From the vast Chihuahuan Desert to the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, New Mexico has a wealth of opportunities to get outside and explore. For outdoor adventurers, there’s skiing in Taos, whitewater rafting on the Rio Grande, and plenty of hiking, from the Southern Rockies to dusty desert canyons. That’s what makes camping in New Mexico such a varied and fulfilling experience.


Carlsbad Caverns provides ample opportunities to hike, explore, learn about desert wildlife, even appreciate a few thousand Mexican free-tail bats take flight. They swarm out of the cave every night at dust for an audience that often numbers in the hundreds. It’s a perfect excuse to stick around the park after dark and do some camping in New Mexico.


Of course, the only camping available within Carlsbad Caverns National Park is backcountry camping, so come prepared to Leave No Trace. Keep in mind that the desert landscape is often dry, so fire bans, even some backcountry cooking bans, are frequently in effect in the drier months. On the upside, backcountry camping permits are free and you can grab one at the visitor center when you arrive.


Visit White Sands National Monument for an unmatched, natural experience. Acres upon acres of white gypsum dunes stretch into the distance, offering hours of diversion, be it hiking across the dunes or sledding down them. If you forgot your sled, don’t worry, you can pick one up in the gift shop. Just be sure to enjoy these activities early in the morning or late in the evening during the summer months; it gets hot in the desert during midday!


As for camping in White Sands, it’s backcountry camping or nothing and sites require a short hike through the dunes. You’ll be camping on the gypsum, surrounded by shifting white hills, dark night skies up above, and no other campers in sight. It’s definitely a unique experience. Permits are $3.00 per person and can be picked up at the visitor center.


Wherever your adventures take you in the Land of Enchantment, get out there and let The Dyrt help you locate the best camping in New Mexico.

New Mexico

The Best Camping in New Mexico | 100+ NM Campgrounds

La Cueva, NM is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Discover great camping spots near La Cueva, reviewed by campers like you.

La Cueva

The Best Camping Near La Cueva, New Mexico

## Overview

San Antonio Campground is adjacent to the San Antonio River, tucked into a forest of ponderosa pine at 7,600 feet above sea level. This popular campground is open from May through October in the Santa Fe National Forest. Visitors should be prepared for hot summer days and cool nights.  
  
San Antonio Campground was completely rebuilt and reopened in August 2010. It is designated as a reduced impact and recycle campground.

## Recreation

A paved walking trail along the river provides access for fishing. Anglers can fish for rainbow trout. Visitors enjoy wading in the river on hot summer days.   
  
The campground offers easy driving access to several recreational sites nearby, including the popular La Cueva Picnic Site, Spence Hot Spring Trailhead, Battleship Rock Trailhead and a couple of fishing sites along the San Antonio River.

## Facilities

The campground has 20 standard sites that can accommodate tents, trailers and RVs. A group area on the north end of the campground includes a pavilion that can accommodate up to 100 people.  
  
The group area includes nine tent sites. Accessible sites are located on the south end of the campground.  
  
Sites are equipped with picnic tables and pedestal grills, and sites 1-6 have water and electric hookups. Site 3 can accommodate two RVs.  
  
Drinking water and vault toilets are provided. Parking areas, spurs and roads within the campground are paved. A camp host is available during the peak season. Visitors are encouraged to pack out trash, but recycling bins are provided.

## Natural Features

Some of the finest mountain scenery in the Southwest is found in the 1.6 million acres within the Santa Fe National Forest. Elevations range from 5,300 to 13,103 feet at the summit of Truchas Peak, located within the Pecos Wilderness.  
  
The diverse ecosystems of the Santa Fe National Forest are home to a variety of wildlife species. The ponderosa pine forests at 6,000-9,500 feet provide habitat for the Jemez Mountain salamander, northern goshawk, Merriam's turkey, Abert's squirrel and hairy woodpecker. 

## Nearby Attractions

The 163-mile Jemez Mountain Trail Scenic Byway passes amazing geological formations, ancient Indian ruins and an Indian pueblo. The area is rich in logging, mining and ranching heritage.

San Antonio Campground

## Overview

Jemez Falls Campground is located in a stunning Ponderosa Pine and forest meadow environment. The campground elevation is 7,880 feet above sea level. Come prepared for warm days and cool nights. Excellent hiking opportunities are available, including a short hike to Jemez Falls or a longer hike along the East Fork Trail, both of which can be accessed from the campground . Thank you for choosing USFS Jemez Falls Campground for your visit. Please remember that this campground is special. Help keep it clean and beautiful by using the trash dumpsters. Have a wonderful stay camping in the Jemez Mountains. Campground has 52 camp sites with picnic table and fire ring. Paved access which allows trailers and RV's up to 40 feet. 

For the 2022 Season of Use, loop 4 sites are non-generator use areas. Loops 1-3 may use generators from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

There is paved access from the highway and paved internal roads to individual campsites. There are no RV hook-ups. Drinking water is provided from spigots conveniently located throughout the campground. Vault toilets provide basic sanitation needs. A campground host is on duty during the season of use.

## Recreation

Overnight camping, fishing, and hiking are main attractions. Other recreational activities include outdoor photography and nature viewing. The campground is within the heart of the Jemez National Recreation Area.

## Facilities

The campground contains 51 overnight tent and RV/trailer campsites. For the 2021 Season of Use loops 3 and 4 sites are non-generator use areas.There is paved access from the highway and paved internal roads to individual campsites. There are no RV hook-ups at the campground. Drinking water is provided from spigots conveniently located throughout the campground. Vault toilets provide basic sanitation needs. A campground host is on duty during the summer camping season.

## Natural Features

The East Fork Jemez Wild and Scenic River runs close to the campground. The campground is situated on rolling terrain shaded by pines and sunny in open meadows. 

## Nearby Attractions

Jemez Falls, the largest waterfall in the Jemez Mountains, is a half mile hike from the campground. The Valles Caldera National Preserve and Bandelier National Monument are within short driving distance along the Jemez Mountain Trail National Scenic Byway.

## Charges & Cancellations

Jemez Falls Campground

## Overview

Paliza Campground sits beneath sandstone cliffs on the Jemez Ranger District of the Santa Fe National Forest. The area is replete with culture, offering visitors a glimpse into the past. Ample recreation opportunities exist at or near the campground, which makes it a wonderful outdoor destination.

## Recreation

Hiking, wildlife viewing and scenic drives are some of the popular activities enjoyed near the campground. Striking views of an ancient volcanic crater amid the rolling hills, can be seen from the Cerro Pelado Scenic Overlook, about 11 miles from the campground.   
  
Off-road vehicle trails and numerous hiking and mountain biking trails surround the campground. 

## Facilities

**There is no water.**

The campground offers a variety of sites available for tent and RV camping. The majority of the sites are single-family occupancy, but the campground also has double and even triple-sized units, as well as a group site that can accommodate up to 100 people. Some sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.  
  
Picnic tables, lantern posts and campfire rings with grills are provided, as are accessible vault toilets. Roads within the campground are paved.

## Natural Features

The newly refurbished campground sits in a forested area at the top of a hill with views of the Jemez Valley below. It was originally the site of a 1930s Civilian Convservation Corps base camp. Remnants of that camp, including log lean-to's and adirondack shelters with rock fireplaces, can be found within the campground.   
  
A small stream runs alongside the campground and sandstone cliffs on the nearby mesas provide excellent photographic and sightseeing opportunities. A small tract of private land is located north of the campground and common courtesy is appreciated. 

## Nearby Attractions

The campground is located five miles northeast of the town of Ponderosa, New Mexico, an area known for its vineyards and winery with a tasting room.   
  
The Jemez Pueblo and the Walatowa Visitor Center, both of which provide rewarding cultural experiences, are just 11 miles from the campground in the town of Jemez. The quaint community offers shopping and dining opportunities, as well as a variety of recreational opportunities.

Paliza Campground

## Overview

Less than two hours from the city of Albuquerque, Rio de las Vacas Campground offers a cool oasis from the New Mexico heat. Visitors delight in the hiking and fishing opportunities available in the shade of the pine covered Jemez Mountains. A few of the campsites have the creek running along them, providing a soothing atmosphere for campers.

## Recreation

Local streams and the San Gregorio reservoir provide fishing opportunities for anglers, and hikers will delight in the many hiking opportunities in the nearby San Pedro Parks Wilderness. 

## Facilities

There are 15 campsites on the campground. Most of the campsites at Rio De Las Vacas come with a paved RV pad, fire rings, picnic table, and tent pads. The campground itself has paved roads, trash bins, vault toilets and a host on site.

## Natural Features

The campground is located amid stunning ponderosa pines in close proximity to the Rio de las Vacas. The campground has a beautiful open meadow and scenic views of the surrounding Jemez Mountains. Fall brings migrating birds through the campground and the sounds of elk bugling to impress potential mates.

## Nearby Attractions

The San Pedro Parks Wilderness, just north of the Rio de las Vacas Campground, offers easy and scenic day hikes. The minimal grade increases of the trails into the San Pedro Parks make this wilderness an ideal backpacking destination for beginners and experienced backpackers alike. Three main trailheads, the San Gregorio, Palomas and Los Pinos, are within driving distance of the campground.

Rio De Las Vacas Campground

Less than two hours from the city of Albuquerque, Clear Creek Campground offers a cool oasis from the New Mexico heat. Visitors delight in the hiking and fishing opportunities available in the shade of the pine covered Jemez Mountains. Recreation Local streams and the San Gregorio reservoir provide fishing opportunities for anglers, and hikers will delight in the many hiking opportunities in the nearby San Pedro Parks Wilderness. Facilities Clear Creek Campground includes paved RV pads, fire rings, picnic tables, and vault toilets. Natural Features The campground is located amid stunning ponderosa pines in close proximity to Clear Creek. Nearby Attractions The San Pedro Parks Wilderness, just north of the Clear Creek Campground, offers easy and scenic day hikes. The minimal grade increases of the trails into the San Pedro Parks make this wilderness an ideal backpacking destination for beginners and experienced backpackers alike. Three main trailheads, the San Gregorio, Palomas, and Los Pinos, are within driving distance of the campground. ADA Access: N

Clear Creek Campground

Forest Road 144

Primitive camping is allowed almost anywhere on the Santa Fe National Forest unless otherwise posted. These areas generally do not offer any amenities although occasionally you will find a toilet building or a picnic table and grill. Please keep your campsite at least 100 feet from streams and lakes, including riverbanks or areas next to bodies of water. This will help preserve the health of the riparian area and protect sensitive animals and plants found here.

FR376 Dispersed

## Overview

Ponderosa Group Campground is located 6 miles from the park's main entrance and is an ideal place to stay for large groups visiting Bandelier National Monument. The campground is adjacent to Ponderosa Trail Head providing access to more than 70 miles of hiking trails and is just a short drive from the Visitor Center, the Frijoles Canyon Shuttle System (mid-May to mid-October), and the town of Los Alamos, Valles Caldera National Preserve, Manhattan Project National Historic Site, and the Santa Fe National Forest.  
  
Ponderosa Group Campground is open year-round (Water is only available from mid-May to mid-October). Frijoles Canyon and the park Visitor Center are accessible only by shuttle bus from mid-May to mid-October. The shuttle bus system stops at the Bandelier Visitor Center, Juniper Campground, and the White Rock Visitor Center in the town of White Rock. All park areas can be accessed by private vehicle outside of the designated shuttle bus period. 

## Recreation

Accessible from Ponderosa Group Campground, the Ponderosa Trail descends into the park through ponderosa pine forest and connects to many other trails including the Middle Frijoles Trails which leads 8 miles through Frijoles Canyon to the Visitor Center and Main Loop Trail. The Visitor Center houses museum exhibits, park film, information and ranger programs, Western National Parks Association sales outlet, and more. Entrance to Frijoles Canyon and the Visitor Center is by shuttle bus only from mid-May to mid-October. These areas are accesibile by private vehicle outside the shuttle bus period.  
  
Although rock climbing is prohibited within Bandelier National Monument, many popular climbs are within a short drive up Route 4 into the Jemez Mountains.

## Facilities

This campground is located at 7600 feet and is usually free of snow from mid-April through mid October. **Water is not available during any months with freezing temperatures (potentially mid-October to mid-May).**

Vault toilets (with no running water), drinking water, a picnic shelter, picnic tables, food storage lockers, and campfire rings are provided at this facility. No hookup campsites are available. These sites are tent-only, but one RV per site can be accommodated in the parking area. Each site can accommodate between 10 and 50 people. 

Check-in time for campground is 4:00 pm. 

Check-out time for the campround is 11:30 a.m. 

Sites can be reserved for large group picnics, however the fee and process is the same as reserving the site for an overnight stay. 

## Natural Features

Bandelier National Monument protects over 33,000 acres of rugged, beautiful canyon and mesa country which features evidence of human presence going back over 11,000 years. Petroglyphs, dwellings carved into the soft rock cliffs, and standing masonry walls pay tribute to the early days of a culture that still survives in the surrounding communities. 

Bandelier National Monument sits at the southern end of the Pajarito (Spanish for little bird) Plateau. The plateau was formed by two eruptions 1.6 and 1.4 million years ago. Home to the Bandelier Wilderness, Bandelier ranges from 5340 ft at the Rio Grande River to the south and 10,199 ft at the summit of Cerro Grande to the north, almost a mile of elevation change in just under 12 miles. This elevation gradient creates a unique diversity of habitats specific to Northern New Mexico. The diversity of habitats and quick access to water supported a relatively large population of Ancestral Pueblo people. Currently, Piñon-Juniper woodlands dominate in the southern parts of the park transitioning through ponderosa pine savannahs and forests, finally reaching mixed conifer forests at the highest elevation. Scattered throughout the park are desert grasslands, montane meadows, and riparian areas in the canyon bottoms. Over 70 miles of trails at Bandelier climb in and out of deep canyons and cross large flat mesas, showcasing the entire spectrum of volcanic geology and ecosystems found within the park.  
  
The park is home to over 55 species of mammals including mule deer, Abert's squirrels, mountain lions, black bears, and 16 species of bats. Replitles and amphibians of all shapes and sizes can be seen. Birds such as Steller's jays, canyon towhees and mountain chickadees stay year-round, whereas turkey vultures, western tanagers, and black-headed grosbeaks are summer residents.

## Nearby Attractions

The town of Los Alamos has shopping, museums, amenities, a movie theater, ice rink, ski hill, and is home to Manhattan Project National Historic Site. 

Nearby Department of Energy and US Forest Service lands provide trails which accommodate pets.

Valles Caldera National Preserve is 16 miles west of Bandelier. 

Jemez Historic Site is 37 miles west.

Pecos National Historical Park is 70 miles southeast. 

Santa Fe, 40 miles south of the park, is home to the New Mexico state capitol, museums, historic districts, art galleries, food, accomodations, and more.

Bandelier National Monument Ponderosa Group Campground

Dispersed on 4 - Fenton Lake State Park

Jemez Boondocking

Join the fun near Malaga. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Malaga, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Malaga

The Best Camping Near Malaga, New Mexico

Probably the Land of Enchantment’s most well-known city, Albuquerque, New Mexico deserves a spot in your next travel itinerary. In the city itself, you’ll find a handful of KOAs and private campgrounds to accommodate tents and RV camping.

You don’t have to go far to find the best camping near Albuquerque. The Sandia Mountain Wilderness is US Forest Service land just east of the city, between Albuquerque and Tijeras, NM. It’s a great place to spend a night or two! On the city’s west side, you’ll find Petroglyph National Monument. Though there are no campsites there, it’s worth a day trip to enjoy the area and learn about the history.

Albuquerque

Albuquerque is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Discover great camping spots near Albuquerque, reviewed by campers like you.

The Best Albuquerque Camping | New Mexico Campgrounds

Are you in need of a campground near Las Cruces, NM? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Las Cruces and user-submitted reviews.

Las Cruces

The Best Camping Near Las Cruces, New Mexico

Join the fun near Rio Rancho. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Find the best campgrounds near Rio Rancho, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Rio Rancho

The Best Camping Near Rio Rancho, New Mexico

Are you in need of a campground near Enchanted Hills, NM? Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Enchanted Hills, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your New Mexico camping adventure.

Enchanted Hills

The Best Camping Near Enchanted Hills, New Mexico

The Sangre de Cristo foothills offer some of the best camping opportunities near Santa Fe, NM. Get supplies in the city before venturing out to campsites. Surrounded by national forests and natural areas, Santa Fe has plenty of campgrounds to offer. Camping in the national forest by the badlands gives outdoor enthusiasts plenty of opportunities for adventure from hiking the trails to riding ATVs. Campers looking for stunning views of these New Mexico foothills and valley will want to make the drive up to Santa Fe Skies Park. It’s RV-friendly and campers won’t complain about the views no matter where their site is located.

Santa Fe

The Best Camping in Santa Fe | New Mexico Campgrounds

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Roswell, NM is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that New Mexico camping has to offer. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Roswell camping trip.

Roswell

The Best Camping Near Roswell, New Mexico

Farmington, NM is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Farmington is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Farmington

The Best Camping Near Farmington, New Mexico

South Valley is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. South Valley is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Find the best campgrounds near South Valley, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

South Valley

The Best Camping Near South Valley, New Mexico

Are you in need of a campground near Clovis, NM? Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Clovis campgrounds just for you. Find the best campgrounds near Clovis, NM. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Clovis

The Best Camping Near Clovis, New Mexico

Searching for the best camping near Carson National Forest, NM? Carson National Forest is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Carson National Forest

The Best Camping Near Carson National Forest, New Mexico

Lincoln National Forest is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Lincoln National Forest is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Discover great camping spots near Lincoln National Forest, reviewed by campers like you.

Lincoln National Forest

The Best Camping Near Lincoln National Forest, New Mexico

Santa Fe National Forest is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Santa Fe National Forest campgrounds just for you. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Santa Fe National Forest

The Best Camping Near Santa Fe National Forest, New Mexico

Cibola National Forest and National Grasslands is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Cibola National Forest and National Grasslands is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Cibola National Forest and National Grasslands camping trip.

Cibola National Forest and National Grasslands

The Best Camping Near Cibola National Forest and National Grasslands, New Mexico

El Morro National Monument is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of El Morro National Monument. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your New Mexico camping adventure.

El Morro National Monument

The Best Camping Near El Morro National Monument, New Mexico

Searching for the best camping near Chaco Culture National Historic Park, NM? Chaco Culture National Historic Park is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Discover great camping spots near Chaco Culture National Historic Park, reviewed by campers like you.

Chaco Culture National Historic Park

The Best Camping Near Chaco Culture National Historic Park, New Mexico

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Gila National Forest, NM is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Find the best campgrounds near Gila National Forest, NM. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Gila National Forest

The Best Camping Near Gila National Forest, New Mexico

Are you in need of a campground near Cibola National Forest and Grasslands, NM? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that New Mexico camping has to offer. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Cibola National Forest and Grasslands camping trip.

Cibola National Forest and Grasslands

The Best Camping Near Cibola National Forest and Grasslands, New Mexico

Looking for the best campgrounds near Conchas Lake, NM? Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Conchas Lake. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Conchas Lake and user-submitted reviews.

Conchas Lake

The Best Camping Near Conchas Lake, New Mexico

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Rufus Woods Lake, NM is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Rufus Woods Lake campgrounds just for you. Discover great camping spots near Rufus Woods Lake, reviewed by campers like you.

The Best Camping in La Cueva

Top Campgrounds in La Cueva (100)

1.