Best Campgrounds near Placitas, NM

Camping near Placitas, New Mexico, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and family-friendly activities. Whether you're looking for a cozy spot to pitch a tent or a comfortable RV park, there are plenty of options to explore.

What to do:

• Hiking: There are many trails nearby, perfect for all skill levels. One camper mentioned, "The hiking right from the campground is great - the two hikes are definitely worth doing" at Juniper Family Campground — Bandelier National Monument.
• Exploring National Monuments: Visit Bandelier National Monument, just a short drive away. A reviewer noted, "This was our first time at this lovely National Monument and we simply loved it," highlighting the area's rich history and stunning views.
• Water Activities: At Cochiti Recreation Area, you can enjoy boating and fishing. One visitor shared, "Good location to visit both Albuquerque and Santa Fe," making it a great base for water fun.

What campers like:

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A reviewer at Santa Fe Skies RV Park said, "The bathrooms were clean (water was hot!!!)" which is a big plus for many.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: Many campgrounds offer activities for kids. One parent mentioned, "Plenty of activities for kids" at Albuquerque KOA Journey, making it a hit for families.
• Scenic Views: Campers love the beautiful surroundings. A visitor at Turquoise Trail Campground said, "Great spot not too far from Albuquerque, very peaceful and quaint," which captures the essence of the area.

What you should know:

• Noise Levels: Some campgrounds are near busy roads. A camper at Albuquerque KOA Journey noted, "It is right off I-40, very convenient, but very noisy," so be prepared for some background noise.
• Limited Services: Many dispersed camping areas, like Sante Fe National Forest BLM-Road 62 Dispersed, lack amenities. One reviewer mentioned, "There was a slight amount of trash at most sites," indicating that you might need to bring your own supplies.
• Seasonal Access: Some campgrounds, like Jemez Falls Campground, are only open from April to November. A visitor noted, "Reservation system ran till the end of September," so plan accordingly.

Tips for camping with families:

• Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and pools. A parent at Albuquerque KOA Journey mentioned, "Jump pad, playground, mini golf and a really nice pool" as highlights for kids.
• Safety First: Choose campgrounds with good security. One reviewer at Santa Fe Skies RV Park appreciated the "helpful information about the train," which is a safe and fun way to explore nearby cities.
• Plan for Noise: If your kids are light sleepers, consider campgrounds away from highways. A camper at Cochiti Recreation Area mentioned, "The campground is inside the Cochiti Pueblo Nation," which might offer a quieter experience.

Tips from RVers:

• Check Hookups: Make sure the campground has the right hookups for your RV. A reviewer at Route 66 RV Resort said, "The spaces are set apart for lots of privacy between spots," which is great for RVers looking for comfort.
• Be Prepared for Weather: Some areas can get windy. A camper at Albuquerque KOA Journey advised, "I'd recommend pulling your awnings in when you go to bed," to avoid damage.
• Explore Nearby Attractions: RVers love the convenience of being close to attractions. A visitor at Santa Fe Skies RV Park mentioned, "The location made for an hour's drive to Los Alamos and Bandelier national monument," making it easy to explore the area.

Camping near Placitas, New Mexico, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Whether you prefer established campgrounds or dispersed sites, you'll find a spot that suits your needs.