Best Campgrounds near Sunspot, NM

Alaska offers a diverse range of camping experiences across its vast wilderness areas, with established campgrounds like Homer Spit Campground and Eklutna Lake Campground providing amenities for tent, RV, and cabin camping. The region includes both developed sites with full hookups and more remote backcountry options, particularly within Chugach State Park and Denali National Park where visitors can experience Alaska's pristine natural environment. Many campgrounds feature waterfront locations along lakes, rivers, and even the ocean, providing scenic views and recreational opportunities.

Seasonal considerations heavily influence camping in Alaska, with most campgrounds operating from May through September when weather conditions are more favorable. Winter camping is available at select locations like Riley Creek Campground in Denali National Park, which remains open year-round. Permits and reservations are recommended during peak summer months when tourism increases significantly. Weather can change rapidly, and campers should be prepared for variable conditions including rain, wind, and insects. According to one visitor at Tangle Lakes Campground, "In mid August the little nats were horrible but that's camping in Alaska!"

Campers consistently highlight the spectacular scenery and wildlife viewing opportunities as primary draws to Alaska's campgrounds. Several visitors mentioned the proximity to glaciers, mountains, and water features as key highlights of their experience. Mendenhall Lake Campground offers views of the famous Mendenhall Glacier, while coastal campgrounds like Seward City Campgrounds provide oceanfront camping with access to marine activities. Wildlife encounters are common, with one reviewer noting, "Bears frequent this area and sometimes wolves too. If you are looking for that wild Alaska experience you can have it here." Many campgrounds serve as convenient bases for fishing, hiking, and exploring nearby attractions, with amenities ranging from basic pit toilets to full-service facilities with showers and hookups depending on the location.

Best Camping Sites Near Sunspot, New Mexico (103)

    1. Oliver Lee Memorial State Park Campground

    65 Reviews
    Sunspot, NM
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (236) 682-6567

    $15 - $30 / night

    "Very beautiful hidden away RV and Raised Primitive State Park full of marked and unmarked foliage and a nice museum reflecting on the surrounding area of New Mexico."

    "I like heat and live in New Mexico.  Northern new Mexico, in the mountains, where no one needs air conditioning. "

    2. Alamogordo / White Sands KOA

    37 Reviews
    Alamogordo, NM
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 562-3452

    "In direct contrast to the White Sands backcountry camping which offers absolutely zero thrills and access to luxuries, the White Sand KOA is a great place to stay for those wanting some of the comforts"

    "However there is a train close by that blew the horn very loud all throughout the night. Woke me up at 1am, 3am, and 5:30 am."

    3. Bluff Springs Dispersed Camping

    17 Reviews
    Sunspot, NM
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 682-7570

    "Went 12/28-12/30 and the actual campground area was packed the whole time even with it being 20-30 degrees outside. Extremely windy and most areas only get an hour or two of sun."

    "Sunspot Hwy to Rio Peñasco Rd., past the pavement onto dirt road for about 2 miles before coming to the trailhead/bathrooms on your right."

    4. Dog Canyon

    17 Reviews
    Sunspot, NM
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 525-4300

    "Mine had a stone border created by previous guests which was pretty cool.

    Great views in every direction, but many sites will be exposed to wind. Was pretty gusty when I was there."

    "I entered in the first entrance. This was exactly where the directions from The Dyrt took me. Not a lot of spots but no trouble getting a spot."

    5. Forest Road 568 - Dispersed Camping

    17 Reviews
    Cloudcroft, NM
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 682-2551

    "You can get as far away from main roads as you need. There are infinite spots on this road. It’s quite long and the road conditions aren’t all that bad, so anyone can access it."

    "Sleeping surrounded by the trees was awesome. It was so calm. Not a lot of cars drive through the road right beside it, so it’s pretty quiet."

    6. Lower Karr Canyon Campground

    6 Reviews
    Lincoln National Forest, NM
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 682-7570

    "Lower Karr Canyon campground is about 6 miles from the main highway at High Rolls, NM. The last 2 miles or so being rather rough dirt."

    "You just have to look around to find the best one. Be aware of others though. We did have a family show up and start shooting guns in the area without any concern for others around them."

    7. Deerhead Campground — Lincoln National Forest

    7 Reviews
    Cloudcroft, NM
    12 miles

    $32 / night

    "I have seen mostly upper New Mexico and well when I found this area in comparison that or anything else near El Paso, I was more than a bit confused as to where I was."

    "A very beautiful campground within about 6 miles out of Cloudcroft New Mexico. This is dispersed camping. Amenities include water, vault type toilets, picknic tables, fire rings, and a camp host."

    8. Upper Karr Canyon Campground

    4 Reviews
    Lincoln National Forest, NM
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 682-7570

    "There are plenty of trails and campsites in the trees. Not a super popular area so they aren't too many people to fight over campsites with. They're are bathrooms there near the parking lot."

    9. Lincoln NF - Forest Service Road 64 - Dispersed Camping

    2 Reviews
    Sunspot, NM
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 434-7200

    "We stayed at a spot on a meadow about 4-5 dispersed sites south of Sunspot Highway. Good times."

    "Beautiful area off Davis drive, so many areas to camp. Some are restricted to motor vehicles but just keep driving down the gravel road and you will find something."

    10. Slide Group Area Campground

    2 Reviews
    Sunspot, NM
    0 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 682-7570

    $123 - $154 / night

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Showing results 1-10 of 103 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Sunspot, NM

423 Reviews of 103 Sunspot Campgrounds



Guide to Sunspot

Camping near Sunspot, New Mexico, offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to relax or a base for exploring nearby attractions, there are plenty of options to choose from.

What to do:

  • Visit White Sands National Park: Just a short drive from many campgrounds, this park features beautiful white gypsum dunes. One camper mentioned, "The sunsets are always spectacular, even better if it's a bit windy as the fine grains of gypsum sand are in the air, creating gorgeous color" while staying at Raptor Lake Dispersed / Holloman Lake.
  • Explore Oliver Lee Memorial State Park: This park is known for its hiking trails and breathtaking views. A visitor shared, "Some nice hikes from the park with amazing views," after their stay at Oliver Lee Memorial State Park.
  • Check out local attractions: Alamogordo is nearby and offers museums and shops. One reviewer noted, "Alamogordo is just 15-20 minutes away where you can get anything you might need," while camping at Raptor Lake.

What campers like:

  • Scenic views: Campers rave about the stunning landscapes. One said, "Gorgeous 360 views, quiet spot," while enjoying their time at Oliver Lee Memorial State Park.
  • Quiet atmosphere: Many appreciate the peacefulness of the area. A camper at Dog Canyon remarked, "Felt very private and had plenty of space."
  • Friendly staff: Campgrounds like Boot Hill RV Resort are known for their welcoming hosts. One visitor mentioned, "Friendly staff and close to White Sands National Park!"

What you should know:

  • Limited amenities: Some campgrounds, like Raptor Lake, have no drinking water or toilets. A reviewer noted, "There’s nothing in the way of services at this place, just a good, quiet place to park for a few nights."
  • Weather considerations: The area can get hot during the day and chilly at night. A camper at Bluff Springs Dispersed Camping advised, "Bring blankets and jackets for nighttime!"
  • Road conditions: Some access roads can be rough. A visitor at Forest Road 568 - Dispersed Camping mentioned, "A little rough getting in, but we made it in a small SUV."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose family-friendly campgrounds: Look for places like Alamogordo / White Sands KOA, which has amenities for kids. One parent said, "The playground was newish, the pool looked like it would be nice when filled."
  • Plan activities: Make sure to have a list of nearby attractions. A camper suggested, "The area is perfect for day trips into the mountains or White Sands," while staying at Oliver Lee Memorial State Park.
  • Pack for the weather: Be prepared for temperature changes. A family camping at Bluff Springs noted, "It was HOT during the day and COLD at night."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check for RV-friendly sites: Campgrounds like Cool Pines RV Park are big rig friendly. One RVer mentioned, "The owners are very nice and very accommodating."
  • Be aware of road conditions: Some areas may require a vehicle with higher clearance. A visitor at Dog Canyon said, "High ground clearance recommended."
  • Look for amenities: Facilities can vary, so check what each campground offers. A camper at Boot Hill RV Resort appreciated, "Level sites, friendly helpful staff."

Camping near Sunspot, New Mexico, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the beautiful surroundings!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Sunspot, NM?

According to TheDyrt.com, Sunspot, NM offers a wide range of camping options, with 103 campgrounds and RV parks near Sunspot, NM and 20 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Sunspot, NM?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Sunspot, NM is Oliver Lee Memorial State Park Campground with a 4.8-star rating from 65 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Sunspot, NM?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 20 free dispersed camping spots near Sunspot, NM.