Tent camping near Socorro, New Mexico offers primitive sites in national forest areas that range from 7,000 to 9,000 feet elevation. Most campgrounds lack drinking water and require campers to bring their own supplies. The camping season typically spans from late spring through early fall when mountain temperatures provide respite from the lower elevation heat.
What to do
Hiking from camp: At New Canyon Campground, multiple trails begin directly at the campsite. According to one camper, "Great small campground hardly used & nestled well in the valley. Great hikes, rock climbing & tons of great trails. Drive the additional 5 miles to the top & visit that campground & enjoy all of the deer & other wildlife."
Rock climbing: The mountainous terrain provides natural climbing opportunities. A visitor to New Canyon Campground noted it was "very rocky good for climbing," making it suitable for climbers seeking accessible routes near their campsites.
Wildlife viewing: Mountain elevations host diverse wildlife. At New Canyon Campground, one camper reported, "We were approached by a guy letting us know there was a boar and a bear coming down the canyon. He said they were about 700 yards away," indicating the presence of large mammals in the area.
What campers like
Cooler temperatures: The mountain elevations provide temperature relief during summer months. One visitor to Bear Trap Campground stated, "We stopped here after the Hot Air Balloon Fiesta. Didn't think we'd find anything but glad we were wrong. Lovely colors here with fall!"
Solitude: Many campsites offer minimal development and fewer neighbors. A camper at New Canyon noted, "The low vegetation sort of takes away from privacy, but it seemed like it was not too busy when we went."
Scenic drives: The routes to campsites feature notable views. At Cibola National Forest Bear Trap Campground, a visitor shared, "The drive up is worth it... Once there you find cement tables spaced far enough apart for average camping privacy. Birding is good as there is a stream nearby."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many forest service roads require appropriate vehicles. A camper at Springtime Campground advised, "The road in may require 4x4 depending on any precip or how one drives. Once there, you're rewarded with Adirondack shelters and shaded sites."
Weather impacts: Precipitation can affect access significantly. One visitor to Cibola National Forest Bear Trap Campground warned, "Watch for precipitation that may make the road impassable for some time. It's a long way up there."
Limited facilities: Most sites maintain minimal services. At New Canyon Campground, a camper reported, "No RV sites but 10 great campsites. Vaulted toilets available," highlighting the basic infrastructure typical of area campgrounds.
Seasonal closures: A 2022 wildfire affected some areas. A visitor to Bear Trap Campground reported, "The area has been burned in the 2022 fires. The road was closed for a long time, and if it is open now, there will be floods in the burn scar. Check with the Forest Service for more info before you go."
Tips for camping with families
Concrete amenities: Some sites feature sturdy tables suitable for family meals. A visitor to Cibola National Forest Bear Trap Campground noted the presence of "cement tables spaced far enough apart for average camping privacy."
Natural experiences: The ecosystem offers educational opportunities. At New Canyon, a camper observed, "This place offers a beauty of its own kind it is not like timber forest that I am used to camping in (I'm from the north west with huge trees) however there were beautiful sunsets every night."
Campsite location: Sites near streams provide activity options. At Hughes Mill Campground, campers can set up near water sources that offer both practical use and entertainment for children during hot days.
Tips from RVers
Vehicle size restrictions: RV access is severely limited or impossible at most sites. Regarding Cibola National Forest Bear Trap Campground, a reviewer cautioned, "We truck camped, but saw other people make it in their AWD SUV. Don't even think of bringing an RV of any size unless it's a cab-over that you don't mind scratching up."
Alternative accommodations: Some sites accommodate various camping styles. Springtime Campground offers options for "tent, rv, glamping" according to the campground information, though road conditions may limit larger vehicle access.
Seasonal planning: The May-October operating season affects planning. A Cibola camper advised, "Good place for summer camping to escape the heat," suggesting RVers consider smaller vehicles during this window.
