Equestrian Camping near Mentmore, NM

Red Rock Park & Campground accommodates equestrian activities with designated trails including Church Rock and Pyramid Rock trails, offering moderately challenging terrain for riders. Located at an elevation of 6,500 feet near Mentmore, the park experiences dramatic temperature variations between seasons, with summer highs in the 90s and winter lows below freezing. The area's distinctive sandstone formations provide a scenic backdrop for trail riding and camping, with most sites situated on sandy terrain.

What to do

Hiking accessible trails: Explore the Church Rock and Pyramid Rock trails that span approximately 3-3.5 miles round trip from Red Rock Park & Campground. "You're surrounded by desert on one side and dark red stone on the other, very cool place and trails," notes camper Fain H.

View wild horses: Visit Bluewater Lake State Park Campground where wild horses frequently roam through the camping areas. "There were horses roaming through the campground. Mostly empty this April midweek. Good trails for hiking," reports Jennifer W.

Attend seasonal events: Schedule your visit during special events at Red Rock Park, when the arena facilities come alive. "There are events at the open arena, featuring rodeos, Native American celebrations, and an annual balloon festival in early December. It's beautiful to watch the balloons float about the red rocks in the park," writes Jean C.

What campers like

Rock formations and color: The vibrant red sandstone cliffs create a striking landscape that many visitors photograph. "Red Rock is nestled amongst beautiful sandstone cliffs that are mesmerizing. There are full hook ups available, and bathroom/showers as well. Take a hike to Bell Rock, or gaze night skies," explains Curtis B.

Affordable rates: Sites at Red Rock Park & Campground start at just $10 for unpowered sites and $20-25 for powered sites. "We were looking for a site near Gallup NM to camp for a few days to checkout 4 corners and other places. The site was clean with 50 amp power and water, it also had a small BBQ, picknick table and was fairly level. The site was under $25 for the night," states John M.

Lake access for recreation: Bluewater Lake provides water activities not available at the desert campgrounds. "The primitive camping is all along the lake so you can park and walk right in with your canoe or SUP. Playground for the kiddos, lots of areas to explore with the puppers, and plenty of bathrooms and Ramadas available for day use," shares Sara S.

What you should know

Facility maintenance varies: Recent visitors note inconsistent upkeep at Red Rock Park. "You get what you pay for. $22 for water and electricity is a bargain.. but…. Facilities are outdated, not well kept. Restrooms were heated to 80F but the showers were warm at best. Doors of toilet did not lock," reports Edie & Roy T.

Reservation requirements: Some campgrounds require advance booking, especially during events. "Make sure you call to check for availability, there is a rodeo arena near by and will fill up if there is a rodeo," advises Robert A. about Red Rock Park.

Weather considerations: High desert conditions mean dust and wind can be significant factors. "Level dirt sites. Closer to each other but enough space to enjoy the scenery. Great hikes and good views. During the windy season, the sand will blast you and all equipment (bring good tie downs)," warns Judes W.

Tips for camping with families

Bring extra water: The arid climate requires additional hydration, especially when active. "I only saw one water pump in the park," notes Jennifer W. at Bluewater Lake State Park Campground.

Plan for noise: Campgrounds near highways or event venues can be noisy. "This city-operated campground is bordered by highway on one side and red rocks on the other. The campground itself is dusty and relatively open; you will hear road traffic," cautions Jean C.

Consider nearby attractions: Use the campgrounds as a base for regional exploration. "The Petrified Forest is another 90 minutes down the road; El Morro National Monument, Acoma Pueblo, and El Malpais National Monument are a few of the interesting places to visit," suggests Jean C.

Tips from RVers

Check site dimensions: Some spots accommodate larger rigs better than others. "Nice host greeted us and explained where the best sites were for our very large 5th Wheel. The sites with power were already taken, but we can boondock and the pull-through sites were great," shares Grace D. at Bluewater Lake State Park Campground.

Arrive during office hours: Late arrivals may face challenges accessing facilities. "Arrive before 4:30 to obtain the key to the rest room if needed. They don't provide much information at all on the website, you need to call to get it or just stop by," advises Jean C.

Use online booking for convenience: The reservation system at Red Rock Park is straightforward. "Stayed here after a long day on the road for some shut eye. Booked online and confirmation was immediately sent via email that included the bathroom door code. Arrived after hours without issue," explains Lauren W.