Roswell, New Mexico sits at an elevation of 3,600 feet in the high desert of southeastern New Mexico, where summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F and winter nights can drop below freezing. The area surrounding Roswell features a mix of Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and private lands, with camping options ranging from developed RV parks to more remote dispersed sites. Cell service varies significantly outside city limits, with most campgrounds reporting stronger signals for AT&T customers than other carriers.
What to do
Wildlife viewing at farm-adjacent sites: Red Barn RV Park offers unique opportunities to observe sandhill cranes and Canada geese in the neighboring agricultural fields. "We stayed at the Rv park for 3 days and it was quite clean and comfortable. The best part was seeing all the Canada geese and Sandhills cranes land in the fields right next to the property. There were hundreds and listening to them come and go throughout the day was so peaceful," notes Richard F. The small hiking trail behind the property leads to dirt roads with rye and winter wheat fields suitable for walking.
Visit the UFO Museum downtown: Trailer Village RV Park provides convenient access to Roswell's alien-themed attractions. "We were treated very well here. Price is $35 a night, but that's expected for the touristy town and winter season. Will stay here again anytime we drive thru NM. I suggest going downtown when everything opens back up," recommends Bianca B. The park features alien statues outside and a gift shop inside, fully embracing the town's extraterrestrial theme.
Explore local breweries: Town & Country visitors enjoy the nearby craft beer scene. "You're just 8 minutes from all the action in Roswell, and we highly recommend hitting up Black Cock Brewery while staying here," suggests Brittany V. Many camping guests mention the easy access to local dining options like Farleys restaurant when staying at RV parks within city limits.
What campers like
Clean, home-like facilities: Red Barn RV Park receives consistent praise for its comfortable amenities. "Bathroom and shower just like home. Close to town and attractions," writes Michael K. Another camper mentions, "The bathrooms and showers had a home feel with their decor. Great place to stay near town and fair prices." This differentiates them from typical institutional campground facilities.
Welcoming management: Red Barn RV Park offers personalized service that campers appreciate. "Owner on site very nice, helpful and friendly. Great atmosphere quiet. Located at the edge of the town very little traffic on the main road. Very clean and well maintained," shares Jim M. Multiple reviewers specifically mention the attentive owners as a highlight of their stay.
Well-maintained sites: Many campgrounds offer level, well-kept spaces. "Sites were nice and level. Staff was friendly. There were quite a few long term sites but plenty of open as well. We extended our stay another day since we enjoyed the area and campground," reports James B. about Town & Country RV Park. The gravel pad sites throughout Roswell's RV facilities typically accommodate rigs of various sizes without significant leveling challenges.
What you should know
Weather variability: New Mexico's high desert climate brings unexpected conditions. "Heading north on 285 as a winter vortex arrives. Operator very kind as I pull in after hours in a blizzard. Both 30 & 50 amp available. It was not my plan to stop here but I may get a couple days," recounts Fred B. about his experience at Trailer Village RV Park. Winter travelers should monitor forecasts closely.
Road access considerations: Town & Country RV Park offers strategic positioning for through travelers. "This is a standard RV park. Reasonably priced with FULL hookups for 30a or 50a service. Lori the Mgr is kind and flexible. I arrived after the office was closed and she had my packet on the office porch," notes Austin S. Overnight access procedures vary between parks, with some offering after-hours check-in options.
Spacing between sites: Proximity to neighbors varies between facilities. "Our site was a pull-through on a gravel pad," explains Erich H. from Town & Country, while at Trailer Village, Mike M. observes, "Sites are very close to each other though but I have seen way worse." Those seeking more separation between rigs might prefer RV sites near Roswell at properties on the outskirts rather than in-town locations.
Tips for camping with families
Nearby attractions for kids: Alamo Road Dispersed camping area offers free camping within 20 minutes of city amenities. "Roswell, with many supply chains within 20 minutes including Big R, Tractor Supply, Walmart and various sporting goods stores. Not a bad spot to crash heading to the next one," says Derrick A. This balance of rural camping and urban convenience works well for families needing supplies.
Indoor recreation options: Red Barn RV Park provides entertainment alternatives during inclement weather. "They keep open a little space in the lodge so you can watch TV and they also have plenty of board games and books to keep you entertained," Amy M. shares. This can be particularly valuable during summer heat or winter cold snaps.
Dog-friendly considerations: Most RV sites in Roswell welcome pets, but dedicated exercise areas are limited. "I'd say that it's the best RV park in Roswell. Only suggestion that I would have is that they enlarge their dog park," notes a Town & Country camper. Red Barn offers "Great dog walking area!" according to Sue C., making it suitable for families traveling with four-legged members.
Tips from RVers
Stay duration flexibility: Baca Campground offers free dispersed camping for RVers seeking economical longer stays. "This is dispersed camping. No water no trash cans so pack it in pack it out. This said I always have an enjoyable stay. I nearly always see lots of wildlife. The campsite s are large and widely spaced," explains Jamie P. Located about 60 miles from Roswell, this option works for self-contained rigs.
Site access assessment: Large motorhomes require careful site selection at dispersed locations. "We stayed for 5 nights--there's a spot immediately to the left off of Alamo road. We pulled in during a freak snow, so went exploring in the truck the next day. That immediate spot was easy to pull into with plenty of space--didn't unhook the road," advises Brenda Y. about Alamo Road camping. Many reviewers recommend scouting potential spots before attempting access with larger rigs.
Overnight versus extended stays: RV campgrounds in Roswell serve different needs based on duration. "Very affordable rates. We stopped in for the night on our way through. It is a small park but has plenty of room to turn around. It was quiet and the staff are very friendly," reports Richard about Red Barn RV Park. With limited pull-through sites at some locations, overnight guests should call ahead for availability when traveling in larger rigs.
