Camping near La Joya, New Mexico, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and unique experiences. Whether you're looking for a quiet retreat or a family-friendly adventure, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.
What to do
- Hiking and Trails: Explore the scenic trails around the Manzano Mountains State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, "The trails are fabulous," highlighting the newly opened Track Trail that enhances accessibility.
- Birdwatching: Visit the nearby Bosque Del Apache National Wildlife Refuge, a hotspot for birdwatchers. One reviewer at San Antonio Riverine Park noted, "It's a bird nerd’s paradise during the winter," making it a great spot for nature lovers.
- Rock Climbing: For climbing enthusiasts, the Box Recreation Area is a must-visit. A camper shared, "This was a lovely spot to overnight... incredible star gazing," perfect for those who enjoy both climbing and stargazing.
What campers like
- Peaceful Atmosphere: Many campers appreciate the tranquility of places like Escondida Lake Park & Campground. One visitor said, "Remote, wooded, serene," which captures the essence of a peaceful getaway.
- Affordable Rates: Campgrounds like Water Canyon Campground offer free camping, making it a favorite for budget-conscious travelers. A reviewer mentioned, "You don't often find free developed camping," emphasizing its value.
- Wildlife Encounters: Campers at Red Canyon Campground enjoy the local wildlife, with one stating, "Very green and lush with deer visiting our site at dusk!"
What you should know
- Limited Amenities: Many campgrounds, like San Antonio Bosque Park, lack basic facilities. A camper noted, "No toilets here, but there are lovely facilities in the park itself," so be prepared to pack out your trash.
- Road Conditions: Some campgrounds have rough access roads. A visitor at New Canyon Campground warned, "The road access is pretty rough," so a vehicle with good clearance is recommended.
- Wildlife Caution: Campers should be aware of wildlife, especially at places like Chupadero Mountainview RV Park. One reviewer mentioned, "We were approached by a guy letting us know there was a boar and a bear coming down the canyon."
Tips for camping with families
- Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots like Manzano Mountains State Park Campground, where one family enjoyed the "cooler temps at night" and found it suitable for kids.
- Plan for Activities: Ensure there are activities for kids, like hiking and exploring. A camper at Escondida Lake Park & Campground mentioned, "The steep gravel proved intimidating for the less experienced in the group," so consider the skill levels of your family members.
- Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having refreshments on hand is essential. One camper at Water Canyon Campground noted, "Bring your own water," which is crucial for family outings.
Tips from RVers
- Check Site Sizes: RVers should verify site sizes before booking. A visitor at Chupadero Mountainview RV Park mentioned, "No frills, just fairly level sites," which is important for larger rigs.
- Be Prepared for Noise: Some campgrounds, like Escondida Lake Park & Campground, can have noise from nearby activities. One reviewer said, "Loud music... karaoke with children screaming," so be ready for potential disturbances.
- Utilize Dump Stations: Make sure to use dump stations when available. A camper at Manzano Mountains State Park Campground noted, "Not very many electric sites but that was ok," indicating the importance of planning for utilities.
Camping near La Joya, New Mexico, offers a variety of experiences, from serene nature to family-friendly activities. Whether you're in an RV or tent, there's something for everyone in this beautiful area.
