Camping near San Antonio, New Mexico offers options ranging from high-elevation forested sites at nearly 7,500 feet to lower desert terrain. Access roads vary dramatically between locations, with many dispersed sites requiring high clearance vehicles to navigate unmaintained forest service roads. Nightly temperatures can fluctuate by 40°F or more, especially at higher elevation sites.
What to do
Mountain biking at Hidden Valley RV Park: Located near Cedro Peak mountain biking trails, this campground provides convenient access to outdoor recreation. "Close to Cedro Peak mountain biking and hiking trails. Great spot to stay and then visit the city during the day," notes Evan S. from Hidden Valley RV park.
Cultural exploration at Coronado Campground: Visit the nearby Coronado Monument and pueblo ruins. "We stayed here for our annual Cub Scout camp out. We tent camped around a group site. It's next to the Coronado Monument and the Rio Grande with an awesome view of the Sandia mountains," shares Jennifer A. at Coronado Campground.
Night sky viewing at Top of New Mexico: This remote dispersed site offers exceptional stargazing opportunities. "This is a perfect hidden gem for campervanning. Beautiful sunrise and sunset. Wild horses in the area. And, you can clearly see the Milky Way. No light pollution except the beautiful view of the city far away," explains Lauren I. at Top of New Mexico.
What campers like
Brewery access: Several campgrounds provide walking-distance access to local breweries. "But the best part is there is a brewery you can walk to from the campground. They serve organic pizza and cold beer. What more do you need?" says Doug W. about Albuquerque North / Bernalillo KOA.
Wildlife encounters: Campers frequently report sightings of wild horses, cows and other animals. "My first morning I was surrounded by a group of 5 cows grazing. They ended up laying 30 feet from the trailer all morning," reports Josh F. at Top of New Mexico.
Urban conveniences with natural settings: "We only got to stay one night at this Campground but it was awesome. The staff were friendly and helpful and the store was well stocked. They have nice laundry facilities and lots of spots for the doggies to play," notes E.M. about Albuquerque KOA Journey.
What you should know
Road conditions vary dramatically: Many dispersed sites require appropriate vehicles. "The road is a little washed out once you get to the end of the paved road and make a left. I didn't make it all the way to the 'primitive' campsite as my car bottomed out," warns Aaron K. about Dispersed Camping off FS 542.
Water quality issues: Some campgrounds have reported water discoloration. "Main issue was the water. After sitting in hose for many hours it would turn yellow to orange. Running several gallons through would result in clear water again. We wouldn't drink it," cautions Lance T. about Route 66 RV Park.
Military base access requirements: "Staying at the Kirtland AFB fam-camp can be challenging. If you're active or retired military no problem if you're disabled vet some check in and out issues can arise. You must show up Monday to Friday 8am to 4pm to get access to the base," advises Thomas S.
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Look for campgrounds with family-friendly facilities. "The playground has the best swing set and is all sand, very fun for kids of all ages," recommends Karla D. about Albuquerque North / Bernalillo KOA.
Entertainment amenities: Some campgrounds offer evening activities. "They had a nice pool with plenty of shade and an outdoor movie in the evenings which my kids enjoyed," shares Jennie R. about Albuquerque North / Bernalillo KOA.
Safety considerations: Many campgrounds prioritize security. "I had no concern for my safety staying on base. It does require military base access. It has clean bathrooms and is dog friendly. You will see plenty of wildlife as well," explains Kat B. about Kirtland AFB FamCamp.
Tips from RVers
Hookup positioning: Pay attention to utility placement when selecting sites. "Water is on one side of the pad, electricity on the other but it was not a problem when we positioned our camper," advises Nick W. about Coronado Campground.
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds have terrain issues. "Sites are all nice and flat. Not much tree cover," notes RichMichelle M. about Albuquerque KOA Journey. Similarly, at Turquoise Trail Campground, "Site 23 was a pull through and level. Water and electric both worked fine," reports Jil S.
Privacy considerations: Spacing between sites varies widely. "I would give 4 out of 5 stars and not 5 out of 5 stars is the urban location is not much to look at. The campground itself is very well-maintained and the staff are extraordinarily friendly," says Drew S. about Albuquerque KOA Journey.
