Best Campgrounds near Capitan, NM

Camping near Capitan, New Mexico, offers a mix of stunning landscapes and unique experiences. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to unwind or an adventure-filled getaway, this area has something for everyone.

What to do

• Explore lava trails: The Valley Of Fires Recreation Area features a short paved nature trail through fascinating lava beds. One visitor mentioned, "The hike through the lava rocks was informative and easy."
• Visit petroglyphs: At the Three Rivers Petroglyph Site, you can see ancient rock carvings. A camper shared, "To see and imagine the people who created the petroglyphs was incredible."
• Enjoy mountain views: The Midtown Mountain Campground & RV Park offers great views of the mountains. One reviewer said, "It had awesome views of the mountains and a nice shade shelter."

What campers like

• Clean facilities: Campers appreciate the well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at the Valley Of Fires Recreation Area noted, "The bathrooms are very clean, and the showers are push button timer type."
• Spacious sites: Many campgrounds, like Baca Campground, offer large, private spots. One camper mentioned, "The campsite s are large and widely spaced."
• Friendly hosts: Campers often rave about the helpful staff. A reviewer at Bonito Hollow RV Park & Campground said, "The hosts were very nice and the park is kept pretty clean."

What you should know

• Limited amenities: Some campgrounds, like Three Rivers Petroglyph Site, have minimal facilities. A camper pointed out, "There are no hot water showers, but the bathrooms have flush toilets."
• First-come, first-served: Many sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis. One visitor at the Midtown Mountain Campground & RV Park mentioned, "We were able to catch a first come first serve site."
• Wildlife encounters: Expect to see wildlife, especially at places like Eagle Creek RV Resort. A camper shared, "We had regular visits from a group of about 11 male mule deer!"

Tips for camping with families

• Choose family-friendly sites: Look for campgrounds with amenities for kids, like Bonito Hollow RV Park & Campground, which has a game room. One family said, "The campground is pet friendly, has an enclosed run where you can take them off the leash for a bit."
• Plan for activities: Make sure to have activities lined up. A reviewer at Valley Of Fires Recreation Area mentioned, "Nice short paved nature trail through the lava beds."
• Pack essentials: Bring enough supplies, especially water and snacks. A camper at Baca Campground noted, "This is dispersed camping. No water no trash cans so pack it in pack it out."

Tips from RVers

• Check site sizes: Some campgrounds have restrictions on RV sizes. A visitor at Oak Grove Campground warned, "Most parking is for a car or van. The camp host will send you on your way if your rig is over 23 feet."
• Be prepared for rough roads: Some campgrounds, like Fort Stanton Cave Campground, have rough access roads. A camper mentioned, "The dirt road in is wash boarded in spots, but hey it's free."
• Stay connected: Check for cell service availability. A reviewer at Eagle Creek RV Resort noted, "No phone service Verizon or ATT."

Camping near Capitan, New Mexico, offers a variety of experiences, from stunning views to unique historical sites. Whether you're in an RV or tent, there's something for everyone to enjoy!