Best Campgrounds near Ruidoso Downs, NM

Camping near Ruidoso Downs, New Mexico, offers a mix of stunning landscapes and outdoor activities. Whether you're in an RV or pitching a tent, there are plenty of options to enjoy the great outdoors.

What to do:

• Hiking: Explore the beautiful trails around the area. Campers have enjoyed the short paved nature trail through lava beds at Valley Of Fires Recreation Area, which offers stunning views of the sunrise and sunset. One reviewer mentioned, "Nice easy access pull thru sites with amazing views of the sunrise and sunset."

• Petroglyph Viewing: Visit the Three Rivers Petroglyph Site to see ancient rock carvings. A camper shared, "The hikes were very fun. To see and imagine the people who created the petroglyphs was incredible."

• Exploring White Sands: The nearby Alamogordo / White Sands KOA is a great base for visiting White Sands National Park. One visitor noted, "This KOA had everything you could need - including excellent customer service."

What campers like:

• Scenic Views: Campers rave about the views at Valley Of Fires Recreation Area. One review highlighted, "Overall Rating: 5 for a campground offering space and extraordinary views."
• Clean Facilities: Many appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. A reviewer at Midtown Mountain Campground & RV Park said, "Super clean restrooms with large private showers."
• Friendly Hosts: Campers often mention the helpful staff. At Boot Hill RV Resort, one guest remarked, "Lovely sights, friendly staff and close to White Sands National Park!"

What you should know:

• Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Baca Campground, do not have water or electric hookups. A camper noted, "There are many campsites with burn pits; the only drawback is there are no water or electricity hookups."
• First-Come, First-Serve: Many sites operate on a first-come, first-serve basis. At Three Rivers Petroglyph Site, a visitor mentioned, "First come first serve. Great cell service. Perfect spot!"
• Wildlife: Be prepared to encounter wildlife. A camper at Forest Road 568 - Dispersed Camping shared, "Lots of wildlife driving in. We saw 6 big elk and several deer."

Tips for camping with families:

• Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds or nearby hiking trails. The Alamogordo / White Sands KOA has a playground that kids enjoy. One parent said, "The pool looked like it would be nice when filled."
• Plan for Weather: Nights can get chilly, so pack extra blankets. A family camping at Bluff Springs Dispersed Camping noted, "It dropped into the 50’s at night but was low 80’s during the day!"
• Bring Entertainment: With limited cell service in some areas, bring games or books. A camper at Cool Pines RV Park mentioned, "The entire property was very quiet and peaceful."

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Midtown Mountain Campground & RV Park said, "I think the ease of picking a spot that worked for our situation made it surprisingly one of the best RV experiences we’ve had."
• Use Dump Stations: Look for campgrounds with dump stations, like Valley Of Fires Recreation Area. One camper noted, "Dump Station: yes."
• Stay Connected: If you need to work remotely, check cell service availability. A visitor at Cool Pines RV Park mentioned, "AT&T is non-existent but I have 2 bars of T-mobile."

Camping near Ruidoso Downs, New Mexico, has something for everyone, whether you're looking for adventure or a peaceful retreat.