Best Tent Camping near Placitas, NM
Searching for a tent campsite near Placitas? The Dyrt is an easy way to find tent camping spots near Placitas. Each tent site offers quick access to one or more of Placitas, New Mexico's most popular destinations.
Best Tent Sites Near Placitas, New Mexico (16)
1. Dispersed Camping off FS 542
23 Reviews•40 Photos•440 SavesTijeras, New Mexico- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Group
- Dispersed
2. Mother Bosque Gardens
7 Reviews•93 Photos•42 SavesAlbuquerque, New MexicoMother Bosque Garden , in Albuquerque , NM USA 87107
We are on Google, and Google Maps, easy to find. We are in the North valley , in the Griegos neighborhood .
Urban Organic Permaculture in an Urban / Suburban Setting, We are 2 miles East of the Rio Grande River. and walking, bike paths . The paths starts at our neighborhood.
contact , Michaela and Ernesto Maestas . 505 688 9721, text is best
6 camp sites only , 8 x 8 is the largest tent . $45- per night, 2 adults . 2 Inside rooms too.
NO RVs , We take vans, cars , truck, bikes . You may sleep in your van , truck or car.
We are NOT an RV park . We are Not a camp- ground. We are organic gardens .
Urban Permaculture, with Fruit trees , flowers, cactus and herbs.
We are a wildlife safety zone , we feed birds and provide water .
A Clean shared bathroom , inside toilet / shower , includes towels, soap , shampoo.
We have a shared kitchen / laundry room you can use . we ask for $3- to do laundry , cash .
We are 7 Mins. from Route 40 and 25.
No smoking, no drugs , no parties , dog friendly , 420 ok.
We are 10 mins. from Old town and 15 mins. from Downtown .
We are close to the Rio Grande Nature Center .
There are gas stations and stores within a 2 mins. drive .
We are one hour to Santa Fe , NM and 3 hours to Taos, NM.
We are 2 hours to T or C, NM and 5 hours to Silver City , NM .
We are dog friendly, must be on a leash and please clean up poo. We will give you bags .
We have trash cans, and recycling and compost.
Our tent sites are private , if you choose to sleep in your van or car , you are in a parking area but may use the house and gardens . There is a public pool , 2 mins, from the house . A city pool , that is awesome.
- Pets
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Trash
$45 - $50 / night
3. Manzanita Rec Zone Dispersed Camping - Sandia District
2 Reviews•5 Photos•39 SavesPonderosa, New MexicoPlease consult the Manzanita Mountains Trail System Map to find a dispersed site: https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd555098.pdf
Look for Motorized Dispersed Camping info in the bottom left portion of the map. **When looking for the Dispersed Camping Sites, look for small, rectangular boxes with a site number in it and a pointer that directs you to the site.
There are NO AMENITIES at these sites. Cell phone coverage is not guaranteed. It is the recreationist’s responsibility to use a map if you choose to explore the area. It is a multi-user area. Trail(s) that are associated with each dispersed site are open for the following uses: Hiking, Mountain Biking, 2 Wheel Motorized Vehicles and Horseback Riding.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
4. Cedro 2 Track 13 Dispersed Site
1 Review•3 Photos•26 SavesTijeras, New MexicoIndividual BLM Field Offices may have additional or supplemental special camping rules or guidelines. Please call our Field Offices or visit our individual recreation websites for this information.
BLM's overall policy is to allow dispersed camping on all the lands it administers with the following conditions and exceptions:
Dispersed camping is generally allowed on public lands in New Mexico for no more than a period of 14 days within any period of 28 consecutive days. The 14-day limit may be reached either through a number of separate visits or through 14 days of continuous overnight occupation during the 28-day period. After this time period, you must relocate to another site at least 25 miles away. The purpose of this is to prevent damage to sensitive resources caused by continual use of any particular areas.
Camping is prohibited within 900 feet of any developed water source such as a guzzler or watering trough so that the water is accessible to wildlife and livestock. Please do not park your vehicles near these waters or take any actions that would disturb wildlife or livestock from using these waters.
Campfires must be attended at all times. Campers must comply with all fire restrictions.
When using a motorized vehicle for camping access please park your vehicle near existing roads or existing undeveloped campsites.
Camping is permitted within all units of the National Wilderness Preservation System administered by the BLM in New Mexico. However, all motorized and mechanized vehicles and equipment are strictly prohibited in these areas. Campers must not dispose of refuse, hazardous materials, sewage, or gray water, in any manner that would pollute the surrounding area. Please pack it out, and dispose of those materials properly.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Group
- Dispersed
5. Coyote Trailhead
1 Review•2 Photos•15 SavesTijeras, New Mexico- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Equestrian
- Standard (Tent/RV)
7. Big Tesuque Campground
9 Reviews•30 Photos•139 SavesTesuque, New MexicoBig Tesuque is a walk in campground not conducive to trailer or RV campoing. There are 10 units, Picnic tables and grills, and Vaulted toilets in the parking lot. There is no potable water and no Campground Host. The entire area is very scenic, and NM 475 is also designated as the Santa Fe Scenic Byway. Because of the large stands of aspen, the area is very busy, especially in the fall aspen viewing season. There are additional recreation opportunities along NM 475, both above and below Big Tesuque Campground, including hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, and in the winter. both nordic and alpine skiing. Tesuque is pronounced "Tess-U-key"
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Trash
9. New Canyon Campground
5 Reviews•7 Photos•78 SavesMountainair, New Mexico- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Equestrian
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Trash
10. Road 378, Fenton Lake - Dispersed
2 Reviews•13 Photos•72 SavesJemez Springs, New Mexico- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Dispersed
- Trash
- Picnic Table
Recent Tent Reviews near Placitas, New Mexico
632 Reviews of 16 Placitas Campgrounds
Kayla M.
Traveler
Turquoise Trail Campground
Loved it!
Enjoyed the site! They had RV, cabins and tent camp sites. My friend and I are tent campers and there was more than enough space for the vehicle and both our tents. They have showers (limited to 5 mins but better than nothing!), they have a dishwashing stations and two bathhouses. The lady at the front desk was helpful and extremely nice. There is a store really close by also! They have charcoal grills at the tent sites and one communal fire pit. We paid about $20. Would absolutely go back again! The sad part is the museum is closed due to lack of funding 😭
- Carly R.
GuideTurquoise Trail Campground
Convenient clean campground
Clean facility overall. Tent sites have their own loop with trees separating. Each spot has a gravel tent pad, picnic table and grill. Cost was $20 and included a shower token (5 min).
There were quite a few RVs and tent camping was about 50% full. Great spot while we were passing through.
- ttiffany T.Traveler
Big Tesuque Campground
Simple beauty
12 miles uphill drive into the Santa Fe National Forest, just past million dollar mansions in Santa Fe. Easy access, just drive up and park. Multiple tent camp sites with fire pit and picnic table. Accessible to trails. Beautiful sunset views.
- PPatrick R.Traveler
Black Canyon Campground
Close to town but felt like way out in the woods.
As nice a campground as you could want and only be 15 minutes from center of town. The walk to tent camp sites are great, and a short walk. It was just myself when I stayed, looking for a place to sleep and break up drive from Phoenix to Denver. I would go back with family, but most weekends seem booked, so reserve when you can!
Platinum P.
Scout
Santa Fe Treehouse Camp
Secluded with fantastic views!
andTreehouse camp is located on a mesa which offers 180 degree views. You feel secluded, yet only 30 minutes to Santa Fe and all it has to offer. There are a variety of camping scenarios from tent camp sites to rustic cabins in trees. Imagine having showers, toilets, electricity, full outdoor kitchen, and water at your disposable. Owners are extremely knowledgeable about outdoor everything, and natural healing concepts. We went in an RV
Roxy V.Guide
Albuquerque KOA Journey
Nice Campground
We stayed here only overnight as part of our cross-country trip. Overall, nice for a quick stay but would not for an extended visit.
Pros: Everyone there was friendly and accomodating. They have personel maintaining the gate 24/7. Restrooms & showers were clean. They offer RV sites, cabin rentals (which we were told they were all booked but saw no one there- possibly closed due to pandemic though), and tent sites. We tent camp. The site had a fire ring, picnic table, a shaded area, and is covered in pea gravel. The shaded area is not waterproof or "fully" covered. But seems it would help with the heat to provide some shaded comfort. It rained the night we were there, and I was unable to get all of our tent spikes into the ground for our rainfall (think there may have been concrete a few inches below). If you are staying for an extended time, I recommend bringing a tarp that you can tie to the shaded area to help with heat / rain. Each tent site is separated by a privacy wall (see pic). The best part was the sunrise! Absolutely stunning as you are literally at the base of the mountains. You just have to ignore the giant Geico billboard on highway in your view.
Cons: EVERY review will tell you about the noise from highway, and it is no joke!! We were so tired we did not care. But it is BAD! If you are looking for peace and quiet - THIS IS NOT THE PLACE! You can see the highway wall in my pics. It appeared to be in what seemed as "not the best part of town". It is fully gated 24/7 which I appreciate, but makes you wonder where you are staying. However, we did not have any issues, and the few people we saw were all very polite. We arrived later in the evening and ran out to get a quick bite, but everything closes at 9p so be mindful.
Pandemic note: We stayed here 6/1/20-6/2/20. Everyone was wearing masks, VERY mindful of social distancing, and you could not even go in to the office - they come out to you.
I would recommend this only as a quick stop-over / last option campground.
- KKathi V.Guide
Hyde Memorial State Park Campground
Dumpsite disaster area after rain/snow
We decided to take a late fall trip to CA and drag a 34' 5er up to Hyde memorial state park. Bad idea on many levels. First, you have to navigate through old Santa Fe to get to the entrance to the park. Narrow streets+a big 5th wheel+a huge F250= unfun drive which took well over an hour to get through just a few miles of roads due to the heavy traffic and numerous lights, plus the navigation required to get around very tight corners. We got to the RV part of the park and it was not crowded, but the spaces require some skill to back into and are NOT the slightest bit level, or wide. We managed.
The hiking around the park and campgrounds is amazing, but a bit challenging. We live at 8000 feet, so the altitude was not a problem for us, but if you are from sea level, be prepared to take your time and handle the altitude.
It snowed on Oct 31 and we had to dig out from 8+ inches of snow to get on the road on November 1. The dump station was filled with 6+ inches of mud/slush/water and we regrettably had to use it. It was a disgusting mess to say the least. To add insult to injury, we had to drive BACK through Old Santa Fe, in the snow.
My advice is to go IF you have a smaller trailer or 5th wheel, or are tent camping. The tent campground closed well before we arrived, so I can't add anything to the review on that.
It's a beautiful campground, but the RV area is small, close together spaces, difficult to get into and the dump station is the stuff RV nightmares are made of.
- Ali B.Scout
Santa Fe KOA
Pricey but safe and clean
As with many KOA’s a bit pricey but clean and reliable. Tent sites are near the road and are a bit dusty and noisy with road traffic. There is a current drought and requests to minimize water. One tent site is set apart - near a water holding area … not a great smell but away from the road. The smell they said is drought related.
- EEllen C.Scout
Jemez Falls Campground
Awesome place to camp
This is one of the places to camp in New Mexico
- LLloyd S.Traveler
Cochiti Recreation Area
Cochiti lake NM.
This is a great U.S. Army Corps of Engineers campground. Great level sites with water and 50amp power for RVs and water at tent sites. Clean restrooms with showers. No sewer hookups but dump stations. Stays are limited to14 days, RVspaces are $20 tent sites are $14, 50% discount if you have an Access pass. Fishing docks at the lake, boating (no wake) hiking trails and lots to see and do in the area.
Jennifer A.Traveler
Coronado Campground
Urban campground
We stayed here for our annual Cub Scout camp out. We tent camped around a group site. It’s next to the Coronado Monument and the Rio Grande with an awesome view of the Sandia mountains.
Megan E.
RangerBig Tesuque Campground
Simple camping
Great location for free tent camping. Sites are located starting at the trail head and continuing up Big Tesque Trail. Recommend going during the week as it’s very busy on the weekends.
- JJames T.Traveler
Rancheros de Santa Fe
interesting campground
I enjoyed this campground. I stayed at a tent site. even though sites were close together the terrain made it kind of neat. $33 for the night
- Anthony G.Traveler
Juniper Family Campground — Bandelier National Monument
Perfection
The Juniper campground is perfection. The layout of the campground allows for both RV and tent camping, while still having you own quiet area. Plenty of water filling stations, and bear boxes. The evening ranger presentations, held at the amphitheater, are informative and interactive.
Darren G.TravelerJuniper Family Campground — Bandelier National Monument
Better get there early
Not good for large trailers but if you have a smaller one or tent camping, this place is great. When it is full it is still fine as it seems people there are decent and know their manners. (becoming unusual these days) Will stay there again.
- TTraci M.Scout
Santa Fe KOA
Romantic Tent for Two Please
My husband had the great idea of tent camping just the two of us. Up to this point our tent camping adventures were reserved for grandbaby time. But I said What the hey! Let's do it. I wanted somewhere cooler than home. The Santa Fe area had plenty to keep us busy for the week.
We did not get a tent spot but opted for a small trailer site with electric and water. Our spot was near the bathhouse but not too close. Each site has native trees and plants, so everyone has privacy. The site had a nice flat spot for the tent, picnic table, fire pit and grill. We had more than enough room to set up our awning for a dining area. We loved our little spot for the week.
The bathhouse was clean and very nice. New tile and fixtures. It was a little small for the size of the campground.
They have plenty of activities there for everyone and in the evening it is very quiet.
Jayston M.Traveler
Mother Bosque Gardens
Wonderful hybrid camping concept
Airbnb for tent camping, overnight parking for van camping, full access to home amenities - this was exactly what we needed for a one night stop. The hosts were quick to respond, communicative, warm and accommodating; the site is peaceful and has a genuinely good energy. I love the whole setup and would definitely stay there again.
Dave V.
LegendTurquoise Trail Campground
Clean and close to the mountains and Albuquerque
CAMPGROUND REVIEW: Turquoise Trail Campground, Cedar Crest, NM
Turquoise Trail Campground is a small privately owned campground located five miles north of I-40 off Route 14 (exit 175) just outside the east side of Albuquerque. Tucked along the base of the Sandia mountains, at 6940’ elevation. http://www.turquoisetrailcampground.com/
There is plenty of visible signage to guide you down Snowline Dr into the campground.
As you approach the office/museum on the right, the RV/Camper loop is visible on the left (which appeared full). Behind the office building are two tent loops (upper and lower). There are two very clean bathroom/showerhouses located between the office and tent loops. A laundry room and dishwashing sink is located at the back of the office building. *This is also the only water access for the tent loops.
RV sites have full hookups. Tent sites have only a leveled, gravel tent pad, picnic table and standing grill. Only stove fires were permitted at our visit due to open fire restrictions.
Tent sites are separated by scrub brush, which offered partial privacy between most sites, but you will hear your neighbors. The outer tent sites back up to a residential area, with a fence separating. Bring earplugs for undisturbed sleeping, as road noise from Route 14 can be heard, along with local dogs randomly in the distance.
At $20 a night, the campground is convenient and sufficiently met our needs as we traveled west on a tight itinerary.
Shower tokens are provided with your nightly fee. Each token gives you 7 minutes of shower time.
There is plenty to do nearby, with bike trails and hiking trails…though nothing of particular interest in the campground itself.
The bustling city of Albuquerque is the next exit west, so you are still very close to shopping, eateries, and nightlife.
- Emily C.Guide
Hidden Valley RV park
Sweet little spot
We got there during night check in but went in to talk with the camp host in the morning. She was very sweet and kind! The bathrooms are being remodeled and are so pretty! Best showers ever! The tent sites were small but nice for a night. However it was bright with a light right outside the tent.
- Alex G.Traveler
Big Tesuque Campground
Absolutely beautiful! If you're tent camping, it's perfect! And it's free. What a gem!!
If you have an RV, Hyde Park Sate Park is where you want to be. If you're tent camping, Big Tesuque is AMAZING!! It's small, but absolutely beautiful. Each site has a picknick table and a tent pad. There are basic toilets. No showers, no sinks. But there are 2 streams bordering the campground and trails leading into the mountains.
When I was there, it was 5 to 10 degrees warmer than Hyde Park! (end of May.)
- Megan E.Ranger
Juniper Family Campground — Bandelier National Monument
Beautiful place
Sites are exposed, and summer is hot. I imagine fall or spring would be more ideal weather. Definitely planning a trip back later in the year. Each tent site is small, relatively flat with picnic table. A few pull through sites are available. Firewood is pre-cut and can be purchased for $1 a log (cash only, drop box).
- Mikayla M.Guide
Santa Fe KOA
Fine for a one night stay
We tent camped and the spaces are well maintained and include a little fire pit, picnic table, place for your car, and fairly flat space for the tent. It’s easy to get to from the highway, but that’s also the downside because you can hear all of the traffic. The bathrooms were clean and have a code to enter, we arrived at night to just get a spot so we didn’t have a packet to tell us the code but another camper gave it to us. Overall a nice and convenient spot.
- Megan E.Ranger
Hyde Memorial State Park Campground
On the way to Ski Santa Fe
Beautiful spot for fall camping since the leaves are changing colors and temperatures are cooler. In winter, this area receives snow and can be difficult to get to without a reliable, 4-wheel drive vehicle.
Tent sites have covered awnings and fire pits when open flame is allowed. There are two large yurts tucked away from the main road. Great hiking trails in and around the park.
Jean C.LegendSanta Fe KOA
Compact campground with pull thru sites
Stopped by this KOA to see what it offered for possible future stays. It's a compact campground that provides pull through sites as well as back-in and tent sites. They offer everything from 50 amp electric to cable TV. Sites are clean and neat. There's a dog park for your pets. Bathrooms are clean with hot showers. They have cabins available as well.
Great location for exploring Sandra Fe, Bandelier, and other national monuments.
James F.Guide
Fenton Lake State Park — Fenton Lake Fishing Area (and Dam)
Nice State Park
Fenton Lake is usually busy and reserving months ahead of time is a good idea. We like spots number 1 and 17 for tent camping. Rangers patrol the campgrounds and in general people are usually well behaved. Nice hikes along the creek. Getting a fishing spot may be hard to find sometimes as the small lake is usually circled with people fishing. Fishing is usually good though as it is well stocked. Temperatures at night can get down in the low forties after being in the eighties during the day.
- Jason J.Ranger
Turquoise Trail Campground
Great location
Excellent for a my stop into Albuquerque to see the Sandia Mountains (the view from the top of the tram is better than the view from the top of the road up, by the way - if you are hiking, you’ll see both; If not, maybe that will affect your decision on how to go up) and Petroglyph National Monument (well worth your time). Campground tent sites were spaced fairly well and level. Facilities were sufficient. Overall, a pleasant experience and provided what I needed.
Alex M.Legend
Albuquerque North / Bernalillo KOA
Excellent urban camping
This is a civilized campground located just a few minutes north of Albuquerque. Amenities include a camp store and laundry room. I arrived without a reservation and was able to find a nice tent site with plenty of shade and wooden fences on three sides for privacy. Water and electricity were also available at my site.
This being an urban campground, there was some traffic noise from nearby roads and freeways. However, the campground quieted down at night and I slept well. The bathrooms were very well appointed, and required a code to enter.
Guide to Placitas
Nestled in the scenic landscapes of New Mexico, Placitas offers a variety of tent camping options that cater to outdoor enthusiasts seeking tranquility and adventure.
Tent campers should check out the stunning views and natural beauty
- Experience the serene environment at Dispersed Camping off FS 542, where you can enjoy peaceful surroundings and decent views, perfect for a relaxing getaway.
- The Manzanita Rec Zone Dispersed Camping - Sandia District offers a quieter experience with beautiful trails and cooler temperatures, just a short drive from Albuquerque.
- For a more secluded spot, consider Cedro 2 Track 13 Dispersed Site, where you can find plenty of trees for privacy and a cozy fire pit.
Tent camping with essential amenities
- At Mother Bosque Gardens, enjoy access to drinking water, showers, and toilets, making it a comfortable choice for families and solo campers alike.
- Scaramanga Ranch provides a unique camping experience with amenities like picnic tables and firewood, ensuring a pleasant stay in a beautiful setting.
- For those looking for a more rustic experience, Coyote Trailhead offers a fire ring and a peaceful atmosphere, though it lacks some modern conveniences.
Activities for outdoor enthusiasts
- Hikers will love the trails accessible from Manzanita Rec Zone Dispersed Camping - Sandia District, which are perfect for exploring the natural beauty of the area.
- Wildlife enthusiasts can spot coyotes and other local fauna while camping at Dispersed Camping off FS 542, adding an exciting element to your outdoor adventure.
- For a unique experience, visit Ojito Wilderness, where you can enjoy hiking trails and stunning night skies, perfect for stargazing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Placitas, NM?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Placitas, NM is Dispersed Camping off FS 542 with a 4.3-star rating from 23 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Placitas, NM?
TheDyrt.com has all 16 tent camping locations near Placitas, NM, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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