Tent camping near Mills, New Mexico centers around two main campgrounds in the northeastern portion of the state. The region sits at approximately 4,000 feet elevation in high plains territory characterized by semi-arid conditions and wide, open landscapes. Summer temperatures can reach above 90°F during daytime hours while dropping significantly at night, creating challenging temperature variations for campers.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Chicosa Lake State Park Campground offers access to a small fishing lake where anglers can catch several warm-water species. The lake is stocked periodically, though water levels fluctuate seasonally.
Wildlife viewing: Central Recreation Area Campground provides habitat for numerous bird species that frequent the shoreline of Conchas Lake. Early mornings are most productive for spotting waterfowl and migratory birds.
Water recreation: At Central Recreation Area, campers have access to Conchas Lake for swimming and boating during summer months. The lake spans approximately 9,600 acres when full, with several designated swimming areas along the shoreline.
What campers like
Dark skies: The remote nature of tent camping sites near Mills provides exceptional stargazing conditions. The region experiences minimal light pollution, allowing for clear views of the night sky throughout most of the year.
Quiet surroundings: The campgrounds near Mills typically see lower visitation rates than more popular New Mexico destinations. This creates relatively peaceful camping conditions, particularly during weekdays and off-season months.
Natural landscape: The high plains environment showcases native vegetation adapted to the semi-arid climate. Campers often note the stark beauty of the landscape, with its mix of grasslands, scrub, and exposed geological features.
What you should know
Water access limitations: Both campgrounds in the Mills area have restrictions regarding water access. Visitors must plan accordingly and bring sufficient water supplies for their entire stay.
Weather preparedness: The region experiences rapid weather changes typical of high plains environments. Tent campers should prepare for temperature swings of 30-40 degrees between day and night, particularly in spring and fall seasons.
Limited facilities: The camping options near Mills operate with minimal amenities compared to more developed campgrounds in other parts of the state. Services like cell coverage are inconsistent throughout the area.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: The remote location means limited entertainment options beyond natural recreation. Families should pack games, books, and activities for children during downtime at camp.
Safety considerations: The arid environment presents challenges including potential for dehydration and exposure. Family campers should bring sun protection, extra water, and first aid supplies suitable for dealing with minor injuries or heat-related issues.
Educational opportunities: The Mills area offers chances to learn about high plains ecology and geology. The exposed rock formations near Conchas Lake reveal layers of sedimentary history dating back millions of years.
Tips from RVers
Road conditions: Access roads to campgrounds near Mills can be rough in sections. RV travelers report the final approaches to both Chicosa Lake and Central Recreation Area include unpaved segments that may be difficult after rainfall.
Limited hookups: RV campers planning to visit the Mills area should prepare for dry camping conditions. The lack of full hookups means conserving water and managing power needs throughout your stay.
