The Manzano Mountains provide a scenic backdrop for horse-friendly camping opportunities near Los Lunas, New Mexico. At elevations ranging from 5,000 to 7,000 feet, this region offers a cooler alternative to the Rio Grande valley floor during summer months. Most equestrian camping areas remain accessible from April through November, with snow typically limiting winter access to the higher elevation sites.
What to do
Trail riding in National Forest land: Several campgrounds near Los Lunas provide direct access to forest trails. At Red Canyon Campground, campers appreciate the trail access from their sites. "Beautiful secluded spot in the Manzanos. Nice kid-friendly trails adjacent to the campground," notes Gavin J. The trails connect multiple canyons with moderate elevation gains.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The Manzano foothills offer excellent chances to observe native wildlife. "We stayed in the camping area near the trailhead. Very green and lush with deer visiting our site at dusk!" shares Jacob S. about Red Canyon Campground. Wild horses can also be spotted at certain dispersed camping areas within 30 miles of Los Lunas.
Stargazing at higher elevations: The higher altitude dispersed sites provide exceptional night sky viewing. At Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site, campers report minimal light pollution. "You can clearly see the Milky Way. No light pollution except the beautiful view of the city far away," says Lauren I. The area's designation as a Dark Sky Sanctuary makes it ideal for astrophotography.
What campers like
Proximity to Albuquerque while feeling remote: Many campsites offer a balance between accessibility and seclusion. Turquoise Trail Campground earns praise for this balance. "Great place to stay. Convenient drive to Albuquerque," notes Rebecca P. The campground sits at nearly 7,000 feet elevation, providing cooler temperatures in summer.
Horse-specific amenities: Dedicated equestrian facilities make traveling with horses more convenient. At Cuervo Mountain RV Park and Horse Hotel, the owner maintains specialized accommodations. "He also has a large storage area in the back, laundry, restrooms, a few airbnbs on site, playground and a horse hotel!" explains Mykah B.
Clean facilities at established campgrounds: Travelers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. "Nice place for an overnight stay. Owner is nice, laundry, showers & restrooms," shares Sussn S. about Kiva RV Park & Horse Motel. For those seeking more primitive options, dispersed camping in the Manzano Mountains offers privacy with pit toilets at designated sites.
What you should know
Road conditions to remote sites: Accessing some dispersed camping areas requires careful driving. "Pretty rough getting here as neighbors are sabotaging the road making it narrow using loose gravel & boulders on turns," warns Cher & Walter P. about Top of New Mexico Dispersed Site. High clearance vehicles are recommended for most forest service roads.
Seasonal limitations: Weather impacts campground availability. "This campground is nice with sites for RV and tent camping... I did have spotty T-Mobile service," mentions Jennifer A. about Red Canyon Campground. Most higher elevation sites close after the first significant snowfall, typically in November.
Highway noise considerations: Some campgrounds near major roads experience traffic noise. At Manzano Mountains Camp, the remote location provides better sound insulation. "Remote and quiet... Ponderosa Pines, oak and juniper scrub. Ample supply of downed trees to use as firewood," reports Roger J.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. "The playground was nice for our daughter," mentions Jessica P. about Cuervo Mountain RV Park. These facilities provide entertainment options when not on horseback trails.
Educational opportunities: The region offers natural science learning experiences. "Enjoyed the site! They had RV, cabins and tent camp sites," notes a camper about Turquoise Trail Campground, which once featured a museum (now closed). Several nearby nature centers provide ranger programs during summer months.
Weather preparedness: Temperature fluctuations can be significant. "Gets muddy if it rains," warns Roger J. about Manzano Mountains Camp. Families should pack layers, as evening temperatures can drop 30 degrees below daytime highs, even in summer.
Tips from RVers
Hookup details: Utility connections vary widely between campgrounds. "Roomy, pull-through parking. The slides and awning were fully extended without getting close to the adjacent sites," shares Ben N. about Cuervo Mountain RV Park. Most equestrian-friendly campgrounds accommodate larger rigs and horse trailers.
Cell service considerations: Connectivity varies by location and provider. "Connectivity was spotty. I did get a phone call while using the bathroom in the lower campground," notes Bob C. about Red Canyon Campground. Turquoise Trail Campground receives praise for reliable WiFi: "Cabin has power, wi-fi and a fridge! Highly Recommend," according to Beverly M.
Leveling challenges: Terrain can make RV leveling difficult at some sites. "Site 23 was a pull through and level. Water and electric both worked fine," reports Jil S. about Turquoise Trail Campground. Bringing leveling blocks is advisable, especially at dispersed and forest service campgrounds.
