Cabin camping near Elephant Butte, New Mexico provides access to mineral-rich hot springs with temperatures ranging from 98-108°F. This high desert region sits at approximately 4,200 feet elevation and experiences over 300 sunny days annually. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing at night while summer daytime highs regularly exceed 100°F.
What to do
Desert hiking trails: Explore the network of trails around Caballo Lake, just south of Elephant Butte. "We loved the views! Busy even through the winter season," notes a visitor at Lakeview RV Park, which offers cabin accommodations with lake views.
Nighttime soaking: Experience the hot springs after dark when crowds diminish. A visitor at Riverbend Hot Springs shares, "The springs at night are amazing. Everything was quiet and beautifully lit. There were ample places to sit ranging from lounge chairs, to regular chairs, to hammocks. One of the pools even had two macrame swings."
Birdwatching excursions: Visit Bosque Del Apache National Wildlife Refuge, a regional attraction for bird enthusiasts. "Just make sure you go at the right time of year! Check out the Bosque Del Apache National Wildlife Refuge if you are at all interested in birds and other wildlife," recommends a Riverbend Hot Springs camper.
What campers like
24-hour hot spring access: Many cabin guests appreciate round-the-clock mineral pool availability. According to one Hot Springs Glamp Camp visitor, "It has lovely clean hot spring tubs that are open 24/7. It's an intimate camp so we rarely had to wait for a tub."
Rio Grande views: Cabins and soaking areas often feature river views. "The views are to die for. The soaking pools overlook the rio grande river with mountains in the background," explains one Riverbend visitor who stayed in their RV area but notes similar views are available from their casitas and cabin accommodations.
Privacy options: Some properties offer divided sites for better seclusion. Hot Springs Glamp Camp features "sites separated by corrugated walls, so there is a nice amount of privacy while still having a cozy, vintage, community feel." This setup creates more private cabin-style accommodations than typically found at standard campgrounds.
What you should know
Limited availability: Cabin and glamping accommodations book quickly, especially during peak seasons. "These hot springs are FANTASTIC! This was our 2nd time here and we will make an effort to come back anytime we pass through the area. They only have 5 RV spots, and they are COMPETITIVELY booked," notes one visitor about Camp Thunderbird, highlighting the importance of advance reservations.
Variable water temperature: Hot spring pools offer different heat levels to accommodate preferences. A visitor mentions, "They have multiple pools with differing temperatures. Everything was quiet and beautifully lit."
Charging considerations: Some vintage cabin accommodations have limited electrical outlets. One guest at Hot Springs Glamp Camp noted, "No 12V outlets for charging - I didn't think about that," when staying in one of their vintage trailer accommodations that function as cabins.
Tips for camping with families
Multi-day stays recommended: Plan for extended visits to fully enjoy the amenities. "We stayed in a campsite for 5 nights. Highly recommend more than one day so you can enjoy the springs and the town!" advises a Hot Springs Glamp Camp visitor.
Off-peak advantages: Visit during weekdays for a more peaceful experience. A Riverbend Hot Springs guest suggests, "I recommend going during the week so you basically have the place to yourself," noting the significant difference in crowd levels compared to weekends.
Local food options: Try nearby restaurants when staying in cabins without cooking facilities. "Don't miss Full Moon Kitchen, the food truck next door, for your breakfast in the morning. Yumm!" recommends one Riverbend visitor who enjoyed the convenience of nearby dining.
Tips from RVers
Water management: Caballo Lake water levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting water activities. "A nice simple CG busy even through the winter season and the views!!!" notes a winter visitor to Lakeview RV Park, indicating year-round operation despite seasonal water level changes.
Urban proximity advantage: Cabin and RV sites offer wilderness experiences with town amenities nearby. "The town within walking distance has everything you might want, especially if you like New Mexican cuisine, the answer is always 'Christmas' WYKYK. Gas, food, Walmart all close by, etc. it's all there," explains a visitor who appreciates the balance of natural setting with urban conveniences.
Gate access codes: Some properties utilize security gates requiring special entry codes. One visitor noted their accommodation is "self contained behind walls and an automatic gate controlled by pass-code that is only available on site," highlighting the need to confirm check-in procedures before arrival.
