High-elevation tent camping near Mayhill, New Mexico ranges from 7,000 to 9,500 feet in the Sacramento Mountains. Summer temperatures average 75°F during day but drop to 40-45°F at night. Campers should prepare for afternoon thunderstorms from July through September, with lightning safety requiring campers to seek shelter in vehicles rather than under trees.
What to do
Hiking accessible trails: Several miles of hiking paths connect to James Canyon Campground, making it convenient for overnight hikers. "This is a first-come first-serve campground. Since it is small, spots fill up fast. We camped on a Saturday night and there was only one site left open by eight o'clock pm," notes reviewer Brittany S.
Wildlife viewing: Fall camping at Lower Karr Canyon Campground provides opportunities to see various animals. One camper reported, "Very remote and quiet. We didn't go too far in but plenty of sites available and didn't see a single other soul. Easily accessible and had vaulted toilets available. Saw plenty of wildlife including elk, wild turkey, and mule deer."
Mountain driving: The scenic route to Monjeau Campground offers panoramic views for day trips from Mayhill. "The drive up is full of narrow switchbacks that you just hope and pray nobody else happens to be coming around at the same time as you are. There are some quite steep grades as well," explains Chad D., recommending careful driving on the mountain roads.
What campers like
Secluded campsites: The walk-in tent sites at Slide Group Campground provide privacy from other campers. Ron G. shares, "We have rented Slide Campground several times for group RV & tent camping. It features vault toilets if you need them, a tent area, a very large covered pavilion for those rainy days, large firepit area, cooking grills & a large parking lot for RVs & kids to play."
Cooler temperatures: The high elevation camping options offer relief from desert heat. "Surrounding area was up to 110 and was 85 when we pulled in here and thankfully down to 55 at night," reports Colin M. about James Canyon in June.
Cell service considerations: Most mountain campsites have limited connectivity. At Upper Bonito Dispersed Recreation Area, you'll need to hike for service. As Jorge G. explains about Lower Karr Canyon, "being deep in the canyon means that there's no cell signal unless you hoof it a fair bit up a hill."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to best tent camping near Mayhill varies significantly by location. Reviewer Jorge G. notes about Lower Karr Canyon, "The last 2 miles or so being rather rough dirt. Most cars should be able to make it if driven with care, though."
Limited facilities: Most tent campgrounds have minimal amenities. "The site I stayed at had a fire ring/grill, picnic table and a tent pad. One of the sites had an Adirondack shelter," explains Rick G. about James Canyon Campground.
Wind exposure: High-elevation sites can experience significant winds. At Skyline Campground, "It's absolutely stunning to camp at the peak of a mountain. You have 360 views of the region, but beware, the wind can get quite torrential and there is not a ton of shade but there is some!" warns Michael.
Water availability: Most campgrounds near Mayhill require bringing your own water. Roger W. notes about James Canyon, "Potable Water Available: No," highlighting the need to arrive prepared with sufficient water supplies.
Tips for camping with families
Group accommodations: For larger family gatherings, consider reserving designated group sites. "It easily held 3 RVs and 20 people. They provide 300 gallons of water in a tank," shares Ron G. about Slide Group Campground facilities.
Easy-access options: Families with young children may prefer drive-in sites with minimal hiking. "Good level one spot of two total drive-in. Also had parking lot a car parked all night (they may have tented). Very easy access and directly off the road," explains Colin M. about James Canyon.
Wildlife education opportunities: Turn animal sightings into learning experiences for children. At Dry Canyon Near Hang Glider Launch, "The camping is great and the views are amazing. However, the trail up to the camping spots is steep, washed out, and tight," notes Mark G., indicating families should choose their campsite location based on vehicle capabilities.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most Mayhill area tent campgrounds can only accommodate small RVs and camper vans. Roger W. advises about James Canyon, "There are only two sides when you can accommodate an RV. Rig Size: much over 22' would be difficult."
Leveling challenges: Mountain terrain requires careful positioning. "Site Spacing: good. Pad surface: RV sites," Roger W. continues, but warns, "both RV sites are back in. A little bit of extra work is required to back the trailer down to go to one of the two site."
Generator policies: Check regulations before arriving with generator-dependent setups. At James Canyon, "Generators: allowed," notes Roger W., providing essential information for RVers needing power.
