Best Campgrounds near Columbus, NM

Campgrounds in Columbus, New Mexico sit along the U.S.-Mexico border, offering travelers easy access to both countries. Pancho Villa State Park provides RV and tent camping with water and electric hookups, situated just 3 miles from the Mexican border. The park features historical significance as the site of Pancho Villa's 1916 raid and former Camp Furlong. Additional options include Columbus RV Park & Laundry in town and several full-service RV parks in nearby Deming, such as Little Vineyard RV Park, Dream Catcher RV Park, and Low Hi RV Ranch.

The climate in this desert region makes seasonal planning crucial for campers. Summer temperatures frequently exceed 90°F, while winters bring cooler, more comfortable conditions that attract snowbirds. Many RV parks operate year-round, though summer visitation drops significantly due to heat. Most established campgrounds in the area require reservations, particularly during winter months when occupancy is highest. Facilities vary widely, with state parks typically offering more amenities than smaller private campgrounds. A camper noted, "Pancho Villa State Park is always nearly full in the winter; always nearly empty in summer. It's hot!"

Proximity to the Mexican border creates unique opportunities for visitors staying at campgrounds in the Columbus area. Several reviews mention making day trips to Puerto Palomas, Mexico, which is accessible without a passport. The Pink Store in Palomas is frequently recommended by campers as a destination for shopping and dining. Historical attractions also enhance the camping experience, with Pancho Villa State Park housing a museum that documents the 1916 raid. One reviewer described it as "a well-maintained park with a museum that is very well done and informative." Campgrounds in Deming offer additional amenities like swimming pools and pet areas, though some reviewers mention train and highway noise as potential drawbacks. Rockhound State Park, east of Deming, provides opportunities for collecting minerals and hiking, with one visitor noting it "feels like a hidden gem" with "views of the mountains surrounding the campgrounds."

Best Camping Sites Near Columbus, New Mexico (21)

    1. Pancho Villa State Park Campground

    11 Reviews
    Columbus, NM
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (575) 531-2711

    $20 - $35 / night

    "We enjoyed the museum located in the park. The restrooms were very clean. Elevation 4,073. We had fun visiting Irma at her restaurant. New Mexico has a great state park pass."

    "Pancho Villa State Park, named after Mexican General Pancho Villa, who attacked Columbus, NM, and once occupied by Camp Furlong, which was the staging grounds of 10,000 troops who pursued Villa in Mexico"

    2. Rockhound State Park Campground

    30 Reviews
    Deming, NM
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 546-6182

    $15 - $35 / night

    "Another really nice place in New Mexico. Near enough to the freeway, but far enough to not notice it. Near enough to town for a quick bite out or supplies, but far enough to not be bothered by it."

    "Rockhound SP, NM: If you like to hunt for rocks, or just be away from everything, this is a good place. Mountains are unique. Can’t get tired of looking at them. Only one trail here."

    3. Glamping @ Solar City

    12 Reviews
    Deming, NM
    26 miles

    $130 - $215 / night

    4. Columbus RV Park & Laundry

    Be the first to review!
    Columbus, NM
    2 miles
    +1 (575) 531-2125

    5. Little Vineyard RV Park

    14 Reviews
    Deming, NM
    32 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 546-3560

    "Close to food.(walking distance). Super easy to book and check in. 30 amp, 50 amp service. Level gravel spaces. Starlink works great here!"

    "Clean RV Park close to the highway."

    6. Dream Catcher RV Park

    11 Reviews
    Deming, NM
    32 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 544-4004

    "This RV park is right off of highway 10 so there is quite a bit of road noise and train noise."

    "If you are arriving late, call ahead so they have your documents waiting outside. If you don't have a reservation, documents are available to self-register, but it is cash only."

    7. SaddleHawk Ranch

    4 Reviews
    Deming, NM
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 592-8521

    $22 - $100 / night

    "I booked a stay during a New Mexico snow/ice storm!! I went past the farm by a couple blocks and couldn’t get turned around or backed up. The wife opted to have her husband come get me into place."

    "It’s a quiet place to pull off the highway and spend the night. The night skies are very dark, so it’s perfect for stargazing."

    8. Low Hi RV Ranch

    3 Reviews
    Deming, NM
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 546-4058

    "I enjoyed staying here walking thru the gardens and checking out the unique lawn art."

    "This little Ranch has all the amenities including a dog park, cacti garden, rock labyrinth, washer/dryers, showers and common areas inside and outside with planned activities. And, reasonably priced!"

    9. Sunrise RV Park

    5 Reviews
    Deming, NM
    32 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 546-8565

    "Trains and traffic close by. Gravel lot. Level. 30/50 amp Happy Camper brewery next door"

    "It’s close to Walmart and a cute little downtown area."

    10. Roadrunner RV Park

    3 Reviews
    Deming, NM
    32 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 546-6960

    $28 / night

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Recent Reviews near Columbus, NM

104 Reviews of 21 Columbus Campgrounds


  • lThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 2, 2025

    Low Hi RV Ranch

    Great place!

    Very nice hosts and accommodating. Wide pull through and back ins, very reasonable rates! Saw some very recent damage from an overnight bad storm but easy recovery. Stayed here several times and always good. Pretty area and beautiful views, just a little off the beaten path (only about 5 miles) if looking for a quick overnight stop. But if wanting to stay a bit-great spot!

  • Mary M.
    Jun. 3, 2025

    Rockhound State Park Campground

    Be sure to register online

    Camp was clean and quiet with lots of available spaces midweek. You have to have a reservation prior to arrival. And don’t get confused and fill out the paper registration at the entrance. That is for day picnicking

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 2, 2025

    Rockhound State Park Campground

    The trails are nice for a walking exercise

    Stayed here for a couple of nights, walked the trails. Used the dump station and everything was good. Nice camp spots.

  • mThe Dyrt PRO User
    May. 8, 2025

    Rockhound State Park Campground

    Hidden gem

    Great campsites with full amenities. Showers, toilets, plug ins, water, well laid out. Hiking and rockhounding off the trails. Stayed for just one night passing through on a trip. Aparently this camp can get very busy so reservations are recommended.

  • Jacob  W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 3, 2025

    Gap Tank dispersed camping

    Still lonely desert, still awesome

    I tent camped at Gap Tank again in January 2025. Awesome time again. It was actually cold then. The sky was dark at night and we couldn’t see any electric lights. Kind of cool so close yet so far from El Paso. No border problems. No javelinas this time, just a jackrabbit. Gap Tank was dry but nearby Mesquite Tank had water and even a little ice on the edges.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 27, 2025

    Rockhound State Park Campground

    Very good option stopover through southern NM outside of Deming

    Nice quiet, safe, park outside of Deming. There are electric sites but none available for us so stayed at dry-camp site. There are many nice large fairly level sites and a new bathroom/shower bldg. that was clean, well-kept. Staff was helpful and friendly. Handicapped sites available. Probably the most wild prickly paer cactus we've seen on mountainside. Park Spring Creek day-use park within about a mile drive further down and up steep dirt road. Nice vistas. Cell service.

  • Lori Y.
    Mar. 16, 2025

    Low Hi RV Ranch

    Well maintained grounds

    This little Ranch has all the amenities including a dog park, cacti garden, rock labyrinth, washer/dryers, showers and common areas inside and outside with planned activities. And, reasonably priced!

  • cThe Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 13, 2025

    Rockhound State Park Campground

    Great setting and fun to dig

    Only State park where you can dig for thunder, eggs, and gems wonderful information center to learn about hard rock geology


Guide to Columbus

Camping near Columbus, NM, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to relax under the stars or explore the rugged terrain, there are plenty of options to suit your needs.

What to do:

  • Rockhounding: If you enjoy searching for unique stones, check out Rockhound State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "If you like to hunt for rocks, or just be away from everything, this is a good place." The mountains and trails provide a perfect backdrop for this hobby.
  • Visit Local Museums: Columbus has some interesting spots, like the museum near Pancho Villa State Park Campground. A reviewer noted, "Nice museum and staff," making it a worthwhile stop during your camping trip.
  • Explore Nature Trails: Hiking is popular in the area. A camper at Rockhound State Park Campground shared, "Quiet and peaceful with good trails for walking the dogs," highlighting the serene environment.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Many campers appreciate the cleanliness of the parks. One visitor at Little Vineyard RV Park said, "Very clean, well organized," which is a common theme across the campgrounds.
  • Friendly Hosts: Campers often mention the welcoming atmosphere. A reviewer at Dream Catcher RV Park remarked, "Staff was very friendly and the spots were very well maintained," making it a pleasant experience for visitors.
  • Peaceful Environment: Many enjoy the tranquility of the area. A camper at Rockhound State Park Campground noted, "Near enough to the freeway, but far enough to not notice it," which adds to the overall camping experience.

What you should know:

  • Reservations Recommended: Most campgrounds, like Pancho Villa State Park Campground, require reservations for sites. A visitor mentioned, "Camp sites are reservation only," so plan ahead.
  • Limited Amenities: Some parks, such as Pancho Villa State Park Campground, lack certain facilities like showers and toilets. A camper pointed out, "The bathrooms, showers and dump station are closed until further notice," so be prepared.
  • Wildlife Caution: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. One camper warned about rattlesnakes near Pancho Villa State Park Campground, saying, "Watch out for the rattlesnakes," which is good advice for any outdoor adventure.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Non-Electric Sites: Families might prefer non-electric sites for more space and privacy. A camper at Rockhound State Park Campground suggested, "If I were to do it again I would stay at a non-electric site," emphasizing the benefits of these areas.
  • Engage in Outdoor Activities: Encourage kids to explore nature. A visitor at Little Vineyard RV Park mentioned, "Deming is in the center of many activities," which can keep the whole family entertained.
  • Plan for Quiet Evenings: Many campgrounds offer a peaceful atmosphere. A camper at Rockhound State Park Campground noted, "Quiet and peaceful," making it a great place for family bonding around the campfire.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Hookup Availability: Make sure to verify if your chosen campground has the necessary hookups. A reviewer at Dream Catcher RV Park mentioned, "Great view of the mountains depending on which side you’re on," indicating that views can vary based on your site.
  • Be Prepared for Wind: Some RVers have noted strong winds in the area. One camper at Dream Catcher RV Park said, "The trees are actually leaning," so secure your setup accordingly.
  • Utilize Local Resources: Take advantage of nearby amenities. A visitor at Little Vineyard RV Park shared, "Lots of amenities," which can make your stay more comfortable.

Camping around Columbus, NM, offers a mix of adventure and relaxation. With various campgrounds to choose from, you can find the perfect spot to enjoy the great outdoors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Columbus, NM?

According to TheDyrt.com, Columbus, NM offers a wide range of camping options, with 21 campgrounds and RV parks near Columbus, NM and 3 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Columbus, NM?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Columbus, NM is Pancho Villa State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 11 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Columbus, NM?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 3 free dispersed camping spots near Columbus, NM.