El Morro National Monument offers campers unique geological formations and cultural history just minutes from glamping options in the San Mateo area. Situated at approximately 7,000 feet elevation, the region combines desert landscapes with forested mountains that create distinct camping microclimates. Summer temperatures typically range from 50°F at night to 80°F during day, while winter can drop below freezing.
What to do
Hiking Mt. Taylor: Visit the highest mountain in northwest New Mexico near Coal Mine Campground. "Head up to the Gooseberry Trailhead to hike to the top of Mt Taylor the highest mountain in NW New Mexico," suggests Tony S., who stayed at the campground.
Explore La Mosca lookout: Take a scenic drive from Coal Mine Campground for expansive vistas. "La Mosca lookout is a nice drive from the campground with beautiful views," notes Tony S., who gave the location five stars.
Visit local breweries: After a day of exploring, enjoy the on-site brewery at Lavaland RV Campgrounds. "I was most excited about the brewery on-site," writes Tara W., adding that she "would stay again for a chance to drink the beer."
What campers like
Accessible national monuments: The area provides convenient access to multiple protected lands. "It is close to Mal Pais National Monument (across the street) and the people that work here are super nice," writes Chelsey M. about her stay at Lavaland RV Campgrounds.
Clean facilities after backcountry camping: The established campgrounds offer welcome amenities for those coming from more remote locations. David R. notes, "The clean showers and bathrooms were greatly appreciated after a few days of roughing it and we were able to restock our water before continuing on."
Affordable primitive camping: Budget-conscious campers appreciate the low fees at Coal Mine Campground. "The fee is great because it is primitive, no electricity, no water at all, not just hookups, but the bathrooms were nice and clean with no sinks," explains Michael M.
What you should know
Limited water access: Many campsites in the area require bringing your own water supply. "No water available, no hook-ups, no dump station," explains Mark M. about Coal Mine Campground, so plan accordingly.
Reservation systems vary: Check each campground's policy before arriving. Tony S. warns, "When arriving without a reservation and staying for more than one or two nights be aware that empty sites without a reservation posting may have a reservation that has not been posted."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity can be unreliable in the San Mateo area. "Sporadic 4g Verizon network (was VERY slow when it was up), sometimes no service," reports Mark M. about his stay near Grants.
Tips for camping with families
Consider glamping near San Mateo, New Mexico: For families seeking comfort while experiencing nature, options exist beyond traditional tent camping. At Lavaland RV Campgrounds, be aware that it's "focused on the older community" and "there is no kid amenities at this property," according to Heather H.
Pack extra water: The arid climate and limited facilities require proper planning. "If you are prepared for a primitive camp with your own water and batteries for your electronics it is great," advises Michael M.
Check campground amenities: Some locations have minimal facilities for children. Heather H. notes at Lavaland, "There is no kid amenities at this property. There is a small dog run. No grass."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions apply: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger vehicles. Tony S. advises, "Some pull through spots for smaller camping units. I would not recommend this campground for large RVs."
Site levelness varies: Be prepared to level your RV at some locations. Dana reports about Lavaland, "When we arrived, we saw that this 'Elite' spot was dirt and not level at all. Hardly any room between our space and the permanent resident that was next to us."
Easy overnight stops available: For those traveling along I-40, convenient options exist. "Grants NM is about a hour west of Albuquerque. Great location if coming from the west, you're tired and want a place to stay," explains Michael C. about Lavaland RV Campgrounds.
