Cabins near Cedar Crest, New Mexico range from rustic to comfortable accommodations at elevations around 6,900 feet. Located along the eastern base of the Sandia Mountains, Cedar Crest sits at the entry to the Turquoise Trail scenic byway with temperatures typically 10-15 degrees cooler than nearby Albuquerque. Winter cabin stays require preparation for occasional snow, while summer visitors enjoy moderate temperatures in the mid-80s.
What to do
Hiking from camp: Several campgrounds provide access to nearby trails. At Turquoise Trail Campground, a visitor mentioned, "There is plenty of visible signage to guide you down Snowline Dr into the campground," noting it sits "tucked along the base of the Sandia mountains, at 6940' elevation." Mountain trails are accessible within a short drive.
Brewery visits: The Ale Republic brewery and pizza place is located adjacent to Turquoise Trail Campground. A camper shared, "It's located next to a little brewery and pizza place. The pizza and beer were both really good I would check that place out while you stay." The brewery offers a convenient dinner option after a day of outdoor activities.
Wildlife viewing: Wild horses can be seen at some nearby dispersed camping areas. At Top of New Mexico, a reviewer reported, "Woke up in the morning to a heard of wild horses moving through the area," while another noted, "Wild horses roamed around our site after sunset. Pretty epic."
What campers like
Dark sky stargazing: Cedar Crest's higher elevation and distance from city lights creates excellent stargazing opportunities. A camper at Top of New Mexico emphasized its status as a "Dark Sky Sanctuary" noting, "you can clearly see the Milky Way. No light pollution except the beautiful view of the city far away."
Bus access to Santa Fe: For those staying in cabin accommodations near Santa Fe, public transportation makes city exploration convenient. At Trailer Ranch RV Resort, a visitor shared, "Bus stops right in front of entrance for a 15 minute bus ride to downtown historic area," while another confirmed it's a "Great Base Point for Santa Fe Attractions" with "bus stop right outside that takes you downtown to Plaza for $1 senior or $2 regular all day pass."
Water recreation: Cabins near the Rio Grande provide water access. At Coronado Campground, a reviewer appreciated being "Right in town, right next to the Rio," explaining, "You are next to the Rio Grande and in walking distance of the Pueblo Kuaua which is cool." Another mentioned the campground "has kayak/paddle launch."
What you should know
Road conditions: Some camping areas require careful navigation. At Top of New Mexico, a camper warned about access challenges: "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!" Another advised, "Don't arrive when it's dark."
Elevation considerations: The higher altitude affects temperatures and weather patterns. Turquoise Trail Campground sits at nearly 7,000 feet elevation, where temperatures can drop significantly at night, even in summer months. Pack accordingly with layers and warm sleepwear.
Reservation timing: Some campgrounds have specific check-in procedures. A visitor at Albuquerque North / Bernalillo KOA reported, "The staff were friendly and helpful throughout our booking process, even when we needed to make changes," suggesting flexibility with reservations at some locations.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds offer specific family features. Albuquerque North / Bernalillo KOA received praise as "Great for kids" with "The playground has the best swing set and is all sand, very fun for kids of all ages." Another family reported, "They had a nice pool with plenty of shade and an outdoor movie in the evenings which my kids enjoyed."
Educational opportunities: Combine cabin stays with learning experiences. The Coronado Campground is "next to the Coronado Monument and the Rio Grande with an awesome view of the Sandia mountains," offering cultural and natural history exploration opportunities within walking distance.
Pet accommodation: Many cabins welcome four-legged family members. At Albuquerque KOA Journey, a visitor noted, "Our pups enjoyed the dog park, lots of enrichment items out for them," indicating thought has been given to pet needs beyond simple acceptance.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Different sites offer varying amenities and locations. At Albuquerque KOA Journey, one RVer advised, "Get the Full H/U site for best location," explaining "Stayed twice - once with full h/u, once with W/E. The FHU was a far better location with concrete pad, much less highway noise, and much better bathrooms."
Generator alternatives: Some cabin and RV sites have limitations on generator use. At Rancheros de Santa Fe, visitors appreciate the full hookup options that eliminate the need for generators, noting "The campground itself feels rustic with trees between most sights, and I personally like the subtle hills, which make the sites feels more spread out."
Utility placement: RVers should check hookup locations before setup. At Coronado Campground, a camper observed, "We were in a water/electric site. No dull hook. Up sites. They are sloped a bit, and the water was on the opposite side of our camper, but we made it work."
