Rockhound State Park sits at the base of the Florida Mountains near Deming, at an elevation of about 4,500 feet. The area features volcanic terrain and opportunities to collect mineral specimens including geodes and thunder eggs. Winter temperatures typically range from 30-60°F while summer daytime temperatures regularly exceed 95°F, making morning or evening the optimal times for outdoor activities.
What to do
Rock collecting at unique geological sites: Rockhound State Park permits visitors to collect up to 15 pounds of rocks and minerals during their stay. "Only State park where you can dig for thunder, eggs, and gems wonderful information center to learn about hard rock geology," notes a visitor at Rockhound State Park Campground.
Hiking desert trails: Several trails wind through the diverse desert landscape near Deming. At City of Rocks State Park Campground, located about 30 miles from Deming, "There are trails that take you up into the rocks and into the desert," according to one camper. The park offers unique opportunities for hiking through volcanic formations.
Stargazing in dark skies: The remote location provides excellent conditions for stargazing with minimal light pollution. "The night skies are very dark, so it's perfect for stargazing," reports a visitor at SaddleHawk Ranch. City of Rocks State Park offers dedicated constellation sites, as one camper notes: "Each site is named after a constellation you can see in the sky at night from the campground."
What campers like
Unique camping environments: The distinctive rock formations create memorable camping experiences. "Great campsites with full amenities. Showers, toilets, plug ins, water, well laid out. Hiking and rockhounding off the trails," writes a visitor at Rockhound State Park Campground.
Well-designed camping layouts: Many campsites offer privacy and thoughtful spacing. At Dream Catcher RV Park, a camper notes: "Nice level spots, easy access, lots of space to park and set up." City of Rocks State Park receives praise for its site distribution: "Highly recommend this clean campground! Unique camping next to rock (Boulder) formations! Love how far each campsite is spaced out!"
Pet exercise areas: Several RV parks maintain dedicated pet areas. "Little Vineyard RV Park offers additional pet amenities including a designated dog park with double fencing where dogs can exercise off-leash," while at Low Hi RV Ranch, campers can enjoy "a dog park, cacti garden, rock labyrinth, washer/dryers, showers and common areas inside and outside with planned activities."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Some parks require advance booking. "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," advises a visitor at Rockhound State Park.
Noise considerations: Proximity to highways and railroads affects several campgrounds. At Sunrise RV Park, "This park is off of a 4 lane main road so road noise is an issue. Trains and highway noise can also be heard throughout the night."
Wind conditions: Strong winds are common in the area. A City of Rocks visitor warns: "Very unique landscape, great campsites but wow the wind was too much. We had friends go in spring who said it was windy and we went in mid May and it was the same story." Another camper observed at Roadrunner RV Park that "winds must blow year round in one direction, the trees are actually leaning."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly exploration areas: The rock formations provide natural playgrounds for children. "Our grandsons loved this place. We went without reservations so there was no open place but they allow the overflow to camp in the group sites if they are empty. You can spend hours exploring all the rocks," shares a visitor at City of Rocks State Park Campground.
Educational opportunities: Take advantage of visitor centers to learn about local geology. Rockhound State Park has "Great hiking on a volcanic mountain. You can find geodes and thunder eggs," making it an educational outdoor experience.
Animal interactions: Some camping areas offer unique wildlife viewing or ranch animal experiences. At SaddleHawk Ranch, visitors "enjoyed the horses, donkeys, mules, goats, zebus and chickens! Peaceful desert setting," providing entertainment for children interested in animals.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: For RVers requiring electric service, planning ahead is essential. At Rockhound State Park, one camper advises: "It is hard to get an electric site here with a reservation. Boondock for a day and quickly move over to an unreserved electric site once someone leaves."
Size accommodation: Several parks can handle larger rigs. At Little Vineyard RV Park, "We had no problems fitting our rig that is 70ft overall length in. Will be stopping here again." Most parks offer pull-through sites that accommodate big rigs without disconnecting.
Amenities for extended stays: RV parks near Deming offer varying levels of amenities for longer visits. Dream Catcher RV Park provides "Nice library for books & DVDs (borrow or trade), Clean free showers, Laundry room $1.25 ea. washer/dryer (included iron and ironing board), Activity room (closed for covid), Dumpsters and aluminum can recycling."
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