Equestrian campgrounds near Dexter, New Mexico provide access to the region's semi-arid landscapes with elevations ranging from 3,400 to 3,900 feet. The Pecos River Valley area experiences hot summers with daytime temperatures frequently exceeding 95°F and mild winters, creating extended camping seasons. Several locations accommodate riders with varying levels of facilities from primitive sites to those with basic hookups.
What to do
Lake swimming: Bottomless Lakes State Park offers a designated swimming area at Lea Lake where visitors can cool off after trail rides. "The water is surprisingly clear and blue. It's a kind of oasis for people surrounded by dirt and cacti. Also have covered picnic tables to eat and outdoor shower heads to rinse of the salt water," notes Savannah D.
Wildlife viewing: Winter brings migratory birds to the region near Roswell. "Traveling back from Texas, I had planned an overnight in this State Park. Due to weather, I ended up staying 3 additional days. And, so happy I did! The sand cranes were arriving and it was interesting to see them create line formations in the valleys," reports Charyle C.
Explore nearby attractions: The central location provides access to regional points of interest. "It was a short and easy ride into Roswell to tour the alien paraphernalia. And, I also took in Bitter Lake Wildlife Refuge," mentions a visitor who found unexpected diversions during a weather delay at Bottomless Lakes State Park.
What campers like
Privacy and quiet: Alamo Road Dispersed camping areas offer solitude for those traveling with horses. "We then moved to a spot off the main road--we turned down the 2nd road to the left (toward a natural gas pump?) and enjoyed a huge spot there," writes Brenda Y., noting the ample space available.
Sunsets and views: The open terrain provides unobstructed vistas. "While the sunsets are something to write home about, I clearly stayed in a place where locals use it as target practice," mentions Erin F. about the Alamo Road area, highlighting both natural beauty and practical considerations.
Room to maneuver: Sites accommodate larger rigs and horse trailers. "The road is much less worn than we're used to. Not too many campsites but could easily park a camper," explains Derrick A. about the Alamo Road area, adding that "Alamo road does wind on a quite a bit further than we traveled down it, so there may be even better options."
What you should know
Facilities condition: Carlsbad KOA provides more developed options within driving distance. "The area is scenic, spots are close together. Bathrooms could've been cleaner, men's restroom was closed due to remodel. WiFi did not work. Has a dog run and lots of amenities! It worked for what we needed," reports Amanda A.
Environmental hazards: "Great scenery here, and luckily New Mexico now allows camping again at its state parks, but... there are about a trillion sandburs on the grass here. We have 4 dogs and have spent an inordinate amount of time saving their paws from the burs," warns Jeff N. about Bottomless Lakes.
Insect issues: "Oh my, better be prepared for mosquitoes. My husband and I were swarmed by mosquitoes and were bitten no less than 25 times each, we counted! We kinda believe had we been allowed to have a camp fire it might have been a less disastrous outcome," cautions an Alicianlv at Bottomless Lakes State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Sites with dedicated children's facilities provide entertainment options. "The sites were spacious and the playground was great for the kids," notes Tim F. at Carlsbad KOA.
Indoor alternatives: Some campgrounds offer weather contingency options. "Great clean restrooms and showers. Located about 30 minutes from Carlsbad Caverns National Park. Quaint store, great play room (super nice staff- left the playroom open for us an additional hour due to downpour!)," shares Amber J. about the Carlsbad KOA.
Water recreation: Consider campsites near swimming areas. "Fun place to spend the weekend, we tent camped at D4 and it was quite and peaceful, great bike trail leading to the big lake too!" recommends Jared F. about Bottomless Lakes State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: "We stayed for 5 nights--there's a spot immediately to the left off of Alamo road. We pulled in during a freak snow, so went exploring in the truck the next day. That immediate spot was easy to pull into with plenty of space--didn't unhook the road," advises Brenda Y. about Alamo Road Dispersed camping.
Extended stays: "Only $10 to extend your check out until 2pm, so though we didn't need it, it was a nice option to have if we'd stayed at one of our sites longer than expected," mentions Tim F. about the flexible options at Carlsbad KOA.
Utilities quality: "Excellent full service RV park. The hook ups are in excellent repair. The pads are gravel but level. Excellent staff. Would stay again!" reports Michael C. about Carlsbad KOA, providing information relevant to those requiring reliable connections.
