RV camping near La Joya, New Mexico offers varied options along the Interstate 25 corridor between Albuquerque and Socorro. Situated at approximately 4,700 feet elevation, this region experiences temperature swings with summer highs above 95°F and winter lows that can dip below freezing. Train noise impacts several campgrounds in the area, with railroad tracks running parallel to many access roads.
What to do
Wildlife viewing at Bosque del Apache: Only 6 miles from Bosque Birdwatchers RV Park, this wildlife refuge attracts thousands of migratory birds. "Very nice couple keep this place shipshape. We enjoyed their hospitality. Great price for the amenities and only 6 miles from viewing the migratory birds at Bosque del Apache," noted one camper.
Hiking at Sevilleta National Wildlife Refuge: Located a short drive from Bernardo. "We live in Albuquerque, but wanted to spend a day hiking the Sevilleta National Wildlife Refuge. Kiva RV Park is just a 5 minute drive from the NWR, so we stayed there on a Friday night, so we could get up bright and early for our hiking the next day," one visitor reported.
Explore hiking trails in the Manzanos: Red Canyon Campground provides direct trail access. "Beautiful secluded spot in the Manzanos. Nice kid-friendly trails adjacent to the campground. We had a nice shady site, some others seemed more exposed," according to a camper who enjoyed the area.
What campers like
Shade trees at select locations: Despite the desert setting, some campgrounds offer valuable shade. At Kiva RV Park & Horse Motel, "Plenty of big cottonwood trees provided shade. The place is clearly run on a low budget, but is well maintained and there is pride in the work here."
Mountain views: The region offers scenic vistas of nearby mountain ranges. At Chupadero Mountainview RV Park, campers appreciate the setting. "It's out among ranch fields which were nice to look at and meant you weren't right on the road. It's a fine place if you are out all day watching the birds."
Convenience to travel routes: Many rv campgrounds in La Joya, New Mexico area are positioned for easy access. "We woke up to a gorgeous view of the nearby scenery and were just a half mile from a Loves to gas up and head out for another day of driving," noted a guest at La Vista RV Park.
What you should know
Train noise affects multiple locations: Railroad tracks run parallel to many access roads in the area. At Red Canyon Campground, one camper noted, "We had a great night with a campfire and a good view of the stars and moon. All was well until someone started illegally cutting down trees at 2 in the morning. After an annoying couple of hours they were gone, most of our group were wide awake."
Limited seasonal amenities: Services fluctuate by season and staffing. "During our Thur to Fri stay probably due to the casino only being open to NM residents (as of 5 Jun 21). We were told that the water pressure was about 90 psi and it was, so use a reducer."
Bathroom/shower availability varies significantly: Some parks maintain limited facilities. At Chupadero Mountainview RV Park, "It has a clean bathroom and shower available during the day. At night the only bathroom is a porta-potty which was clean and fine."
Tips for camping with families
Look for parks with recreation options: Several RV parks offer family amenities. At Route 66 RV Resort, "The pool area (not open) looks very inviting and attractive. The club house, while simple, looked very inviting. A couple of bathhouses around and a couple of dog parks."
Consider shade availability for summer visits: Heat protection is essential during summer months. "Hot weather, but great customer service. Nice area, clean, shade trees and the management works with you no matter what. Little noise from I25 but very pet friendly."
Seek out kid-friendly hiking trails: Several nearby natural areas offer appropriate terrain. "Great camp with most hook ups. They don't have sewer but they do have a dump station. Mostly back in spaces so pay attention what side your door is on and opens to."
Tips from RVers
Cell service considerations: Connectivity varies significantly across the region. At Enchanted Trails RV Park & Trading Post, one camper shared, "Terrible internet. Only one restroom," while another noted, "I just used my hotspot from my Verizon service and because we had 4 bars, that worked just fine for streaming some Netflix that night."
Water pressure management: Excessive pressure can damage RV plumbing systems. "We were told that the water pressure was about 90 psi and it was, so use a reducer. The sites throughout this campground are nicely spaced, well groomed and level."
Level site availability: Finding flat parking is easier at some locations than others. "Clean, level, and straight forward park that was a convenient and comfortable spot to stop for the night on a road trip. Price was a fantastic deal!"
