The Lemitar area sits in the Rio Grande Valley, with elevations ranging from 4,600 to 4,800 feet. RV parks near Lemitar, New Mexico benefit from the region's semi-arid climate with mild winters and hot summers. Cell coverage varies significantly between campgrounds, with stronger signals closer to Interstate 25.
What to do
Bird watching at Bosque del Apache NWR: Located just a short drive from Bosque Birdwatchers RV Park, the wildlife refuge offers prime viewing opportunities for migratory birds. "Campground has great showers and restrooms. Very little shade. Great prices. Bird watchers area," notes Ken, who visited in March 2023.
Hiking in Manzano Mountains: The Red Canyon Campground provides direct access to several trailheads. "Right next to trailheads. Great Mountain biking on forest roads that link canyons," reports John H. The area features pine forests with abundant wildflowers during spring and summer months.
Stargazing opportunities: The rural setting offers excellent night sky viewing with minimal light pollution. "We had a great night with a campfire and a good view of the stars and moon," says Jennifer A. about her experience at Red Canyon Campground.
What campers like
Affordability of sites: Many campgrounds in the Lemitar vicinity offer budget-friendly rates compared to larger cities. "Only paid $6 a night. With water access and cell phone signal, can't ask for more at that price," mentioned one camper about Escondida Lake Park.
Convenient location: La Vista RV Park offers both scenic views and practical access to services. "We woke up to a gorgeous view of the nearby scenery and were just a half mile from a Loves to gas up and head out for another day of driving," writes Rio J., highlighting the balance of beauty and convenience.
Wildlife encounters: Many sites offer opportunities to view local fauna. "Very green and lush with deer visiting our site at dusk!" shares Jacob S. about his camping experience at Red Canyon Campground.
What you should know
Limited shade at many sites: Sun exposure can be significant during summer months. At Bosque Birdwatchers RV Park, Ken notes there's "very little shade," a common characteristic of many RV parks in the Lemitar region.
Toilet facilities vary significantly: While some parks offer clean, maintained facilities, others provide minimal options. At Red Canyon Campground, one visitor observed, "though there are bathrooms at the location, they are really smelly and flies surround them."
Seasonal considerations: Camping experience changes dramatically with seasons. One camper at Red Canyon Campground advises, "I'd recommend going before Memorial Day while the sites are still clean," suggesting that popular periods may impact site conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Pack water supplies: Many campgrounds have limited or no drinking water available. "Toilets but no water so come prepared," advises John H. about Red Canyon Campground.
Consider noise factors: Train tracks and highways create variable noise levels depending on location. At Chupadero Mountainview RV Park, Susan M. notes, "A train track runs a 1/4 mile or so from the front of the campground, and 3-4 trains do go by at odd hours, so don't stay here if you don't like trains."
Look for kid-friendly trails: Some campgrounds offer accessible hiking for younger visitors. "Nice kid-friendly trails adjacent to the campground," reports Gavin J. about his experience at Red Canyon Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing awareness: At Chupadero Mountainview RV Park, plan for close neighbors. "This is a simple campground with sites very close to each other and without shade at the sites," explains Jill, noting the compact layout typical of many RV parks around Lemitar.
Dump station availability: Not all parks offer this amenity. "They don't have sewer but they do have a dump station," explains Eric P., highlighting the need to plan for waste management when selecting camping options in the area.
Hookup variations: Sites offer different levels of services even within the same campground. Keith shared about Chupadero Mountainview RV Park: "My site had only power and water, which was fine. There is a very nice, clean restroom available, so no need for sewage hookup, though most sites had it available."
