RV camping near Medanales, New Mexico provides visitors access to high desert terrain between 5,500-6,000 feet elevation. Summer temperatures often reach 90°F during daytime hours but cool significantly at night, typical of the northern New Mexico climate pattern. Winter camping remains possible at lower elevations near Medanales, with daytime temperatures averaging 45-55°F from November through February.
What to do
Explore Bandelier National Monument: Located approximately 35 miles from Medanales, this ancestral Puebloan site features cliff dwellings and petroglyphs. "We stayed a few nights to explore Los Alamos and the park. It's convenient to have the grocery store within walking distance, and there's a YMCA in Los Alamos where you can purchase shower passes for $5," notes a visitor at White Rock Visitor Center RV Park.
Visit the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge: About 40 minutes from Medanales, this 650-foot bridge spans the Rio Grande. "Stunning views" can be seen from the bridge area according to multiple campers. One visitor at Taos Valley RV Park & Campground mentions "This location is so prime for visiting all the sights in Taos, and there are many. Restaurants are really close enough to walk to and there is an Ace Hardware store across the street for emergency repairs."
Hike the local trails: Several campgrounds offer hiking opportunities. At Hyde Memorial State Park Campground, a camper reports "The waterfall trail was beautiful, the vault toilet was clean, the views were incredible. Very peaceful." Another camper adds, "The hiking trails were awesome. We booked a reservable with hydro for one night and decided to extend our stay."
What campers like
Mountain views: The panoramic mountain landscapes surrounding many campsites draw frequent praise. One camper at Taos Monte Bello RV Park states, "Just watched an amazing sunset from our spot. Conveniently located and super affordable." Another notes, "The spaces are wide and angled enough to allow for great views!"
Well-maintained facilities: Many campgrounds in the region feature clean, regularly serviced amenities. "The showers worked well and were clean. The only negative was the noise from the adjacent streets with what sounded like street racing, finally quieting down around 1AM," mentions a camper at Taos Valley RV Park.
Pet accommodations: Dog owners appreciate dedicated pet areas at several campgrounds. "There is a dog run area with artificial turf and a water pump and bowl. It was clean and well kept," reports a visitor at White Rock Visitor Center RV Park. Another camper at Santa Fe Skies RV Park appreciates the "Fenced dog park!!" among other amenities like "Walking trains (w/ doggie bags)" and "Awesome sculpture art."
What you should know
Reservations systems vary: Some parks have transitioned from first-come, first-served to reservation systems. "When we got here, there was a QR code on the electrical box that took me to an online reservation site. I called the parks department and the lady I talked to said they changed it about 6 months ago and it was no longer first come first served," reports a visitor at White Rock Visitor Center RV Park.
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds require leveling equipment. "Sites are all sloping downhill toward the Fire Station, you will very likely need to use blocks if you don't have a mechanical leveling system," notes a camper about White Rock Visitor Center.
Noise considerations: Urban campgrounds experience traffic noise. A camper at Los Sueños de Santa Fe RV Park reports, "If you're looking for a perfectly manicured RV park, this is not your stop. If you're good with a spot that has super friendly staff and is a little quirky, you'll enjoy your stay."
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with playground access: Some campgrounds offer facilities specifically for children. "There was a fun playground my kids enjoyed and a nice area at the group shelter. Lots of fun painted rocks my kids found by the stream," reports a family staying at Hyde Memorial State Park.
Consider tent options at hybrid facilities: Many RV parks accommodate tent camping in designated areas. "The tent sites have covered awnings and fire pits when open flame is allowed," notes a camper at Hyde Memorial State Park Campground.
Look for educational opportunities: Several campgrounds provide access to natural and cultural learning experiences. A visitor at LUXX - Taos RV Park mentions, "Nice small ish RV park, well maintained. Nice sized spots and vegetation between sites."
Tips from RVers
Verify hookup availability: Hookup options vary significantly between locations. "There is 50 and 30amp only connections. No water or sewer. There is a dump station and RV fresh water fill station," explains a visitor at White Rock Visitor Center.
Plan for weather extremes: High desert climate requires preparation. "Bring layers year round, despite being less than 10 miles from Santa Fe where weather is often very warm, the elevation is much different and considerably cooler," advises a camper at Hyde Memorial State Park.
Check road access limitations: Some campgrounds present challenges for larger vehicles. "First, you have to navigate through old Santa Fe to get to the entrance of the park. Narrow streets+a big 5th wheel+a huge F250= unfun drive," warns a camper at Hyde Memorial State Park.
