San Fidel, New Mexico sits at approximately 6,300 feet elevation in a high desert landscape west of Albuquerque. The area experiences dramatic temperature shifts between day and night, with summer highs reaching 90°F and winter nights often dropping below freezing. RV campgrounds near San Fidel provide convenient access to natural attractions including El Malpais National Monument's ancient lava flows and hiking trails.
What to do
Explore local history: San Fidel offers access to numerous historical sites, including the nearby Acoma Pueblo. Sky City RV Casino & RV Park in Acoma provides a convenient base. "Security will drive you back and forth to the casino if you request, but it's only a 5 minute walk," notes Josh F., highlighting the accessible location for exploring local attractions.
Visit national monuments: El Malpais National Monument sits directly across from Lavaland RV Campgrounds in Grants. "It's not scenic by any means but, it is close to Mal Pais National Monument (across the street) and the people that work here are super nice," shares Chelsey M. The monument features ancient lava flows, sandstone bluffs, and hiking trails.
View vintage vehicles: The collection of historic vehicles at Enchanted Trails RV Park & Trading Post offers a unique attraction. "The old vintage RVs are awesome. They don't make them like that anymore!!" exclaims Chuck M. James L. adds that there are "really neat old campers on display" throughout the property, making it worth a visit even if you're just passing through.
What campers like
Budget-friendly options: Several RV parks offer affordable rates, especially with promotions. At Sky City RV Casino & RV Park, "Make sure you mention the billboard for the cheapest rate of $19 per night otherwise it's $29 per night," advises Lee D. Josh F. confirms, "$18 rate if you mention the billboards on the highway, but $22 otherwise so it's a good deal."
Convenient facilities: High Desert RV Park in Albuquerque features multiple amenities in one location. "They have an area where you can vacuum your vehicle out. Clean showers and bathrooms... They have pool tables in the office building, if you like to shoot pool," reports Samantha H., who also appreciated the "3 fenced in dog lots."
Level sites: Travelers appreciate the well-maintained camping pads. "We have a pull thru site that has all hookups," notes James C. about Sky City RV Casino & RV Park. At Route 66 RV Resort, one camper highlights "level concrete pads were great and site had full hookups, picnic table and fire pit."
What you should know
Highway noise: Traffic from I-40 affects several parks in the area. At High Desert RV Park, "Freeway is close with road noise," notes Bradley O. Ron M. explains that Bar S RV Park is "a couple of minutes off the highway, so it's convenient for an overnight," balancing accessibility with some traffic sounds.
Security measures: Several parks implement security features. At NomadLand RV Stay, "The park is gated with cameras so we felt very safe in the middle of the city in a camper," reports Penny P. Samantha H. notes that High Desert RV Park is "fenced in, paved and some spots had gravel," creating a secure environment.
Water pressure considerations: Water pressure varies significantly between parks. At Route 66 RV Resort, Craig & Linda L. advise, "High water pressure so pressure regulator highly recommended and sold in check in office." Several parks provide drinking water stations separate from hookups.
Variable site conditions: Site quality can vary within parks. At Lavaland RV Campgrounds, Dana warns, "We reserved an 'Elite' Pull through spot. When we arrived, we saw that this 'Elite' spot was dirt and not level at all," adding "the spots closer to the office looked a little better."
Tips for camping with families
Entertainment options: Route 66 RV Resort offers family-friendly recreation areas. "The park had putt putt, gym, pool and other amenities but not all open yet," reports Sommer J. The large outdoor pavilion provides space for family gatherings.
Pet accommodation: Multiple parks have designated pet areas with varying sizes. "It has a couple of dog runs, but they are too small for play. Not much dog walking space without cacti," warns Tara W. about Lavaland RV Campgrounds. When traveling with pets, be aware of terrain hazards like cactus and goatheads.
Limited kid-specific amenities: Not all parks cater specifically to children. Heather H. notes about Lavaland RV Campgrounds, "There is no kid amenities at this property. There is a small dog run. No grass." Families should plan alternative activities in nearby towns or natural areas.
Tips from RVers
Overnight convenience: Most parks accommodate late arrivals. Janet K. shares about High Desert RV Park, "We arrived after hours, but it was well lit and easy to set up. I highly recommend this RV park to anyone who wants easy access from I-40."
Maintenance services: Bar S RV Park offers practical amenities for extended stays. "Propane services are very low cost nearby about 5 min away," notes Caleb & Heather R., who stayed for a couple weeks while working in the area. Several parks provide access to washbays or RV supply stores.
Unique amenities: NomadLand RV Stay provides unexpected services for RVers. "They offer free internet, free filtered water, free bags of ice, free coffee, free use of washer and dryer and a free RV wash bay that has an 'upper level' so you can reach your rv roof," explains Penny P., highlighting services not commonly found at standard RV parks.
