Red Canyon Campground in the Manzano Mountains sits at approximately 7,700 feet elevation, offering a pine forest environment with significant temperature changes between day and night. Located about 70 miles southeast of Albuquerque, this area provides seasonal camping opportunities in a mountainous terrain that contrasts with the desert conditions often associated with New Mexico. The campground's higher elevation delivers cooler temperatures even during summer months.
What to do
Avoid holiday crowds: Red Canyon Campground experiences sanitation and cleanliness issues during peak periods. "I'd recommend going before Memorial Day while the sites are still clean," advises Carson P., noting that some visitors "don't know camp etiquette and leave the sites completely trashed."
Connect trails from camp: Access hiking directly from Red Canyon Campground without relocating vehicles. "This is an amazing campsite. There are nice fire pits and picnic spots," shares Atheena T., though she warns about bathroom conditions being less than ideal.
Try mountain biking routes: Forest roads provide interconnected riding opportunities between canyons. "Great Mountain biking on forest roads that link canyons," notes John H., emphasizing the lack of water availability with "Toilets but no water so come prepared."
What campers like
Cell service surprises: Despite remote location, some visitors report unexpected connectivity. "Connectivity was spotty. I did get a phone call while using the bathroom in the lower campground," reports Bob C. about Red Canyon Campground, adding it's a "Beautiful campground with large spaces. Not crowded."
Wildlife viewing: Dawn and dusk provide opportunities to spot local fauna in natural settings. "Very green and lush with deer visiting our site at dusk!" shares Jacob S. about his experience camping near the trailhead.
Shaded sites for summer comfort: Tree cover provides crucial relief during warmer months. Jennifer A. notes, "This campground is nice with sites for RV and tent camping," though she experienced nighttime disturbances from "someone started illegally cutting down trees at 2 in the morning."
What you should know
Bear precautions required: Food storage containers provided at designated sites. Jennifer A. confirms, "There are vault toilets, trash bins, and bear boxes," and mentions spotty T-Mobile service is available at Springtime Campground.
Bathroom conditions vary: Expect basic vault toilets with seasonal maintenance issues. "Though there are bathrooms at the location, they are really smelly and flies surround them," warns Atheena T. about Red Canyon facilities.
Seasonal operating schedules: Most campgrounds in the area operate April through November due to winter conditions. Dennis P. found at Springtime Campground that "you're rewarded with Adirondack shelters and shaded sites. We even had split firewood at our site courtesy of a fire crew."
Tips for camping with families
Choose kid-appropriate trails: Several paths from campgrounds suit younger hikers. "Nice kid-friendly trails adjacent to the campground," mentions Gavin J. about his family experience at Turner Inn & RV Park, which offers an alternative to more primitive camping options.
Pack extra water supplies: No drinking water available at most sites means planning ahead. Mary L. notes that at Turner Inn, "Campsites are level full hook ups. Nice people they have Wi-Fi nice bathrooms there's a really great grocery store downtown."
Consider yurt camping: For families seeking a compromise between tent camping and cabins, yurt camping near Lemitar, New Mexico offers an alternative to standard accommodations, particularly for those camping with children or during shoulder seasons.
Tips from RVers
Limited services for larger rigs: Most forest campgrounds have size restrictions and minimal amenities. "The road in may require 4x4 depending on any precip or how one drives," warns Dennis P., though his efforts were rewarded with good sites and available firewood.
Hook-up options in nearby towns: When full amenities are needed, consider campgrounds in Mountainair. "It was $36 if I paid cash and that was with a 10% discount," reports Mary L. about Turner Inn, noting the campground offers full hookups and level sites with WiFi access.
Check site orientation: Consider which direction your RV door faces when selecting spots. Eric P. advises, "Mostly back in spaces so pay attention what side your door is on and opens to," adding the campground has "Good water pressure. Great TV reception from Alb, NM TV stations."
