The Las Cruces area offers primitive to developed camping options in the Chihuahuan Desert at elevations ranging from 3,900 to 8,600 feet. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 95°F, while winter nights can drop below freezing. The Organ Mountains provide a dramatic backdrop for campers with their granite spires rising abruptly from the desert floor.
What to do
Hiking trails access: At Aguirre Spring Recreation Area and Campground, the 4-mile Pine Tree Trail loop offers moderate hiking with mountain views. "There is a lovely 4 mile hike that loops up in the mountains by the sites," notes Kara S., while another camper mentions "other much more strenuous/technical options for mountain climbers."
Stargazing opportunities: Clear desert skies provide excellent night viewing at primitive sites. At Gap Tank, a camper reports, "The sky was dark at night and we couldn't see any electric lights. Kind of cool so close yet so far from El Paso."
Wildlife observation: The desert ecosystem supports diverse wildlife. At Gap Tank dispersed camping, visitors report seeing jackrabbits and occasionally javelinas. The nearby Mesquite Tank attracts wildlife when water is present.
Water activities: The Rio Grande offers recreational options. At Caballo Lake RV Park, a visitor notes it's "a great place to kayak especially when the sun rises you will see it over the mountains. My favorite part about caballo lake is floating down from elephant butte to caballo lake in a giant floaty."
What campers like
Sand dune camping: At Backcountry Primitive Sites — White Sands National Park, the unique gypsum dunes create memorable experiences. "The white sand looks like snow but it was hot when I went so that was a new experience for me. A bit of a sensation confusion but oh so worth it," shares one camper.
Solitude in primitive areas: Many dispersed sites offer isolation from crowds. A Gap Tank visitor appreciated that there were "very few people out there. Very primitive. No campground. Little to no shade."
Mountain views: The Organ Mountains create a spectacular backdrop at multiple sites. At Oregan Wilderness Dispersed, a camper reports, "Beautiful and isolated spots" with "great view of the mountains and the sunsets."
Dark sky experiences: Without light pollution, astronomical viewing is exceptional. At White Sands backcountry sites, one camper observed, "with the moonlight reflecting off the sand, it almost felt like daytime!"
What you should know
Road conditions to dispersed sites: Many access roads require high clearance vehicles. At Oregan Wilderness Dispersed, a camper warns, "The road is a bit rough but we found a great spot to spend the night." Another notes "the middle section has some bigger rocks protruding."
No horse-specific amenities: None of the campgrounds offer dedicated equestrian facilities, though horses are permitted at dispersed BLM sites. Equestrian camping near Las Cruces requires bringing your own portable corrals or high-lines.
Military activity noise: BLM dispersed camping along B059 experiences occasional disruptions. One camper reported, "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."
Wind conditions: Desert winds can be challenging. A White Sands camper mentioned, "I went in early spring and the wind was pretty ferocious - luckily I was prepared and had all the necessary gear."
Water availability: Most dispersed sites have no water sources. For horse camping near Las Cruces, you'll need to bring all water for both humans and equines.
Tips for camping with families
Backcountry introduction: White Sands backcountry sites offer accessible primitive camping. "This is backcountry camping with a hike to the site of under a mile, so it's perfect for backpacking trips for families. BUT walking on sand is a lot more tiring than you think it'll be and water is heavier than you think it'll be!!"
Site privacy: Many campgrounds offer separated sites good for families. At Caballo Lake, "Sites are close but separated by some bushes," while Aguirre Spring offers "good privacy between spots."
Evening activities: Sand play continues after dark at White Sands. "My dog would not let me go to bed- she wanted to keep playing- and with the moonlight reflecting off the sand, it almost felt like daytime!"
Temperature planning: Desert areas experience extreme temperature fluctuations. One Gap Tank camper noted visiting in January when "it was actually cold then," with nearby water sources having "even a little ice on the edges."
Tips from RVers
Length restrictions: At Aguirre Spring Campground, larger RVs cannot be accommodated. One reviewer notes "BLM recommends nothing more than 23' long" and "road IS narrow and winding and steep in place but paved and ONE way."
Space for larger rigs: Some dispersed sites can accommodate larger RVs. At Oregan Wilderness, a camper reports being "able to get our 39' toy hauler into this location without any issues" if you "get camping spots in the first four sites from either side."
Camping surfaces: Many sites have uneven terrain. At Aguirre Spring, "We found a few level spots that would work for rooftop tents, but most spots seemed a little rocky and uneven for tents."
Water management: Most sites lack water hookups, requiring self-sufficiency. A visitor to Aguirre Spring notes, "Water available at host site near gate before driving about 4 or 5 mi to campsites. We brought our own 5 gal of water and were fine for 3 nights."
