RV parks near Tijeras, New Mexico sit at elevations between 6,000-7,000 feet in the East Mountain area where the Sandia Mountains meet the Manzano range. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-85°F during the day, dropping significantly at night, while winter brings occasional snow and freezing temperatures. Most camping areas remain accessible year-round with varying amenities based on seasonal conditions.
What to do
Hiking at Petroglyph National Monument: Located about 30 minutes from Tijeras campsites, this monument features ancient rock carvings and several trail options. "We only did an overnight and it's 20 minutes away from the Petroglyph National Monument. Close to the gas station too. Campground site is pretty clean and best of all we saw a bunch of rabbits," notes a visitor at American RV Resort.
Mountain biking at Cedro Peak: Trails suitable for various skill levels with elevations ranging from 6,500-7,800 feet. "Close to Cedro Peak mountain biking and hiking trails," reports one camper staying at Hidden Valley RV Park.
Explore the Turquoise Trail: This National Scenic Byway runs from Tijeras to Santa Fe with historic mining towns along the route. "Great spot to stay and then visit the city during the day," mentions a visitor about Hidden Valley's convenient location for day trips.
What campers like
Mountain views and wildlife: The elevated terrain provides panoramic vistas and wildlife viewing opportunities. "There is a small visitor center and pool that wasn't in working use when I was there. You will see lots of wildlife here, coyotes, mountain lions, etc. If you have little dogs with you, be careful and keep them close," advises a camper about the natural setting.
Proximity to shopping and supplies: Many RV parks offer convenient access to necessities. "There is a Walgreens, Walmart Neighborhood Market, a brewery and restaurants all within 1/4 of a mile from Nomadland. Neighbors' restaurant is a great place to eat with a great beer list," shares a guest at NomadLand RV Stay.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms are consistently mentioned as important. "The bathrooms are being remodeled and are so pretty! Best showers ever!" reports a tent camper about their experience at Hidden Valley. At Route 66 RV Park, a reviewer noted, "Clean, easy hook up, and nice presentation. Bathrooms and showers were clean and accessible 24/7."
What you should know
Weather fluctuations: Mountain elevations create significant temperature variations. "We stayed here for 5 nights to explore the surrounding areas. Our biggest gripes were the water pressure (not terrible but definitely not great) and the amount of ants around," explains a visitor at Santa Fe Skies RV Park.
Seasonal pricing: Rates may increase during special events and peak seasons. "We had a FHU for $100. This was not worth $100 but that may have been inflated because of the balloon festival," mentions a camper about their experience.
Highway noise: Several parks are located near major highways for easy access. "The park is located right off interstate but because of the hills road noise is low. Sites are very narrow," reports a visitor at Hidden Valley. At Enchanted Trails, a camper shared, "Noise off 40 did not bother us. Right next to Camping World."
Tips for camping with families
Check playground conditions: Playground equipment varies widely between parks. "The playground had a small swing set that is not anchored to the ground so the smallest amount of swinging can make it tip over," warns a camper about Hidden Valley.
Find family-friendly activities: Some parks offer recreational options for children. "There is a small basketball court with busted and dirt covered concrete, a tetherball pole with no ball, and a couple of broken picnic tables scattered about," notes one visitor describing limited activities at a local park.
Secure pet areas: Many parks provide designated pet spaces. "The dog park was nice for our daughter," shares a camper at Cuervo Mountain RV Park and Horse Hotel. Another visitor at Enchanted Trails mentioned "There is an area to walk your dogs."
Tips from RVers
Level sites: Check reviews for information about site conditions. "Roomy, pull-through parking. The slides and awning were fully extended without getting close to the adjacent sites," reports a visitor at Cuervo Mountain RV Park.
Security features: Some parks offer additional safety measures. "We were undercover with full hook-ups, this was very helpful in the hot NM sun. All the sites are flat and paved. The park is gated with cameras so we felt very safe in the middle of the city in a camper," explains a guest at NomadLand RV Stay.
Utility access: Many RV parks offer full-hookup options. "Sites are clean level and have full hookups. The laundry is dated at best but usable," shares a camper at Enchanted Trails RV Park & Trading Post. "Easy pull thru. Site was long enough. I did not have to disconnect and I could drop the tailgate of the toy hauler," adds another RVer about their experience.