The Nogal area sits in the scenic Sierra Blanca region at elevations between 5,500-7,000 feet, creating distinct temperature variations throughout the year. Camping options around Nogal include traditional campgrounds and several luxury glamping accommodations, with most sites remaining accessible even during winter months when temperatures frequently drop below freezing at night. The area features numerous hiking trails that connect to the Lincoln National Forest system.
What to do
Explore historic sites nearby: Fort Stanton Cave Campground provides a convenient base for visiting historic attractions in the area. "We tried to stay at this site on a Tuesday in late May, all 3 spots were filled. So we continued down the road where there are lots of other dispersed options just right off Cave Canyon Road," notes one camper, who adds that "there's a good map of the trails located at Fort Stanton if you happen to visit there before heading here definitely take a picture."
Hike mountain trails: Three Rivers Campground offers access to multiple wilderness trails. "Tons of hiking opportunities with 3 separate trails originating at the campground," reports one visitor. Another camper details their experience: "We tried to hike up to the peak but we ascended halfway and turned back. In Aug. 2018, I climbed the trail to the peak but camped 2/3 up the mountain; so it took me 2 days to ascend and descend, which was harder."
Wildlife observation: Moonflower Meadows RV Resort provides excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. A camper describes: "This park is quiet and peaceful with lots of birds and nightly visits by elk." Another mentions the resort is "hidden away near Ruidoso and adjacent to Lincoln National Forest. Small and quiet away from the traffic but close enough to all the sights and attractions in the area."
What campers like
Dark skies for stargazing: Fort Stanton Cave Campground offers exceptional night sky viewing. "We got great views of Sierra Blanca. Best stars we have seen in a long while," shares one visitor. Another notes its secluded location: "Secluded camping about 1.5 miles in from US Rt 380! On BLM land, the dirt road in is wash boarded in spots, but hey it's free."
Riverside relaxation: Along The River RV Park & Campground provides sites with water access. "We camped here because it looked pretty on Google. It's a quaint little campground and we were lucky to get a spot on the river. No cell service but, wifi is strong! It's super quiet," mentions one camper. The campground offers "Lovely level sites... Spacious sites, firebox available, tables at the sites, deer, wild horses come to visit. Firewood available per bundle."
Cleanliness and maintenance: Bonito Hollow RV Park & Campground receives praise for its upkeep. "Just returned from a 5 day stay. We got escorted to our spot and they helped guide us in. The staff are very helpful and if you need something, they will be more than happy to accommodate you. The grounds are very clean and well maintained," shares one visitor. Another notes, "Sites, once vacated are gone over with a fine tooth comb to make sure Nothing is left behind, the fire pits are cleaned, and everything is in order for the next camper."
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies significantly between campgrounds. At Bonito Hollow, a camper reports: "No ATT or Verizon cell service at my site, but I did find a weak signal up near the office. The wifi was a struggle." However, at Fort Stanton Cave Campground, "Great Verizon cell service" is available according to one review.
Weather preparedness: Temperature variations require proper planning. A Fort Stanton visitor advises: "We were there in November, and it got cold at night (one night down to 14 degrees F), during the day temps were in the mid 60's...so be prepared for cold nights and comfortable days." Similarly, another camper mentions Three Rivers can get "hot here starting in May and not much shade available."
Limited availability at popular spots: Three Rivers Campground fills quickly during peak periods. "Three Rivers Campground finally reopened 'for good' at the start of 2024 after some stops and starts due to fires around the area," explains one camper, who encourages visitors to "tread lightly, leave no trace, and be gentle with the wilderness. This place has gone through a lot of fire related hardships."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Bonito Hollow offers dedicated children's facilities. "Smaller campground with plenty to keep the kids entertained. Playground. Some of the campsites back up to a nice running creek. Beautiful bridge crossing over the creek," shares one family camper.
Wildlife education opportunities: When glamping in Nogal, New Mexico, families can incorporate nature education into their stay. At Moonflower Meadows RV Resort, one camper notes: "The owners are super friendly and helped us into our spot. The campground is surrounded by fields with a creek bed on the back side and horses on another. It was very quiet and dark enough at night to see the stars light up the sky."
Safety considerations: Alamogordo / White Sands KOA offers family-friendly amenities with safety features. "It's very close to white sands main gate. The staff was very friendly and the campground was clean and manacured. The sell propane there and other odd and end things," reports one visitor. Another adds: "Our kids enjoyed the playground," while noting it's "clean, quiet, and extremely convenient to White Sands National Park."
Tips from RVers
Water pressure management: When RV camping near Nogal, prepare for variable water pressure. At Alamogordo/White Sands KOA, an RVer warns: "Water pressure is really high at around 155 psi. So definitely bring a regulator."
Site selection for amenities: Twin Spruce RV Park offers specialized facilities for longer stays. "We were greeted by friendly and helpful hosts. Nice office and with couches and a book/dvd lending library. There is a pool in the summer and an area for breakfast," reports one RVer, adding "You can also refill your propane on site."
Space considerations: At Moonflower Meadows, a long-term camper describes: "All sites are pull through. Our site was wide enough for my 32ft travel trailer, my pickup, my partner's car, and his trailer with his motorcycle on it, and we still had room to move. There are mature trees at each site and throughout the park, and there's an open field behind it."
