Camping spots near Laguna, New Mexico offer diverse options across desert and high elevation terrains. The region sits at approximately 6,000-7,000 feet elevation, experiencing significant seasonal temperature variations with summer days reaching the 90s and winter nights dropping below freezing. Camping availability near Laguna varies widely based on season, with some sites operating only during summer months while others remain open year-round.
What to do
Explore lava fields: The El Malpais area near Joe Skeen Campground offers unique geological formations. "Gorgeous drive in from 40 to the campsite. Awesome pull-through site. Beautiful sunset, unfortunately slept through dawn. Moon was so bright we didn't need a flashlight for the bathroom with a clear path from our site," reports one visitor.
Hike Mount Taylor: Located 15 miles from Coal Mine Campground, this highest peak in northwest New Mexico provides panoramic views. "La Mosca lookout is a nice drive from the campground with beautiful views. Head up to the Gooseberry Trailhead to hike to the top of Mt Taylor the highest mountain in NW New Mexico," notes a camper who stayed at Coal Mine Campground.
Stargaze at night: The open skies provide excellent stargazing opportunities. At Star Gazer Ranch, "Wonderful place to check out the stars. The setup is great, there's a raised wood floor to set up your tent on. They also have a fire pit and grill you can use."
What campers like
Affordable rates: Budget-conscious travelers appreciate the value of camping near Laguna. At Dancing Eagle RV Park, a reviewer noted, "Self serv pay is great and love that it's $18!" Another visitor mentioned, "This place is a little advertised spot. It certainly came at a great time for us."
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept bathrooms despite remote locations. One camper at Lavaland RV Campgrounds stated, "The clean showers and bathrooms were greatly appreciated after a few days of roughing it and we were able to restock our water before continuing on."
Quiet atmospheres: Campers consistently mention peaceful settings. "We stayed at this KOA on our way to California from Texas as an overnight stop. We liked it so much that we stayed there on our way back. The staff is extremely friendly and helpful," reported a visitor to Grants KOA Journey.
What you should know
Water availability limited: Many sites have no water hookups or potable water sources. "No water, electricity or dump," noted one camper about Joe Skeen Campground. For Coal Mine Campground, a visitor warned, "No water available, no hook-ups, no dump station."
Cell service is unpredictable: Coverage varies dramatically even within the same campground. A camper at Route 66 RV Resort reported, "The only reason for giving 4 stars was that the cellular and wifi was intermittent but I think if you get a spot closer to the clubhouse you should be good."
Campgrounds fill quickly: Especially at free or low-cost sites. "Only 10 sites and all have covered picnic tables, bbq grill and fire ring. When I arrived their were only 2 sites left," shared a visitor about BLM Joe Skeen Campground. Another camper advised, "We arrived at 9:30pm and there were still several spots open."
Tips for camping with families
Check for kid-friendly amenities: Not all sites cater to families with children. A reviewer at Lavaland RV Campgrounds noted, "There is no kid amenities at this property. There is a small dog run. No grass."
Look for recreation facilities: Some campgrounds offer games and activities. At Enchanted Trails RV Park & Trading Post, "Attached to laundry room is a game room with free pool table, TV, 2 arcade games. The old vintage RVs are awesome. They don't make them like that anymore!"
Prepare for temperature swings: The high desert climate means significant day-to-night temperature variations. "We were hoping to see more wildlife but can't complain for pulling in around 3:30 and choosing from about 4 empty sites and leaving by 9 am," a Joe Skeen Campground visitor remarked about their brief overnight stay in October.
Tips from RVers
Check site leveling: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain. At Joe Skeen Campground, a reviewer warned, "The wash to get into the campground is steep on both sides. We drug a bit on the way in and a lot on the way out. We have a silverback 37bh that specs say is 39'11". Would not try it again."
Use pressure regulators: Water pressure can damage RV plumbing systems. At Route 66 RV Resort, "We were told that the water pressure was about 90 psi and it was, so use a reducer."
Check for full-timer ratios: Some parks have many permanent residents. "It appears that most sites are occupied by full-timers," noted a Lavaland RV Campgrounds visitor, while another observed, "Most people staying in the park seemed to be full time residents."
