The Mesilla area sits at approximately 3,900 feet elevation in the Mesilla Valley of southern New Mexico, where desert temperatures can swing by 30 degrees between day and night. The region's Chihuahuan Desert landscape creates a camping environment of minimal rainfall and sparse vegetation, with camping options ranging from riverside state parks to high-desert BLM lands. Summers reach over 100°F while winter nights can drop below freezing.
What to do
Mountain hiking: 4-mile loop trails available at Aguirre Spring Recreation Area and Campground with views across the Tularosa Basin. "There is a lovely 4 mile hike that loops up in the mountains by the sites," notes Kara S., who appreciated the hiking options near the campground.
Stargazing at state parks: Monthly astronomy events at Leasburg Dam State Park Campground provide organized stargazing with local experts. As Barbara M. reports, the park offers "delightful monthly activities with the local astronomical society including live music, refreshments, and stargazing."
Visit nearby White Sands: Camp at Sierra Vista dispersed area as a base for exploring White Sands National Park, located about 40 miles east. "Nice place to stay if you plan on hiking the Organ Mountains or heading the next 40 miles to White Sands National Monument," according to Laura M.
What campers like
Desert mountain views: Campers at Sierra Vista - Back Side Dispersed appreciate the remote setting and elevated views. "I got up the top trail fine in my f-150, it is kinda sketchy though so be careful, but the views up top are great, spaced out a lot better," reports Colton M. about the higher elevation sites.
Clean facilities: Las Cruces KOA maintains exceptionally clean bathrooms with marble flooring. One camper mentioned, "Big shoutout to the clean restrooms (yes, marble floors!) and the dog park, which our pup loved."
Overnight convenience: Baylor Pass West Trailhead Dispersed offers free parking lot camping for hikers wanting early trail access. "This spot would be fine for a night if you get in late or plan to do the hike at the TH then camp," notes Jeanie P., though she adds "you're literally camping in a parking lot."
What you should know
High winds: The dispersed camping areas around Organ Mountains experience significant afternoon wind gusts. "Super crazy windy in the afternoons," warns Karla L. about Sierra Vista, while Shelby L. confirms similar conditions at other nearby sites.
Variable water access: Many BLM sites require self-sufficiency with water. At Baylor Canyon Rd Spur, BLM, Free, Mark M. notes: "Water available at host site near gate before driving about 4 or 5 mi to campsites."
Limited privacy at established campgrounds: Sites at commercial RV parks tend to be positioned closely together. At Siesta RV Park, reviewers note "RVs are very close together" and the park "could use some maintenance."
Road conditions: High clearance vehicles recommended for back dispersed sites. "Definitely would NOT recommend CARS going past the 3rd or 4th parking space! But - for higher clearance vehicles: OK," warns David S. about Baylor Canyon Road.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Las Cruces KOA offers multiple play areas suitable for children. "The kids enjoyed cornhole, basketball, tetherball, and the playground. The store was well stocked," reports Candy P. from her family's stay at the KOA.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Keep watch for gray foxes and other desert wildlife at dawn and dusk. One camper at Hacienda RV Resort mentioned, "We watched a gray fox during day that was nearby."
Pet-friendly trails: Most hiking trails around Mesilla welcome leashed dogs, creating opportunities for family pets to explore. Tierra notes that Aguirre Spring Campground "has beautiful views and great hikes. I will be coming back!"
Tips from RVers
Water pressure warning: Bring pressure regulators for RV hookups in the area. "Staff is friendly and let us know water pressure is high so use a reducer," warns Mark M. about Hacienda RV Resort.
Space limitations: Many sites restrict larger RVs, particularly in public land campgrounds. "BLM recommends nothing more than 23' long," notes Mark M. about Aguirre Spring, while another camper warns, "If you are a large RV or 5th wheel, you probably won't fit" at some dispersed sites.
Reservation security: Confirm reservation details directly with parks. One Hacienda guest reported, "We arrived @ Hacienda to find out that the campground had (without notice) moved us to a site in the back of the park with No picnic table, & No fire ring."
