RV camping near Pinehill, New Mexico offers diverse options within the high desert landscape at elevations ranging from 6,000-7,000 feet. The area features striking volcanic formations, particularly around Grants and El Malpais National Monument. Summer temperatures typically range from 50-85°F with dramatic cooling at night, while winter camping requires preparation for below-freezing conditions.
What to Do
Explore El Morro National Monument: Located just minutes from El Morro RV Park and Cabins, this site features historic inscriptions and ruins. "Morro National monument nearby is spectacular," notes reviewer Kathy L., who appreciated the convenient location and spiritual elements like "a labyrinth, a gong, art and healing artifacts."
Visit Bluewater Lake: The lake offers fishing, boating, and shoreline camping with potential wildlife sightings. At Bluewater Lake State Park Campground, campers might spot "wild horses roaming around the lake," according to Austin C., who found this park "heading west on I-40 on a memorial day weekend road trip last minute."
Walk through lava fields: The region's volcanic history provides unique hiking opportunities. Grants KOA Journey features "a walking path through a lava flow in the park," and reviewer Edith L. noted "the mesas and the volcanos in the background were beautiful at sunset, along with the distinct lava rocks."
What Campers Like
Cultural experiences: The area offers rich indigenous cultural sites. At Sky City RV Casino & RV Park, campers have easy access to cultural experiences. Josh F. mentions, "Security will drive you back and forth to the casino if you request, but it's only a 5 minute walk," and notes the "buffet restaurant and another bar to watch the game."
Clean shower facilities: Many travelers value clean bathroom facilities during road trips. At Grants KOA Journey, April W. celebrated "amazing FREE showers, very cheap laundry services," while another visitor called them "exceptionally clean" with "very friendly staff and campers."
Brewery access: Lavaland RV Campgrounds offers a unique amenity with an on-site brewery. Dana notes that while some spots aren't ideal, "some of the spots closer to the office looked a little better." David R. mentioned "an on-site brewery and bar" that adds value to this location, describing it as having "the vibe... of the 'good Ol' days' of family vacationing with small eclectic parks."
What You Should Know
Water quality varies: Bring drinking water if you're particular about taste. At Grants KOA Journey, Edith L. noted "the water didn't taste great" despite an otherwise excellent stay with "excellent bathrooms and showers" and "the best" wireless connection.
Weather patterns: Expect significant temperature swings between day and night. At Grants KOA Journey, Edith L. observed "Even as it got hot during the day, it cooled nicely at dusk and in the evenings."
Cell coverage: Service varies significantly by location. At Bar S RV Park, Caleb & Heather R. found "very low priced with amazing wifi and easy to access and use hookups," making it suitable for remote workers staying in the area.
Tips for Camping with Families
Look for kid-friendly amenities: Not all campgrounds cater to children. Heather H. noted that Lavaland RV Campgrounds "is a nice rv park, but focused on the older community... There is no kid amenities at this property," though it does have "a small dog run."
Consider breakfast options: Some parks offer morning meals. At Bar S RV Park, Mary S. found "The campground is conveniently located off I40 and is very reasonable priced for full hookups. The campground is clean and the office staff were very nice."
Find parks with playgrounds: Some locations offer play areas. Heather W. mentioned that at Grants KOA Journey, "Kids enjoyed the doughnuts in the morning," and that while it offered "Nothing fancy but the people were nice," it had basic amenities suitable for families.
Tips from RVers
Seek level sites: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain. At Bluewater Lake State Park Campground, Pat R. noted "There aren't many electric sites if that's important to you and some say they're no level. Ours was." Grace D. found "The sites with power were already taken, but we can boondock and the pull-through sites were great."
Ask about billboard discounts: Some RV parks offer special rates. Josh F. advises that at Sky City RV Casino & RV Park, "$18 rate if you mention the billboards on the highway, but $22 otherwise so it's a good deal," adding that only "about 10% of sites occupied when I was there in December."
Consider extended stay options: Longer-term rates may be available. At Bar S RV Park, Caleb & Heather R. shared "We stayed at the Bar S campground for a couple weeks while work in the area. Very low priced with amazing wifi and easy to access and use hookups."
