Best Tent Camping near Rio Rancho, NM

If you're looking for a place to pitch your tent near Rio Rancho, look no further. The Dyrt can help you find the best tent campsites for your next trip. Each tent site offers quick access to one or more of Rio Rancho, New Mexico's most popular destinations.

Best Tent Sites Near Rio Rancho, NM (13)

    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping off FS 542
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping off FS 542
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping off FS 542
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping off FS 542
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping off FS 542
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping off FS 542
    Camper-submitted photo from Mother Bosque Gardens
    Camper-submitted photo from Mother Bosque Gardens
    Camper-submitted photo from Mother Bosque Gardens
    Camper-submitted photo from Mother Bosque Gardens
    Camper-submitted photo from Mother Bosque Gardens
    Camper-submitted photo from Mother Bosque Gardens

    2. Mother Bosque Gardens

    6 Reviews
    93 Photos
    42 Saves
    Albuquerque, New Mexico

    Mother Bosque Garden , in Albuquerque , NM USA 87107

    We are on Google, and Google Maps, easy to find. We are in the North valley , in the Griegos neighborhood .

    Urban Organic Permaculture in an Urban / Suburban Setting, We are 2 miles East of the Rio Grande River. and walking, bike paths . The paths starts at our neighborhood.

    contact , Michaela and Ernesto Maestas . 505 688 9721, text is best

    6 camp sites only , 8 x 8 is the largest tent . $45- per night, 2 adults . 2 Inside rooms too.

    NO RVs , We take vans, cars , truck, bikes . You may sleep in your van , truck or car.

    We are NOT an RV park . We are Not a camp- ground. We are organic gardens .

    Urban Permaculture, with Fruit trees , flowers, cactus and herbs.

    We are a wildlife safety zone , we feed birds and provide water .

    A Clean shared bathroom , inside toilet / shower , includes towels, soap , shampoo.

    We have a shared kitchen / laundry room you can use . we ask for $3- to do laundry , cash .

    We are 7 Mins. from Route 40 and 25.

    No smoking, no drugs , no parties , dog friendly , 420 ok.

    We are 10 mins. from Old town and 15 mins. from Downtown .

    We are close to the Rio Grande Nature Center .

    There are gas stations and stores within a 2 mins. drive .

    We are one hour to Santa Fe , NM and 3 hours to Taos, NM.

    We are 2 hours to T or C, NM and 5 hours to Silver City , NM .

    We are dog friendly, must be on a leash and please clean up poo. We will give you bags .

    We have trash cans, and recycling and compost.

    Our tent sites are private , if you choose to sleep in your van or car , you are in a parking area but may use the house and gardens . There is a public pool , 2 mins, from the house . A city pool , that is awesome.

    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Trash

    $45 - $50 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Ojito Wilderness
    Camper-submitted photo from Ojito Wilderness
    Camper-submitted photo from Ojito Wilderness
    Camper-submitted photo from Ojito Wilderness
    Camper-submitted photo from Ojito Wilderness
    Camper-submitted photo from Ojito Wilderness
    Camper-submitted photo from Manzanita Rec Zone Dispersed Camping - Sandia District
    Camper-submitted photo from Manzanita Rec Zone Dispersed Camping - Sandia District
    Camper-submitted photo from Manzanita Rec Zone Dispersed Camping - Sandia District

    4. Manzanita Rec Zone Dispersed Camping - Sandia District

    2 Reviews
    5 Photos
    36 Saves
    Ponderosa, New Mexico

    Please consult the Manzanita Mountains Trail System Map to find a dispersed site: https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd555098.pdf

    Look for Motorized Dispersed Camping info in the bottom left portion of the map. **When looking for the Dispersed Camping Sites, look for small, rectangular boxes with a site number in it and a pointer that directs you to the site.

    There are NO AMENITIES at these sites. Cell phone coverage is not guaranteed. It is the recreationist’s responsibility to use a map if you choose to explore the area. It is a multi-user area. Trail(s) that are associated with each dispersed site are open for the following uses: Hiking, Mountain Biking, 2 Wheel Motorized Vehicles and Horseback Riding.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Cedro 2 Track 13 Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Cedro 2 Track 13 Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Cedro 2 Track 13 Dispersed Site

    5. Cedro 2 Track 13 Dispersed Site

    1 Review
    3 Photos
    26 Saves
    Tijeras, New Mexico

    Individual BLM Field Offices may have additional or supplemental special camping rules or guidelines. Please call our Field Offices or visit our individual recreation websites for this information.

    BLM's overall policy is to allow dispersed camping on all the lands it administers with the following conditions and exceptions:

    Dispersed camping is generally allowed on public lands in New Mexico for no more than a period of 14 days within any period of 28 consecutive days. The 14-day limit may be reached either through a number of separate visits or through 14 days of continuous overnight occupation during the 28-day period. After this time period, you must relocate to another site at least 25 miles away. The purpose of this is to prevent damage to sensitive resources caused by continual use of any particular areas.

    Camping is prohibited within 900 feet of any developed water source such as a guzzler or watering trough so that the water is accessible to wildlife and livestock. Please do not park your vehicles near these waters or take any actions that would disturb wildlife or livestock from using these waters.

    Campfires must be attended at all times. Campers must comply with all fire restrictions.

    When using a motorized vehicle for camping access please park your vehicle near existing roads or existing undeveloped campsites.

    Camping is permitted within all units of the National Wilderness Preservation System administered by the BLM in New Mexico. However, all motorized and mechanized vehicles and equipment are strictly prohibited in these areas. Campers must not dispose of refuse, hazardous materials, sewage, or gray water, in any manner that would pollute the surrounding area. Please pack it out, and dispose of those materials properly.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Coyote Trailhead
    Camper-submitted photo from Coyote Trailhead

    6. Coyote Trailhead

    1 Review
    2 Photos
    13 Saves
    Tijeras, New Mexico
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Equestrian
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • No image available
      Camper-submitted photo from New Canyon Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from New Canyon Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from New Canyon Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from New Canyon Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from New Canyon Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from New Canyon Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Road 378, Fenton Lake - Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from Road 378, Fenton Lake - Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from Road 378, Fenton Lake - Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from Road 378, Fenton Lake - Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from Road 378, Fenton Lake - Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from Road 378, Fenton Lake - Dispersed
      • No image available
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      Showing results 1-10 of 13 campgrounds

      Recent Tent Reviews in Rio Rancho

      496 Reviews of 13 Rio Rancho Campgrounds


      • JThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Sky City RV Casino & RV Park
        Dec. 9, 2024

        Sky City RV Casino & RV Park

        Great overnighter for a awesome price $18

        $18 rate if you mention the billboards on the highway, but $22 otherwise so it's a good deal. Park is close to the casino, pretty level sites, clean, with full hookups (including sewer), no riffraff. Call the casino hotel front desk, or stop in at the front desk to register. Only about 10% of sites occupied when I was there in December.

        Big truck stop gas station across the street if you need anything. Casino has a buffet restaurant and another bar to watch the game. Ended up staying an extra night to get prime rib on Saturday. 

        Security will drive you back and forth to the casino if you request, but it's only a 5 minute walk.

      • Ryan S.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Jemez Falls Campground
        Dec. 6, 2024

        Jemez Falls Campground

        Nice, clean, and comfortable

        Stayed here 2 nights and had a great time. This campsite is in a great location to see the falls, and has a good layout. The pit toilets were clean, and well maintained. The camp hosts were very friendly and helpful when we had questions. I’ll definitely be back at some point!

      • JThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from FR376 Dispersed
        Nov. 27, 2024

        FR376 Dispersed

        Amazing !

        There was a decent amount of snow but the road was easy enough to navigate. I came in from Las Alamos and went in about 7-8 miles. The site I found was amazing. There was a site available right as you pulled in and about 3-4 more half developed sites (fire rings) within a quarter mile walk in. It looks like there’s a bit of an OHV trail leading up the mountain, halfway. From there if you want to reach a peak you do have to bushwhack a bit. This was easily by top 10 dispersed campsites I’ve even been to and will definitely be coming back. Little to no service, roughly an hour 45 minutes from Albuquerque stayed 2 nights.

      • WThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Kirtland AFB FamCamp
        Nov. 11, 2024

        Kirtland AFB FamCamp

        Solid Campground

        Solid RV-focused campground. Half under trees and half in the open. Two bathhouses, laundry, and a dog park make this a nice, safe place to spend a couple of days.

      • James W.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Trailer Ranch RV Resort
        Nov. 5, 2024

        Trailer Ranch RV Resort

        Policy does not client

        The place was clean. Our issues were two.

        1. The strong smell of marijuana is due to their neighborhood store that makes and sells the stuff.
        2. Only pay for 2 days at a time or know your time period. We had bad weather approaching and they did not seem to care about our safety but only their policy. The people next to us had the same issue. WiFi is weak but cell was ok not great.
      • L
        Camper-submitted photo from Albuquerque KOA Journey
        Oct. 31, 2024

        Albuquerque KOA Journey

        Great stay great staff

        Drove in very very late at night and was helped in through staff member. Told us everything we needed to know…great 24 hour service.

      • Naoshad Z.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping off FS 542
        Oct. 29, 2024

        Dispersed Camping off FS 542

        Easily accessible with peace and quiet. Decent views as well!

        Road is easily traversed but would be more comfortable in a truck/suv. Some rough rutted areas after rains when I went. There are plenty of spots to pull of to along the side of the road. Designated areas with fire pits are bit difficult/narrow to get to if you are towing anything.

      • William B.
        Camper-submitted photo from Albuquerque KOA Journey
        Oct. 22, 2024

        Albuquerque KOA Journey

        Albuquerque KOA: Great Stay Near Dutch Bros Coffee & Cheddar's

        Albuquerque KOA Journey is a great spot for a camping trip, offering clean facilities, kid-friendly amenities, and easy access to nearby attractions. After a day of exploring, treat yourself to Dutch Bros Coffee for a refreshing pick-me-up. Their diverse Dutch Bros menu with prices offers everything from cold brews to blended drinks. For dinner, head over to Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen. Their Cheddar's menu features hearty, home-cooked meals like ribs, steaks, and gluten-free options, perfect for satisfying any craving after a long day outdoors.

      • W
        Camper-submitted photo from Albuquerque KOA Journey
        Oct. 20, 2024

        Albuquerque KOA Journey

        Unforgettable Camping Adventures in Albuquerque

        Albuquerque is a fantastic destination for camping enthusiasts. With a wide variety of hiking trails and outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The numerous campgrounds offer various amenities and site types, making it easy to find the perfect spot for your needs. Plus, the stunning scenery ranging from the Sandia Mountains to the Rio Grande provides a breathtaking backdrop for your adventures. If you are looking for an exciting camping experience, Albuquerque is definitely worth a visit wnjoy Cheddars Food at your adventure.

      • David T.
        Camper-submitted photo from Hidden Valley RV park
        Oct. 17, 2024

        Hidden Valley RV park

        Definitely NOT as advertised. I do not recommend.

        Run down park, not very well maintained at all. The pictures used on their website are very misleading. Their "Recreation Hall" was disgusting. Dirty carpets, paint cans in the sink, just filthy dirty! The bathrooms were very clean at the bath house. The dog park was disgusting with the trash can there overflowing. Very disappointed and will not be staying at this dump again!

      • RThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Santa Fe BLM Dispersed Campsite
        Oct. 14, 2024

        Santa Fe BLM Dispersed Campsite

        Partial closure and absolute dump

        This place sufficed due to the need to have somewhere for the night, if we had the chance we’d have gone somewhere else. Massive piles of trash everywhere, sites strewn with people’s leftover garbage from camping there.

        Due to its close proximity to the landfill, it was extremely loud during the morning from around 7am onwards.

        There was a partial closure banning camping in a section of the landfill, which was incredibly difficult to figure out where we could camp, as the map is not clear at all,

        Coyotes at night were really cool.

        Overall disappointing but glad we managed somewhere to sleep for the night

      • AThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Enchanted Trails RV Park & Trading Post
        Oct. 10, 2024

        Enchanted Trails RV Park & Trading Post

        Great in a pinch or any other time

        Well appointed RV park for trailer/RV. Little close to I-40 but sound is not that bad. Picnic table, shade trees, pool, hot tub. Even accept mailing ahead(like Amazon)

        Very friendly staff. Great for the balloon fiesta

      • WThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Coronado Campground
        Oct. 9, 2024

        Coronado Campground

        Love the area, some live-ins need to go

        Excellent location and views, just need some lo g term resident clean up or eviction at entrance. We stayed for one night. Great set up and next to a brewery/restaurant in wish we would have visited. Clean bathrooms and nice sites.

      • JThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Cuervo Mountain RV Park and Horse Hotel
        Oct. 6, 2024

        Cuervo Mountain RV Park and Horse Hotel

        Overall Nice CG

        This is an overall nice CG. Gravel roadways and relatively level pull through sites. Good FHUs. When we arrived, the office was closed. We reserved E010 but were told to pick any open space in the "A" row. There were quite a few long-term residents. The conditions were very dry and dusty. No shade trees, but the pines planted will eventually provide. This was a great CG for our overnight stay. We would stay here again.

      • JThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Cuervo Mountain RV Park and Horse Hotel
        Sep. 17, 2024

        Cuervo Mountain RV Park and Horse Hotel

        Normal

        Perfect for an overnight stop, quiet, clean, there are several long term residents which is not reflected on the online booking system, most overnighters stay in row A. The playground was nice for our daughter

      • A
        Camper-submitted photo from Vista Linda Campground — Santa Fe National Forest
        Sep. 13, 2024

        Vista Linda Campground — Santa Fe National Forest

        Great Campground!

        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!

      • Cameron L.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Santa Fe BLM Dispersed Campsite
        Aug. 17, 2024

        Santa Fe BLM Dispersed Campsite

        Good in a pinch

        Plenty of spots and easy to get to. The only catch is you will need to find a spot away from the multiple large piles of trash.

        The surrounding area was pretty and sunset was great!

      • Benjamin M.
        Camper-submitted photo from Mother Bosque Gardens
        Jul. 26, 2024

        Mother Bosque Gardens

        Beautiful garden, great living hosts

        I stayed for four days at Moss Gardens in Albuquerque. My host were really generous, easy-going helpful. The garden is really beautiful, their house is very clean and tidy. I was able to shower and come out when I was sick. I got to rest on the couch for a little while. They offered us their kitchen. Overall, it was really great to stay there. Very affordable. I highly recommend..

      • Patrick J.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Santa Fe Skies RV Park
        Jul. 23, 2024

        Santa Fe Skies RV Park

        Great location and RV Park

        The location is close to stores and restaurants that are about 10 minutes away...that we needed after discovering a damaged tire. The front desk recommended a tire store that was just north of the park. Thank you...The park has been set up nicely. The sites are a bit tight from the adjoining sites. Site were level and all the hook ups worked without issue. The location made for an hour's drive to Los Alamos and Bandelier national monument. Both great visits if you haven't been there before.

      • Joshuah F.
        Camper-submitted photo from New Canyon Campground
        Jul. 13, 2024

        New Canyon Campground

        Nice place!

        Overall a nice place to camp. Most beautiful drive into the campsite. Some of the campsites had concrete picnic tables and bear containers. They were up a walkway and some stairs though. The vault toilets were clean. We were approached by a guy letting us know there was a boar and a bear coming down the canyon. He said they were about 700 yards away.

      • M
        Camper-submitted photo from Peace Farms
        Jul. 8, 2024

        Peace Farms

        Stayed here after a long July 4th weekend in 2024, couldn’t be happier !

        Fay was a great host, amazing spot for rural camping and cheap as heck too! Loved every part of my stay, thanks for running such a top notch operation!


      Drive Time


      Guide to Rio Rancho

      Tent camping near Rio Rancho, New Mexico offers a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

      Tent campers should check out Mother Bosque Gardens

      • Experience a beautiful garden setting at Mother Bosque Gardens, where you can enjoy amenities like showers and picnic tables.
      • This well-reviewed spot allows pets, making it a great choice for families traveling with furry friends.
      • With only six sites available, you can expect a peaceful atmosphere and generous hosts who provide a welcoming environment.

      Local activities to enjoy while camping

      • Explore the nearby trails and stunning landscapes at Ojito Wilderness, where you can hike and enjoy the tranquility of nature.
      • For a more adventurous experience, check out Coyote Trailhead, which offers access to hiking trails and the chance to spot local wildlife.
      • If you're looking for a quiet retreat, Manzanita Rec Zone Dispersed Camping - Sandia District provides a serene environment with plenty of trails for hiking and biking.

      Tips for tent camping near Rio Rancho

      • Be prepared for rough roads when heading to Dispersed Camping off FS 542, as some areas may require a vehicle with higher clearance.
      • Bring your own water and supplies to Cedro 2 Track 13 Dispersed Site, as amenities are limited, but the peaceful surroundings make it worthwhile.
      • For those seeking a more social atmosphere, Scaramanga Ranch offers a variety of accommodations and communal spaces, perfect for meeting fellow campers.

      Frequently Asked Questions

      • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Rio Rancho, NM?

        According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Rio Rancho, NM is Dispersed Camping off FS 542 with a 4.3-star rating from 23 reviews.

      • What is the best site to find tent camping near Rio Rancho, NM?

        TheDyrt.com has all 13 tent camping locations near Rio Rancho, NM, with real photos and reviews from campers.