Camping near Mentmore, New Mexico offers a range of options for outdoor enthusiasts at elevations between 6,500-8,000 feet. The region features juniper-pinyon landscapes with dramatic red rock formations and sandstone cliffs. Summer temperatures typically range from 50-85°F with significant cooling at night, while winter brings snow closures to many dispersed camping areas from December through March.
What to Do
Hiking at Red Rock Park: Located near Church Rock, visitors can access multiple trails ranging from 3-3.5 miles round trip. "Church Rock Trial and Pyramid Rock Trail are both about 3 to 3 and a half miles round trip from the campground. Your surrounded by desert on one side and dark red stone on the other, very cool place and trails," notes Fain H. from Red Rock Park & Campground.
Wildlife viewing: The Zuni Mountains area hosts diverse wildlife including elk, deer, and occasionally brown bears. "We saw abundant wildlife while working in the Zunis, including several brown bears, deer, and elk. While we didn't have any run ins with these guy in camp, be aware that large animals are present in the area," advises Tyler G. who visited Quaking Aspen Campground.
Stargazing: The remote location of dispersed camping areas creates excellent night sky viewing opportunities. "The stars were bomb dot com," reports Nat&Rach C. who stayed at Six Mile Canyon Dispersed Camping. Clear skies and minimal light pollution make this region ideal for astronomy enthusiasts.
What Campers Like
Affordable options: Most dispersed sites are free, while established campgrounds offer reasonable rates. "They had all of the amenities I wanted, showers clean bathrooms, lots of pull through sites, and a pool. Just a mile off of I-40. I thought it was very well priced," shares Mike F. about USA RV Park.
Secluded camping spots: Six Mile Canyon provides privacy despite proximity to I-40. "We just needed a place to spend the night and arrived late in the evening, so unfortunately we weren't able to explore the area. We only drove about 1.5 miles passed the gates, but we saw several camp spots with fire rings. The road is grated and well maintained," reports Michele D.
Unique natural formations: The region's geology offers distinctive camping backdrops. "More a stopover Park, 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," suggests Curtis B.
What You Should Know
Seasonal closures affect access: Many dispersed areas close during winter months. "The gate at the end of the road is closed Dec. 15 to March 31. Parked outside the gate for the night. Looks like a nice area if I could get there. Don't drive the road after a rain," warns Dan J. about Six Mile Canyon - Dispersed Camping.
Weather considerations: High elevation means dramatic temperature changes. "When summer heat was beginning to knock everywhere else in late May, it was serious blanket weather up here," reports Chip who stayed at Quaking Aspen Campground, noting the significant temperature drop at night.
Road conditions vary: Access to some sites requires careful driving. "The road in is dirt and gravel and could easily get rutted out when rainy. There are several spots along the road the first being right after the cattle guard after the sign," explains Jennifer C. about Six Mile Canyon.
Tips for Camping with Families
Consider campgrounds with amenities: Families with children may prefer established sites with facilities. "Playground for the kiddos, lots of areas to explore with the puppers, and plenty of bathrooms and Ramadas available for day use. Boat ramp for those so inclined and good fishing for any anglers out there," recommends Sara S. about Bluewater Lake State Park Campground.
Food delivery options: Some campgrounds near Gallup allow food delivery services. "We were able to get pizza delivered to our RV site which was a big hit with the kids," shares Nicole B. who stayed at USA RV Park while traveling with children.
Choose well-spaced 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," reports Chip about Quaking Aspen Campground, making it ideal for families needing space.
Tips from RVers
Level site considerations: Finding level areas can be challenging at some locations. "Our site was mostly level so we used our small curved levelers on one side. The sites are VERY close together and many of the picnic tables seem to need new boards for seats," notes Susan R. who stayed at USA RV Park.
Hookup availability: For pet-friendly camping near Mentmore with full services, consider established campgrounds. "Full hookups with military and good sam discounts. We've stayed here before and we will again. A dog park, showers, rest rooms and laundry available," reports Jeanne A. about USA RV Park.
Alternative sites for larger rigs: "We got a site with electric for a few days while checking out the Petrified Forest and decided to stay an extra day to check out the Canyon de Chilly..don't miss that one!" recommends Cindy about LunaGaia Nomadic Village, which offers pet-friendly camping within driving distance of Mentmore.
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