Camping around Placitas, New Mexico offers diverse terrain from high desert at 6,000 feet elevation to forested mountains rising to nearly 11,000 feet. The region experiences dramatic temperature shifts, with summer days often reaching 90°F while dropping to the 50s at night. Winter camping requires preparation for freezing temperatures and occasional snow, particularly at higher elevations.
What to do
Hiking local trails: Vista Linda Campground provides access to several hiking options along the Jemez River. One visitor noted, "The campground and surrounding area is gorgeous and makes for breathtaking views from your site. The creek that runs behind the campground is cathartic."
Visit nearby breweries: The Albuquerque North/Bernalillo KOA campground connects to a local brewery via a short walking path. As one camper shared, "The best part is there is a brewery you can walk to from the campground. They serve organic pizza and cold beer."
Explore mining towns: Little Dancing Horse Ranch offers proximity to Madrid, a former coal mining town with artist studios. A visitor explained, "Only 5 minutes from Madrid, which is magical if you've never been before."
Day trips to hot springs: Campers can access natural hot springs near several campgrounds. One reviewer at Vista Linda mentioned, "Just down the road is Ponderosa Winery and Jemez Hot Springs is the other way."
What campers like
Convenient bus access to Santa Fe: Trailer Ranch RV Resort offers public transportation into downtown. A guest shared, "Convenient bus service into a busy downtown Santa Fe was helpful as parking can be a problem. Bus stops right in front of entrance for a 15 minute bus ride to downtown historic area."
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds utilize natural vegetation for separation. At Rancheros de Santa Fe, "Campsites are small yet private due to the wonderful shrubbery and small trees. There is a great trail that winds through the back of the property."
Dog-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds feature dedicated pet areas. One visitor to Albuquerque KOA Journey noted, "Our pups enjoyed the dog park, lots of enrichment items out for them. Very tidy, no trash."
Natural water features: Streams and creeks enhance camping experience. A visitor to Paliza Campground wrote, "Our site was right next to a small stream, which along with the wind in the trees made for a nice experience while falling asleep."
What you should know
Highway noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience traffic sounds. At Trailer Ranch RV Resort, a camper noted, "Only downside for us was located in middle of town and road noise was bad."
Seasonal closures: Verify operating seasons before visiting. A visitor to Santa Fe KOA warned, "We decided to rent a van and take a 10 day trip and just kept hitting dead ends but that makes half the adventure doesn't it? This location was closed even though it came up on the list available."
Access road challenges: Some glamping sites near Placitas have difficult approach roads. A guest at Little Dancing Horse Ranch advised, "Definitely bring a 4wd or high clearance vehicle if you can help it, because it wasn't easy. My tiny Prius C made it up and down the trail twice, albeit very slowly."
Elevation considerations: Most camping areas sit at higher elevations. One reviewer at Turquoise Trail Campground mentioned, "7100' elevation. There were a ton of stars at night which was great."
Tips for camping with families
Look for educational opportunities: Many campgrounds provide access to historical sites. A visitor to Paliza Campground shared, "You are surrounded by old growth pine trees while camping in an old CCC base camp."
Find campgrounds with recreation facilities: Some locations offer dedicated play areas. At Albuquerque Central KOA, "They have a playground, hot tub, and a bounce pad for the kids. It was safe and quiet."
Consider cabins for easier family stays: Several locations offer cabin options. A guest at Albuquerque North/Bernalillo KOA reported, "My children and I stayed 2 nights in a camping cabin. They had a nice pool with plenty of shade and an outdoor movie in the evenings which my kids enjoyed."
Tips from RVers
Check site sizes and levels: Some sites may be challenging for larger rigs. A camper at Turquoise Trail Campground noted, "Site 23 was a pull through and level. Water and electric both worked fine."
Consider seasonal water pressure: Well water systems may fluctuate. One visitor observed, "Also, the water pressure was quite low. Weakest shower I've had in our rig. Not sure if this changes with the number of campers, though, since it is well water."
Look for dedicated pet facilities: Many RV parks offer pet amenities. A guest at Albuquerque KOA Journey shared, "We have a small RV which fit nicely into our spot. We stayed in a large pull thru site that actually had a dedicated 'pet suite' with astroturf for our dog."
