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Best Tent Camping near Pinehill, NM

291 Reviews

Tent camping options around Pinehill, New Mexico include primitive sites and established campgrounds within the nearby Cibola National Forest. Notable locations include 4 R's Primitive Camping, which offers walk-in tent sites, and Chain of Craters Hiker Hideout, which provides hike-in access to backcountry sites. The Mujeres Valley Campground also accommodates tent campers with dedicated sites, while Lobo Canyon Campground in Cibola National Forest offers seasonal tent camping from May through September.

Primitive tent sites predominate in this region, with many locations lacking basic amenities. Most tent campgrounds have no drinking water available, with Mujeres Valley being a notable exception providing water, showers, and toilets. The Chain of Craters Hiker Hideout includes toilet facilities but requires hikers to bring portable toilets as the original bathroom was destroyed by wildfire. Park and hike setups are common, with designated camping areas requiring visitors to carry gear short distances. Fires are permitted at Mujeres Valley and Lobo Canyon campgrounds, but fire restrictions may apply seasonally.

Areas farther from main roads provide deeper seclusion for tent campers seeking quiet experiences. The dispersed sites at Lobo Canyon Campground offer particularly peaceful settings among the trees with ample shade during summer months. Sites throughout the region provide access to hiking trails and natural attractions, including El Malpais National Monument near the Chain of Craters location. According to one visitor at Lobo Canyon, "We were the only campers in the campground. Loved the quiet." Another camper described Lobo Canyon as "great quiet dispersed campground" with "plenty of spots to choose from" and noted the campground is "nestled in the trees and has plenty of shade for the summer months."

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Best Tent Sites Near Pinehill, New Mexico (5)

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Recent Tent Camping Photos near Pinehill, NM

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Tent Camping Reviews near Pinehill, NM

291 Reviews of 5 Pinehill Campgrounds

  • Michael M.
    Aug. 30, 2017

    Coal Mine Campground

    Great for a weary traveler

    Visited the coal mine campground after driving a 500 mile day, so it was a set-up eat and crash situation. I did make a reservation on line, but that cost more than the $5 per site fee and was not necessary even though it was memorial day weekend. The fee is great because it is primitive, no electricity, no water at all, not just hookups, but the bathrooms were nice and clean with no sinks.

    If you are prepared for a primitive camp with your own water and batteries for your electronics it is great. They have fire rings, grills, picnic tables and level places for tents.There are also nice back-in sites for boondocking RVs and the road up to the campground is fine for big rigs.

    I ran into two mountain biker's here from Ireland that were riding the Continental Divide trail from The Mexican border in New Mexico to the Canadian border in Montana. They were staying here since the Trail goes through here. Paddy & Conner were very interesting people and I was fortunate to have run into them here.

    I enjoyed my stay with a peaceful quite nights sleep and a short hike in the morning before breakfast cooked on the campfire. I would recommend this over a hotel stay if your passing through Grant's New Mexico on I40. You can probably get a site for the night anytime your passing through.

  • Jean C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 1, 2020

    El Morro National Monument

    Beautiful location

    El Morro National Monument features some amazing petroglyphs and the remains of a pueblo, offering fun hikes. Nearby is a free campground, first-come, first-served. There's water available except in winter (and then you can fill containers at the visitor's center) and vault toilets.

    Sites offer picnic tables, fire rings, and tent pads. Some, because of their set-up, are better suited to tents than RVs, but because you can't reserve in advance, you'll get to choose what works best for you...assuming there's vacancy. In December it was cold and largely unoccupied, but in warmer months I'm guessing it fills quickly. Sit 5 is handicap accessible and located across from the bathroom.

  • G
    Mar. 19, 2021

    Joe Skeen Campground

    Premium free site

    Only 10 sites and all have covered picnic tables, bbq grill and fire ring. Unfortunately maybe 1 or 2 are level sites. A 30’ rv might be the max because of the uneven ground. I have a 22’ TT and had to use extra blocks to level out. When I arrived their were only 2 sites left. The one I didn’t pick was kinda part of a group site where the picnic tables were close otherwise the sites are 100’ or more apart. Half of the sites were occupied by either tents or people sleeping in their cars. Trash bins scattered throughout the park and 2 vaulted toilets in different areas. No water, electricity or dump. Because this area can fill up fast, it’s best to have an alternate plan, especially near the weekends.

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 3, 2023

    Joe Skeen Campground - El Malpais NCA

    Very nice free campground

    Each site has a covered picnic table and fire ring. Fairly exposed to the wind. Vault toilets. BLM dirt road near the entrance you can walk / hike down. Brochures of El Malpais at the entrance to the campground. Got there at 4 pm and only half the sites taken. Not bad for a spring break Saturday. Eventually all the sites filed up. Woke up to a beautiful snow storm. Dogs are allowed on this national monument trails, but discouraged because of the sharp lava rocks.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    May. 28, 2025

    Coal Mine Campground

    USFS, 3.5 overall stars, quiet, clean restrooms, near Grants, NM

    No reservations accepted, but no one there so we had our pick (showed up on a Tues. in late May). Mens/womens restrooms look new, 2 of each, side by side. Sporadic 4g Verizon network (was VERY slow when it was up), sometimes no service. But, we were surprisingly able to watch end of game 4 Knicks/Pacers playoff, once it finally loaded! Short walking trail that is not marked well; took a side trip where it forked at the beginning and not sure where it went so, turned around. Right next to Hwy, but there was minimal traffic so no noise. Sheriff drove through once in evening. Some trees, some spots have some shade, elevation ~7000' or so (estimate). Some spots had nice space for multiple tents/sun shades. Most spots are level; those that weren't, were level enough, really not bad. Seemed safe enough. No water available, no hook-ups, no dump station.

  • Candy's Catmobile RV Life-Utube S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 18, 2024

    Joe Skeen Campground - El Malpais NCA

    Best dispersed camping you'll find! Some cell service, read review

    I enjoyed my week at Joe Skeen in April 2024. If you camp near the top of the loop, overlooking the road below you'll get some cell service. I was in camp site 8 and have Tmobile I had 5G 2 bars, but it came in and out. I was still able to stream and use my phone hot spot. Nice cement pads with picnic tables, pavillion, fire pit and BBQ stands. Vault toilets with trash bins, but NO WATER! Be careful if you're towing anything, as my trailer bottomed out and bent the jack stand on my brand new car hauler trailer at the gulley in the road on the way into the campground. They should fill that in!! Check out my Utube journey's at: Candy's Catmobile RV Life on Utube. (:

  • Kelley G.
    Oct. 31, 2020

    Joe Skeen Campground - El Malpais NCA

    Beautiful overnight stay

    Stopped here for the night as our first campsite after purchasing our travel trailer.

    Gorgeous drive in from 40 to the campsite.

    Awesome pull-through site.

    Only saw one person doing tent camping. Looked like a cold stay Oct 30th-31st.

    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. Bear safe trash through out.

    Each site is spaces a decent amount apart from the rest.

    Quiet time 10 pm - 6 am.

    We saw chipmunks scurrying about in the morning. 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.

    Very clean and safe toilet area. Incredible views!

    Watch your dogs stepping in cactus. Dogs need to be on leash, but not enforced. Our dog loved this spot but he did sniff cactus too close ouch.

    Highly recommend.

  • Tyler G.
    Jun. 23, 2016

    Quaking Aspen Campground

    Wonderful Base to Explore the Hidden Beauty of the Zuni Mountains

    We used this campground as a starting point for a research trip sampling Precambrian rocks of the Zuni Mountains. I hadn't spent much time in this part of New Mexico, and assumed that the trip was going to be hot and sun-bleached, similar to the desert exposed in nearby Gallup, NM. I was surprised to drive into a beautiful forest just a few minutes off I40.

    The campsite includes basic forest service amenities: pit toilets, picnic tables, and metal-rimmed fire pit/grill sites. What set this apart from other non-hosted campsites for me was the condition of the grounds. The tent camping sites had well maintained, leveled tent pads, maintained gravel roads, and clean facilities. The Sites offered a reasonable degree of privacy, although some of the sites near the middle of the loop road place you in close proximity to your neighbor. The area is moderately wooded with pine and aspen, providing shade throughout the day and easy access to the dirt road that transects the Zuni Mountains, letting you out near the Bandera volcano and ice cave, which is a wonderful drive if you have a high clearance/4x4 and time to drive through.

    We saw abundant wildlife while working in the Zunis, including several brown bears, deer, and elk. While we didn't have any run ins with these guy in camp, be aware that large animals are present in the area and be sure to take necessary bear-proofing precautions.

    Camp fees were $5/night, which is quite the bargain given the well-kept grounds and wonderful scenery. If you're looking for a less-traveled escape from Albuquerque, or just want the chance to explore the under-valued Zuni mountains and western New Mexico landscape (and some pretty interesting geologic features such as orbicular granite), this campground is an excellent place to spend some time on the cheap.

    Photos included are from the Zunis south of the campsite, as I didn't think to take any photos while we were at camp.

  • Lee D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 27, 2023

    Grants KOA Journey

    Convenient to many activities

    General: Conveniently located close to I40, there are 20 pull-through 50-amp sites, 16 pull-through 30-amp sites, five back-in water/electric sites (ok for tents), five tent-only sites (no hookups) and four cabins. Other amenities include showers, laundry, a short (approx. 1/3 mile) walking trail, free WiFi, and a playground. We were welcomed by a very friendly staff and offered a cookie upon check-in. But perhaps the best amenity is the dinner service. You have a choice of several entrées, sides, and pie, choose your 10-minute delivery window, and the food is delivered directly to your site! A free continental breakfast is included as well. 

    Site Quality: As we expected, there is little privacy/separation between the sites. Our site (A) was located right next to the playground so expect to hear children playing if you are in this site (assigned by staff upon check-in). The sites are all gravel and level.

    Bathhouse: Three all-in-one toilet/sink/shower combos and one additional bathroom. All were very clean, and the shower was very welcome after many days without one! There were two hooks, a bench, a garbage can, electrical outlet all in the room. There was a little drainage issue but there was an additional drain in the room. There is a code to access the restrooms. 

    Activities: There is so much to do in the area! The campground itself has a short walking path where pets are permitted. Outside of the campground, you can go to Ice Caves/Bandera Volcano (about 30 miles away) and a bit further, El Morro National Monument. One exit east takes you to El Malpais National Monument with more trails (note the Ranger Station and Visitor Center is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays but you can still visit). Chaco Canyon is about two hours north. There are also several museums in the area and also a stretch of Route 66 (be sure to pose your car and yourself for a selfie in the Route 66 Arch!) Note you will hear an occasional train and road noise from I40. 

    As far as the campground itself is concerned, it is nothing special but the amenities more than make up for it! We highly recommend the pie!

Guide to Pinehill

Tent camping near Pinehill, New Mexico offers primitive experiences in a high-desert landscape at approximately 7,000 feet elevation. The Continental Divide passes through this region, creating dramatic changes in vegetation from piñon-juniper woodlands to ponderosa forests. Summer temperatures typically range from 45°F at night to 85°F during day, with monsoon storms common in July and August.

What to do

Hiking access to volcanic features: At Chain of Craters Hiker Hideout, campers can explore the nearby El Malpais National Monument's unique lava flows. "Surrounded by El Malpais National Monument, all park rules apply at this location. If you're up for an adventure, book this site," notes reviewer Ashley F.

Wildlife observation: The 4 R's Primitive Camping area provides access to the nearby Wolf Sanctuary. According to Ashley F., "This is a park and hike set-up. With gorgeous views and close access to the Wolf Sanctuary near by, this is a fun stay!"

Stargazing opportunities: The remote location away from major cities creates exceptional night sky viewing. "The surrounding area is gorgeous! The camp spot is nestled in the trees," reports Lauren M. about Lobo Canyon Campground.

What campers like

Solitude and quiet: The dispersed camping areas around Pinehill provide peaceful experiences with minimal crowds. At Mujeres Valley Campground, visitors appreciate the various site options. "The campground owners greeted us on arrivals and guided us to a couple different campsite options. The campground are clean, open, easy to access."

Shade coverage: Many sites offer natural protection from the sun during hot summer days. Lauren M. notes about Lobo Canyon, "The camp spot is nestled in the trees and has plenty of shade for the summer months."

Accessibility options: Campsites range from drive-in to hike-in setups. "The trail is lined with logs so you can find your way to the fire rings and group camping spaces," says a reviewer about Mujeres Valley Campground.

What you should know

Bathroom facilities vary significantly: Most primitive camping areas have no toilets. Ashley F. notes about Chain of Craters, "due to wildfire there is no longer a bathroom. Please ensure you bring a portable toilet, no cat-holes."

Fire restrictions change seasonally: Check current regulations before planning campfires. Some areas permit fires while others prohibit them completely due to wildfire danger.

Water availability is limited: Only Mujeres Valley Campground provides drinking water. All other sites require bringing your own water supply.

Tips for camping with families

Site selection for convenience: Choose campsites that minimize hiking distance when with children. Mujeres Valley offers "spots close to the road and a way from the road."

Pack extra water: The high desert climate causes rapid dehydration, especially for active children.

Recreation planning: Some campers recommend bringing games for entertainment during downtime. "In Campground I love to play cricket with family its really fun," shares Christopher C.

Tips from RVers

Size limitations: Most campgrounds around Pinehill cannot accommodate large RVs. None of the campgrounds are listed as big-rig friendly.

Prepare for no hookups: Bring sufficient water, ensure batteries are charged, and plan for boondocking. No electrical, sewer or water connections are available at any campgrounds in the area.

Picnic area access: Seasonal closures affect facilities. "Currently in April the picnic area was closed," reports Lauren M. about Lobo Canyon.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Pinehill, NM?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Pinehill, NM is 4 R's Primitive camping with a 5-star rating from 2 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Pinehill, NM?

TheDyrt.com has all 5 tent camping locations near Pinehill, NM, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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