Best Campgrounds near Tularosa, NM

Camping opportunities surround Tularosa, New Mexico with options ranging from established RV resorts to primitive sites in nearby forests. The region includes Mountain Meadows RV Park with 28 full-hookup sites and Boot Hill RV Resort, both providing access to tent camping, RV sites, and cabin accommodations. Several campgrounds in the area feature amenities like electric hookups, water, showers, and picnic tables. Public lands near Cloudcroft offer dispersed camping options along Forest Road 568, approximately 20 miles east of Tularosa in the Lincoln National Forest.

Weather conditions vary significantly with elevation changes between the Tularosa Basin and the surrounding mountains. Summer temperatures can exceed 100°F in the valley while remaining cooler at higher elevations. A camper wrote, "Even though we are in the desert we still have trees and grass. The park is convenient to 2 towns, many stores, and attractions including White Sands National Park." Winter brings occasional freezing temperatures and snow in mountain areas. Most developed campgrounds remain open year-round, though primitive sites may have seasonal closures or access limitations. Cell service is generally reliable near established campgrounds but becomes spotty in more remote forest areas.

Visitors consistently mention proximity to attractions as a significant benefit when camping in the Tularosa area. White Sands National Park lies approximately 30 minutes from most local campgrounds, offering unique backcountry primitive camping on the gypsum dunes. According to one review, "This campground is quite remote, however it's about 30 minutes from White Sands National Park and about 30 minutes from the little mountain town called Cloudcroft." Many RV parks provide sleds for White Sands visitors. The Three Rivers Petroglyph Site north of Tularosa offers camping with access to thousands of ancient rock carvings. Campers seeking cooler temperatures often drive the short distance to Cloudcroft's higher elevation camping areas where pine forests provide natural shade. Noise levels vary significantly between highway-adjacent RV parks and the more isolated forest campgrounds.

Best Camping Sites Near Tularosa, New Mexico (121)

    1. Alamogordo / White Sands KOA

    37 Reviews
    Alamogordo, NM
    11 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."

    2. Oliver Lee Memorial State Park Campground

    65 Reviews
    Sunspot, NM
    23 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. "

    3. Boot Hill RV Resort

    11 Reviews
    Tularosa, NM
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 439-6224

    "It is north of the busiest part of town, so it is fairly quiet, even though you are right next to the highway. It definitely served our needs."

    "I paid $35 night electric only then had to pay $5 water in my tank .only was a bit noisy next to the hiway and needs a little lightning around very dark . 2 dog areas was good location"

    4. Mountain Meadows RV Park

    8 Reviews
    Tularosa, NM
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 585-3678

    $45 - $65 / night

    "It’s only a 30‑minute drive to White Sands National Park and Cloudcroft. The host is very responsive and helpful via call or text. They even provide sleds and wax for free to use at White Sands."

    "The best qualities of the campground: awesome views -hookups -grill area and games + sleds to borrow -laundry -close to Lincoln National Forest and white sands and pistachioland!"

    5. Edgington RV Park

    8 Reviews
    Alamogordo, NM
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 434-2643

    "The site was right off the highway so easy to get to and the site level. There was a lot of noise from traffic on the highway."

    6. Forest Road 568 - Dispersed Camping

    17 Reviews
    Cloudcroft, NM
    18 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."

    7. Three Rivers Petroglyph Site

    17 Reviews
    Bent, NM
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 525-4300

    $18 / night

    "Must see recreational site with 2 trails, 11 picnic areas with shelters and grills, and really clean restrooms located south of Carrizozo, NM, and north of Tularosa, NM."

    "Now there are upwards of 10 campsites situated for RV’s or tents."

    8. Backcountry Primitive Sites — White Sands National Park

    23 Reviews
    Holloman Air Force Base, NM
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 479-6124

    "If you do one thing in New Mexico--and it would be a shame if you only did one thing, but I digress--full moon camping at White Sands National Monument might be it."

    "The hike from the parking lot is barely 2 miles, but when you get to the site there is just seas of white surrounding you. And if at all possible try to camp here during a full moon."

    9. Lower Karr Canyon Campground

    7 Reviews
    Lincoln National Forest, NM
    17 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."

    10. Forest Rd 568 Dispersed

    8 Reviews
    Cloudcroft, NM
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 682-2551

    "The good: beautiful tree coverage, trails that lead to town, road biking distance to town, daily short rains, wild mustangs walking right through our site, plenty of room."

    "Good little spot away from traffic. Had some snow coverage in February that made everything look beautiful. Definitely a good stop!"

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Recent Reviews near Tularosa, NM

509 Reviews of 121 Tularosa Campgrounds


  • David S.
    Oct. 21, 2025

    Lower Karr Canyon Campground

    Decent spot for free

    Several camp sites dispersed along the road. The biggest issue is campers not packing out trash and food. The animals are a bit habituated towards getting food

  • HThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 19, 2025

    Upper Bonito Dispersed Recreation Area

    Decent for a night

    Not a bad place for a night. The drive in is a bit long and the road is rocky and washy in some places.

    Also heard some annoying noises at night. Sounded like someone was splitting wood or hammering something. At 930pm... Dogs barking at night too.

    Decent spot but probably won't be back.

  • HThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 18, 2025

    Three Rivers Petroglyph Site

    Great place to stop

    I paid $10 for a basic van site. Well kept area, all sites looked level to an extent. Hook ups are only $20 I believe. Bathrooms were clean and there are several quick hikes in the area. No pets allowed on the petroglyphs trail so if you have animals you'll have to leave them.

  • Noah B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 17, 2025

    Three Rivers Campground

    Awesome spot, awesome hosts.

    Beautiful and secluded in mid-October. Camp hosts are super friendly and love to chat, definitely recommend stopping by to say hi.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 16, 2025

    Boot Hill RV Resort

    Great location

    Super friendly family owned park. Great sunrise/sunset spot. Right across from giant pistachio

  • Christopher P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 9, 2025

    Fort Stanton Cave Campground

    BLM Campground

    This is a free BLM campground. Sites are mixed. Some may have one or more of a table, fire pit, or shelter. Some are just a place to park. Trash cans. Bathroom although it was locked during government shutdown. Cave has been closed for years.

  • a
    Oct. 3, 2025

    Valley Of Fires Recreation Area

    Easy to access with showers

    The campground is easy to access, has showers and a dump station.  There are not a lot of trails but there  is a lovely 3/4 mile on the lava field.  It was very sunny when I went, bring a shade device.

  • Kevin K.
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Valley Of Fires Recreation Area

    Large pull thru sites

    Booked three nights for $25 per night with water and electric. It is a pull thru paved site #6 with a direct view of the lave field. If you book this site bring extra blocks as it is 3.5” out of level side to side and about 12” front to back on a 21’ trailer.


Guide to Tularosa

Camping near Tularosa, New Mexico, offers a mix of stunning landscapes and unique experiences. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to unwind or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of options to explore.

What to do:

  • Hiking: There are great trails nearby, especially at Oliver Lee Memorial State Park. One visitor mentioned, "Some nice hikes from the park with amazing views," making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.
  • Exploring White Sands National Park: Just a short drive away, this park is famous for its white gypsum dunes. A reviewer noted, "The sunsets are always spectacular," highlighting the beauty of the area.
  • Wildlife Watching: At Raptor Lake Dispersed / Holloman Lake, you can spot various wildlife. One camper shared, "We saw 6 big elk and several deer," making it a great place for animal enthusiasts.

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the breathtaking scenery. A review for Oliver Lee Memorial State Park stated, "Gorgeous 360 views, quiet spot," which many find appealing.
  • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds, like Alamogordo / White Sands KOA, are noted for their cleanliness. One visitor mentioned, "Facilities were clean," which is always a plus when camping.
  • Friendly Hosts: Campers appreciate the welcoming atmosphere. A reviewer at Midtown Mountain Campground & RV Park said, "The management is amazing and super attentive!"

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some spots, like Raptor Lake Dispersed / Holloman Lake, have no amenities. A camper noted, "There’s nothing in the way of services at this place," so be prepared.
  • Weather Considerations: The area can get hot, especially in summer. A visitor at Oliver Lee Memorial State Park mentioned, "It is HOT especially if you're tent camping," so plan accordingly.
  • Road Conditions: Some campgrounds have rough access roads. A review for Forest Road 568 - Dispersed Camping stated, "A little rough getting in," so a vehicle with good clearance is recommended.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Many campgrounds offer fun activities for kids. At Alamogordo / White Sands KOA, one parent said, "The playground was newish," making it a great spot for families.
  • Safety First: Always keep an eye on kids, especially near water. A reviewer at Bluff Springs Dispersed Camping mentioned, "Kids loved playing in it and seeing the waterfall," but supervision is key.
  • Pack Essentials: Make sure to bring everything you need, as some sites have limited supplies. A camper at Three Rivers Petroglyph Site noted, "Bring all your supplies though," which is good advice for families.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A visitor at Midtown Mountain Campground & RV Park said, "The spaces were tight," so plan accordingly.
  • Use Full Hookups: If you need full hookups, Alamogordo / White Sands KOA is a solid choice. A reviewer mentioned, "It was a nice, level pull through site with water/sewer/cable/electric."
  • Stay Connected: Some campgrounds have good cell service, while others do not. A camper at Dog Canyon shared, "Tmobile service was pretty good," which can be helpful for RVers needing to stay in touch.

Camping near Tularosa, New Mexico, offers a variety of experiences, from stunning views to family-friendly activities. Whether you're in an RV or tent camping, there's something for everyone to enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Tularosa, NM?

According to TheDyrt.com, Tularosa, NM offers a wide range of camping options, with 121 campgrounds and RV parks near Tularosa, NM and 22 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Tularosa, NM?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Tularosa, NM is Alamogordo / White Sands KOA with a 4.5-star rating from 37 reviews.

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

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 22 free dispersed camping spots near Tularosa, NM.