up near the office. The wifi was a struggle. It was barely adequate the first day, but absolutely miserable the second day. I could easily connect to their router, but constantly got an error of “no internet service” and had to log off and on several times. I had limited shade at my site, but thankfully the AC kept the trailer cool enough, as it was nearly 90 degrees outside. The hosts were very nice and the park is kept pretty clean. No tents allowed, though.
GuideBeautiful drive on Highway 82 west towards Cloudcroft. Stop at the roadside petting zoo!
Apache appeared to be the only campground of the three open in late September. Super nice hosts and well maintained - there were even trash cans and hand sanitizer in the restroom which was a nice touch.
The sites were relatively far apart and backed up into a nice wooded area.
Hardly anyone else there on a weeknight in September.
Strange animal noises at night!
Camping near Carrizozo takes place at 5,500 feet elevation where the high desert meets pine forests and lava fields. Summer temperatures can range from 55°F at night to 95°F during the day, with significant cooling after sunset. Winter camping requires preparation for temperatures that often drop below freezing overnight, particularly between November and February.
Explore petroglyphs and hiking trails: Three Rivers Petroglyph Site offers a unique opportunity to view over 20,000 ancient petroglyphs. "The short trail around the lava is paved and very nice. Such a unique area to camp in!" notes Meghan B. The main trail is approximately one mile long, though visitors should be prepared for some rocky sections.
Visit lava field interpretive trails: At Valley Of Fires Recreation Area, a paved 0.75-mile trail leads through dramatic volcanic landscapes. "They also have a very cool ADA compliant scenic trail into the lava flow field," according to Roy R. The trail includes informational placards explaining the geological history of this 5,000-year-old lava flow.
Photography at various viewpoints: The campgrounds provide excellent vantage points for landscape photography, especially at dusk. "At sunrise and sunset, the views are not to be missed," recommends Damon T. The contrasting black volcanic rock against mountain backdrops creates striking photo opportunities, particularly in morning and evening light.
Clean, modern facilities: Three Rivers Campground receives high marks for maintenance. "This campground is nestled right up against the San Francisco Mountains... It was clean and looked like it would be a great place to hike and explore," reports Alisa P. The campground facilities are regularly maintained by on-site hosts.
Convenient location for area attractions: Midtown Mountain Campground provides easy access to local amenities. "The best part about this place was how close it was to stores, food, and gas. It's really opened my eyes to how we can use RV parks as a pass through in our journey," writes Richard T. This location serves as an excellent base camp for exploring the region.
Unique terrain and night sky views: The volcanic landscapes and minimal light pollution create exceptional stargazing opportunities. "The area was well maintained and offered a 1-mile informational loop hike through the lava field... and a memorable sunset," says Jake. Most campgrounds in the area have minimal tree cover, providing unobstructed views of the night sky.
Limited availability at popular sites: Three Rivers Petroglyph Site has very limited camping spots. "There are only 2 RV sites (pull-through). They have electric (30&50) plus water; no sewer. There are 4 tent boxes," explains John M. Reservations are highly recommended during peak seasons.
Weather conditions require planning: Temperature fluctuations are significant in this high desert environment. "The weather forecast was for wind, 25mph to 60mph gusts. So have chosen to stay put for two more evenings," mentions Jean R. Strong winds can occur year-round, particularly in spring.
Campsite leveling challenges: Many sites require careful setup. "Most of the sites, despite looking lovely, are very un-level. We had one heck of a time levelling our 30 ft class A. The sites slope front to back AND to the side," warns Reuben. Bringing leveling blocks is essential at most area campgrounds.
Visit dog-friendly trails with timing considerations: When seeking dog-friendly campgrounds near Carrizozo, plan activities during cooler hours. "Evening walks with dogs are more comfortable, particularly around sunset when temperatures cool and wildlife becomes more active," notes James G. at Guebara Tank Camp. This free dispersed camping area welcomes pets but requires leashes.
Bring protection from sun and wind: Shade structures are valuable for family camping in this region. "It was very sunny when I went, bring a shade device," advises amber H. Most campgrounds have limited natural shade, making portable canopies or umbrellas essential for daytime comfort.
Use campgrounds as educational opportunities: The geological features provide natural science lessons. "We visited on spring break with our 6 and 4 year olds... our kids could run around and play where we could still see them. The view was breathtaking (mountains by day and clear stars by night)," shares Elena C. The petroglyphs and lava formations offer engaging educational content for children.
Prepare for variable road conditions: Access roads to Bonito Hollow RV Park & Campground and other sites may present challenges after weather events. "We decided to leave our 38foot pull camper down at the petroglyph site and drive up to see if it was going to be easy for us to pull our trailer up. It would be easy except after a heavy storm where the road was flooded," explains Alisa P. Check weather forecasts and call ahead during rainy periods.
Hookup availability varies significantly: Electric and water connections are limited at most public campgrounds. "They have electric and water hookups at this recreation area. They also have about 5 tent spots at the very back. You can reserve online and they also have some that are first come first serve," explains Roy R. Private RV parks offer more reliable hookups but at higher prices.
Bring extra leveling equipment: The terrain at most area campgrounds requires substantial leveling. "If you book this site bring extra blocks as it is 3.5" out of level side to side and about 12" front to back on a 21' trailer," advises Kevin K. Multi-height leveling blocks are recommended for all RVs visiting the Carrizozo area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Carrizozo, NM?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Carrizozo, NM is Valley Of Fires Recreation Area with a 4.6-star rating from 40 reviews.
What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Carrizozo, NM?
TheDyrt.com has all 70 dog-friendly camping locations near Carrizozo, NM, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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