Yurt camping near Chaparral, New Mexico offers desert solitude with views of the Franklin and Hueco Mountains. Located about 15 miles east of El Paso, the region sits at elevations between 4,000-4,500 feet, creating mild winter camping conditions compared to northern New Mexico. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F, making spring and fall the preferred camping seasons.
What to do
Visit ancient pictographs at Hueco Tanks: Just 25 miles from Chaparral, this historic site requires reservations and often has entry limits. "We only intended to stay one night, but just as the tour ended a wicked sand storm moved in, so we asked if we could stay another night. The staff was very understanding and knew it was not safe to send us out in that," reports a visitor at Hueco Tanks State Park Campground.
Explore La Mesilla historic district: This preserved 19th century Mexican-American settlement features adobe architecture and local shops. "Took a short drive to La Mesilla and the farmers market in Las Cruces—definitely recommend both," notes a camper from Las Cruces KOA.
Play outdoor games: Many campgrounds offer recreational activities on-site. "The kids enjoyed cornhole, basketball, tetherball, and the playground. The store was well stocked," writes a visitor at Las Cruces KOA.
What campers like
Mountain views: The Organ Mountains create a dramatic backdrop for many camping areas. "We loved the views overlooking the city and mountains—especially at night with the lights," notes a camper at Las Cruces KOA.
Yurt accommodations: For campers seeking yurt camping near Chaparral, New Mexico, several sites offer these unique structures. "We stayed in a yurt. It was really cool. It was in the 40s outside and was warm inside. You have a beautiful view of Hueco Tanks, which you could almost walk to, as well as the Franklin Mountains," reports a visitor at Gleatherland.
Quiet desert camping: Remote sites provide peaceful experiences. "Quiet desert scenery surrounding!" mentions a camper at Gleatherland. Another notes, "Remote desert camping with plenty of amenities... Quiet nights with low light pollution for amazing stargazing opportunities!"
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many parks limit daily visitors. "Cant get in between the hours of 8am & 10am, unless you have a online reservation to even just stay for the day. Closes at 5pm sharp," warns a visitor at Hueco Tanks State Park.
Seasonal considerations: The desert climate affects camping comfort. "We came off season and it looked like everything was closed up but we found the primitive camping that we were looking for and then were greeted by the host within 5 minutes," reports a camper at Gleatherland.
Water conservation: Water is precious in the desert. At Sunny Acres RV Park, a visitor noted the park's "large spaces, some carports at sites. Quiet with friendly staff. Facilities are clean and attended to."
Tips for camping with families
Choose parks with kid-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds offer recreational facilities. "We stayed in a KOA Patio Site with a fire pit, and it was worth it! It's also super convenient—just off I-10 but still peaceful," shares a Las Cruces KOA visitor.
Guided educational tours: Historical sites provide learning opportunities. "We only intended to stay one night, but decided to book a tour for the next day. Both were well worth doing and the guided tour was only $5 p/person and lasted about 3 hrs," reports a family at Hueco Tanks State Park Campground.
Pack for temperature swings: Desert temperatures fluctuate widely. "It was cold and it heated up quickly. Everything we needed for a nice stay," notes a visitor about yurt camping near Chaparral.
Tips from RVers
Level sites available: Most RV parks provide flat parking areas. "The sites are level, but very close to. Lots of dust. (This is the desert, so maybe expected) 30/50 amp, water & sewer. Free WiFi and Cable TV," reports a visitor at Siesta RV Park.
Water pressure management: Bring regulators for hookups. "Water pressure was a bit high but with a regulator it was fine. Wifi was decent! Faster than average KOA," shares an RVer at Siesta RV Park.
Age restrictions at some parks: Be aware of 55+ policies. At Dalmont's RV Park, facilities include "Easy access to the road and both I25 and I10. Sites are gravel and semi level," according to a visitor.
