Camping near Doña Ana, New Mexico offers diverse options in the Chihuahuan Desert ecosystem. At elevations around 4,000 feet, temperatures can swing significantly between day and night, dropping over 30 degrees after sunset in spring and fall. Most local sites provide views of the Organ Mountains, with distinctive rocky spires rising steeply from the desert floor.
What to do
Hiking trails with equestrian access: The Doña Ana area provides several trails suitable for horses with varied difficulty levels. At Aguirre Spring Recreation Area and Campground, campers can access "a lovely 4 mile hike that loops up in the mountains by the sites" according to Kara S., making it suitable for day rides.
Desert astronomy: The clear desert skies make stargazing exceptional. At Gap Tank dispersed camping, Jacob W. notes "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."
Sand recreation: White sand dunes offer unique terrain for outdoor activities. White Sands National Park provides "the whole desert to yourself for the night for playing in this giant sandbox," as Molly G. describes, though horses aren't permitted in the backcountry camping areas.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: The natural vegetation creates separation at dispersed sites. At Oregan Wilderness Dispersed, Tessa T. notes "spots are pretty well spaced out with lots of vegetation inbetween," creating natural barriers between campsites.
Mountain vistas: The dramatic landscape provides scenic backdrops. Jonathan E. mentioned that despite being somewhat crowded, "the views of the Organ Mountains are wonderful!" Teresa A. added that "sunset on the Organ Mtns was beautiful and we woke up to a light dusting of snow."
Water recreation: Nearby lakes offer additional activities. At Caballo Lake RV Park, Christy L. says it's a "great place to kayak especially when the sun rises you will see it over the mountains. My favorite part about caballo lake is floating down from elephant butte to caballo lake in a giant floaty."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many access roads require careful driving. At BLM Dispersed camping along B059, Dan M. reports, "First 2 miles were blacktop, then 2 miles of 2.5 vehicle wide gravel road then 2 miles of single vehicle gravel road."
Military training proximity: Nearby ranges can create unexpected noise. Laura M. warns that "boom / explosion sounds all night made for an uneasy night, especially for our dogs. We are assuming the sounds came from testing and/or training at the nearby Doña Ana range."
Weather considerations: Desert conditions can change rapidly. White Sands National Park requires preparedness as Ronnie M. advises, "be sure to check weather patterns for the times you go. I went in early spring and the wind was pretty ferocious."
Tips for camping with families
Easy backpacking introduction: Some sites offer accessible backcountry experiences. At White Sands National Park, Irene L. suggests it's "perfect for backpacking trips for families. BUT walking on sand is a lot more tiring than you think it'll be and water is heavier than you think it's be!!"
Wildlife spotting opportunities: Desert wildlife can provide educational experiences. Jacob W. reported seeing "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."
Cost-effective options: Budget-friendly sites are available. Austin C. notes White Sands permits cost "$1.50 per person with annual pass," making it accessible for families watching expenses.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Many horse campgrounds near Doña Ana have restrictions for larger rigs. Christopher P. notes that Aguirre Spring is for "only vehicles up to 23 ft," and Mark M. confirms "BLM recommends nothing more than 23' long."
Alternative large-rig options: Some dispersed sites can accommodate bigger setups. Mike M. shares about Oregan Wilderness: "Able to get our 39' toy hauler into this location without any issues," though he advises to "try to get spots... in the first four sites from either side" to avoid the middle section with "bigger rocks protruding."
Leveling challenges: Terrain can be uneven. Dan M. warns about BLM dispersed camping, "Sites are not level so be prepared," while Kara S. observed at Aguirre Spring that "most spots seemed a little rocky and uneven."
