Red Canyon Campground offers glamping experiences near Mountainair, New Mexico at 6,900 feet elevation in the Manzano Mountains. Sites are nestled among pine trees where temperatures typically run 10-15 degrees cooler than Albuquerque. The surrounding Cibola National Forest provides a natural setting for upscale outdoor accommodations with vault toilets and picnic areas, though water must be brought in.
What to do
Hiking trail access: Red Canyon Campground connects directly to multiple hiking paths. "This is an amazing campsite. There are nice fire pits and picnic spots," reports Atheena T., who visited Red Canyon Campground. The area features mountain biking opportunities on forest roads. "Great Mountain biking on forest roads that link canyons," notes John H.
Stargazing opportunities: The Manzano Mountains provide excellent dark sky viewing for night photography or casual observation. "We had a great night with a campfire and a good view of the stars and moon," shares Jennifer A., mentioning her scout troop's experience at Red Canyon.
Wildlife viewing: Dawn and dusk offer prime wildlife watching times in the area. "Very green and lush with deer visiting our site at dusk!" reports Jacob S. about his glamping experience at Red Canyon Campground.
What campers like
Secluded forest setting: The pine forest environment creates natural separation between sites. "Beautiful secluded spot in the Manzanos. Nice kid-friendly trails adjacent to the campground," notes Gavin J. about camping at Red Canyon.
Level sites: Turquoise Trail Campground offers well-maintained, level sites for both tents and RVs. Seth P. mentions, "The manager was very nice and helpful. Campground is functional; campsites are kinda close to each other."
Pet-friendly accommodations: Most glamping options welcome pets with designated areas. "They have nice laundry facilities and lots of spots for the doggies to play," reports E.M. about their stay at Albuquerque KOA Journey.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Red Canyon operates from April through November with busiest periods in summer. "I'd recommend going before Memorial Day while the sites are still clean," advises Carson P., noting maintenance issues during peak season.
Water limitations: Pack in all water needed for your stay at certain locations. "Toilets but no water so come prepared," warns John H. about Red Canyon Campground.
Facility conditions: Bathroom facilities vary widely between campgrounds. "Though there are bathrooms at the location, they are really smelly and flies surround them," reports Atheena T. about Red Canyon facilities, while Turquoise Trail offers shower tokens with each night's stay.
Connectivity issues: Cell service can be spotty in mountain locations. "Connectivity was spotty. I did get a phone call while using the bathroom in the lower campground," mentions Bob C. about his Red Canyon experience.
Tips for camping with families
Pack entertainment options: The mountain setting offers limited organized activities. "Nice kid-friendly trails adjacent to the campground," notes Gavin J. about Turquoise Trail Campground, suggesting families should plan their own recreation.
Prepare for temperature swings: Mountain elevations mean significant day-to-night temperature changes, often 30+ degrees. "We camped here one night with our scout troop," shares Jennifer A., whose group experienced both comfortable daytime temperatures and cool night conditions.
Bring bear-safe storage: Wildlife protection measures are important in this area. Jennifer A. notes the availability of "vault toilets, trash bins, and bear boxes" at Red Canyon, confirming the presence of bears in the region.
Tips from RVers
Dump station locations: Not all glamping sites near Mountainair offer full sewer hookups. "They don't have sewer but they do have a dump station," explains Eric P. about Red Canyon Campground.
Site orientation awareness: Consider your RV layout when selecting sites. "Mostly back in spaces so pay attention what side your door is on and opens to," advises Eric P., who appreciated the "good water pressure" and "great TV reception" at Red Canyon.
Cash payment discounts: Some locations offer reduced rates for cash payments. "It was $36 if I paid cash and that was with a 10% discount," shares Mary L. about her stay at Turner Inn & RV Park, which offers level full hookup sites.
