RV campgrounds near Shiprock, New Mexico offer varying experiences depending on the season and location. The area sits at approximately 5,200 feet elevation in the high desert, with dramatic temperature shifts between day and night. Many campgrounds remain open year-round, though winter travelers should prepare for occasional below-freezing temperatures and limited water availability at some locations.
What to do
Explore Mesa Verde National Park: Located just 8 miles from La Mesa RV Park, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers ancient cliff dwellings and archaeological sites. "La Mesa RV is a quiet campground an easy drive away from Mesa Verde National Park. We were able to complete a contactless reservation after a quick phone call to check for availability," notes a camper.
Visit local reservoirs: Several campgrounds provide easy access to water recreation. "The site was very well maintained and clean basic rv park. The only amenities are sewer water and electricity. We had the windows open at night, and being just off the main road, we didn't hear any traffic," reports a visitor to Working Mans RV Park.
Enjoy riverside camping: The Dolores River offers fishing and water activities. "Fishing was good. Floating the river with the family was a big hit," writes one reviewer about Dolores River RV Resort. Another mentions, "This campground was great - right next to the river and ponds. We didn't think the ponds were stocked with fish and nobody caught a fish on the ponds while we were there but who cares...gorgeous anyways."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain excellent bathroom and shower facilities. At Sundance RV Park, "Clean, clean, clean. Sites are nicely spaced and everything is immaculate. Gravel, level. Likely the cleanest bath house I've ever stayed in. Showers (unlimited, included) with individual locked door and cushy bath mat."
Convenient location: Proximity to towns allows easy access to supplies. "The park is in the middle of Cortez, so you literally drive through 'historic downtown Cortez' to get there and pull into it right off the main street," notes one visitor. Another camper at San Juan McGee Park states, "Easy access from hwy 64 right between Bloomfield and Farmington. We will definitely be using this a layover in the future."
Organized campgrounds: Most RV parks offer well-maintained sites with clear boundaries. At The Views RV Park & Campground, "This park is very well-kept and the views are amazing. Most sites are huge (center sites a little close together) and they offer full hookup, pull thru, and back-in sites. There are trees for shade."
What you should know
Water restrictions: Some campgrounds limit water use during certain seasons. "Sites are level gravel spaces with some older trees that provided shade, a full hookup and picnic table," describes a camper at Moore's RV Park, noting the desert conservation practices.
Alcohol policies: Tribal regulations affect some camping areas. At Sleeping Ute RV Park, "We had reservations here for 3 days with 2 RVs and 5 people. We were never told it was a dry casino but we knew it from doing some homework. No one ever told us it was against tribal law to possess alcohol even in our RV."
Seasonal temperature variations: The high desert experiences significant temperature fluctuations. "We are here in late October and it is very quiet. Try to ask for a spot on the outer edge, much nicer," advises a camper about Mesa Verde RV Resort, highlighting the autumn conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Community amenities: Many RV parks offer family-centered recreation. "They had an ice cream social the first night. The Dolores river runs along the back of the property. Fishing was good. Floating the river with the family was a big hit," shares a reviewer at Dolores River RV Park.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated children's areas. "Great place with things to do for all ages. Swing set, fishing, and hiking. Clean rv spots well maintained," notes a camper at Dolores River RV Resort.
Pool facilities: During summer months, cooling off is important. At Mesa Verde RV Resort, "There's a playground, pool and adults only spa, the office store has the little things one might have forgotten," while another camper adds, "Would stay inside the national park if available- this was a great RV resort with a playground, pool, pond, dog walk area."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: Request specific site types based on your needs. "We requested an end space because our young pup has a fear of vehicles. She gave us a space with a huge grassy area and nice shade tree!" shares a visitor to Sleeping Ute RV Park, continuing with practical advice: "The bad points of this RV Park are: when walking around, I noticed the majority of the spaces are so close together, your picnic table is right next to your neighbor's sewer hookup."
Dynamic pricing awareness: Some campgrounds use variable pricing systems. "Our only complaint was with the parent company... We called to get rates while 10 minutes east of town on a Friday afternoon, & was quoted ~$30 per night. The invoice showed a $15 lock-in fee to hold a specific site, increasing the rate to $45 + tax," reports a camper at Cortez RV Resort by Rjourney.
Internet connectivity: Cell service varies significantly by location. At The Views RV Park, "The only downside was that the service (AT&T and Verizon was pretty spotty)," while another campground reports "Good cell reception ATT and Verizon and the park offers Wifi."
