Join the fun near Rio Rancho. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Rio Rancho is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Discover great camping spots near Rio Rancho, reviewed by campers like you.
Welcome to Albuquerque KOA. We have a beautiful campground nestled close to the Sandia Mountains. Whether you are looking for a big rig friendly 80 foot RV sites, cabins , or just tent camping, we are your Albuquerque campground . We have a swimming pool, indoor hot tub, mini golf, playground, horseshoes and a huge park for your pets. We are definitely pet friendly . We are here to help you relax and take care of all your camping needs. There's plenty to do during your camping stay with us. Our KOA is conveniently located near attractions such as the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta , the world's longest aerial Tramway , and we are the closest campground to Expo New Mexico Fairgrounds. The campground is also conveniently located near a variety of restaurants, the aquarium, zoo, multiple museums and the fascinating Old Town shopping district.
From the KOA website: The campground features a shaded pool (a rarity in the desert) just steps from your Kamping Kabin, tent site or RV pull thru. It's a terrific gathering spot for groups and families with an outdoor covered pavillion, WiFi , playground, volleyball, horseshoes, 2 dog parks, a book exchange, and video rental along with a great gift shop boasting Native American crafts, snacks, drinks, RV supplies and everyday essentials.
Catch the new Rail Runner Express in Bernalillo only a mile away (within walking distance) for train excursions to explore downtown Albuquerque, Santa Fe and Belen. The campground also offers easy access to the attractions of New Mexico's two largest cities, as well as to ancient Indian ruins (in Bernalillo), ghost towns, pueblos and all the beauty of the Southwest. Just head West on 550 to highway 4 to the Jemez village where you can swim in the soda damn, soak in the natural hot spring pots and enjoy some of the most beautiful scenery New Mexico has to offer.
Step through our secret passage way to the Kaktus brewery where you can enjoy live music, food, and great beer!
We are the closest KOA to the World Famous International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta just 9 miles away. Every October the skies are filled with every color, size and shape of balloons. An amazing spectacle youll want to see.
No car, thats okay. We have a free shuttle that will take you to the Santa Ana Casino where you can enjoy a fun filled evening of dining, bowling (kid friendly with arcade) and entertainment just minutes away. They will always pick you up for an exhilarating round of world famous golf. Feel like staying in, Pizza Hut and Dominos will always deliver to your campsite.
On the weekends, for your enjoyment, free G/PG rated movies are shown in the grassy outdoor covered pavillion where you can purchase snacks and popcorn to add to your viewing pleasure.
Our employees number one goal is to make your camping experience carefree and memorable so that you will choose our campground as the place to stay in New Mexico.
Vista Linda Campground is a first come, first serve campground in the San Diego Canyon on the Jemez National Recreation Area. There are thirteen sites throughout the campground. Potable water and vault toilets are provided amenities. Each campsite has picnic tables, a fire ring, and a charcoal pedestal. Sites with shad features are available; not all sites provide shade features.__
Vista Linda Campground is one of five developed campgrounds in the Jemez National Recreation Area on the Jemez Ranger District. There are numerous outdoor recreation opportunities throughout the Jemez National Recreation Area, from scenic driving to fishing accesses and day-use picnic areas. Vista Linda Campground is a brief drive from numerous developed day-use sites on the NM-4 Corridor and a short drive from multiple access points to Trail 137
Vista Linda Campground is one of five developed campgrounds in the Jemez National Recreation Area on the Jemez Ranger District. There are numerous outdoor recreation opportunities throughout the Jemez National Recreation Area, from scenic driving to fishing accesses and day-use picnic areas. Vista Linda Campground is a brief drive from numerous developed day-use sites on the NM-4 Corridor and a short drive from multiple access points to Trail 137
Vista Linda Campground is situated in a basin of the San Diego Canyon, south of the town of Jemez Springs, NM. It is surrounded by redrock and sandstone mesas in a vibrant cottonwood bosque. The Jemez River runs parallel to the campground, and provides ample fishing access for campers. The campground provides excellent stargazing options on cloudless nights.__
Vista Linda Campground is part of the Jemez National Recreation Area. There are numerous developed, dispersed, and undeveloped recreation opportunities throughout the Jemez National Recreation Area. It is also near the Valles Caldera National Preserve, Bandelier National Monument, Dome and Bandlier Wilderness Areas, the town of Los Alamos, and a two-hour drive to Santa Fe.__
$10 / night
Paliza Campground sits beneath sandstone cliffs on the Jemez Ranger District of the Santa Fe National Forest. The area is replete with culture, offering visitors a glimpse into the past. Ample recreation opportunities exist at or near the campground, which makes it a wonderful outdoor destination.
Hiking, wildlife viewing and scenic drives are some of the popular activities enjoyed near the campground. Striking views of an ancient volcanic crater amid the rolling hills, can be seen from the Cerro Pelado Scenic Overlook, about 11 miles from the campground. Off-road vehicle trails and numerous hiking and mountain biking trails surround the campground.
Hiking, wildlife viewing and scenic drives are some of the popular activities enjoyed near the campground. Striking views of an ancient volcanic crater amid the rolling hills, can be seen from the Cerro Pelado Scenic Overlook, about 11 miles from the campground. Off-road vehicle trails and numerous hiking and mountain biking trails surround the campground.
The newly refurbished campground sits in a forested area at the top of a hill with views of the Jemez Valley below. It was originally the site of a 1930s Civilian Convservation Corps base camp. Remnants of that camp, including log lean-to's and adirondack shelters with rock fireplaces, can be found within the campground. A small stream runs alongside the campground and sandstone cliffs on the nearby mesas provide excellent photographic and sightseeing opportunities. A small tract of private land is located north of the campground and common courtesy is appreciated.
The campground is located five miles northeast of the town of Ponderosa, New Mexico, an area known for its vineyards and winery with a tasting room. The Jemez Pueblo and the Walatowa Visitor Center, both of which provide rewarding cultural experiences, are just 11 miles from the campground in the town of Jemez. The quaint community offers shopping and dining opportunities, as well as a variety of recreational opportunities.
$34 - $50 / night
The Ortiz Mountains and enchanting Cerrillos Hills surround us. Our stars shine brighter than most, and coyote songs will remind you that you're dwelling amongst the high desert wildlife. The 1 3/4 mile road to Little Dancing Horse Ranch is not for everyone. I will reiterate this a couple of times in this listing to make sure people understand that we live on a rocky, dirt road. Some folks find it not to be a big deal while others do. Most vehicles most of the time can make it fine if it's taken slowly although high clearance vehicles are ideal. During the rare big rain or snow, 4 wheel drive may be needed. It's advisable to check the weather in advance.
$45 - $68 / night
Sites: 38, Elevation: 7,600 large, well shaded campground (38 units + 11 picnic sites in the lower loop) is a good way into Manzano Wilderness via Red and Spruce Canyon trails on foot or horseback. Corrals and parking for horse trailers. This site is open for day use or overnight camping. No water available. PLEASE NOTE: Recreational Vehicles (RV's) longer than 22 feet are not allowed in this campground. Vehicles of this size may only park at Ox Canyon Trailhead, approximately 1.5 miles South of Red Canyon Campground.
Great views of Manzano Mountains, Rio Grande and Estancia Valleys are part of the attraction of this popular 8-unit site at 9200* with access to Manzano Mountain Wilderness and Hawkwatch*s raptor counting station.
$5 / night
***Ponderosa Group Campground will be closed starting November 1, 2024 while the park works to complete a major water line replacement/improvement project. The closure is anticipated to last several months.*** __ Ponderosa Group Campground is located 6 miles (9.7 km) from the park's main entrance and is an ideal place to stay for large groups visiting Bandelier National Monument. The campground is adjacent to Ponderosa Trailhead providing access to more than 70 miles (113 km) of hiking trails and is just a short drive from the Visitor Center, the Frijoles Canyon Shuttle System (mid-May to mid-October), and the town of Los Alamos, Valles Caldera National Preserve, Manhattan Project National Historic Site, and the Santa Fe National Forest.__ Ponderosa Group Campground is open year-round (water is only available from mid-May to mid-October). Same-day reservations are not permitted.____ Frijoles Canyon and the park Visitor Center are accessible only by shuttle bus from mid-May to mid-October. The shuttle bus system stops at the Bandelier Visitor Center, Juniper Campground, and the White Rock Visitor Center in the town of White Rock. Outside of the designated shuttle bus period, visitors may access all park areas by private vehicle.__ Public events are prohibited at Ponderosa Campground. Private events that adhere to campsite capacity limits, may be permitted after obtaining a special use permit. Visit the park's Permits & Reservations web page or call (505) 672-3861 ext. 1102.
Accessible from Ponderosa Group Campground, the Ponderosa Trail descends into the park through ponderosa pine forest and connects to many other trails including the Middle Frijoles Trails which leads 8 miles (13 km) through Frijoles Canyon to the Visitor Center and Main Loop Trail.____ The Visitor Center houses museum exhibits, park film, information and ranger programs, Western National Parks Association sales outlet, and more.__ Entrance to Frijoles Canyon and the Visitor Center is by shuttle bus only from mid-May to mid-October. These areas are accesibile by private vehicle outside the shuttle bus period.Although rock climbing is prohibited within Bandelier National Monument, many popular climbs are within a short drive up Route 4 into the Jemez Mountains.
Accessible from Ponderosa Group Campground, the Ponderosa Trail descends into the park through ponderosa pine forest and connects to many other trails including the Middle Frijoles Trails which leads 8 miles (13 km) through Frijoles Canyon to the Visitor Center and Main Loop Trail.____ The Visitor Center houses museum exhibits, park film, information and ranger programs, Western National Parks Association sales outlet, and more.__ Entrance to Frijoles Canyon and the Visitor Center is by shuttle bus only from mid-May to mid-October. These areas are accesibile by private vehicle outside the shuttle bus period.Although rock climbing is prohibited within Bandelier National Monument, many popular climbs are within a short drive up Route 4 into the Jemez Mountains.
Bandelier National Monument protects over 33,000 acres (13,355 ha) of rugged, beautiful canyon and mesa country which features evidence of human presence going back over 11,000 years. Petroglyphs, dwellings carved into the soft rock cliffs, and standing masonry walls pay tribute to the early days of a culture that still survives in the surrounding communities.____ Bandelier National Monument sits at the southern end of the Pajarito (Spanish for "little bird") Plateau. The plateau was formed by two eruptions 1.6 and 1.4 million years ago. Home to the Bandelier Wilderness, Bandelier ranges from 5340 feet (1628 m) at the Rio Grande River to the south and 10,199 feet (3109 m) at the summit of Cerro Grande to the north, almost a mile (1.6 km) of elevation change in just under 12 miles (19 km). This elevation gradient creates a unique diversity of habitats specific to Northern New Mexico. The diversity of habitats and quick access to water supported a relatively large population of Ancestral Pueblo people. Currently, Pi__on-Juniper woodlands dominate in the southern parts of the park transitioning through ponderosa pine savannahs and forests, finally reaching mixed conifer forests at the highest elevation. Scattered throughout the park are desert grasslands, montane meadows, and riparian areas in the canyon bottoms. Over 70 miles (113 km) of trails at Bandelier climb in and out of deep canyons and cross large flat mesas, showcasing the entire spectrum of volcanic geology and ecosystems found within the park.The park is home to over 55 species of mammals including mule deer, Abert's squirrels, mountain lions, black bears, and 16 species of bats. Reptiles and amphibians of all shapes and sizes can be seen. Birds such as Steller's jays, canyon towhees and mountain chickadees stay year-round, whereas turkey vultures, western tanagers, and black-headed grosbeaks are summer residents.
The town of Los Alamos has shopping, museums, amenities, a movie theater, ice rink, ski hill, and is home to the Los Alamos unit of Manhattan Project National Historic Site.____ Nearby Department of Energy and US Forest Service lands provide trails which accommodate pets. Valles Caldera National Preserve is 16 miles (26 km) west of Bandelier.__ Jemez Historic Site is 37 miles (60 km) west. Pecos National Historical Park is 70 miles (113 km) southeast.__ Santa Fe, 40 miles (64 km) south of the park, is home to the New Mexico state capitol, museums, historic districts, art galleries, food, accomodations, and more.__
$50 / night
We just happened upon this 1st come 1st serve campground & so glad we did! The camp host "Brad" was so very nice & helpful. He gave us info on all the things to do and see in the Jamez area (which is alot) Our campsite #12 was really nice. It has a large covered pavilion (not all sites have the covered pavilions) with oversized picnic table & a short path down to a private area at the Jamez River (which is really more like a creek) from our site. We left our chairs down there & frequently enjoyed relaxing there. The area is scenic & campground was very clean. There are water pumps outside the bathrooms. The cost for us was $5 per night using our America the Beautiful Senior Pass. This is a great home base for visiting the area. Would defiantly visit again!
Spots are a little tight. All the KOA amenities. Pool,playground, store and cabins.
Vista Linda NM : Adjacent to the highway. Don’t be fooled, though. Beautiful, peaceful, clean, and the most helpful host.
(Scale 1- bad, 5-Very good
(71 yr olds in 17’ trailer.)
Overall Rating: 4 Security: No Usage during visit: the host tells me that usually fills up Site Privacy: good Site Spacing: very good Pad surface: blacktop Reservations: First, come first Campground Noise: Quiet, campground Outside Road Noise: along the highway. Through Traffic in campground: no Electric Hookup: no, Sewer Hookup: no Dump Station: No Potable Water Available: yes Generators: allowed Bathroom: very clean pit toilets. Showers: no Pull Throughs: yes. Cell Service (AT&T): no bars Setting: beautiful setting. Along in Canyon wall. Would love to stay here Recent Weather: 70s during the day Solar: very good Insects: none during our visit this time of Host: yes sky Rig Size: around 40 feet Sites: many nice sites. See the pictures. Site seven was our favorite site. Very nice. Flowing Creek adjacent to that site.
We stayed here twice on our trip. Both were great stays. The site is spotless and the security (urban location) is excellent. The bathrooms/showers were likewise very clean and there was plenty of hot water. We didn't use the pool or the laundry, but they were also well maintained. We would definitely stay here again.
This KOA is in a seemingly not ideal part of town, next to an interstate and that has A LOT more asphalt than trees... And my kids loved every second of it!
Jump pad, play ground, mini golf and a really nice pool (that stays opens until 9 am) were the highlights. Clean, modern and convenient showers were pluses for Mom and Dad.
15 minutes from the Sandia Air tram, 20 minutes from the airport. Friendly staff. Wind was pretty intense at night on our visit so I'd recommend pulling your awnings in when you go to bed. Interstate noise could be an issue if you're not running ac/fan.
Great staff. Clean park. Second time here. Better than most KOAs.
One of the nicer KOAs but still a KOA. Sites are close together. Friendly staff and clean/organized campground. Close to highway but easy in/out. Some smaller trees have branches that can damage your rig so be mindful of the space above as you navigate through the sites.
Secure campground, nice site, clean restrooms, plenty of activities for kids.
There are many campgrounds that we simply love, and we can’t come within 50 miles of this place without staying at least one night. Tucked into the Jemez Valley just south of the town of Jemez Springs and the nearby Carson National Forest, Valles Caldera National Preserve, and Bandelier National Monument, this campground offers a great place to camp for a night or stay for a week.
Some of the sites have the full shade structure over the picnic table and campfire ring area, others offer shade under the trees along the river bank. There’s lots of great sun for solar power in the valley but none of the sites have electricity. It’s still one of the best campsites for $10 a night. The toilets are clean vault style and are regularly serviced by the nearby park service crews. As the name implies, the scenery is stunning and you can find lots of hiking in the area, including trails that lead to nearby warm and hot springs.
You can also get a permit to visit the Jemez reservation (Red Canyon) hiking trails here as well -- definitely worth it. Also check out the locals who prepare food at the stalls across the road, got some good enchiladas there. But probably the best food around is going to be Los Ojos Saloon. Now, we don’t normally single out businesses in these reviews, but this one is special. Definitely get Olgas Chile Rellenos, as they are among the best we’ve had...anywhere!
With 3 hot springs resorts in town, your soaking desires can be serviced locally or within a short drive. Back down the valley at the reservation visitor’s center there’s a small museum and a cafe offering a very respectable spiced mocha and gas station where you can get a pizza. The suburban sprawl of Bernalillo is just about 30 minutes away in case you need something beyond the convenience store level.
Easy access and decent site for tents. A little old, and I recommend spring to fall for tents. Winter Temps get down to 16 degrees F. Great for RVs though, and usually full.
I like the campground, clean, well organized, the missing two stars are not because of the campground, but because of it's location.
1. It is not in a great part of town.
2. It is right off I-40, very convenient, but very noisy.
And then there is the traffic on I-40, ugh.
We'll stay there again, it is a very nice facility, and works very well for an overnight. The location just isn't my favorite.
Convenient bus service into a busy downtown Santa Fe was helpful as parking can be a problem. Restaurants are near-by and be sure to try Tortilla Flats. Showers and toilets are a close walk away and are kept clean by friendly staff. There is a laundry and lines to hang up your clothes. Traffic noise is the payment for being in-town Santa Fe.
Great spot not too far from Albuquerque, very peaceful and quaint. Friendly staff and dog friendly ( on a leash). Picnic tables, showers, laundry, clean restrooms, all nestled in the pine and fur trees.
The park is very nice and clean. Everyone I talked with was very polite and helpful. I will stay here again. Very close to the Balloon Park, Albuquerque and the town of Bernalillo. The only concern was my AC would not fully power up, it seemed not enough amps. The previous park was fine and the park we are at now it works fine. Not sure of the cause. Park was fully booked, may have added to this. Excellent WiFi and cell phone connection (Verizon)
Great place on a Tuesday, hardly anyone there and campsites close to the water. Great for sleeping, I didn't bother pitching my tent and slept out under the shelter. Cool breezes came down the valley in the evening and overnight. It's dark in the canyon in the morning and late afternoon. Water available.
Got site number 6, which has the best view to the SE. The site has a tent shelter which was much needed for the high winds experienced at night. The pit toilet was clean. The deer were abundant. A hiking trail was close. And the views were fantastic.
We stayed in the camping area near the trailhead. Very green and lush with deer visiting our site at dusk!
Extremely clean, well organized, nice sites, lots of trees. 4 dog walks. Only drawback. The pool is not heated. So they lost a star.
I’ve been here a couple times. 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. Fire pits buried and unusable, beer cans and trash everywhere. I’d recommend going before Memorial Day while the sites are still clean
Amazing site! Photos to follow. It is a bit pricey for the upgrade but totally worth it. I am here to do some work, so privacy was necessary. Laundry room and machines are excellent and CLEAN. Bathrooms too :) Bathrooms are really the most important. You absolutely must be here by 5pm as they close at 5:30pm. No kids. For those of you who are curious. People were helpful and friendly. Plus, only 4 miles from historic downtown. Close to the bike path and grocery stores. Very convenient. Very clean. Very friendly.
Ok KOA conveniently located. Bathtub is good. Wifi was not working. Comfortable option but overall pricey for what you get.
Traveling through town- would not make a reservation for only 1 night!
Large sites. Very clean bathrooms and showers. Convenient location. Friendly staff.
This is a great location to test out some camping gear and/or explore camping for newbies.
The site is clean, well-maintained, and managed. The staff is very friendly and helpful!
A grocery/general store is nearby for anything you may have forgotten. I would highly recommend it and look forward to coming here again.
We stayed here one night traveling through NM. The sites were tight (typical KOA). Everything was clean and the folks were friendly. Easy in and out. Would stay here again for an overnight.
We only stayed for one night but we enjoyed this location! The surrounding views were fantastic. Walking along the Jemez River was a great evening activity. The sites themselves were nice with picnic tables, grills, and fire pits. There was potable water pumps near the restrooms which we used to ferry water and fill up the RV before heading out.
We liked how spread out the sites were, you never felt on top of your neighbor. The evening we were here, it was less than half full during the first week of November.
Of note, was some sites were great for starlink being set back from some of the trees and further from the river and mesa while others were just okay for starlink.
Great and friendly staff. Very clean campground, bathrooms and showers. Next to I-40 so easy access in and out. Road noise wasn’t bad but we have thermal covers on windows and our rig is well insulated.
Camping near Rio Rancho, New Mexico, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and convenient amenities. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a peaceful retreat, there are plenty of options to explore.
Camping around Rio Rancho offers a variety of experiences, from family-friendly parks to serene spots for RVers. Whether you're looking for rv parks in Rio Rancho, NM, or just a peaceful getaway, there's something for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular glamping campsite near Rio Rancho, NM?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular glamping campground near Rio Rancho, NM is Albuquerque KOA Journey with a 3.9-star rating from 42 reviews.
What is the best site to find glamping camping near Rio Rancho, NM?
TheDyrt.com has all 11 glamping camping locations near Rio Rancho, NM, with real photos and reviews from campers.
