RV campgrounds near Salem, New Mexico offer diverse accommodations ranging from basic electric hookups to resort-style facilities with heated pools and hot tubs. The region sits at approximately 4,500-5,000 feet elevation, creating mild winter conditions that attract seasonal travelers. Local campgrounds typically experience high winds, with some reviews noting trees permanently leaning in one direction due to consistent wind patterns.
What to do
Mountain views and photography spots: Las Cruces KOA provides excellent vantage points for landscape photography. "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. in her review of Las Cruces KOA.
Local exploration opportunities: Several RV parks serve as convenient bases for exploring nearby attractions. One visitor at Las Cruces KOA mentioned, "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."
Water recreation access: Elephant Butte Lake State Park offers water activities despite fluctuating water levels. "The lake front was crowded with campers and people. Water was clear and cool with lots of carp," reports Jonathan M. Visitors can launch boats or enjoy swimming during warmer months.
What campers like
Affordable hookup options: State park camping provides budget-friendly alternatives to private RV parks. Joseph W. shared about Lower Ridge Road Camping Area: "I used my NM state park pass on this stay and for only $4 a night includes 30Amp and water. I have about 20 channels available, wifi works well and no problems with my Verizon service."
Amenities for extended stays: Many parks offer comfort-focused facilities. At Little Vineyard RV Park, a camper noted, "This place has a heated pool spa and a game room with pool table. In the evening there were two lit fire pits that you can sit around. It's a dark sky area you can see a lot of stars."
Off-leash pet areas: Dog parks rank high in camper satisfaction. Joel R. commented about Hacienda RV Resort: "Plus, they have a dog wash area and one of the best dog run areas I've found at an RV park or resort! There is actually room for the dogs to run."
What you should know
Noise considerations: Many RV parks in the area experience transportation noise. A reviewer at Dream Catcher RV Park shared: "This RV park is right off of highway 10 so there is quite a bit of road noise and train noise."
Seasonal considerations: Winter months bring an influx of long-term visitors. Laura M. noted about Sunny Acres RV Park: "This 55+ park is in town so close to shopping. Good view of Organ Mountains. Park is clean and well maintained. Residents and staff were friendly."
Water pressure variations: High water pressure exists at several parks. "Water pressure was a bit high but with a regulator it was fine," reported a camper at Siesta RV Park. Another visitor at Hacienda advised: "Staff is friendly and let us know water pressure is high so use a reducer."
Tips for camping with families
Shared amenities access: Some parks have arrangements with nearby hotels. A Dream Catcher RV Park reviewer mentioned: "The La Quinta next door allows campers to use their pool and work out room so that was a nice bonus; there was an entrance in the side of the fence so you don't have to walk on the busy road."
Activity options for kids: Look for parks with recreation facilities. Candy P. shared about Las Cruces KOA: "The kids enjoyed cornhole, basketball, tetherball, and the playground. The store was well stocked."
Weather considerations: Summer heat can limit outdoor activities. One camper at Hacienda noted: "Might be a bit nicer in cooler weather—just way too hot to do much around grounds (BBQ, cornhole, spa)."
Tips from RVers
Site selection priorities: Corner or end sites often provide more space. Jeffrey T. shared about his stay at Elephant Butte Lake RV Resort: "We travel with 3 dogs, so they moved me from site 23 to site 27. It was a site with plenty of room for our dog fence. It was in a nice corner of the park with immediate road access."
Security considerations: Some areas have experienced theft issues. A reviewer at Hacienda RV Resort noted: "Staff cautioned us that there have been some bike thefts in area and let us know that if we wanted, we could keep bikes inside their office at no charge."
Overnight protocols: For late arrivals, check if self-registration is available. Sebastian S. mentioned about Hacienda RV Resort: "I arrive late. It was awesome. They had a reservation box. You just go in the box. Look for your name pull out the paper gives you all the information you need."
