Ruidoso campgrounds and RV parks sit at elevations between 6,000-7,000 feet in the Sacramento Mountains, creating distinct seasons with summer highs averaging 75°F and winter lows frequently below freezing. The area receives approximately 15 inches of annual precipitation, with monsoon rains typically occurring in July and August. Accessibility to many RV campgrounds near Coyote, New Mexico varies seasonally, with mountain roads sometimes requiring tire chains during winter months.
What to do
Fishing nearby lakes: The Ruidoso area offers multiple fishing opportunities within short driving distance of most campgrounds. At Bonito Hollow RV Park & Campground, campers can enjoy the Rio Bonito which flows along the property, though one visitor noted, "The water was clear and moving, but no sign of any fish." For more serious fishing, Grindstone Lake is only 1.5 miles from Rainbow Lake Cabin & RV Resort according to campers who reported, "We fished about 1&1/2 miles away at Grindstone Lake."
Hiking in Lincoln National Forest: Multiple campgrounds provide direct access to hiking trails. The Rainbow Lake Cabin & RV Resort offers exceptional proximity to nature trails as one visitor explained, "The park is adjacent to Lincoln National park. I literally walked out of my door and up the road." At higher elevations, campers can access more challenging terrain, with one Eagle Creek visitor noting, "Drive up the mountain to SkiApache, there are awesome overlooks on the drive... we rode the gondolas to the top of the mountain, then hiked to the summit."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The mountain setting provides excellent wildlife viewing opportunities throughout the region. At Moonflower Meadows RV Resort, one camper described the experience as "quiet and peaceful with lots of birds and nightly visits by elk." Similarly, Eagle Creek RV Resort offers abundant wildlife sightings with one reviewer advising, "Bring your hummingbird feeders you won't be disappointed! During our stay we had regular visits from a group of about 11 male mule deer!"
What campers like
Quieter camping experiences: Many visitors appreciate the peaceful nature of smaller campgrounds away from the busier tourist areas. At Moonflower Meadows RV Resort, campers describe it as "hidden away near Ruidoso and adjacent to Lincoln National Forest. Small and quiet away from the traffic but close enough to all the sights and attractions in the area." Another visitor appreciated that "The campground is surrounded by fields with a creek bed on the back side and horses on another. It was very quiet and dark enough at night to see the stars light up the sky."
Helpful campground hosts: The personal touch provided by attentive campground staff consistently receives positive mentions. At Bonito Hollow RV Park & Campground, reviewers noted, "We got escorted to our spot and they helped guide us in. The staff are very helpful and if you need something, they will be more than happy to accommodate you." Another camper was particularly grateful when "The hosts helped him set up, with them doing the majority of the work, in the rain" during a stay when the camper's husband wasn't in good health.
Convenient town access: For campers wanting amenities close by, Midtown Mountain Campground & RV Park receives praise for its location. One visitor noted, "The best part about this place was how close it was to stores, food, and gas. It's really opened my eyes to how we can use RV parks as a pass through in our journey to take advantage of electric and water and experience the local food and shops." Despite being in town, another camper mentioned, "If you want to stay in a mountain retreat but close to downtown Ruidoso, NM then this is a perfect place to be. Large abundant pine trees provide lots of shade."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly throughout the area, with many campgrounds experiencing limited or no cell coverage. At Bonito Hollow RV Park, a visitor reported, "No ATT or Verizon cell service at my site, but I did find a weak signal up near the office." Wi-Fi quality also varies substantially between campgrounds, with the same reviewer noting, "The wifi was a struggle. It was barely adequate the first day, but absolutely miserable the second day."
Seasonal operating schedules: Several campgrounds in the region operate seasonally or have limited services during winter months. Eagle Creek RV Resort specifically operates from "April 1 to October 31" according to their information. Visitors planning winter trips should confirm availability and services as some facilities close entirely during colder months.
Mountain road challenges: Access to certain campgrounds requires navigating mountain roads that can be challenging for larger vehicles. At Eagle Creek RV Resort, a visitor cautioned, "The road going in to campsites are very rough and in need of some TLC!" Another camper at a different location noted, "The road is barely able to fit two vehicles so there are times you have to make a close pass due to the ledges."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and recreation areas: Some campgrounds offer family-friendly amenities worth considering when traveling with children. Bonito Hollow received positive reviews for family features with one camper noting, "Smaller campground with plenty to keep the kids entertained. Playground. Some of the campsites back up to a nice running creek. Beautiful bridge crossing over the creek." Additionally, another visitor mentioned, "There are horseshoe pits and sand volleyball available for entertainment."
Camp with running water: Families with young children might prefer sites with creek or river access for both the relaxing sound and recreational opportunities. Along The River RV Park & Campground offers sites near water, though one visitor clarified expectations: "We were lucky to get a spot on the river," while another more critical review noted, "There is NO River, small stream in a ditch." When water levels are good, however, families can enjoy the natural feature.
Check bathroom facilities: Bathroom availability and condition vary widely between campgrounds. Midtown Mountain Campground receives consistent praise for cleanliness with one camper specifically noting, "Bathrooms with shower are NEW, CLEAN, AND PRIVATE." Conversely, some campgrounds may have seasonal bathroom closures, as one Bonito Hollow visitor discovered: "Also bathrooms and showers are closed. They said they only had water & electric sites without telling me about the closures."
Tips from RVers
Site sizes and layouts: RV site dimensions vary significantly between campgrounds in the Ruidoso area. At Moonflower Meadows, large rigs find ample space with one camper reporting, "Our site was wide enough for my 32ft travel trailer, my pickup, my partner's car, and his trailer with his motorcycle on it, and we still had room to move." In contrast, at Rainbow Lake Cabin & RV Resort, a camper with a more modest setup found space challenging: "I'm in a 21.5' TT and drive an F150. There was barely any room left for camping space."
Water pressure considerations: Several RVers note significant variations in water pressure between campgrounds. At Midtown Mountain Campground, campers should prepare for "Surprisingly high water pressure!" while other locations may offer more standard pressure. Bringing a pressure regulator is advisable for any stay in the region.
Full hookup availability: While most RV parks advertise full hookups, specific sites may have limitations. One camper at Bonito Hollow reported a frustrating experience: "They said they only had water & electric sites without telling me about the closures. I can see plenty of full hook up sites that are empty." When making reservations, specifically confirm which hookups will be available at your assigned site to avoid surprises.
