The Ramah region sits at elevations between 7,000-8,000 feet, creating a high desert climate with greater temperature fluctuations than nearby lowlands. Summer high temperatures typically reach the 80s, while winter nights often drop below freezing. Camping opportunities range from established sites with amenities to remote forest service roads with undeveloped sites.
What to do
Hiking Church Rock Trail: Red Rock Park Campground provides direct access to multiple hiking trails, including the 3-mile round trip Church Rock Trail. "Church Rock Trial and Pyramid Rock Trail are both about 3 to 3 and a half miles round trip from the campground. You're surrounded by desert on one side and dark red stone on the other," notes a visitor to Red Rock Park & Campground.
Exploring ancient inscriptions: The El Morro National Monument campground places you minutes from historic inscriptions and ruins. "We got up early to hike El Morro since the trails are only open from 9-5 (be back at the ranger station by 4:45). We were the first ones on the trail and stairs. 1000% recommend doing the stairs route if your body can take it," advises a camper at El Morro National Monument.
Wildlife observation: The forests around Ramah contain diverse wildlife. "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 guys in camp, be aware that large animals are present in the area," reports a camper at Quaking Aspen Campground.
What campers like
Free camping options: Many campers appreciate the no-cost camping available near Ramah. "Really nice free camping! We've stayed here a couple times as a stopping over point on the way to things in AZ but we always talk about how we would like to spend more time. The monument is really cool and the campground is very nice," says a reviewer at El Morro National Monument.
Spacious dispersed sites: The Six Mile Canyon area offers ample room between camping spots. "Just off & along the interstate, you'd never know. The valley road cuts through green canyon bluffs and rolling hills with good tree coverage. Lots of fun and scenic driving. Spur trails are good 4x4 drives," notes a visitor to Six Mile Canyon.
Uncrowded camping experience: Turkey Springs provides a peaceful atmosphere with fewer campers than more developed areas. "Great Spot nice and cool among the tall pines and Oaks. Road in is very accessible lots of spots available," reports a camper at Turkey Springs.
What you should know
Seasonal closures affect access: Many of the best places to camp near Ramah close during winter months. A Six Mile Canyon visitor notes: "The gate at the end of the road is closed Dec. 15 to March 31. Parked outside the gate for the night. Looks like a nice area if I could get there. Don't drive the road after a rain."
Road conditions vary significantly: Some campgrounds require careful driving on unpaved roads. "The main road 162 was in great condition until it starts going uphill, then it was rutted out. Only a couple spots beyond this point. Road is closed from Dec 15 through March 31," warns a camper at Turkey Springs.
Weather changes quickly: At higher elevations, temperatures can drop unexpectedly. "It was beautiful and FREE! It was also extremely cold in February, like my water bottle froze overnight. The campsites are nice and spacious and pretty flat," shares a winter visitor to El Morro National Monument.
Tips for camping with families
Cactus awareness: Watch for desert plants that can cause problems for children. "Careful of the grass if you have small children. When the prickly pear cactus die and rot away their little hairy spines remain. My toddler fell in a patch of invisible spines and it was a challenge to remove them by lantern light with crummy first aid kit tweezers," warns a family at El Morro National Monument.
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer facilities specifically for children. "Great state run campground with options from primitive to full hook ups at great prices. The primitive camping is all along the lake so you can park and walk right in with your canoe or SUP. Playground for the kiddos," notes a visitor to Bluewater Lake State Park Campground.
Ranger programs: Check for educational opportunities at national monuments. "Between the separated free sites, small number of spots, and ranger programming on-site at the campground every weekend, it was a top 5 favorite spot for us," reports a camper at El Morro National Monument.
Tips from RVers
Limited level sites: Many campgrounds in the Ramah area have terrain challenges for larger vehicles. "Level dirt sites. Closer to each other but enough space to enjoy the scenery. Great hikes and good views. During the windy season, the sand will blast you and all equipment (bring good tie downs)," advises an RVer at Red Rock Park & Campground.
Boondocking options: Several areas allow for self-sufficient camping without hookups. "Nothing fancy. Close to I-40 but you can get far enough away to limit road noise. Road is good enough to drag a camper back. Sites are pretty decent sized. Good place to camp for the night of going climbing around Gallup," says a visitor to Six Mile Canyon.
RV park amenities: For those wanting full hookups, several options exist within driving distance of Ramah. "We are full time RVers. I am on a contract for nursing and staying here for a few months. People who run the place are nice. Cheap laundry, nice pool, bbq place on site!" shares a long-term guest at USA RV Park.
