Las Cruces, New Mexico sits at an elevation of 3,900 feet in the Mesilla Valley, with the dramatic Organ Mountains rising to 9,000 feet on the eastern horizon. Camping options around Las Cruces are particularly suited to winter visitors seeking mild temperatures, as December through February daytime highs average 60-65°F with nighttime lows rarely dropping below 30°F. Summer heat routinely exceeds 100°F in June and July, making spring and fall the optimal seasons for tent camping at sites near Las Cruces, New Mexico.
What to do
Morning hiking trails: The Baylor Canyon Pass Trail offers a moderately difficult 4-mile hike with elevation gain of over 1,000 feet. Located at Aguirre Spring Recreation Area and Campground, "There is a lovely 4 mile hike that loops up in the mountains by the sites," notes camper Kara S., who recommends getting an early start to avoid afternoon heat.
Stargazing sessions: Las Cruces area campgrounds provide excellent night sky viewing despite some city light pollution. At Sierra Vista dispersed camping area, one visitor reported, "The stars from here are pretty great too!" Another camper at Sierra Vista - Back Side Dispersed mentioned, "Beautiful clear sky and view of the mountains," making these free camping options ideal for astronomy enthusiasts.
Visit historic sites: Explore nearby historic attractions including the Dripping Springs historical site. "Dripping Springs' historical site is bear by too," mentions camper Bonnie L. who stayed at Sierra Vista. The area contains several 19th century structures including a sanitarium, hotel ruins, and historic homesteads accessible via short hiking trails.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Aguirre Spring Recreation Area and Campground, "There are 55 total campsites here. First come, first serve. Smaller RVs only as a winding road takes you here and the spots are small. Sites are close together but there is good privacy between spots," reports Julie F., highlighting the balance between accessibility and seclusion.
Mountain views: The dramatic Organ Mountains provide a stunning backdrop for many campgrounds. A camper at Baylor Canyon Rd Spur, BLM, Free observed, "The views are stunning! Person not too far from me pitched a tent, I car camp so can't say how tent conditions would be, but saw him with a tent pitched & staked!" This free dispersed camping area offers particularly good views of both mountains and city lights.
Covered picnic areas: Shaded eating areas provide welcome relief from desert sun. At Leasburg Dam State Park Campground, one camper mentioned, "Each site shaded table and trash bin," while another noted, "We had water, electricity, fire pit and an Adobe structure covering the picnic table." These ramada structures are characteristic of many New Mexico state park campgrounds.
What you should know
High winds common: Desert wind conditions can be challenging, particularly in spring months. A camper at Sierra Vista warned, "You get a bit of nighttime wind as a heads up for tent campers," while another visitor stated more emphatically, "Super crazy windy in the afternoons." Secure tent stakes and awnings are essential year-round.
Water availability limited: Most dispersed camping areas have no water sources. "No water" is listed for most BLM sites. At Aguirre Spring, a camper advised, "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."
Road conditions variable: Access to more remote campsites often requires careful driving. At Baylor Canyon, a camper reported, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Las Cruces KOA offers multiple activities for children. "The kids enjoyed cornhole, basketball, tetherball, and the playground. The store was well stocked," reports Candy P., making this a good option for families wanting recreational options beyond hiking.
Wildlife watching opportunities: Coyotes and other desert wildlife are common near camping areas. At Sierra Vista - Back Side Dispersed, a camper noted, "Heard coyote's howling pretty nearby around 1:30am, and in the area again at 3am-ish." Another camper mentioned, "We watched a gray fox during day that was nearby," providing natural educational opportunities for children.
Educational experiences: The region offers learning opportunities about desert ecosystems. "There are lots of walkways with desert flowers to see, on rio grande river," notes a visitor to Leasburg Dam State Park. Some campgrounds also feature ranger programs, with one camper mentioning, "BLM ranger stopped by about once per day to check on things, which was nice."
Tips from RVers
Optimal hookup information: Hacienda RV Resort provides full service sites with reliable connections. "The sites are level concrete pads with full hookups," notes one reviewer. Another mentions specific amenities: "Site was level. There is a free dogwash! We did not use spa but it was clean and there is a large patio area for activities/cookouts that is quite nice."
Water pressure considerations: Several RV parks in Las Cruces have unusually high water pressure. One RVer noted, "Staff is friendly and let us know water pressure is high so use a reducer." Water pressure regulators are essential equipment for RVs staying at developed campgrounds in this area.
Length restrictions: Several campgrounds have limitations on RV length. At Aguirre Spring, "BLM recommends nothing more than 23' long," reports one camper, while another observed, "Road IS narrow and winding and steep in place but pave and ONE way (don't turn wrong direction)." Always verify size restrictions before arrival.
