Camping cabins near Salem, New Mexico offer mineral hot springs access in the high desert landscape at elevations ranging from 4,200 to 5,000 feet. The region experiences typical desert temperature fluctuations with summer days reaching 95°F and winter nights dropping below freezing. Cabin accommodations vary from basic shelters to fully-equipped units with private hot spring access, providing protection from both scorching sun and cold desert nights.
What to do
Explore City of Rocks State Park: Located about 30 miles from Faywood Hot Springs, this unique volcanic rock formation offers short scenic trails for watching desert sunsets and sunrises. "I was driving from Gila Cliff Dwellings towards White Sands NP and needed a place to camp... Faywood has a labyrinth maze, short scenic trails to watch the sunset and rise," notes Meghan D. at Faywood Hot Springs.
Visit historic La Mesilla: This preserved historic district near Las Cruces offers traditional New Mexican architecture, local restaurants, and artisan shops. "Took a short drive to La Mesilla and the farmers market in Las Cruces—definitely recommend both. White Sands is also not too far if you're up for a day trip," suggests driving D. at Las Cruces KOA.
Boat at Caballo Lake: The reservoir offers fishing and boating opportunities within a short drive of several cabin accommodations. "This is a nice place overlooking Caballo Lake there are only four transient spaces," reports Mary L. about Lakeview RV Park, which offers both drive-in and boat-in access to their cabin accommodations.
What campers like
24-hour hot spring access: Overnight guests at several resorts receive unlimited soaking privileges included with their stay. "We got there at 9pm and there were three other people there which were hard to spot as the place is fairly large. There are multiple pools with differing temperatures. Everything was quiet and beautifully lit," describes Laura M. at Hot Springs Glamp Camp.
Desert stargazing: The remote desert location offers exceptional night sky viewing, especially from private hot tubs. "DEFINITELY recommend booking a private hot spring tub after dark. The stars are INCREDIBLE. Tubs are the perfect temperature. Overnight guests have access to a 24 hour pool," recommends Kelsey G. about Faywood Hot Springs.
Mountain views: Several cabin locations feature dramatic desert mountain panoramas. "The place is beautiful and well maintained. Lots of views that everyone can enjoy. A stunning mountain range view that make sunrises and sets a treat," notes Brittany F. about Las Cruces KOA's setting.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most cabin accommodations require advance booking, especially at hot springs locations with limited units. "They only have 5 RV spots, and they are COMPETITIVELY booked. Each time we've stayed we have been lucky enough to get cancelation bookings," warns Christina H. about Riverbend Hot Springs.
Clothing optional sections: Some hot springs resorts separate family-friendly and adults-only soaking areas. "They have clothes optional and required areas. The showers are clean. The bathrooms are clean. They have a good camp store. We spent 5 nights here and loved it," mentions Robert H. about Faywood Hot Springs.
Limited cell service: Remote cabin locations may lack reliable connectivity. "We stayed on the C/O side of the park. It was pretty nice though if you wanted to walk around or go to the c/o hot tub, you had to get dressed. The staff was helpful, the neighbors nice and not a lot of gaskets," shares Semi H. about their stay at Faywood Hot Springs.
Tips for camping with families
Community kitchen access: Many cabin sites provide shared cooking facilities. "The open air kitchen it offered was top notch and a nice break from cooking on our propane stove," says Taylor about their Las Cruces KOA experience.
Recreation amenities: Some locations offer family-friendly activities beyond soaking. "The kids enjoyed cornhole, basketball, tetherball, and the playground. The store was well stocked," reports Candy P. at Las Cruces KOA.
Dog-friendly options: Most cabin accommodations welcome pets with specific guidelines. "It has lovely clean hot spring tubs that are open 24/7. It's an intimate camp so we rarely had to wait for a tub. Also has clean bathrooms and showers and a grill. 2 blocks away from Main Street and 2 blocks from the Rio grande," describes Ashlee G. about Hot Springs Glamp Camp.
Tips from RVers
Pull-through site selection: Certain cabins and RV sites offer easier access for larger vehicles. "We were in site 4 and had no trouble parking our 37ft 5th wheel with long truck (55ft total). Each site is full hookups with cable and free high speed wifi, and a picnic table," notes Christina H. about Riverbend Hot Springs.
Wintertime stays: Cabin accommodations provide comfortable overnight options during colder months. "A nice simple CG busy even through the winter season and the views!!! Will return," comments Art Of T. about Lakeview RV Park.
Cash payment preferences: Some smaller properties have limited payment options. "2-night minimum, at the end of a maintained gravel road. I have a camper van, no hookups, and paid $48 for two nights... Cash or check only, no credit cards," advises john about Hidden Valley Ranch RV Resort.
