Equestrian camping near Elephant Butte, New Mexico centers primarily on utilizing dispersed camping options in surrounding public lands. The region sits at approximately 4,500 feet elevation with a desert climate characterized by hot summers, mild winters, and minimal rainfall. Water access becomes especially critical for horse owners during summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 95°F.
What to do
Horseback riding access points: At North Star Mesa Dispersed Camping, riders can access multiple trail systems through forest service roads. "There are plenty of nice spots to camp along North Star Road, north of Mimbres, NM. You'll find dispersed campsites with fire-rings all along the edges of the road and on spur forest roads sprouting from it," notes Jorge G.
Lake activities: Visitors staying at Caballo Lake RV Park can enjoy water recreation with horses nearby. "Great place to kayak especially when the sun rises you will see it over the mountains. My favorite part about caballo lake is floating down from elephant butte to caballo lake in a giant floaty," shares Christy L.
Wildlife viewing: The Caballo area offers opportunities to spot desert wildlife while riding. "Was a big grass camping area lots of space. Close to the water from camping sites... Grills tables and shade area," reports Amber N., noting the accessible natural spaces where riders can observe local fauna.
What campers like
Distance from residential areas: Cibola National Forest Bear Trap Campground provides seclusion for horse owners seeking quieter environments. Dennis P. notes, "We truck camped, but saw other people make it in their AWD SUV. Don't even think of bringing an RV of any size unless it's a cab-over that you don't mind scratching up."
Weather protection: The higher elevation areas offer relief from summer heat for both riders and horses. "It's a long way up there," says Dennis P. about Bear Trap Campground, adding that it's a "Good place for summer camping to escape the heat, but watch for precipitation that may make the road impassable for some time."
Clean facilities: At Elephant Butte Lake RV Resort, campers appreciate maintained grounds even without dedicated horse facilities. "Very clean, well kept resort. Almost full. We were here in early June and the day temperatures were in the low 100's with very low humidity. Sites are pretty tight with close neighbors," describes Mike H.
What you should know
Road access limitations: Many dispersed camping areas have challenging access routes unsuitable for large horse trailers. North Star Mesa's primary road "is usually well maintained and most vehicles should make it to at least North Star Mesa," according to Jorge G., though side routes may require high-clearance vehicles.
Site spacing considerations: At Caballo Lake, "Sites are close but separated by some bushes," reports Brett D., which may create challenges for those requiring space for horses and equipment.
Weather preparation: Temperature fluctuations affect horse camping logistics year-round. Brett D. mentions at Caballo Lake: "Bathhouse is clean. Water in the showers are annoying because it auto cuts off after about 10-15 seconds and you have to keep it going for at least a minute or two to get hot water."
Tips for camping with families
Water safety planning: When camping with children and horses near water, supervision requirements increase. "A little rocky but beautiful lake. You can either stay on the north side of the damn where the lake is or stay on the south side where the Rio grande runs," advises Brittany N. about Caballo Lake.
Site selection for animal space: Families with horses need sites with adequate room. Jeffrey T. recommends specific locations at Elephant Butte Lake RV Resort: "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."
Security considerations: Families appreciate added safety measures when traveling with valuable animals and equipment. Robert R. notes Elephant Butte Lake RV Resort offers "Security patrols the park regularly," adding "We stayed there for three nights. A very short drive to Elephant Butte State Park. Site was pretty level, very quiet and peaceful."
Tips from RVers
Site access for trailers: RV campers hauling horse trailers need to consider maneuverability. "It was easy to hook up, to pull in, easy to pull out with our 36' 5th wheel," reports Cori C. about Elephant Butte Lake RV Resort.
Utility verification: Check which hookups are actually available, as listings may contain errors. Brett D. cautions about Caballo Lake: "The Dyrt app says there is WiFi which there isn't and also that there are sewer hookups which they aren't. Not a problem but just fyi."
Level site importance: Horse trailers require stable parking surfaces. John R. appreciates the "Nice level Lake view spot. Easy access to site and dump station. Fire pit and shade over picnic table" at Elephant Butte Lake RV Resort.
