Camping options around Hatch, New Mexico provide access to New Mexico's largest body of water, with both developed campgrounds and secluded spots for nature enthusiasts. Located in the high desert at approximately 4,100 feet elevation, this region experiences warm days and cool nights throughout most of the year, with summer temperatures frequently exceeding 95°F from June through August.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: Railroad Canyon Campground offers access to wilderness trails for mountain biking enthusiasts. "Clean, quiet campground not far from Emory pass. Pit toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables. Only a handful of people there on Friday night," reports Crista G.
Water sports at Caballo Lake: Located just south of Elephant Butte, Caballo Lake provides excellent kayaking opportunities. "Great place to kayak especially when the sun rises you will see it over the mountains," notes a camper. The lake offers calmer waters than its larger neighbor to the north.
Visit Truth or Consequences: South Monticello Campground at Elephant Butte Lake makes a good base for exploring nearby hot springs. "The nearby town of Truth or Consequences, NM is small, but has all the services you might need for food, gas, supplies, or soaking in hot springs," explains Shari G.
What campers like
Year-round camping weather: The mild winter climate allows for comfortable camping during off-peak months. "We spent the winter solstice here and woke up at sunrise to see the moon setting in the west and the sun rising in the east. Spectacular!" writes a visitor to South Monticello Campground.
Seclusion at smaller sites: For those seeking a quieter glamping experience near Hatch, New Mexico, Iron Creek Campground provides a more intimate setting. "About 10 sites, most of them shaded with picnic tables and fire rings. Has garbage collection, and a vault toilet. Usually peaceful and quiet. Nice hiking trails throughout," says RoadTripEddie V.
On-site mineral hot springs: Luxury glamping options at Hot Springs Glamp Camp include access to therapeutic waters. "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," shares Ashlee G. These mineral baths provide a unique amenity not found at standard campgrounds.
What you should know
Seasonal water levels: Water levels at Elephant Butte fluctuate significantly throughout the year. "Note that it has a boat launch except there's no more water in this area," mentions Julie F. about South Monticello Campground. Check current conditions before planning water activities.
Limited shade coverage: The desert landscape means minimal natural shade at most sites. "Spacious gravel parking, limited shade, have bathrooms, showers, convenience store in front," notes C.W. about Siesta RV Park.
Road noise at in-town locations: Campgrounds closer to urban areas experience some traffic noise. "Being in town there is some road noise and also noise from neighboring business near the loading docks," explains Laura M. about Sunny Acres RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground amenities: For upscale glamping in Hatch with family-friendly features, consider Las Cruces KOA. "The kids enjoyed cornhole, basketball, tetherball, and the playground. The store was well stocked," reports Candy P.
Budget-friendly state parks: New Mexico state parks offer affordable camping with basic amenities. "For what you get at this campground, it's a bargain at twice the price," writes Shari G. about South Monticello Campground. State park fees are typically under $20 per night with hookups.
Morning wildlife viewing: Early risers can spot desert wildlife. "Wildlife: Qual, Dove, Lizards, Rabbits, Deer and more," reports Jonathan M. about his stay at Elephant Butte. Dawn and dusk provide the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
Tips from RVers
Reliable connectivity: Many campgrounds offer good internet access for working campers. "Wifi worked great (even for Zoom calls), and the pool was a perfect bonus for our warm afternoon," shares a reviewer about Las Cruces KOA.
Spacious patio sites: Elephant Butte Lake RV Resort offers premium sites with outdoor living space. "We travel with 3 dogs, so they moved me from site 23 to site 27. It was a site with plenty of room for our dog fence. It was in a nice corner of the park with immediate road access," reports Jeffrey T.
Water pressure considerations: Be prepared for variable water pressure at different campgrounds. "Water pressure was a bit high but with a regulator it was fine," notes Christie C. about Siesta RV Park. Bringing your own regulator is recommended for RV camping in this region.
