Best Campgrounds in New Mexico

New Mexico camping encompasses a diverse range of environments, from high desert landscapes to mountain forests and lakeside settings. State parks like Bottomless Lakes near Roswell and Oliver Lee Memorial near Alamogordo provide established campgrounds with amenities, while free dispersed camping can be found on BLM land near Carlsbad and White Sands National Park. KOA locations in Albuquerque and Las Cruces offer convenient access for travelers along major highways. Campers at Raptor Lake Dispersed report spectacular sunsets, with one visitor noting that "the wide open range has everything you need for solar power and Starlink" despite the lack of traditional services.

Most New Mexico campgrounds are open year-round, though seasonal considerations are important. Summer temperatures frequently exceed 90°F in southern regions, while northern mountain areas may see snow in winter. Fire restrictions are common during dry periods, particularly from May through September. Many state parks require reservations through an online system. Cell service varies dramatically across the state, with good coverage near cities but limited or non-existent reception in remote areas. Wind is a consistent factor throughout the state, with campers often advised to "keep your elevation low because the wind always blows in New Mexico."

Camping options range from primitive to full-service. RV parks with full hookups are concentrated near population centers and along interstate corridors, particularly I-25, I-40, and I-10. Many state parks offer a mix of electric and non-electric sites, with varying levels of amenities. Dispersed camping on public lands typically requires self-sufficiency, as most locations have no water, toilets, or trash service. Visitors seeking lakeside recreation can find options at Navajo Lake, Elephant Butte, and Conchas Lake, though water levels can fluctuate significantly. Pet-friendly policies are common throughout the state, with most campgrounds allowing dogs with standard leash requirements.

Best Camping Sites in New Mexico (835)

    1. Oliver Lee Memorial State Park Campground

    65 Reviews
    Sunspot, NM
    Website
    +1 (236) 682-6567

    $15 - $30 / night

    "Very beautiful hidden away RV and Raised Primitive State Park full of marked and unmarked foliage and a nice museum reflecting on the surrounding area of New Mexico."

    "I like heat and live in New Mexico.  Northern new Mexico, in the mountains, where no one needs air conditioning. "

    2. Lea Lake Campground — Bottomless Lakes State Park

    67 Reviews
    Dexter, NM
    Website
    +1 (575) 988-3638

    $10 - $35 / night

    "I bought a year pass during covid for New Mexico State park in 2019. I only used it 2 times and parks shut down. Now due to fires many parks have had to close."

    "The state park boasts several lakes, a mountain bike trail, views, playgrounds in the day use area, and many campsites. There is a RV area at Lea Lake, which is half reserved and half first come."

    3. USA RV Park

    55 Reviews
    Mentmore, NM
    Website
    +1 (505) 863-5021

    $25 - $35 / night

    "Needed an overnight stay along Interstate 40 in New Mexico. "

    "We were so grateful to stumble upon USA RV Park on our recent trip through New Mexico. "

    4. Aguirre Spring Recreation Area and Campground

    54 Reviews
    White Sands, NM
    Website
    +1 (575) 525-4300

    "Southeast New Mexico has mountains believe it or not. The camp is nestled up against one. It’s Memorial Day weekend and not too crowded. Highly recommend for the price (basically free)."

    "I've been on a nationwide roadtrip for a few months that now and I have tent camped alone in many sites from Florida to Arkansas to, now, New Mexico."

    5. Chosa Campground

    55 Reviews
    Carlsbad Caverns, NM
    Website
    +1 (575) 234-5972

    "It's a large, level, gravel parking lot a quarter mile off of Hwy 62/180 8 miles north of the Texas border in New Mexico."

    "Nice open spot right off the highway. Drive up the paved road and it’s on your left. Gravel has been laid down so it’s nice and firm for campers/RVs. Also has a garbage can there."

    6. Las Cruces KOA

    51 Reviews
    Mesilla, NM
    Website
    +1 (575) 526-6555

    "We stopped at this KOA for one night while passing through New Mexico.   We had a great view of the valley below and our site had everything we needed--full hookups."

    "We only stayed one night but this was a convenient location or far off the highway. Bathroom was clean and staff was nice. Large clean dog park. Nice views of the city."

    7. Raptor Lake Dispersed / Holloman Lake

    53 Reviews
    Holloman Air Force Base, NM
    Website

    "Not bad for the middle of New Mexico, between two mountain ranges. 

    However, camping nearby leaves something to be desired, even in the RV parks – which is never our thing."

    "Stunning sunsets over the Lake. Even with a lot of rigs, I was able to find my own spot several feet away from others ( although you will be in sight of other rigs) border patrol surveys the area."

    8. Sunset Reef Campground

    42 Reviews
    Carlsbad Caverns, NM
    Website
    +1 (575) 234-5972

    "Sunset reef is small and does fill up quickly as there is limited spots but you can always park on the outskirts of the corral like fencing and there’s still plenty of space."

    "Sunset Reef is great place to spend a night, or a few days exploring the area around Carlsbad."

    9. Albuquerque KOA Journey

    46 Reviews
    Monticello, NM
    Website
    +1 (505) 296-2729

    "New Mexico is a land of wonders and beauty in every turn."

    "Good campground with access to all Albuquerque has to offer. Quick biking to the Sandia trails and short drive to hiking. The bus stop is nearby so getting around town is easy too."

    10. Sante Fe National Forest BLM-Road 62 Dispersed

    41 Reviews
    Santa Fe, NM

    "Wide open space to pick your spot next to a Juniper or two.

    Hardly anyone here, just the coyotes howling. Appreciated access to a pit toilet."

    "It's a great area with flat sites and close proximity to Santa Fe. The dirt road is not too long and not bad at all. There were a bunch of campers there but it didnt feel crowded."

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Recent Reviews in New Mexico

4368 Reviews of 835 New Mexico Campgrounds



Guide to New Mexico

Camping in New Mexico offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes and diverse campgrounds. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a quiet place to unwind, there's something for everyone.

What to do

  • Explore the outdoors: New Mexico is known for its beautiful parks and recreation areas. Check out the Valley Of Fires Recreation Area for hiking trails and breathtaking views. One camper said, “The RV area sits on a ridge. Great views.”
  • Visit local attractions: The Albuquerque KOA Journey is just a short drive from city attractions. A visitor noted, “The site is spotless and the security (urban location) is excellent.”
  • Enjoy stargazing: Many campgrounds in New Mexico are away from city lights, making them perfect for stargazing. One camper at The Box Recreation Area mentioned, “Great views and incredible star gazing.”

What campers like

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A reviewer at the Valley Of Fires Recreation Area said, “Park and bathrooms are very clean.”
  • Family-friendly amenities: The Albuquerque KOA Journey has a pool, playground, and mini-golf, making it a hit with families. One parent shared, “Jump pad, playground, mini golf and a really nice pool were the highlights.”
  • Scenic views: Many campgrounds offer stunning landscapes. A camper at the Turquoise Trail Campground remarked, “Great spot not too far from Albuquerque, very peaceful and quaint.”

What you should know

  • Noise levels: Some campgrounds are near highways or train tracks, which can be noisy. A visitor at Isleta Lakes & RV Park noted, “The trains sound their horns very late at night and early in the morning.”
  • Limited amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. A camper at Escondida Lake Park & Campground mentioned, “The campground has the basics but that's it.”
  • Wildlife encounters: Be prepared for wildlife. One camper at San Antonio Bosque Park shared, “There is a lot of fresh black bear scat throughout the campsite.”

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose kid-friendly spots: Look for campgrounds with activities for children. The Albuquerque KOA Journey has a playground and pool, which kids love. A parent said, “Clean, modern and convenient showers were pluses for Mom and Dad.”
  • Plan for noise: If you're camping near busy roads, bring earplugs for the kids. A reviewer at Route 66 RV Park mentioned, “While it seemed close to I40 you could not hear the traffic.”
  • Pack snacks and games: Keep kids entertained with snacks and games during downtime. A camper at Turquoise Trail Campground noted, “The campground is clean, the sites are well groomed with camp pads level.”

Tips from RVers

  • Check site sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Route 66 RV Park said, “The spot I was assigned had a 30-degree drop and 6-foot reach to the utilities...not doable for my 18-foot camper van.”
  • Look for full hookups: Many RVers prefer campgrounds with full hookups. The Valley Of Fires Recreation Area offers some sites with electric hookups, which is a plus.
  • Arrive early: Some campgrounds fill up quickly, especially on weekends. A visitor at Isleta Lakes & RV Park advised, “Campground doesn’t take reservations so arrive early.”

Camping in New Mexico can be a fantastic experience with the right preparation and knowledge. Enjoy the beautiful landscapes and unique campgrounds this state has to offer!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available in New Mexico?

According to TheDyrt.com, New Mexico offers a wide range of camping options, with 835 campgrounds and RV parks in New Mexico and 164 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground in New Mexico?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground in New Mexico is Oliver Lee Memorial State Park Campground with a 5-star rating from 65 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping in New Mexico?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 164 free dispersed camping spots in New Mexico.

What are the best parks in New Mexico?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 463 parks in New Mexico that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.