Best Campgrounds near Mills, NM

Camping near Mills, New Mexico, offers a mix of stunning landscapes and unique experiences. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to unwind or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

• Hiking and Exploring: The area is great for hiking. At Mills Canyon Campground, one camper mentioned, "The trail to drive down is not bad. Can camp by the river." This makes it a perfect spot for those who enjoy nature walks.
• Wildlife Watching: If you’re into birdwatching or spotting wildlife, Lake 13-Maxwell National Wildlife Refuge is a fantastic choice. A visitor noted, "Nothing fancy but great views of the lake and always some amazing waterfowl."
• Fishing: For fishing enthusiasts, Cove Campground — Conchas Lake State Park offers great opportunities. One reviewer said, "The lake is nice, clear, and warm. Great for bass and walleye."

What campers like:

• Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. One happy camper at Soda Pocket Campground shared, "Great views of the area but it does catch the wind!"
• Clean Facilities: Clean restrooms and showers are a big plus. A visitor at Coyote Creek State Park Campground mentioned, "Awesome bathroom," highlighting the well-maintained facilities.
• Friendly Hosts: Many campgrounds have welcoming staff. A camper at Capulin RV Park said, "The couple running the park are very nice," which adds to the overall experience.

What you should know:

• Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Mills Canyon Campground, have very few amenities. A reviewer warned, "NO drinking water, NO electric hookups," so be prepared to bring your own supplies.
• Wildlife Caution: Bears are known to roam in certain areas. One camper at Mills Canyon Campground had a rough experience, stating, "First night so many bears came into our camp... tore up our 'bear proof' cooler."
• Road Conditions: Some access roads can be rough. A visitor at Lake 13-Maxwell National Wildlife Refuge noted, "The drive down the canyon is pretty sketch in a couple of spots."

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots with amenities like picnic tables and restrooms. Cove Campground — Conchas Lake State Park has picnic tables and is pet-friendly, making it a good choice for families.
• Plan for Activities: Make sure to have activities planned. A camper at Sugarite Canyon State Park mentioned, "There are bear boxes on each site which was good to have in that area!" This can help keep food safe while you enjoy hiking.
• Pack Extra Supplies: Bring plenty of water and snacks. A visitor at Mills Canyon Campground advised, "Bring way more water than what you think you need."

Tips from RVers:

• Check Road Conditions: Before heading to Capulin RV Park, check the road conditions. One RV traveler noted, "The park was clean and quiet," but road access can vary.
• Look for Full Hookups: If you need full hookups, consider Raton KOA. A camper mentioned, "Most sites have 20/30 amp service, water, and septic hookups."
• Be Mindful of Noise: Some campgrounds can be noisy. A visitor at Raton KOA said, "The neighborhood is very loud," so plan accordingly if you're sensitive to noise.

Camping near Mills, New Mexico, has its quirks, but with the right preparation, it can be a memorable experience!