Best Campgrounds near Salem, NM

Salem is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Best Camping Sites Near Salem, New Mexico (80)

    1. Appaloosa Area — Caballo Lake State Park

    13 Reviews
    Arrey, NM
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 743-3942

    $30 / night

    "I come out here to mostly kayak, fish & walk my dogs. Kayaking is best when the sunrises because you get a beautiful view of it rising behind the mountains."

    "This is a pretty normal lake campground. Not a lot of shade or privacy but picnic tables and covered outdoor spaces. There are bathrooms close by and they seem fine."

    2. Percha Dam State Park Campground

    10 Reviews
    Arrey, NM
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 743-3942

    $30 - $35 / night

    "Can’t canp near the water, but can stay at sites within walking distance. Grills and bathrooms, nice to sit in a tube and float down and has a trail to hike back up after the ride"

    "Tucked in next to the Rio Grande, Perch Dam Campground is quiet, clean, and enjoyable. The bathrooms were spotless and well maintained, as were the pit toilets in the dispersed area. "

    3. Leasburg Dam State Park Campground

    21 Reviews
    Radium Springs, NM
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 524-4068

    $15 - $30 / night

    "You can't beat New Mexico State Parks. Water and electric hook-ups for $18. Great views and a concrete picnic shelter to boot."

    "Like many New Mexico State Parks, Leasburg Dam offers beautiful views and nice facilities. We have the facilities here to be among the best. We love the adobe shelters!"

    4. Riverside Campground — Caballo Lake State Park

    6 Reviews
    Arrey, NM
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 743-3942

    $30 / night

    "Being physically limited and having to walk clear across the campground was very difficult. Otherwise everything was great."

    "It was nice to walk along the riverbank with the dogs."

    5. Caballo Lake RV Park

    4 Reviews
    Caballo, NM
    16 miles
    +1 (575) 743-0502

    "Close to the water from camping sites....Grills tables and shade area...."

    "My favorite part about caballo lake is floating down from elephant butte to caballo lake in a giant floaty."

    6. Palomino Campground — Caballo Lake State Park

    3 Reviews
    Arrey, NM
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 743-3942

    $30 - $35 / night

    "Quiet at night, just some road noise from the highway. The lake is great with easy access for kayaking at the boat ramp. We would stay here again."

    "There are numerous trails outlined by rocks, and there's a variety of trails to go down to the Caballo Lake reservoir."

    7. Las Cruces KOA

    51 Reviews
    Mesilla, NM
    35 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 526-6555

    "We stopped at this KOA for one night while passing through New Mexico.   We had a great view of the valley below and our site had everything we needed--full hookups."

    "We only stayed one night but this was a convenient location or far off the highway. Bathroom was clean and staff was nice. Large clean dog park. Nice views of the city."

    8. Arrey RV Park, LLC

    1 Review
    Arrey, NM
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 267-1049

    9. Stallion Campground — Caballo Lake State Park

    2 Reviews
    Arrey, NM
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 743-3942

    $30 / night

    "Nice walking trails and spots with some privacy and full hook ups."

    "Dispersed camping is available down by the lake near the boat ramp. Cell coverage is iffy, at best. Comfort Stations are clean, toilets have running water."

    10. Horner Hacienda

    2 Reviews
    Radium Springs, NM
    17 miles
    +1 (575) 636-7227

    $35 - $60 / night

    "The water was high so we couldn’t camp to close to the river edge. It was so nice to see all the stars at night. It is very sweet as well."

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Showing results 1-10 of 80 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Salem, NM

513 Reviews of 80 Salem Campgrounds



Guide to Salem

Camping near Salem, New Mexico, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are plenty of options to enjoy the great outdoors.

What to do

  • Explore Elephant Butte Lake State Park: This park is perfect for fishing and boating. One visitor mentioned, "If you like to fish or have a boat, this is the place for you!" The park also has hiking trails for those who prefer to stay on land.
  • Visit Riverbend Hot Springs: Soaking in the hot springs is a must. A camper shared, "The nighttime serenity and views were stunning," highlighting the relaxing atmosphere after a day of exploring.
  • Hike nearby trails: Trails around the area offer beautiful views. One reviewer noted, "There are plenty of places to hike and fish," making it a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts.

What campers like

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Elephant Butte Lake RV Resort said, "The staff was very easy to get a hold of during business hours," emphasizing the helpfulness of the staff.
  • Spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer large, private spaces. One camper at Leasburg Dam State Park Campground remarked, "Sites are gravel with a concrete pad; they are generous in size and spaced far enough apart to provide more than sufficient privacy."
  • Family-friendly activities: Campgrounds often have playgrounds and recreational areas. A reviewer at Las Cruces KOA mentioned, "Really nice pool, basketball court, corn hole, playground," making it a great spot for families.

What you should know

  • Reservations are recommended: Many campgrounds require reservations, especially during peak seasons. A camper at New Mexico Leasburg Dam State Park noted, "All sites need to be reserved."
  • Limited amenities at some sites: Not all campgrounds have full hookups. One visitor at Elephant Butte Lake State Park mentioned, "Only vault toilets close to the Lions Beach campground," indicating that some areas may lack running water and showers.
  • Wildlife encounters: Be prepared for wildlife. A camper at Percha Dam State Park shared, "The raccoons are amusing if they're not getting into your stuff," so keep an eye on your food!

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose family-friendly campgrounds: Look for places with amenities like playgrounds and pools. A parent at Las Cruces KOA said, "Tent spots, covered tent spots, RV spots with 120/30A/50A and water," which makes it easy for families to set up.
  • Plan activities: Bring games and outdoor toys. One camper at Elephant Butte Lake RV Resort mentioned, "Fire pit and shade over picnic table," perfect for family gatherings.
  • Pack snacks and drinks: Keep everyone happy with plenty of food. A visitor at Riverbend Hot Springs suggested, "Free coffee and tea in the morning," which is a nice touch for early risers.

Tips from RVers

  • Check site sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Caballo Lake State Park Campground noted, "The park is on the lake it's named after," indicating spacious areas for larger rigs.
  • Use online reservations: Many campgrounds are moving to online booking. A visitor at Elephant Butte Lake State Park mentioned, "Had to book online or phone," making it easier to secure a spot.
  • Be prepared for weather changes: The weather can shift quickly, so pack accordingly. A camper at New Mexico Leasburg Dam State Park advised, "The skies at night were clear," suggesting that nights can be chilly.

Camping in Salem, NM, and the surrounding areas offers a variety of experiences for everyone. With beautiful parks and friendly campgrounds, it’s a great place to enjoy the outdoors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Salem, NM?

According to TheDyrt.com, Salem, NM offers a wide range of camping options, with 80 campgrounds and RV parks near Salem, NM and 16 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Salem, NM?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Salem, NM is Appaloosa Area — Caballo Lake State Park with a 4.3-star rating from 13 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Salem, NM?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 16 free dispersed camping spots near Salem, NM.

What parks are near Salem, NM?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 parks near Salem, NM that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.