RV camping near San Mateo, New Mexico offers access to high-desert terrain at elevations ranging from 5,000 to 7,000 feet. The region experiences wide temperature swings between day and night, with summer highs regularly exceeding 90°F while dropping to the 50s after sunset. Many campgrounds remain open year-round, though water systems at some locations shut down during winter months.
What to do
Explore volcanic landscapes: El Malpais National Monument sits across from Lavaland RV Campgrounds, giving campers direct access to ancient lava flows. "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," notes one visitor.
Hike mountain trails: Coal Mine Campground provides access to nearby Mt. Taylor hiking routes. A camper shared: "Head up to the Gooseberry Trailhead to hike to the top of Mt Taylor the highest mountain in NW New Mexico." The campground offers a starting point for day hikes with "a nice hiking trail available from the campground."
Visit cultural sites: The region features several significant Native American cultural sites within driving distance. At El Morro RV Park and Cabins, guests can easily access El Morro National Monument. A visitor noted it's "just minutes from El Morro Nat'l Monument and close to Mal Pais Volcano flows."
What campers like
Budget-friendly options: Sky City RV Casino & RV Park offers competitive rates with discounts available. As one camper shared: "$18 rate if you mention the billboards on the highway, but $22 otherwise so it's a good deal. Park is close to the casino, pretty level sites, clean, with full hookups (including sewer), no riffraff."
Lakefront camping: Waterfront sites provide direct lake access for boating and fishing enthusiasts. A visitor to Bluewater Lake State Park Campground observed: "The primitive camping is all along the lake so you can park and walk right in with your canoe or SUP. Playground for the kiddos, lots of areas to explore with the puppers."
On-site entertainment: Some parks feature additional entertainment options beyond camping. At Dancing Eagle RV Park, a reviewer mentioned: "This place is a little advertised spot. It certainly came at a great time for us. Traveling from Kentucky to Arizona is a long haul, but what more could you ask for than a nice place to stop over for a night."
What you should know
Water availability varies: Not all campgrounds provide water hookups or potable water sources. Coal Mine Campground has "no water available, no hook-ups, no dump station." Pack accordingly when planning your stay.
Site levelness: Many campgrounds in the area have uneven terrain. At Bluewater Lake State Park, a visitor cautioned: "Have this 4 stars instead of 5 cause literally almost all of the sites are unleveled so it was hard to find the right fit."
Seasonal operations: Some campground facilities close during winter months. A traveler at Bar S RV Park noted its consistent year-round operation: "The campground is conveniently located off I40 and is very reasonably priced for full hookups. The campground is clean and the office staff were very nice."
Tips for camping with families
Look for family amenities: Grants KOA Journey provides kid-friendly features and meal options. A visitor shared: "The free bfast is cereal, toast and hot coffee." Another mentioned: "Kids enjoyed the doughnuts in the morning. Nothing fancy but the people were nice."
Consider safety features: Gated RV parks provide added security for families with children. At Route 66 RV Resort, "The CG is right off I-40" and features "a big outdoor pavilion with a batch of grills and sinks and loads of tables in case you want to have a big party."
Check playground availability: Several campgrounds offer playground equipment for children. Bluewater Lake State Park includes "Playground for the kiddos" and "plenty of bathrooms and Ramadas available for day use."
Tips from RVers
Water pressure considerations: High water pressure at some campgrounds requires equipment protection. At Route 66 RV Resort, campers are warned: "We were told that the water pressure was about 90 psi and it was, so use a reducer."
Leveling requirements: Many RV sites require additional equipment for proper leveling. A visitor at Lavaland RV Campgrounds noted: "We reserved an 'Elite' Pull through spot. When we arrived, we saw that this 'Elite' spot was dirt and not level at all."
Amenities for overnight stays: Quick overnight stops benefit from specific amenities. At Dancing Eagle RV Park, "Self serv pay is great and love that it's $18!" While another visitor added: "There's a casino nearby if that's your flavor. There's also a gas station, grocery store, DQ, and all kinds of things as close as across the street!"
