Camping near Mentmore, New Mexico offers access to the diverse terrain of northwestern New Mexico, where the elevation ranges from 6,000-8,000 feet, creating distinct camping conditions across seasons. The Zuni Mountains provide forested camping options with temperatures typically 10-15 degrees cooler than surrounding lowlands. Winter nights frequently drop below freezing while summer daytime temperatures average in the mid-80s.
What to do
Hiking at El Morro National Monument: Located just minutes from El Morro RV Park and Cabins, this historic site features ancient inscriptions and pueblo ruins. "Morro National monument nearby is spectacular," notes camper Kathy L., who appreciated the natural and cultural significance of the area.
Mountain biking on forest trails: The Zuni Mountains offer extensive trail systems accessible from campgrounds in the area. At Quaking Aspen Campground, visitors find "Amazing hiking and mtb'ing trails. And, a nice lake," according to Tommy B., who called it "The Best $5 campsite."
Explore local cultural attractions: Gallup offers numerous trading posts and Native American art galleries within a short drive. As Mike M. from USA RV Park explains, "Gallup is a super interesting place and could have easily spent way more time than we did."
What campers like
Comfortable temperatures at elevation: The higher elevations provide relief from summer heat. "When summer heat was beginning to knock everywhere else in late May, it was serious blanket weather up here," shares a camper named Chip about Quaking Aspen Campground, noting the cool nighttime temperatures even during warmer seasons.
Well-spaced campsites: Many campgrounds in the region offer privacy between sites. "Small campground with massive campsites. This campground could easily squeeze double, if not triple, the sites out of these woods, but someone decided to let everyone breath a little here," explains Chip about the spacious layout at USA RV Park.
Clean, well-maintained facilities: Visitors consistently mention the upkeep of campgrounds in the area. "Level sites. Cleaner than clean restrooms and laundry facility," reports Stephanie H., who appreciated the standards at USA RV Park enough to stay "twice in one trip."
What you should know
Limited water availability: Many forest campgrounds lack running water. At Quaking Aspen Campground, campers should come prepared as it's a "PRIMITIVE campground with trails and fishing but NO WATER," according to Irene L., who still rated it 5 stars as a stopover location.
Wildlife precautions necessary: The Zuni Mountains area has significant wildlife presence. "We saw abundant wildlife while working in the Zunis, including several brown bears, deer, and elk," reports Tyler G., recommending that visitors "take necessary bear-proofing precautions" when staying at forest campgrounds.
Variable connectivity: Cell service can be inconsistent depending on location. Susan R. noted at USA RV Park that "The cell signal seemed strong from the indicators on our devices but I guess due to the number of users in the area, we had slow service. We tried the park's WiFi but it was too slow to do much."
Tips for camping with families
Consider delivery options for kid-friendly meals: Some campgrounds are close enough to towns for food delivery service. "We were able to get pizza delivered to our RV site which was a big hit with the kids," shares Nicole B. about her family's overnight stay at USA RV Park.
Look for campgrounds with amenities for children: Swimming pools and play areas keep younger campers entertained. "They had all of the amenities I wanted, showers clean bathrooms, lots of pull through sites, and a pool," reports Mike F., who found Quaking Aspen Campground "Wonderful" for his family's needs.
Plan for cooler nights: Even in summer, temperatures can drop significantly after sunset in this region. "We were here in August and it was pleasantly cool," notes Zoey T. about glamping near Mentmore at Quaking Aspen, adding that there was "plenty of firewood" for keeping warm during cooler evenings.
Tips from RVers
Book ahead during peak seasons: RV sites can fill quickly, especially at popular locations. "Friday night, late May, and we barely got the last spot. No reservations makes this gem a tricky quest when you're running a bit late," advises Chip about securing spots at primitive camping areas.
Consider site leveling requirements: Many campgrounds have sites requiring minimal leveling equipment. "Our site was mostly level so we used our small curved levelers on one side," notes Susan R. about her stay at USA RV Park, though she cautions that "the sites are VERY close together."
Look for discount programs: Several RV parks offer rate reductions for membership organizations. "Full hookups with military and good sam discounts. We've stayed here before and we will again," mentions jeanne A., highlighting the value available at USA RV Park for qualified visitors.
