Near Corona, New Mexico, camping opportunities range from basic forest sites at 8,000 feet elevation to developed RV parks with full hookups. The region experiences dramatic temperature variations, with summer days reaching the 90s while nights can drop into the 40s even in July. Most campgrounds remain accessible from April through October, with limited winter options.
What to do
Hiking through lava fields: At Valley Of Fires Recreation Area, explore the 3/4-mile paved trail through volcanic terrain. "They also have a very cool ADA compliant scenic trail into the lava flow field," notes Roy R., who mentions the trail is accessible for visitors with mobility challenges.
Off-road adventures: The forest roads near Red Cloud Campground offer extensive 4x4 opportunities. "If you are wanting more dispersed camping with better views, I recommend going past the site entirely and camping off the road somewhere. You should only go on the trail if you have 4x4 though," advises Grace W., who discovered primitive campsites with better views along a 20-mile trail network.
Wildlife watching: The forests around Corona support diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. At Red Cloud Campground, Jamie P. "observed elk crossing my campsite," while Grace W. found "a large herd of deer at the back side of the site" during her stay.
What campers like
Cool mountain temperatures: Manzano Mountains State Park Campground offers relief from summer heat at higher elevations. Mark M. reports "Evening temps lower 50s, afternoon ~70s, low 80s. Quiet, not many people there during our mid-week stay."
Stargazing opportunities: Remote locations provide exceptional night sky viewing. Mark D. notes that at Red Cloud Campground, "At night it is pitch black and the only sounds you can hear are nature. On a clear night the stars would be amazing."
Pine forest settings: Campgrounds in the mountains feature mature pine trees. Moe F. describes Manzano Mountains as "Remote, wooded, serene. Sites are gravel, but not very level. Each site has a picnic table, grill & fire pit."
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Many rv campgrounds near Corona, New Mexico require careful setup. At Valley Of Fires, Reuben warns, "Problem 2: They did a great job re-surfacing everything but most of the sites, despite looking lovely, are very un-level. We had one heck of a time levelling our 30 ft class A. The sites slope front to back AND to the side."
Seasonal closures: Mountain campgrounds have limited availability during winter months. Kathryn P. notes that Manzano Mountains State Park "normally closes November 1st, but the weather has been so warm this year, it's closing December 1st!"
Road conditions: Access to some sites requires careful driving on unpaved surfaces. Brett H. advises about Red Cloud Campground: "Road in is reasonably well maintained and accessible (we saw a mix of trucks, RVs and vans all making way easily, even a few passenger cars; go slow)."
Tips for camping with families
Pet policies vary: Not all RV parks around Corona welcome pets. While most forest service campgrounds allow pets, private RV facilities may restrict them. Mama Bear RV Park permits pets, with Jamie P. noting it's a "Friendly family owned park" where "the receptionist Sharon is very thoughtful and helpful."
Noise considerations: Train noise affects some campgrounds. At Sands Motel & RV Park in Carrizozo, Jerry R. reports: "Close to the railroad tracks south bound train just track noise, the north bound start blowing their horn I think a mile south of town and don't quit until they are a mile north of town."
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds offer nature trails suitable for children. Valley Of Fires features interpretive signage, with Jacqueline C. mentioning "a very well maintained walking trail. This would be a great over night site or a place to stretch your legs on a long trip."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: RV campgrounds around Corona provide various hookup configurations. At Turner Inn & RV Park in Mountainair, Mary L. describes "Campsites are level full hook ups" and notes "It was $36 if I paid cash and that was with a 10% discount."
Electricity needs: Summer temperatures at higher elevations may not require air conditioning. Mark M. reports about Manzano Mountains: "Had electric site but really did not need it (did not need a/c in late July...yay)."
Dump station access: Not all RV parks maintain functional dump stations. Marcus W. warns about Sands Motel & RV Park: "We stopped to dump and was told by the manager to go dump anywhere and then as soon as we dumped, it started back filling out. Then a lady came up to us and told us they were having sewer problems."
