El Morro National Monument sits at approximately 7,200 feet elevation in western New Mexico, creating a climate with significant temperature fluctuations between seasons and day-to-night. The landscape features sandstone bluffs with ancient inscriptions dating back hundreds of years. Camping options range from free primitive sites to developed facilities with water and electrical hookups within a 40-mile radius.
What to do
Hike the monument trails: El Morro National Monument offers both a short Inscription Trail and the more challenging Mesa Top Trail with a 200-foot climb. "We got up early to hike El Morro since the trails are only open from 9-5 (be back at the ranger station by 4:45). We were the first ones on the trail and stairs. 1000% recommend doing the stairs route if your body can take it," notes a visitor at El Morro National Monument.
Explore volcanic formations: Visit the nearby Bandera Volcano and Ice Cave, located 15 miles east of El Morro. "You can hike to the open face of the Volcano and then down to the amazing cold of the Ice caves. Entrance is about $12 each," reports a camper who stayed at Ice Cave & Bandera Volcano.
Visit ancient sites: The area contains numerous archaeological sites including pueblo ruins. "El Morro National Monument features some amazing petroglyphs and the remains of a pueblo, offering fun hikes," writes a camper who visited in December.
What campers like
Dark skies for stargazing: The remote location creates exceptional night sky viewing conditions away from light pollution. "The campground sits in a natural zero light pollution with amazing stargazing opportunities," mentions one visitor to the monument.
Morning solitude: Early risers appreciate the quiet mornings and wildlife viewing. "We got up early to hike El Morro... We were the first ones on the trail and stairs," shares a camper at El Morro National Monument. "We saw chipmunks scurrying about in the morning," adds another visitor who camped at Joe Skeen Campground.
Diverse terrain: The mix of forested areas, lava flows, and sandstone formations creates varied camping environments. "The valley road cuts through green canyon bluffs and rolling hills with good tree coverage. Lots of fun and scenic driving," writes a camper who stayed at Six Mile Canyon.
What you should know
Weather fluctuations: Temperatures can vary dramatically by season and from day to night. "It was beautiful and FREE! It was also extremely cold in February, like my water bottle froze overnight," reports a camper at El Morro.
Limited water sources: Many sites have restricted or seasonal water availability. "Pit toilets well kept, but didn't find any water spigot anywhere," notes one visitor, while another mentions, "There's water available except in winter (and then you can fill containers at the visitor's center)."
Road conditions: Access roads to some dispersed camping areas can become challenging after rain. "The dirt and gravel road could easily get rutted out when rainy," warns a reviewer at Six Mile Canyon. Another adds, "I would all out avoid it if you don't have 4wd and like mud."
Tips for camping with families
Watch for natural hazards: Desert vegetation can pose risks to young children. "Careful of the grass if you have small children. When the prickly pear cactus die and rot away their little hairy spines remain. My toddler fell in a patch of invisible spines and it was a challenge to remove them by lantern light," cautions a parent who camped at El Morro.
Playgrounds for kids: Some campgrounds offer playground facilities for children. "Playground for the kiddos, lots of areas to explore with the puppers, and plenty of bathrooms and Ramadas available for day use," notes a visitor to Bluewater Lake State Park Campground.
Educational opportunities: The monument's visitor center provides educational materials about the area's history and geology. "There is a staffed visitor center/gift shop with good info," shares a camper who visited in February.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Be prepared for uneven terrain at some campgrounds. "Not many electric sites if that's important to you and some say they're not level," reports an RVer at Bluewater Lake State Park.
Limited big rig access: Many campgrounds have restrictions for larger RVs. "The wash to get into the campground is steep on both sides. We drug a bit on the way in and a lot on the way out. We have a silverback 37bh that specs say is 39'11". Would not try it again," warns an RV owner about Joe Skeen Campground.
Seasonal closures: Check operating dates before traveling. "The gate to dispersed camping is closed but we parked outside of the gate with no issues for the evening," notes a camper at Six Mile Canyon, while another mentions that "the gate at the end of the road is closed Dec. 15 to March 31."
