Campers visiting the Gallup area encounter a diverse landscape where the high desert terrain meets the forested Zuni Mountains at elevations around 6,500 feet. Temperatures fluctuate significantly between seasons, with summer highs reaching 90°F and winter nights often dropping below freezing. The region offers both primitive forest service campgrounds and full-service RV parks, providing options for various camping preferences and experience levels.
What to do
Explore mountain biking trails: Quaking Aspen Campground provides access to excellent mountain biking opportunities in the Zuni Mountains. "Amazing hiking and mtb'ing trails. And, a nice lake," notes Tommy B. from Quaking Aspen Campground.
Visit El Morro National Monument: Located just minutes from El Morro RV Park, this historic site features a large sandstone bluff with centuries of inscriptions. "It is just minutes from El Morro Nat'l Monument and close to Mal Pais Volcano flows. I recommend the place," shares Max M. from El Morro RV Park and Cabins.
Discover local culture: Gallup has a rich Native American heritage worth exploring. "Gallup is a super interesting place and could have easily spent way more time than we did," according to Mike M. from USA RV Park.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: The forest service campgrounds offer well-maintained sites with ample space. "Small campground with massive campsites. This campground could easily squeeze double, if not triple, the sites out of these woods, but someone decided to let everyone breath a little here," shares Chip from Quaking Aspen Campground.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and showers are frequently mentioned in reviews. "Wonderful facility. Level sites. Cleaner than clean restrooms and laundry facility," says Stephanie H. from USA RV Park.
Unique accommodation options: Beyond traditional camping, the area offers distinctive glamping in Gallup, New Mexico and surrounding areas. "We loved this RV park for many reasons. Friendly people, creative vibe, nice campground, cozy cabins, full hookups for RVs, beautiful spot, free-range chickens, pet friendly, plus a yurt with enchanting wind chimes, spiritual labyrinth, a gong, art and healing artifacts," writes Kathy L. about El Morro RV Park.
What you should know
Limited water access: Some campgrounds in the region lack potable water. "Densely wooded PRIMITIVE campground with trails and fishing but NO WATER," warns Irene L. about Quaking Aspen Campground.
Seasonal considerations: Mountain campgrounds have limited operating seasons. Quaking Aspen is typically open from May to September, with cooler temperatures even in summer due to its 8,000-foot elevation.
Reservation recommendations: During busy periods, securing spots can be challenging. "Friday night, late May, and we barely got the last spot. No reservations makes this gem a tricky quest when you're running a bit late," advises Chip regarding Quaking Aspen Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Pizza delivery option: Some RV parks allow food delivery right to your site. "We were able to get pizza delivered to our RV site which was a big hit with the kids," notes Nicole B. from USA RV Park.
Plan for temperature variations: The high elevation means significant temperature drops at night, even in summer. "When summer heat was beginning to knock everywhere else in late May, it was serious blanket weather up here," shares Chip about Quaking Aspen Campground.
Wildlife awareness: The Zuni Mountains host diverse wildlife requiring proper precautions. "We saw abundant wildlife while working in the Zunis, including several brown bears, deer, and elk. While we didn't have any run ins with these guy in camp, be aware that large animals are present in the area," advises Tyler G.
Tips from RVers
Overnight convenience: Gallup provides strategic stopover locations for longer journeys. "We stayed just one night while driving from Page, Arizona to Albuquerque. Friendly staff and visitors," shares Nicole B. about USA RV Park.
Site leveling preparation: Come prepared for minor site adjustments. "Our site was mostly level so we used our small curved levelers on one side. The sites are VERY close together," notes Susan R., providing useful insights for glamping near Gallup, New Mexico.
Connectivity challenges: Despite indicators showing strong signals, actual service may be limited. "The cell signal seemed strong from the indicators on our devices but I guess due to the number of users in the area, we had slow service. We tried the park's WiFi but it was too slow to do much," reports Susan R. from USA RV Park.
