Camping spots near Belen, New Mexico range from full-service RV parks to more remote mesa sites at elevations between 4,800 and 7,000 feet. The region experiences dramatic temperature swings, with summer days reaching 90°F and winter nights dropping below freezing. Cell service remains surprisingly strong throughout most camping areas, even at more isolated locations like Plateau Hame de Colquhoun where visitors report "Verizon cellphone signal was surprisingly good in this area."
What to do
Hike mountain trails: Manzano Mountains State Park Campground offers easy access to hiking paths through ponderosa pines. A visitor noted, "Nice hiking (easy) trails. Flush toilets but no showers. Dump station. Very nice facility." The park provides a cooler escape from summer heat with temperatures typically 15-20 degrees lower than Belen.
Fish stocked lakes: Isleta Lakes & RV Park provides fishing opportunities just 30 minutes from Belen. According to one camper, "Fishing License can be purchased in campground store. Plenty of space from neighbors on our corner lot. Loved the patio area we had as well." The lake is regularly stocked with catfish.
Explore local ruins: Several campgrounds serve as bases for exploring historical sites. One camper at Manzano Mountains State Park Campground commented, "Great place near ruins and plenty of trails to walk dogs. Most of the sites are very private. Quiet. Clean."
What campers like
Desert stargazing: The Belen area's clear skies and minimal light pollution create excellent stargazing conditions. At Red Canyon Campground, a camper reported, "We had a great night with a campfire and a good view of the stars and moon."
Mountain climate: Higher elevation campgrounds offer relief from valley heat. A visitor to Manzano Mountains State Park stated, "Went in July and the weather was cool in the 80's most of the time, cooling to the upper 40's at night. Isolated at the end of a road in the edge of the Monzano Mountains, it is fully treed with great shade."
Wildlife encounters: The natural setting attracts diverse wildlife. A camper at Red Canyon Campground shared, "Very green and lush with deer visiting our site at dusk!" This provides nature observation opportunities for photographers and wildlife enthusiasts.
What you should know
Road access challenges: Some campgrounds require careful navigation on unpaved roads. At Plateau Hame de Colquhoun, a visitor advised, "Be sure to follow their detailed directions, and allow plenty of time to get there before sunset. It took us almost an hour after taking exit 191 off I-25 to reach the camp."
Site cleanliness varies: Some remote sites experience maintenance issues during busy periods. One Red Canyon camper warned, "The site itself is in a really nice area with lots of pine trees and direct trail access. The only issue is it seems a lot of people who come here don't know camp etiquette and leave the sites completely trashed."
Limited amenities: Many sites lack full services. A visitor to La Vista RV Park noted, "Everything is great about this little site, only drawbacks are no facilities, and no shade." Bring appropriate supplies based on each campground's available amenities.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with recreation options: Albuquerque KOA Journey offers family-friendly amenities about 35 minutes from Belen. A camper shared, "They have a playground hot tub and a bounce pad for the kids. It was safe and quiet we will definitely stay again."
Consider noise factors: Highway proximity affects some campgrounds. One family at Albuquerque KOA Journey reported, "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!"
Look for shade: Summer temperatures make shade essential for comfortable family camping. A visitor to Enchanted Trails RV Park noted, "The sites were close together and appeared to have a number of long term residents. It was quiet and well marked out."
Tips from RVers
Water pressure awareness: Route 66 RV Resort requires equipment precautions. An RVer warned, "We were told that the water pressure was about 90 psi and it was, so use a reducer. The sites throughout this campground are nicely spaced, well groomed and level."
Level site options: Finding level parking varies by campground. At American RV Resort, a camper noted, "The pull-through sites are easily assessable and long enough for an F250 w/30' travel trailer and not be detached. The park is clean and quaint."
Self-sufficiency requirements: Remote camping requires preparation. A visitor at Plateau Hame de Colquhoun advised, "The Mesa is untamed land so you do want to bring the essentials you need. You will have the best experience here if you are self-sufficient."
