Camping near Chamberino, New Mexico provides access to BLM dispersed sites that require varying levels of vehicle clearance. Situated in the Chihuahuan Desert at approximately 3,900 feet elevation, this border region experiences significant temperature fluctuations between seasons and day-night cycles. The area's proximity to military installations occasionally results in training noise impacting some camping locations.
What to do
Mountain biking at Franklin Mountains: The trail system offers varied terrain for different skill levels. At Franklin Mountains State Park Campground, campers can access numerous trails. As one visitor mentioned, "Franklin Mountain state park is a beautiful painted scene in El Paso Tx. some of the camp sites are drive in, but most are hike in (they aren't very far either .2-.5 mi)."
Hiking the Organ Mountains: The unique rock formations provide challenging terrain with rewarding views. At Aguirre Spring Recreation Area and Campground, "There is a lovely 4 mile hike that loops up in the mountains by the sites," according to one camper. Another visitor noted the "great 4 mile loop hike, and other much more strenuous/technical options for mountain climbers."
Wine tasting: Sample local vintages at wineries that offer camping. At Sombra Antigua Winery, "The facilities are clean and the wine is good. The atmosphere is great also," reports one visitor. Another camper mentioned, "They have a large outdoor covered wine tasting area that allows dogs. An excellent wine sampling set helped choose a good wine."
What campers like
Unobstructed views: The mountain vistas provide dramatic backdrops for camping. At Baylor Canyon Rd Spur, "Sunset is breathtaking!! I don't recommend arriving here after dark whatsoever. Stars are surprisingly visible too- there's a lot of light pollution from Las Cruces down below, but it didn't seem to have much effect on star gazing while I was there."
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer good spacing between campsites. One camper at Sierra Vista noted, "The sites are close together but there is good privacy between spots. The views are amazing!" Another at Baylor Canyon mentioned, "Great place to rest for the night before attempting any hikes in Organ Desert Mountains National Monument."
Clean facilities: Several established campgrounds maintain well-kept amenities. At Las Cruces KOA, "We did one night at this KOA. Laundry was easy and used a QR app to pay or traditional coin operation. The place is beautiful and well maintained. Lots of views that everyone can enjoy."
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Many dispersed sites require careful driving. At BLM Dispersed camping along B059, one visitor reported, "My bus was squeaking, twisting, driving at an angle, and it was a brutal drive... While I'll not come back because it's not well maintained, it does have very beautiful vistas."
Military training noise: Some sites experience disruption from nearby military activities. At BLM Dispersed camping along B059, a camper noted, "Boom / explosion sounds all night made for an uneasy night, especially for our dogs. We are assuming the sounds came from testing and/or training at the nearby Doña Ana range."
Temperature extremes: Plan according to season with proper gear. At Franklin Mountains State Park Campground, one camper noted, "Beautiful weather December (76°)," while others mention extremely hot summers. A visitor at Baylor Canyon warned, "I was up at 7am and they were gone, imagine they must've been pretty cold, temps drop quite dramatically and the winds whip up there."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Some campgrounds offer recreational facilities. At Las Cruces KOA, a camper reported, "The kids enjoyed cornhole, basketball, tetherball, and the playground. The store was well stocked."
Wildlife watching opportunities: Children can observe desert animals safely. One visitor at Baylor Canyon Rd Spur shared, "Heard coyote's howling pretty nearby around 1:30am, and in the area again at 3am-ish," while another noted, "There were cows roaming about as it's free range here."
Campground layout considerations: Some sites work better for families than others. At Aguirre Spring, "Most sites are uneven and short. BLM recommends nothing more than 23' long. Water available at host site near gate before driving about 4 or 5 mi to campsites."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Several campgrounds have restrictions for larger vehicles. A camper at Franklin Mountains State Park Campground advised, "The rv parking is small only has 5 sites and no amenities. Be cautious if you have a big rig the spots are not very long and are pull in pull out."
Water management: Many sites lack hookups, requiring planning. At Aguirre Spring, a visitor suggested, "We brought our own 5 gal of water and were fine for 3 nights."
High water pressure: Where hookups exist, be prepared for strong pressure. At Hacienda RV Resort, "Staff is friendly and let us know water pressure is high so use a reducer."
