Camping sites near Clayton, New Mexico range from state parks with water access to free picnic areas for overnight stays. The region sits at approximately 5,200 feet elevation in northeastern New Mexico's high plains, characterized by grasslands and sandstone formations. Most camping locations experience extreme temperature variations between seasons, with summer days often exceeding 90°F and winter nights dropping below freezing.
What to do
Dinosaur track viewing: At Clayton Lake State Park Campground, visitors can explore prehistoric footprints preserved in stone. "Clayton Lake State Park lies in the NE corner of New Mexico... The main attraction is the dinosaur tracks, uncovered when topsoil was removed to build the dam," notes reviewer Judy B.
Fishing opportunities: The 170-acre reservoir at Clayton Lake attracts anglers year-round. "The lake was hopping with fish, and looked clean. Signs said there was an algae bloom so jumping in the lake was not advised," reports Stacy J. The lake appears well-stocked based on multiple visitor observations.
Wildlife observation: The area hosts diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. At Felt Picnic Area, one camper enjoyed "the experience of deer bedding next to my site." Another visitor to Clayton Lake observed, "Coyotes barked in the distance, strutting turkey's gobbled, jackrabbit's darted, fish jumped and mule deer grazed the shoreline grasses."
What campers like
Dark skies for stargazing: The remote location offers exceptional night sky viewing. "This whole area of New Mexico has really dark skies at night with so many stars visible," writes AJ M. about Clayton Lake State Park Chicano Beach. Another visitor noted they "chatted to a fellow camper who had a large telescope with him. We got to see Jupiter and its 4 largest moons at dusk."
Quiet, secluded camping: The remoteness attracts those seeking solitude. At Thompson Grove Boondocking, "it was peaceful and quiet. Pretty neat to see the dinosaur tracks," reports one camper. Another visitor to this free camping area mentioned it was "clean and just what we needed."
Varied terrain for exploration: The landscape offers interesting geological features for exploration. At Clayton Lake, "the sandstone formations were varied and interesting…worn away by generations of rain. The rock garden is worth a scramble…very cool columns…(R4 campsite is nestled deep within them and the most highly coveted tent site)," according to Dave V.
What you should know
Limited water access: Many camping areas have restricted water availability. At Felt Picnic Area, "there is a bathroom, picnic tables, grill, fire ring. It is on the fringe of the small town of Felt, OK on the Rita Blanca National Grassland," reports a reviewer, but notes there's no water fill-up.
Self-service check-in common: Several campgrounds operate with minimal staffing. At Coyote Keith's RV Park, "reserve online, no office attendant. Pull in to your spot and hook-up. Clean, level and well maintained," reports Vincent S. Another visitor notes, "we pulled in around 10 pm no attendant you slip money into the red box after you pick your spot."
Cell service reliability: Connectivity varies significantly across the region. One camper at Clayton Lake State Park warns, "you will be completely off-grid. There is no cell reception, WiFi, or cable or antenna tv." However, another visitor to Felt Picnic Area reports, "good signal ATT."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. At Corral RV Park, "the park for the kids was phenomenal. There was plenty for them to do, including a basketball court, so they were able to run off some energy after being pent up in the car all day," shares Justin C.
Educational opportunities: Incorporate learning into camping trips. Clayton Lake State Park's dinosaur tracks provide an educational experience. "Mr 8 with boundless adventures scrambling in the rocks. The dinosaur tracks were also a bit hit," writes AJ M. about visiting with children.
Weather preparedness: Temperature swings can be dramatic. "We stayed one night on the way to Colorado and this is such a great place to camp. We had primitive site C4 which provided Mr 8 with boundless adventures scrambling in the rocks," notes a family who visited Clayton Lake, but they suggest bringing extra layers for evenings.
Tips from RVers
Level site selection: RVers emphasize the importance of finding level sites in this region. At Wild Bills RV Park, "each site is pull thru with full hook ups. The laundry is in a heated bathroom with shower," notes Beverley D. Another RV camper adds that it offers "$30 a night for a quiet RV park right off the highway."
Pull-through accessibility: Many RV sites in the area offer pull-through access for easier maneuvering. At Coyote Keith's RV Park, "all sites are 60ft pull through. Just call to let them know your coming. Pick your own spot when you get there they are all the same," advises Michael C.
Dump station locations: Plan for waste disposal needs in advance. One visitor to Wild Bills RV Park notes the "$30 per night. Tent or RV. Power and water. Shower house" setup makes it convenient for overnight stays. Others mention that some parks have on-site dump stations while others require stops at truck stops for this service.
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