RV campgrounds near Chaparral, New Mexico range from 30 to 45 minutes driving distance in surrounding communities. The region sits at approximately 4,000 feet elevation, with the nearby Organ Mountains creating a dramatic desert backdrop. Summer nighttime temperatures typically drop 30 degrees from daytime highs, making evening campfires at permitted facilities particularly appealing despite the intense daytime heat.
What to do
Explore local historic districts: Las Cruces offers cultural exploration opportunities within a short drive from local RV parks. "We took a short drive to La Mesilla and the farmers market in Las Cruces—definitely recommend both. White Sands is also not too far if you're up for a day trip," notes a visitor at Las Cruces KOA.
Utilize camp cooking facilities: Beyond personal setups, some campgrounds offer specialized outdoor cooking areas. A Las Cruces KOA visitor highlighted that "The open air kitchen it offered was top notch and a nice break from cooking on our propane camping stove."
Visit nearby attractions: El Paso attractions remain accessible while staying in surrounding campgrounds. "Close to downtown El Paso," mentions one reviewer about Fort Bliss RV Park, noting its convenience for exploring the city despite not being directly on the military base.
What campers like
Mountain views: The landscape provides scenic backdrops at many local camping areas. "The sites are large and level. The sites are spacious and have FHU 50amp service. We chose this park because of its central location to everything," shares a visitor at Sunny Acres RV Park, highlighting both practical amenities and aesthetic benefits.
Convenient store access: On-site stores reduce the need for trips into town. "There is a Shopette across the street from the entrance," notes a Fort Bliss RV Park visitor, while another camper mentions that Sunny Acres is "Very close to shopping, groceries, car wash and major intersections."
Recreational facilities: Activities beyond basic camping enhance longer stays. "The kids enjoyed cornhole, basketball, tetherball, and the playground," writes a Las Cruces KOA visitor about on-site recreation options, while others mention pickle ball courts and dog parks at multiple facilities.
What you should know
Military ID requirements: Some facilities restrict access to military personnel. "NOTE: Park is only for Active, Reservist, Retired Military members, their dependents, and blood relatives being escorted," states a Fort Bliss reviewer, important information for potential visitors.
Highway noise considerations: Road noise impacts many RV parks in the region. "It's FCFS but calling ahead made us confident we could get a site. Military ID required. Wonderful facilities and very inexpensive. The only draw-back is road noise from Hwy 54," notes a visitor at Fort Bliss RV Park.
Shower conditions vary significantly: Bathroom facilities differ greatly between parks. A Western Skys RV Park visitor reported, "The ladies room didn't have any functioning showers and only one working toilet. The men's room had one working toilet and one working shower, both looked and smelled like they hadn't been cleaned in months."
Tips for camping with families
Dog-friendly amenities: Dedicated pet areas exist at several Chaparral-area campgrounds. "Hacienda RV Resort has actually one of the best dog run areas I've found at an RV park or resort! There is actually room for the dogs to run," writes one visitor, highlighting facilities beyond standard pet relief areas.
Age restrictions: Some parks maintain age limits affecting family camping options. "55+ Park with monthly rates only. Pet park allows children for a few days only," notes a reviewer about Sunny Acres RV Park, important information for family planning.
Water pressure considerations: Bring regulators for variable water systems. One Hacienda RV Resort visitor noted, "Staff is friendly and let us know water pressure is high so use a reducer," showing the importance of proper equipment for protecting RV plumbing systems.
Tips from RVers
Reservation practices: Booking procedures vary widely between facilities. "It's first come, first serve no reservations. The staff at the office were extremely helpful," shares a Fort Bliss RV Park visitor, while others note that some parks offer after-hours check-in systems for late arrivals.
Site layouts: Space configurations impact camping comfort significantly. A visitor at Mission RV Park noted, "Everything is paved and feels super level. They were very accommodating for our dogs and tried to give us a site with a nice sunset view!"
Laundry facilities: Washing options vary between parks with different payment systems. "Laundry was $3 for wash/dry," reported one visitor at El Paso Roadrunner RV Park, while others mention "24hr laundry" and smartphone payment options at different facilities.
