Best Campgrounds near Grenville, NM
Camping options near Grenville, New Mexico range from established facilities to dispersed sites across northeastern New Mexico and bordering areas of Oklahoma and Texas. Clayton Lake State Park Campground, situated about 12 miles north of Clayton, serves as a central camping destination with tent and RV sites plus dinosaur tracks as a unique attraction. Other campgrounds in the area include Capulin RV Park offering cabin accommodations and glamping options, and Coyote Keith's RV Park with horse corrals. The northeastern New Mexico landscape provides a mix of prairie, lake access, and rock formations with adequate spacing between sites at most established campgrounds.
Road conditions vary significantly throughout the region, with some campgrounds requiring travel on rough secondary roads. The 10-mile access road to Clayton Lake State Park presents challenges for some visitors, though experiences differ. "You get off a major highway and then take 10 miles of bad road to the entrance. Then, you have to find your spot," notes one camper, while another mentions the road is "completely fine, not so much as a pothole." Most camping areas in the region experience strong seasonal winds, and summer temperatures can be intense with limited shade. Cell service varies by location and provider, with AT&T generally performing better than other carriers at many campgrounds. Reservations are recommended for electric hookup sites, which tend to fill quickly during peak fishing season and holiday weekends.
The camping areas near Grenville feature notable attractions beyond just overnight accommodations. Clayton Lake State Park's dinosaur tracks rank among "some of the best in the world" according to visitor reports, providing an unexpected educational opportunity. Campers consistently mention the excellent stargazing conditions, with one review highlighting "an amazing view of the total lunar eclipse" and noting the campground host occasionally conducts star parties. Sierra Grande Rest Area along Highways 64 and 87 serves as a free overnight option with clean restrooms and "wide open views." Water access represents a significant draw for many campers in this otherwise arid region, with fishing opportunities at several lakes and reservoirs. Wildlife sightings commonly include coyotes, jackrabbits, mule deer, and various bird species across multiple camping areas.