Best Campgrounds near Caballo, NM
Caballo, New Mexico supports multiple campground options around Caballo Lake and the Rio Grande, with Caballo Lake State Park offering the primary developed camping in the region. The area includes several distinct camping areas, including Appaloosa, Palomino, Riverside, and Stallion campgrounds, all located within the state park boundaries. Most sites feature water and electric hookups suitable for both tent and RV camping, with some locations providing full hookups including sewer connections. Private options include Caballo Lake RV Park and Lakeview RV Park, which cater primarily to RV travelers. The broader region also encompasses Elephant Butte Lake State Park approximately 15 miles to the north and Percha Dam State Park just south of Caballo.
Road access throughout the region remains consistently good with paved roads leading to most established campgrounds. Water availability varies seasonally, with occasional system maintenance affecting some campgrounds. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F, while winter nights can drop below freezing, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons. Most campgrounds within Caballo Lake State Park require reservations, though some primitive camping is available near the lake. Cell service is generally reliable across the area. Elevation around Caballo Lake sits at approximately 4,200 feet, offering views of the surrounding mountains. A visitor noted, "We stayed in the Palamino Loop which has a nice view of the lake with full RV hookups, but the spots did feel cramped."
The shoreline camping areas provide scenic views of both Caballo Lake and the nearby mountains, making them particularly popular among visitors. Covered picnic shelters are common at established sites, providing shade in an otherwise exposed desert landscape. Wildlife viewing opportunities include mourning doves and migratory birds, with some campers reporting sightings of cranes across the lake. Hiking trails wind through the park, though they tend to be relatively short desert paths rather than extensive trail systems. Several reviewers noted the cleanliness of facilities, with one mentioning, "The park is very well taken care of. There are numerous trails outlined by rocks, and there's a variety of trails to go down to the Caballo Lake reservoir." Proximity to Truth or Consequences (approximately 15 miles north) allows campers to access additional amenities, including the town's famous hot springs.
