Camping near Ramah, New Mexico sits at elevations ranging from 6,500 to 8,000 feet, creating a high desert climate with cool summer nights and cold winters. The Zuni Mountains provide a transitional zone between desert and alpine environments, offering forested areas with ponderosa pine and aspen groves. Winter closures affect several dispersed camping areas from December 15 to March 31.
What to do
Explore lava formations: At Grants KOA Journey, you can experience a walking path through a lava flow right within the park. "The mesas and the volcanos in the background were beautiful at sunset, along with the distinct lava rocks," notes Edith L. The campground provides a convenient base for exploring El Malpais National Monument's volcanic features.
Fishing opportunities: Bluewater Lake State Park Campground offers excellent fishing access. "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," reports Sara S. The lake is stocked and supports a variety of fish species.
Hiking trails: Several hiking options exist near Quaking Aspen Campground, with Robert B. noting, "Really nice hiking/mountain bike trails. The aspens are in the trails not the campground." Trails range from easy walks to more challenging routes through the Zuni Mountains with elevation changes of 500-1,000 feet.
What campers like
Peace and quiet: Many campers appreciate the tranquility at Turkey Springs dispersed camping. "Quiet, peaceful. Easy to find, follow Dyrt directions. Large Ponderosa Pines with White Cedar and Oak scrub," writes Roger J. The higher elevation (above 7,000 feet) creates cooler temperatures than nearby Gallup.
Spacious campsites: Six Mile Canyon - Dispersed Camping provides ample space between sites. "We drove about 2 miles up the road to find the last good spot. Found a few sites off of the road before this but all occupied. We got a site for 2 RVs that protected us from an impending windstorm," reports Terry O. Sites become more secluded the further up the canyon you travel.
Reasonable pricing: Campground fees in the area are budget-friendly. At Bluewater Lake State Park, Grace D. mentions, "Pricing differential for NM residents ($15)," while non-residents pay $20. Quaking Aspen Campground costs just $5 per night, with Tyler G. calling it "quite the bargain given the well-kept grounds and wonderful scenery."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to dispersed camping can be challenging after rain. Kenny R. cautions about Turkey Springs: "Great spot! Lots of options and tons of open space. Beautiful area. I decided to stay at the nearby Quaking Aspen Campground (0.5 mile away) due to this dispersed camping area kinda being a mudpit after the rain."
Seasonal closures: Many dispersed camping areas close during winter. Dan J. notes about Six Mile Canyon: "The gate at the end of the road is closed Dec. 15 to March 31." Similar winter closures affect Turkey Springs and other Forest Service roads in the region.
Water concerns: Most dispersed camping lacks water sources. For established campgrounds, Jennifer W. reports about Bluewater Lake State Park Campground: "I only saw one water pump in the park." At Grants KOA, one reviewer mentioned "the water didn't taste great," suggesting bringing drinking water.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: USA RV Park offers family-oriented facilities. "Playground for the kiddos, lots of areas to explore with the puppers, and plenty of bathrooms and Ramadas available for day use," writes Sara S. about Bluewater Lake. For convenience, USA RV Park allows food delivery: "We were able to get pizza delivered to our RV site which was a big hit with the kids," notes Nicole B.
Wildlife viewing: Families enjoy wildlife sightings in the region. At Red Rock Park & Campground, Fain H. describes the setting: "Your surrounded by desert on one side and dark red stone on the other, very cool place and trails." Six Mile Canyon campers report seeing free-range horses around the area.
Weather preparation: High desert elevations mean significant temperature swings. Robert N. at Bluewater Lake observes, "It is after Labor Day, the Canyonside Campground is deserted except for myself. I can hear the breeze moving through the pinions." Pack warm clothes even in summer as nighttime temperatures can drop below 50°F.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: When RVing at Red Rock Park & Campground, choose carefully. "Some sites were right on top each other. It was clean and well cared for. I was there in April and it was not full, so the sites being right wasn't an issue for me," explains Julie H. Early arrival improves site options.
Leveling challenges: Many sites require leveling equipment. At Six Mile Canyon, Terry O. notes, "Sites not very level but managed to get the RVs level enough." At Bluewater Lake, some reviews mention uneven spots, though Pat R. found their site level.
Service availability: Full hookups are limited in the region. USA RV Park offers complete services with Chris H. noting, "Friendly staff, well stocked store, clean sites. Perfect for an overnight stay along the route." For those seeking pet-friendly camping near Ramah, New Mexico with full hookups, options are primarily limited to private RV parks rather than public campgrounds.
