Camping opportunities extend throughout the high desert terrain near Rehoboth, New Mexico, with sites situated at elevations between 6,500-7,500 feet. The region experiences significant temperature variations with summer daytime highs reaching 90°F while dropping to 50°F overnight, making layered clothing essential for comfort. Most camping areas remain open seasonally from April through October due to winter weather restrictions.
What to do
Hiking trails: McGaffey Campground offers a 3-mile trail perfect for day hikes. "There is a trail alongside for hiking or bikes," notes one visitor who frequently returns to the site.
Red rock exploration: At Red Rock Park & Campground, visitors can access scenic hiking paths. "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," reports a camper.
Native American cultural sites: El Morro RV Park and Cabins provides convenient access to El Morro National Monument. "Morro National monument nearby is spectacular. We'd love to return and stay for a few weeks," shares a visitor who appreciated the proximity to this historical site with ancient inscriptions.
Stargazing: Six Mile Canyon Road Dispersed Site offers unobstructed night sky viewing. "Beautiful spot once you find a place though," notes a reviewer who navigated the sometimes rough terrain to reach prime stargazing locations.
What campers like
Peaceful canyon settings: Six Mile Canyon - Dispersed Camping offers secluded spots within a scenic valley. "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," reports one reviewer who appreciated the unexpected natural beauty.
Well-maintained facilities: Many campers praise the maintenance standards at certain sites. "Really well done park and facilities, maybe even the best camp store I have ever visited. Gallup is a super interesting place and could have easily spent way more time than we did," noted a visitor to USA RV Park.
Affordability: Bluewater Lake State Park Campground offers excellent value with reasonable rates. "Pricing differential for NM residents ($15). Prices go up and online reservations begin May 1," explains a camper who found the $20 standard rate appropriate for the quality of the experience.
Natural attractions: Turkey Springs dispersed camping area features mature pine forests. "Great Spot nice and cool among the tall pines and Oaks. Road in is very accessible lots of spots available," shares a visitor who enjoyed the woodland setting.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Many dispersed camping areas have restricted access during winter months. "The gate at the end of the road is closed Dec. 15 to March 31," reports a camper at Turkey Springs, while another noted similar restrictions at Six Mile Canyon.
Road conditions: Access to some camping areas requires careful navigation. "Six Mile canyon road off I40 is a bit rough in places. I did fine in my pro master but if it's muddy or wet I wouldn't attempt it without 4WD," warns a visitor to Six Mile Canyon Road Dispersed Site.
Weather preparedness: The region experiences rapid weather changes. "It is above 7k, so it does get colder at night than the local forecast for Gallup," explains a camper at Turkey Springs, highlighting the need for extra layers.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly throughout the region. "NO cell service - at least AT&T so bring your Starlink if you've got it," notes a camper at McGaffey Campground, while others reported intermittent service at dispersed sites.
Tips for camping with families
Easy access locations: For families seeking convenience, Bar S RV Park provides straightforward amenities. "The campground is conveniently located off I40 and is very reasonably priced for full hookups. The campground is clean and the office staff were very nice," reports a family-oriented reviewer.
Kid-friendly amenities: USA RV Park offers features specifically appealing to families. "They had all of the amenities I wanted, showers, clean bathrooms, lots of pull through sites, and a pool. Just a mile off of I-40. I thought it was very well priced," shares a satisfied visitor.
Food delivery options: Some campgrounds accommodate food delivery services. "We were able to get pizza delivered to our RV site which was a big hit with the kids," notes a parent who stayed at USA RV Park while traveling between Page, Arizona and Albuquerque.
Wildlife viewing: Bluewater Lake State Park offers opportunities to observe local fauna. "Wild horses roaming around the lake were also pretty cool," mentions a camper who visited during a Memorial Day weekend trip.
Tips from RVers
Leveling considerations: RV sites have varying degrees of levelness across the region. "Sites not very level but managed to get the RVs level enough," explains a visitor to Six Mile Canyon Road who traveled with multiple RVs.
Dog-friendly facilities: Many campgrounds accommodate pets with dedicated areas. "Big dog park for the puppers to do their business. No frills, but we didn't need any," notes a reviewer at USA RV Park who appreciated the pet amenities during an overnight stay.
Extended stay options: Some RV parks accommodate longer-term visitors. "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 an extended-stay camper.
Military discounts: Several RV camping options near Rehoboth, New Mexico offer special rates. "Full hookups with military and good sam discounts. We've stayed here before and we will again. A dog park, showers, rest rooms and laundry available," explains a returning visitor familiar with regional discount programs.
