Camping near Rodeo, New Mexico, offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are plenty of options to explore.
What to do
- Hiking: The Chiricahua Mountains are a hiker's paradise. Trails like Echo Canyon provide breathtaking views and a chance to see local wildlife. One visitor noted, "A number of good hiking trails, mostly up on top at Massai Point with a few additional trails starting at the campground."
- Birdwatching: This area is known for its diverse bird species. Campers have enjoyed guided walks provided by park rangers, with one stating, "This is premier birdwatching country."
- Stargazing: The dark skies around Rodeo make for incredible stargazing opportunities. A camper mentioned, "Chiricahua National Monument is a 'dark sky' park, so there is very little light at night."
What campers like
- Scenic Views: Campgrounds like Bonita Canyon Campground are nestled in beautiful surroundings. One reviewer said, "The campground is small, beautiful, shaded and right in the middle of some incredible scenery."
- Quiet Atmosphere: Many campers appreciate the peacefulness of the area. A visitor shared, "Very nice, quiet campground in a wooded canyon with a small stream running right through the CG."
- Wildlife Encounters: Campers often spot unique wildlife. One person noted, "The Arizona Coatimundi's are a very unique mammal and frequently visit the campground."
What you should know
- Reservations Required: Popular spots like Bonita Canyon Campground require reservations, especially during peak seasons. A camper advised, "Reservations are a must."
- Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, such as Pinery Canyon Road Dispersed Camping, do not have drinking water or toilets. A visitor mentioned, "Obviously no bathrooms, but Chiricahua visitor center does have a bathroom."
- Remote Location: Be prepared for a bit of a drive to reach services. One camper pointed out, "Nearest services and dump station are in Willcox, 37 miles away."
Tips for camping with families
- Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots like Sunny Flat Campground, which offers spacious sites and a friendly atmosphere. A camper said, "The sites were spacious and my fussy wife said the vault toilet was the cleanest she had ever visited."
- Plan for Activities: Bring games and outdoor gear to keep kids entertained. One family enjoyed meeting new friends around their fire pit, sharing, "We had families of deer nesting down in the bushes around our camper."
- Pack Snacks and Drinks: With limited stores nearby, it's smart to bring plenty of food and drinks. A visitor noted, "Be sure that you are stocked up on supplies before you go."
Tips from RVers
- Check Size Restrictions: Campgrounds like Bonita Canyon Campground have size limits for RVs. One reviewer cautioned, "Don't try to bring any big rigs as they simply won't fit."
- Be Prepared for Limited Connectivity: Many areas have spotty cell service. A camper mentioned, "We have T-Mobile and I will tell you we had no service here."
- Bring Your Own Firewood: Some campgrounds do not sell firewood, so it's best to bring your own. A visitor advised, "You will need to bring your own wood and ice."
Camping near Rodeo, New Mexico, is a fantastic way to enjoy nature and create lasting memories. With the right preparation, you can have a great time exploring this beautiful area.