Top Tent Camping near San Rafael, NM
Looking for the best tent campgrounds near San Rafael? The Dyrt can help you find the best tent campsites for your next trip. From remote to easy-to-reach, these San Rafael campsites are perfect for tent campers.
Best Tent Sites Near San Rafael, NM (6)
1. Joe Skeen Campground
11 Reviews•12 Photos•30 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- ADA Access
- Tents
2. Cibola National Forest Lobo Canyon Campground
2 Reviews•2 Photos•21 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
3. Chain of Craters Hiker Hideout
2 Reviews•12 Photos•4 SavesThe Hiker Hideout is primitive, hike-in, wilderness campsites. There is no water or showers. There is an outdoor-composting toilet. The property once had a historic cabin, unfortunately the cabin and outhouse were destroyed by wildfire in 2022. The Hiker Hideout is an inholding surrounded by El Malpais National Monument, all park rules apply.
- Reservable
- Tents
- Toilets
$15 / night
4. 4 R's Primitive camping
2 Reviews•7 Photos•1 SaveHill side ruggid/primitive camping, no hookups. Wifi in common area. Wolf spirit wolf sanctuary less than a mile away! Pinehill is about a 5 minute drive for supplies. Great views and good hiking!
- Pets
- Reservable
- Tents
- WiFi
$10 / night
5. Mujeres Valley Campground
3 Reviews•15 Photos•27 SavesThis property was obtained around 60+ years ago via the Homestead Act by a family who we have become very close friends with. Over the last 60 years it's only been used sparingly as grazing land for cattle. Since we've obtained the land we've been focused on learning it's history from those who have been here the longest while also being proud BIPOC owners of land in this area. We've also connected with the original people's of this land who were here during the time the land was colonized. We've found ceremonial and everyday pottery, crystals, and underground caves throughout the surrounding properties which we own.
Over the last 2 years we've learned about the Redwoods that have been wiped out of the area and that the mountain is eroding quickly. It has become our mission to plant indigenous plants and trees that are extinct from the area, reviving the plant like, reviving the mountain and doing what we can to encourage the water table to rise! Our plans for the 12 acres the campground occupies is to add an outdoor shower that can be used all year, installing solar powered water heaters & bathrooms as well as establishing a community meeting space and a greenhouse where we can host gardening classes and provide fresh fruits and veggies in this food desert! This land is sacred and we intend to continue treating it as such!
- Pets
- Fires
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- Tents
- Group
$15 - $25 / night
6. Lobo Canyon
Be the first to review!•5 SavesThe picnic ground is located 10 miles northeast of Grants at an elevation of approximately 7,437 feet. Ponderosa pine, pinon, and juniper trees provide shade and some privacy for visitors. There is a group picnic area that was built in the 1930's by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). Remember to pay attention to road conditions and your vehicle's abilities before driving off of the main road.
- Tents
- Toilets
Recent Tent Reviews In San Rafael
197 Reviews of 6 San Rafael Campgrounds
Quaking Aspen Campground
Nice location
We spent a few nights here. It’s not a big campground and we came in without a reservation. I don’t think reservations are possible? The sites are pretty spaced out and shaded. I think there were about 16 sites total though there might be more. There are clean pit toilets, picnic tables and fire rings. Really nice hiking / mountain bike trails. The aspens are in the trails not the campground
Six Mile Canyon - Dispersed Camping
Nice stay for two days
We picked this free area for convenience (easy to get to from I40) and how it looked in photos.
What other reviews say about the start of the road being rough is correct. The wash areas are really poorly maintained. Once you get past this the road is pretty good.
We found a nice campsite and were able to get level in the pickup camper. Stayed two night and enjoyed the beauty.
Some complain about noise form I40, but if you come back into the area you can’t hear it.
Mujeres Valley Campground
Amazing Campground
in Campground I love to play cricket with family its really fun. and much other games like lows adventures 3
Quaking Aspen Campground
Nice campground
Nice campground, camp sites are nicely spaced, plenty of shade under the pines, sites have picnic tables and fire pits, clean vault toilets, well maintained campground
Bluewater Lake State Park Campground
WINDY
Campgrounds easy to access. I did not have a site reservation, buit there were lots of vacent pads available. Nice view of the lake. Only drawback was the all night incessant winds. They were strong, gusty and loud. So strong they collapsed my tent on top of me. Notmuch sleep that night. It might have been where I was (pad 44), They were still strong in the morning, but I noticed they were less/non existant at the campsites near the main entrance. Just bewaye and be prepared.
Six Mile Canyon - Dispersed Camping
Watch out for rain
I’m actually stuck here as I’m writing this because the rain washed out the road, and everything is so muddy. I was tired and the weather app said only a 50% chance of rain for an hour, but boy was that wrong. A nice spot besides that, close to the highway but far enough away to not have much noise. I would avoid it in the future without something 4x4 though.
Quaking Aspen Campground
Great sites no direct hiking
Claen vault toilets, well spaced and quiet sites. We'll maintained. No water. No hiking from campground. Some trails and dispersed camping 1/2 mi down road south.
Six Mile Canyon Road Dispersed Site
Several spots
There were several spots. We did have to drive a couple miles to get away from other campers. Was perfectly fine after a day of cross country driving. Camped in a Jeep.
Six Mile Canyon - Dispersed Camping
Beautiful spot!
This was a great find along the 40. The road is a bit long but it follows the 40 most of the way and is accessible for most cars. Though lower clearance may need to be careful at certain points. We found that the spots were far apart so we didn't have anyone near us.
I would definitely stay here again.
Joe Skeen Campground
Surprised!
Was pleasantly surprised by how nice this free campground was. Each site has a covered picnic table, grill, fire pit & garbage bin. They are spaced out nicely. There are pit toilets, but no water or dump facilities. These fill up fast, so come early. Most people leave early in the morning, so if you can get here before noon, you may get lucky. We arrived around 11 am & there were only 2 sites open. The road coming in was a bit rough and has quite a deep dip in the road. We were here in April and it stayed full.
Six Mile Canyon Road Dispersed Site
Beautiful views in the canyon
Went about 2 miles up the road to find the last good spot. Found a few sites off of the road before this but all occupied. We got a site for 2 RVs that protected us from an impending windstorm. Sites not very level but managed to get the RVs level enough. Thoroughly enjoyed the area. Biked 6 miles up the road. Had cell service (Verizon and T-mobile).
Turkey Springs
Hard to find
Beautiful spot hard to find
Six Mile Canyon - Dispersed Camping
Great out of the way
Stayed for ten days only saw three other campers. Very peaceful, rough in and out but made it with ease. wAtch out if it rains very muddy roads
Cibola National Forest Lobo Canyon Campground
Beautiful dispersed
Great quiet dispersed camp ground. There were plenty of spots to choose from. The surrounding area is gorgeous! The camp spot is nestled in the trees and has plenty of shade for the summer months. Currently in April the picnic area was closed.
Six Mile Canyon - Dispersed Camping
Great spot
Great Spot! Clean and easy to find. A bit bumpy to access. 2WD will only bring you to the first two sites. We were told from another camper that for all others you will need 4WD . Also it seems the access can become muddy after rain. You will probably need 4WD in that case too.
Six Mile Canyon - Dispersed Camping
Great little hideaway
Found this using this app. Spent three days/ two nights here. Set up by the little canyon and hiked down. Very peaceful.
Joe Skeen Campground - El Malpais NCA
Best dispersed camping you'll find! Some cell service, read review
I enjoyed my week at Joe Skeen in April 2024. If you camp near the top of the loop, overlooking the road below you'll get some cell service. I was in camp site 8 and have Tmobile I had 5G 2 bars, but it came in and out. I was still able to stream and use my phone hot spot. Nice cement pads with picnic tables, pavillion, fire pit and BBQ stands. Vault toilets with trash bins, but NO WATER! Be careful if you're towing anything, as my trailer bottomed out and bent the jack stand on my brand new car hauler trailer at the gulley in the road on the way into the campground. They should fill that in!! Check out my Utube journey's at: Candy's Catmobile RV Life on Utube. (:
Six Mile Canyon - Dispersed Camping
Quiet location with great cell coverage
The area is beautiful with a winding road that takes you farther if you want to go. I drove in about .25 mile and found a nice spot that others had used as a camp site.
The road getting to Six Mile Canyon is a little rough due to ruts, but we did fine in a Class C. Just went really slowly.
Bluewater Lake State Park Campground
Nice find
Great campground. Not far off I-40. Lots of sites. Most have a level, gravel tent pad, table and fire ring. Vault toilets in abundance. One bathroom with sinks and flush toilets. Separate shower house was closed when we were here. Some electric sites. Some large level pull thrus. Most sites have at least a glimpse of the lake. There were horses roaming through the campground. Mostly empty this April midweek. Good trails for hiking. I only saw one water pump in the park. There is an EV charging station.
Six Mile Canyon - Dispersed Camping
Hidden Gem
Just off & along the interstate, you’d never know. The valley road cuts through green canyon bluffs and rolling hills with good tree coverage. Lots of fun and scenic driving. Spur trails are good 4x4 drives. The main road is 2wd friendly for a long way, with probably 10-15 camping sites/options along the way. Very beautiful and peaceful.
Grants KOA Journey
Best stay! Amazing and clean free showers!
Not sure if my last one saved, this campground was awesome!! Clean facilities, free showers, free breakfast!
Grants KOA Journey
Fantastic bathrooms, showers, laundry and free breakfast!
We just stopped by overnight, but they have amazing FREE showers, very cheap laundry services, amazing views, FrEE breakfast. Awesome KOA!!
Grants KOA Journey
My favourite KOA yet!
Had a lovely 1 night stay. The toilets & showers are unisex however they’re in individual little “restrooms” so there are not any gaps in the door etc, it’s your own little bathroom. Staff were lovely, smaller campground compared to other KOAs but perfect for our little RV. They also did a free breakfast!
Joe Skeen Campground - El Malpais NCA
Great free camping spot!
This is a great campground! We came in with a 34' toy hauler and there was plenty of spots that would accommodate our size. Their website says there are spots to accommodate up to 50'. There are 10 spots and it is first come, first serve, so make sure you get here early. At the end of December, there were plenty of open spots. There is a little dip when you turn off the main road which we made it through without any issues. Campground was clean, had outhouses, and covered seating areas. Great find!
Joe Skeen Campground
Not far from I-40
Not too far from I-40. The campground was clean and free. Even though this was the off-season and a weekday, it was almost full.
El Morro National Monument
Quiet, Lean, and Free
Clean and free campground. We were there in the off-season, and I can imagine it getting busy in the summer.
El Morro National Monument
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Guide to San Rafael
Camping near San Rafael, NM, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and unique experiences. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to unwind or a place to explore, there are several campgrounds that cater to different needs.
What to do
- Hiking: There are great trails around the area. Campers have enjoyed the hiking opportunities, with one reviewer mentioning, "The hikes are nice because the water is low you can walk all the way around the lake almost" at Bluewater Lake State Park Campground.
- Exploring historical sites: Visit the nearby El Morro National Monument for a glimpse into history. One camper noted, "Interesting place to visit," highlighting the area's rich cultural background.
- Fishing and boating: Many campers appreciate the lake views and fishing opportunities. A review from Joe Skeen Campground - El Malpais NCA mentioned, "There are plenty of spots that would accommodate our size," indicating good access for larger groups.
What campers like
- Scenic views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. One reviewer at Bluewater Lake State Park Campground said, "Nice view of the lake," which adds to the overall experience.
- Clean facilities: Many appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. A visitor at Grants KOA Journey remarked, "Clean facilities, free showers, free breakfast!" highlighting the well-maintained amenities.
- Quiet atmosphere: Campers enjoy the peacefulness of the area. One review for El Morro National Monument stated, "Clean and free campground," emphasizing the tranquility of the site.
What you should know
- Windy conditions: Be prepared for strong winds, especially at Bluewater Lake State Park Campground. A camper warned, "Only drawback was the all-night incessant winds," so securing your tent is essential.
- Limited amenities: Some campgrounds, like Joe Skeen Campground - El Malpais NCA, do not have drinking water or electric hookups. A visitor noted, "There is no shade for tent people," so plan accordingly.
- First-come, first-served: Many sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis. A camper at Joe Skeen Campground mentioned, "These fill up fast, so come early," which is good advice for busy weekends.
Tips for camping with families
- Kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with nearby hiking trails and open spaces. One family enjoyed the "good trails for hiking" at Bluewater Lake State Park Campground.
- Safety first: Ensure your campsite is secure and away from any hazards. A reviewer at Coal Mine Campground mentioned, "The only facilities are clean vault toilets," which can help with planning for younger campers.
- Plan meals: Bring easy-to-cook meals or snacks. A camper at Grants KOA Journey appreciated the "dinner available to order from the resident kitchen," making meal planning easier.
Tips from RVers
- Check site sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Joe Skeen Campground - El Malpais NCA noted, "There are 10 spots and it is first come, first serve," so arrive early to secure a suitable spot.
- Be cautious on roads: Some roads can be rough. A camper warned, "The road coming in was a bit rough and has quite a deep dip," at Joe Skeen Campground, so drive carefully.
- Bring extra supplies: Since some campgrounds lack amenities, it's wise to pack extra water and food. A visitor at Lavaland RV Park mentioned, "The vibe was something along the lines of the 'good Ol' days' of family vacationing," which can be a fun throwback for families.
Camping near San Rafael, NM, has something for everyone, from stunning views to family-friendly activities. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near San Rafael, NM?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near San Rafael, NM is Joe Skeen Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 11 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near San Rafael, NM?
TheDyrt.com has all 6 tent camping locations near San Rafael, NM, with real photos and reviews from campers.