Las Cruces sits at an elevation of approximately 4,000 feet in the Mesilla Valley, where the Chihuahuan Desert meets the Rio Grande. The area experiences dramatic temperature variations between seasons, with summer highs often exceeding 95°F and winter nights occasionally dropping below freezing. The Organ Mountains provide a distinctive geological backdrop, rising to 9,000 feet and creating a rain shadow effect that contributes to the region's arid climate.
What to Do
Hiking the Organ Mountains trails: Aguirre Spring Recreation Area and Campground offers excellent access to mountain trails suitable for various skill levels. "I had a short stay (one night) but the views were awesome. At night I could see so many stars, and in the morning I could see all the way across the Tularosa Basin to Lincoln National Forest, probably 80 miles away!" shared Craig G.
Visit Dripping Springs Historic Site: Located near Sierra Vista - Back Side Dispersed camping area. "Dripping Springs' historical site is bear by too," notes Bonnie L., making this free dispersed camping spot an excellent base for exploring both natural and historical attractions.
Stargazing from higher elevations: The dispersed camping areas along Baylor Canyon Road provide exceptional night sky viewing despite some city light pollution. "We stayed on a Friday night and were worried we wouldn't find a spot. Every site was taken along the way until the trailhead. Beautiful views of the mountains and a trail right there, if you wanted to do some walking or biking," reports Dare To Everywhere.
Mountain biking on desert trails: The area offers numerous multi-use trails for mountain biking enthusiasts. "Good hiking/mountain bike area - lots of day hikers & bikers come in for the day so be mindful of not taking up parking spaces when looking for a place to camp," advises Laura M. about the Sierra Vista area.
What Campers Like
Convenience to White Sands National Park: Leasburg Dam State Park Campground serves as a good base for day trips. "We used the time to get caught up on a few things. The other two days were spent exploring Las Cruces including laundry mats and a great visit to White Sands National Park," shares Rick G.
Clean, well-maintained facilities: Campgrounds in the area generally receive praise for cleanliness. "This campground has clean toilets and showers. A bit windy but you get clean covered shelter with picnic tables and a grill (when available)," notes Thomas E.T. about Leasburg Dam State Park.
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the spacing between sites at certain campgrounds. "Sites are close together but there is good privacy between spots. The views are amazing! Good cell signal," reports Julie F. about Aguirre Spring Campground.
Astronomical events: Some campgrounds organize special night sky events. "Well maintained park, clean facilities, and delightful monthly activities with the local astronomical society including live music, refreshments, and stargazing," mentions Barbara M. about her experience at Leasburg Dam.
What You Should Know
High winds common in spring: The Las Cruces area experiences significant wind events, especially during spring months. "We had two full days of high winds and blowing dust that kept us inside," reports Rick G. about his stay at Leasburg Dam State Park.
Road conditions to dispersed sites: Many of the free BLM camping areas require careful driving. "The road is pretty rocky, take it slow and you'll be good though. 4wd not needed, I managed fine in a 2wd Escape, wouldn't attempt going too far in with low clearance as some rocks are pretty big," advises lynsey F. about Baylor Canyon Rd Spur, BLM, Free.
Wildlife encounters: Be prepared for potential wildlife interactions. "Heard coyote's howling pretty nearby around 1:30am, and in the area again at 3am-ish. There was also lots of scat around, pretty large piles, thinking it's cow as there's several cattle ranches very close by," warns lynsey F.
Limited facilities at dispersed sites: Free camping areas lack basic amenities. "This is a dispersed camping space so there aren't bathrooms. You get a bit of nighttime wind as a heads up for tent campers," explains Morgan Z. about the Sierra Vista area.
Tips for Camping with Families
Choose established campgrounds for amenities: Las Cruces KOA offers family-friendly facilities. "We stopped on either end of our trip to the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta. The kids enjoyed cornhole, basketball, tetherball, and the playground. The store was well stocked," shares Candy P.
Schedule activities around weather patterns: Morning activities are best during summer months when temperatures are lower. "We were able to move the picnic table that's under each awning to side so that we could set up our two person tent with more protection from the rain," suggests mads about Aguirre Spring Campground during wet weather.
Pack for temperature fluctuations: The desert climate means warm days and cool nights year-round. "Tent camping 6/5/25. Almost all of the spots are full, unless you go much farther back onto what seems to be a rough dirt road. Beautiful clear sky and view of the mountains," notes Haley L. about her experience at Sierra Vista.
Bring additional shade structures: Many sites offer minimal natural shade. "Very scenic BLM campground. $7 a night ($3.50 seniors with pass). Each site shaded table and trash bin. Only vehicles up to 23 ft," reports Christopher P. about Aguirre Spring Recreation Area.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations at mountain campgrounds: Aguirre Spring Recreation Area and Campground has restrictions on larger rigs. "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. Road IS narrow and winding and steep in place but pave and ONE way," warns Mark M.
Dog-friendly campgrounds near Las Cruces: Most campgrounds welcome pets with standard restrictions. "Hacienda RV Resort is a friendly and clean 55+ park in central Las Cruces. The dog park is large and has several entrances- it also provides waste bags and a garbage can, which is a plus," notes Carlyne F.
Water pressure considerations: Some RV parks have high water pressure. "As noted in other review here: Traffic is fast on curved road, be alert. Staff is friendly and let us know water pressure is high so use a reducer," advises Mark M. about Hacienda RV Resort.
Cell service for digital nomads: Connectivity is generally good at most campgrounds. "We had great service for work and virtual classes," mentions Izzy T. about Baylor Canyon Road Spur dispersed camping area, making it suitable for remote workers requiring internet access.
