Best Campgrounds near Albuquerque, NM

Camping near Albuquerque offers a mix of urban convenience and natural beauty. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a quiet retreat, there are plenty of options to explore.

What to do:

• Visit the Sandia Mountains: Just a short drive from the city, the Sandia Mountains offer hiking trails and stunning views. One camper mentioned, "15 minutes from the Sandia Air tram, 20 minutes from the airport," making it easy to enjoy the outdoors while being close to amenities.
• Explore local attractions: Albuquerque is rich in culture and history. A reviewer noted that the Coronado Campground is "on the same road as Coronado Historical Site, which is an amazing Adobe settlement circa 1300 AD."
• Enjoy the Balloon Fiesta: If you're in town during the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, it's a must-see. Many campgrounds are conveniently located for easy access to the event.

What campers like:

• Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. One visitor at the Albuquerque KOA Journey said, "The bathrooms/showers were likewise very clean and there was plenty of hot water."
• Family-friendly amenities: Many campgrounds offer activities for kids. A parent at the Route 66 RV Resort shared, "The pool is resort style with hot tub. They even have a dog washing facility with tubs."
• Convenient locations: Campgrounds like the American RV Resort are praised for their proximity to local attractions. A reviewer noted, "Good location, friendly office staff."

What you should know:

• Noise levels: Some campgrounds are near busy roads, which can be noisy. A camper at the Albuquerque North / Bernalillo KOA mentioned, "Close to highway but easy in/out," indicating that while it's convenient, it might not be the quietest spot.
• Tight camping spots: Many campgrounds have close quarters. A visitor at the Albuquerque KOA Journey remarked, "Spots are a little tight," so be prepared for that.
• Seasonal weather: Depending on the time of year, temperatures can vary greatly. One camper at the Turquoise Trail Campground advised, "I recommend spring to fall for tents. Winter temps get down to 16 degrees F."

Tips for camping with families:

• Look for kid-friendly activities: Choose campgrounds with playgrounds and pools. A parent at the Route 66 RV Resort highlighted, "Jump pad, playground, mini golf and a really nice pool were the highlights."
• Plan for noise: If your kids are light sleepers, consider campgrounds away from highways. A reviewer at the Albuquerque KOA Journey mentioned, "Interstate noise could be an issue if you're not running AC/fan."
• Pack for all weather: Be ready for changing conditions. A camper at the Dispersed Camping off FS 542 noted, "Roads are a little rough," so ensure your vehicle is suitable for the terrain.

Tips from RVers:

• Check for amenities: Look for campgrounds with full hookups. A visitor at the American RV Resort appreciated, "Clean sites and laundry facilities."
• Be mindful of space: Some RV parks have tight spots. A reviewer at the High Desert RV Park mentioned, "There did appear to be a lot of long-term residents staying here."
• Plan for road noise: If you're sensitive to sound, consider campgrounds further from highways. A camper at the Route 66 RV Resort noted, "Expensive but with all the services you can dream of," indicating that the amenities might outweigh the noise issue.

Camping in Albuquerque, NM, offers a variety of experiences, from family-friendly spots to serene retreats. With the right planning, you can enjoy the beauty of New Mexico's outdoors while having access to the conveniences of city life.