Best Campgrounds near Cedar Crest, NM

Cedar Crest in New Mexico has some good camping options nearby. Turquoise Trail Campground sits just two miles from town and gives you quick access to Cibola National Forest in a quiet natural area. The Rio Grande isn't far away if you want to fish or kayak during your stay. You can hike in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, which make a great backdrop for photos too. White Sands is a day trip away with its impressive white gypsum dunes unlike anything else in the region. Spring and fall are the best times to camp around Cedar Crest when the weather is mild. Summer gets pretty hot, so bring extra water and plan for heat if you come then. Winter camping works too, though it's definitely cooler. You should book ahead at places like Turquoise Trail Campground during busy seasons if you want to guarantee a spot. The campground has basic restrooms and picnic tables for campers. Albuquerque is close enough for a visit to museums or cultural spots when you need a break from camping. Cedar Crest works well as a home base whether you just want to relax at camp or get out and see the wilderness areas. Just make sure to check if any areas are closed before you head out.

Best Camping Sites Near Cedar Crest, New Mexico (85)

    1. Albuquerque KOA Journey

    46 Reviews
    Monticello, NM
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (505) 296-2729

    "New Mexico is a land of wonders and beauty in every turn."

    "Good campground with access to all Albuquerque has to offer. Quick biking to the Sandia trails and short drive to hiking. The bus stop is nearby so getting around town is easy too."

    2. Turquoise Trail Campground

    32 Reviews
    Cibola National Forest and Grasslands, NM
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (505) 281-2005

    "CAMPGROUND REVIEW: Turquoise Trail Campground, Cedar Crest, NM

    Turquoise Trail Campground is a small privately owned campground located five miles north of I-40 off Route 14 (exit 175) just outside"

    "We arrived around 6pm and our info was thumb tacked to the entry board. Call her and she comes right down to show you your spot. It’s located next to a little brewery and pizza place."

    3. Dispersed Camping off FS 542

    23 Reviews
    Tijeras, NM
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (505) 346-3900

    "I got here after dark on my drive from the west coast to NC. There were a couple of other campers at the front of the entrance. I did a little off-roading and drove deeper in for privacy."

    "Can make it up to camp with 2 wheel drive low clearance. Maybe some minor scraping as you leave/arrive over a bit of a rough ramp lip."

    4. Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site

    35 Reviews
    Placitas, NM
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (505) 761-8700

    "Top of New Mexico" near Albuquerque is a fantastic camping spot if you love open spaces and beautiful desert views."

    "This campground offered amazing views of the Sandia mountains and the surrounding area."

    5. Hidden Valley RV park

    10 Reviews
    Rincon, NM
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (505) 281-3363

    $40 - $75 / night

    "Easy access to all facilities. Will stay here again when in the area."

    "Close to Cedro Peak mountain biking and hiking trails."

    6. Route 66 RV Park

    13 Reviews
    Edgewood, NM
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (505) 281-0893

    $20 - $60 / night

    "Our site and adjacent sites were not level. However, Our fifth-wheel auto alignment overcame this. This campground offers propane, firewood and has a clean laundry room. "

    "Good place to stop near Albuquerque. Right off the highway but traffic noise wasn’t too bad at night. Showers and laundry were clean. Has an enclosed area for dogs and playground for kids."

    7. Coronado Campground

    23 Reviews
    Bernalillo, NM
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (505) 980-8256

    $18 - $40 / night

    "Operated by the town of Bernalillo, New Mexico. Prices range from $10.00 per night for tents and $20.00, $30.00, $35.00 per night for Rvs. Great view of the Rio Grande and Sandia Mountains."

    "Great place to camp if visiting Rio Rancho, Bernalillo and the surrounding area. Super nice camp sites, more than enough room for our 39’ trailer and inexpensive."

    8. Kirtland AFB FamCamp

    8 Reviews
    Monticello, NM
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (505) 846-0337

    "Contrary to the previous review, Kirtland AFB has 24/7 access to all authorized persons via the Truman gate off of Gibson Blvd. There is 30 and 50 amp service available along with water and sewer."

    "You must show up Monday to Friday 8am to 4pm to get access to the base."

    9. Albuquerque North / Bernalillo KOA

    14 Reviews
    Bernalillo, NM
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 562-3616

    "Close to highway but easy in/out. Some smaller trees have branches that can damage your rig so be mindful of the space above as you navigate through the sites."

    "We walked to the brewery next door and made good use of the dog parks."

    10. Manzanita Rec Zone Dispersed Camping - Sandia District

    4 Reviews
    Ponderosa, NM
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (505) 281-3304

    "A bit less traveled than other nearby campground. Road almost more accessible to this camp ground for low clearance. Might scrape a bit going up final ramp to Cedro peak one, but not terribly either."

    "Have to drive up the forest service road off the pavement. A little rough but I have a lifted outback no issues! Highly recommended."

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Recent Reviews near Cedar Crest, NM

682 Reviews of 85 Cedar Crest Campgrounds



Guide to Cedar Crest

Camping near Cedar Crest, New Mexico, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and fun activities for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly spot or a quiet getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Explore the outdoors: The area is perfect for hiking and enjoying nature. Many campers appreciate the trails available, with one reviewer from Cochiti Recreation Area noting, "The trails are fabulous."
  • Visit nearby attractions: If you’re up for a drive, Albuquerque and Santa Fe are just a short trip away. A camper at Cochiti Recreation Area mentioned, "Good location to visit both Albuquerque (50 mins) and Santa Fe (35 mins)."
  • Enjoy water activities: Many campgrounds near Cedar Crest are close to lakes or rivers, making it easy to fish or swim. One visitor at Cochiti Recreation Area highlighted the "beautiful views of the lake and surrounding mountains."

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Campers often mention the cleanliness of restrooms and showers. A reviewer at Albuquerque KOA Journey said, "The bathrooms/showers were likewise very clean and there was plenty of hot water."
  • Family-friendly amenities: Many campgrounds have activities for kids. A parent at Albuquerque KOA Journey shared, "Jump pad, playground, mini golf and a really nice pool were the highlights."
  • Friendly staff: Campers appreciate helpful staff at the campgrounds. One visitor at Route 66 RV Resort noted, "The grounds are impeccable. Excellent place to stay."

What you should know:

  • Location matters: Some campgrounds are near busy roads, which can be noisy. A camper at Cochiti Recreation Area mentioned, "It is right off I-40, very convenient, but very noisy."
  • Limited services: Not all campgrounds have full hookups or amenities. A reviewer at Enchanted Trails RV Park & Trading Post said, "Only one restroom."
  • Weather considerations: Be prepared for changing weather conditions, especially in the mountains. A camper at Manzano Mountains State Park Campground noted, "It was hot in the valley so we retreated to the nearest mountains."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Check for kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and pools. A parent at Albuquerque KOA Journey mentioned, "Clean, modern and convenient showers were pluses for Mom and Dad."
  • Plan for noise: If your kids are light sleepers, consider campgrounds away from highways. A camper at Cochiti Recreation Area noted, "The campground noise was quiet."
  • Pack games and outdoor gear: Bring along items for family fun. A visitor at Turquoise Trail Campground said, "Great spot not too far from Albuquerque, very peaceful and quaint."

Tips from RVers:

  • Choose the right campground: Some campgrounds are better suited for RVs than others. A reviewer at Route 66 RV Resort said, "Most sites are pull through concrete level slabs."
  • Be mindful of space: Some sites can be tight, so check the layout before booking. A camper at Albuquerque North / Bernalillo KOA mentioned, "Sites are close together."
  • Check for amenities: Look for campgrounds with dump stations and electric hookups. A visitor at Cochiti Recreation Area noted, "There is a dump station & drinking water."

Camping near Cedar Crest, New Mexico, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. With a little planning, you can enjoy the great outdoors and make lasting memories.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Cedar Crest, NM?

According to TheDyrt.com, Cedar Crest, NM offers a wide range of camping options, with 85 campgrounds and RV parks near Cedar Crest, NM and 14 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Cedar Crest, NM?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Cedar Crest, NM is Albuquerque KOA Journey with a 3.9-star rating from 46 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Cedar Crest, NM?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 14 free dispersed camping spots near Cedar Crest, NM.

What parks are near Cedar Crest, NM?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 7 parks near Cedar Crest, NM that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.