Mills sits at the eastern edge of New Mexico's high plains, where elevations range between 4,500-5,000 feet above sea level. The area experiences distinct seasons with hot summers, cold winters, and moderately low annual rainfall. Camping options near Mills include both established RV parks and free dispersed camping sites, with several locations offering access to wildlife viewing opportunities.
What to do
Explore historical ruins: At Mills Canyon Campground, visitors can discover crumbled old structures along the Canadian River. "A beautiful little campground of solitude was found if you drove on just past the Mills Canyon Campground. Not very much available in terms of hiking, but what there was went along the Canadian River, and yielded some interesting, crumbled old structures," notes Laura P.
Bird watching: The area attracts various bird species, especially around water features. "With spring coming in, the birds were a great natural alarm," reports Sheridan L. about her stay at Lake 13-Maxwell National Wildlife Refuge. Owls are commonly heard at night in the canyon areas.
Stargazing: The region offers excellent night sky viewing due to minimal light pollution. "Plus, the Milky Way was to die for," writes one camper about Lake 13-Maxwell. Another visitor mentioned Mills Canyon is "a dark sky area of the State so some of our party got a great view of Neowise."
What campers like
Uncrowded camping: Most campgrounds near Mills remain relatively unknown to the general public. "This area is still pretty unknown to the mass public so crowds aren't an issue, which is really nice," writes Kristen W. about Mills Canyon Campground. Weekdays are particularly quiet at most sites.
Wildlife encounters: The region provides opportunities to observe various animals in their natural habitat. "We could hear owls every night, and saw a mountain lion one morning," reports Laura P. about Mills Canyon. At Lake 13-Maxwell National Wildlife Refuge, Bobby A. notes: "There are reports of bears in the area (wildlife refuge). This is a great Boondocking spot... the sounds of nature are all around you."
Clean facilities: Despite being remote, several campgrounds maintain well-kept amenities. "The bath house was recently renovated and very clean," writes Jesse H. about North Campground at Conchas Lake State Park. At Capulin RV Park, Douglas S. states: "I must stay unequivocally this campground has the nicest bathrooms I've seen in a very long time. Very clean, very modern and very well maintained!"
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to some camping areas can be challenging, especially after rain. At Lake 13-Maxwell National Wildlife Refuge, Susan N. warns: "The 2-3 miles of dirt washboard road was not a problem when dry, but would be a problem after rain. We were lucky to leave just as the rain started... don't bring a heavy big rig if it's been raining."
Limited services: Most areas have minimal amenities and no nearby supplies. "No water or cell service... No gas in the general area so fuel up before you get there," advises Carrie S. about Mills Canyon. Bathroom facilities vary widely between locations, from none to clean vault toilets.
Seasonal considerations: Summer heat can make camping uncomfortable in canyon areas. "It was incredibly hot, so my advice for anybody who is coming to this area during the summer months is to bring way more water than what you think you need, and some type of canopy for shade," recommends Kim M. about Mills Canyon.
Tips for camping with families
Lake activities: Conchas Lake State Park provides family-friendly water access. "We always rent a boat slip and go night fishing!" shares Jennifer A. about Cove Campground at Conchas Lake. Natalie F. adds: "We stayed at bell point campground and although it's still a Rocky hike to the beach the views are breathtaking... Kids loved it and so did dogs."
Wildlife education: Rangers at some parks provide educational materials for children. Natalie F. mentions: "Friendly staff - the rangers gave the kiddos a coloring book and badge when we got here."
Insect protection: Bring plenty of insect repellent, especially during wetter periods. "The real downer for us was the plethora of vicious mosquitos. We were eaten alive even though we sprayed with bug spray often," warns Carrie S. about Mills Canyon.
Tips from RVers
Campsite selection: RV parks Mills, New Mexico and surrounding areas vary in site spacing and privacy. At Cimarron Inn and RV Park, Jeffrey A. notes: "The RV spots are level gravel, sites are close together with minimal privacy but convenient to grocery store and restaurants - within a short walk." Steve H. observes at Ponil Campground: "The pull thru sites were so narrow that you could not push out your slides without hitting your neighbor."
Free boondocking options: Several free camping areas accommodate RVs with varying levels of amenities. "FREE campground! Large relatively flat grass lot with garbage cans and picnic tables. Pit toilets and recycling at the entrance," writes Laura M. about Lake 13-Maxwell National Wildlife Refuge. Texas Roving Ranger adds: "Plenty of room for several rvs/vans and tent campers. Picnic tables and trash bins available. No shade, no potable water, no electric, no sewer. True boondocking site."
Cell service: Mobile connectivity varies throughout rv parks Mills, New Mexico area. Abby M. reports about Lake 13: "Also had great AT&T service." Nikki P. notes at Conchas Lake State Park: "ATT signal is good and Starlink worked great here, no interruptions in school, work, streaming or gaming."
