Carrizozo, New Mexico sits at 5,429 feet elevation with a high desert climate that transitions between cool winters and warm summers. RV camping in this region offers travelers access to Lincoln National Forest and the nearby Valley of Fires lava flow. Campgrounds in the area range from full-service parks to more rustic settings with varying degrees of shade and accessibility.
What to do
Hike near Alto: Explore trails in Lincoln National Forest accessible from Eagle Creek RV Resort, where visitors can spot local wildlife. "Look out for wild turkeys, deer, elk, bears, and even wild horses! Drive up the mountain to SkiApache, there are awesome overlooks on the drive," notes Tommy M.
Fish at local lakes: Grindstone Lake offers fishing opportunities about 1.5 miles from Rainbow Lake Cabin & RV Resort. "We fished about 1&1/2 miles away at Grindstone Lake. Was just what me and my Family needed," reports Joe Z.
Watch wildlife: The area supports diverse wildlife viewing opportunities, especially for bird enthusiasts. At Moonflower Meadows RV Resort, campers report: "This park is quiet and peaceful with lots of birds and nightly visits by elk."
What campers like
Dark night skies: The Carrizozo area offers excellent stargazing conditions away from city lights. One camper at Moonflower Meadows RV Resort noted, "It was very quiet and dark enough at night to see the stars light up the sky."
Natural surroundings: Many rv parks near Carrizozo, New Mexico feature natural settings with native wildlife. At Along The River RV Park, campers enjoy wildlife encounters: "deer, wild horses come to visit," according to JulieJay M.
Clean facilities: Campground cleanliness ranks high on visitor priorities. At Midtown Mountain Campground, visitors appreciate the attention to detail: "Amenities are very cleans, little market, gim and laundry. There is full Art and Crafts in perfect place!!!" writes Milagros B.
What you should know
Limited cell coverage: Many campgrounds in the Carrizozo area have spotty cell service. At Bonito Hollow RV Park, Jan R. reports: "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."
Road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds may require careful driving. At Eagle Creek RV Resort, Belinda D. warns: "The road going in to campsites are very rough and in of need some TLC!"
Weather considerations: The area can experience rapid weather changes. At Bonito Hollow RV Park, limited shade can impact comfort: "I had limited shade at my site, but thankfully the AC kept the trailer cool enough, as it was nearly 90 degrees outside."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Look for campgrounds with recreational facilities. Riverside RV Park offers family-oriented features: "Was very friendly good place for kids!!!!" according to Amber N.
Easy access to attractions: Consider proximity to family activities when selecting an RV park near Carrizozo. Bonito Hollow RV Park offers: "Smaller campground with plenty to keep the kids entertained. Playground. Some of the campsites back up to a nice running creek," reports Charles B.
Security features: For families concerned with safety, look for campgrounds with active management. At Bonito Hollow RV Park & Campground, Sue G. notes: "This seems to be a super secure location as hosts are on duty 24/7. No one comes into the campground without stopping at the office and checking in."
Tips from RVers
Site size considerations: Many RV parks have varied site dimensions. At Rainbow Lake, Jeffrey T. cautions: "I'm in a 21.5' TT and drive an F150. There was barely any room left for camping space."
Management responsiveness: Check recent reviews about staff availability. Nicole D. experienced issues at Rainbow Lake: "48 hours without one answered phone call or email. We were one of three families that had no idea what to do or how to pay for another day."
Helpful staff: Many RV parks in the Carrizozo region offer personalized assistance. At Mountain Springs Ranch RV Park, located in Carrizozo, visitors appreciate the staff attention. The campground offers "Quiet off the path. Gorgeous views clean restroom and showers," according to Tore D.
