RV camping near Magdalena, New Mexico offers options for travelers exploring the southwest region. Situated at approximately 6,556 feet elevation in the Bear Mountains, Magdalena experiences significant temperature fluctuations between day and night, even during summer months. The surrounding area consists primarily of high desert terrain with juniper, piñon pine, and seasonal wildflowers.
What to do
Bird watching at Bosque del Apache: Chupadero Mountainview RV Park is located just 6 miles from Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge, making it ideal for wildlife enthusiasts. "We enjoyed their hospitality. Great price for the amenities and only 6 miles from viewing the migratory birds at Bosque del Apace," notes one visitor.
Canyon exploration: The red rock formations at San Lorenzo Canyon provide geological features worth exploring. A camper explains, "Follow the arroyo past a giant 'bread loaf' that is a geological unconformity. Drive into an abrupt canyon with straight walls and side slots."
Fishing opportunities: The small lake at Escondida Lake Park & Campground offers fishing with convenient access. One camper reports, "Caught a fish within 10 minutes throwing out my lure. Fishing was busier in the morning but caught this just before sunset."
What campers like
Free firewood availability: Some county-managed campgrounds provide complimentary firewood, adding value to your stay. "Place was clean, level gravel, had great neighbors... free firewood!" mentions a camper at Escondida Lake Park & Campground.
Natural shade trees: During hot weather, campgrounds with mature trees offer relief. At Kiva RV Park, "Plenty of big cottonwood trees provided shade. The place is clearly run on a low budget, but is well maintained and there is pride in the work here."
Proximity to wildlife refuges: Camping spots near natural preserves allow for early morning wildlife viewing. One visitor at Chupadero Mountainview RV Park took "a chance and stopped here with no reservation after deciding that my planned camp reservation elsewhere was a dump. The nice owners were eager to fit me in for two nights during the crowded season for birdwatchers."
What you should know
Train noise considerations: Several campgrounds in the region have nearby train tracks. A camper at Escondida Lake notes, "The night was quiet with the exception of a train that went by in the middle of the night. It woke me up but it really didn't bother me."
Cell service and wifi options: Mobile connectivity varies by location. At Kiva RV Park, one camper reports, "I just used my hotspot from my Verizon service and because we had 4 bars, that worked just fine for streaming some Netflix that night."
Bathroom facilities vary: Restroom availability and conditions differ significantly between campgrounds. "The bathroom is tended to but basic," mentions one Escondida Lake camper, while another notes that during COVID restrictions, there were "No bathrooms during covid, which sucks."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer play areas for children. At Escondida Lake Park & Campground, the layout includes "two basic areas, the fishing area around the pond which is good sized... and the camping area with hookups and tent sites. In between was the playground and bathroom area."
Watch for desert hazards: Natural vegetation includes prickly plants. "There are little stickers so don't let pets run in the 'grass' or kids barefoot. And bring your bug spray. I am covered in bug bites," warns a visitor at Escondida Lake Park.
Evening noise levels: Family-friendly campgrounds typically maintain quiet hours, though enforcement varies. "First night (Friday) was great. Quiet. Saturday was quiet as well," notes one camper, though they later experienced issues with loud music from other campers.
Tips from RVers
4WD recommended for dispersed camping: Off-road sites may require appropriate vehicles. A visitor to San Lorenzo Canyon advises, "Don't attempt unless you have 4 wheel drive and/or sand mode if you plan to pull a heavy trailer. Otherwise, most other vehicles out tent camping didn't seem to have too many problems."
Accurate directions matter: GPS services don't always provide correct routing to campgrounds. "The coordinates take you to a closed off section if you use Google maps," warns a San Lorenzo Canyon visitor. At La Vista RV Park, campers appreciate being "just a half mile from a Loves to gas up and head out for another day of driving."
Site maneuverability varies: Some campgrounds have challenging layouts. "When we pulled up there was a maintenance employee doing his job. We were trying to get into our spot. My husband is hard of hearing and I was trying to guide him," explains an Escondida Lake camper who experienced vehicle damage while parking.
