Do you enjoy camping but don't want to rough it? Glamping is a great option. Glamping offers the perfect opportunity to explore Tularosa and stay off the beaten path. Search nearby glamping or find top-rated spots from other campers.
Set against the dramatic Sacramento Mountains, this park features a historic ranch house, quiet camping in the Chihuahuan Desert, and pools of water under the cottonwood trees of Dog Canyon. Springs flow year-round and ferns cling to the sides of mossy rocks. The water in Dog Canyon has attracted people to the area for millennia.
The park’s namesake, Oliver Milton Lee (1865-1941) was a colorful figure in New Mexico history. In 1893 he settled at the mouth of Dog Canyon and built an extensive house at his ranch headquarters. At its peak, his holdings reached about one million acres. Oliver Lee explored ways of bringing water to the dry Tularosa Basin and was instrumental in establishing the town of Alamogordo. Lee is also credited for using his influence to attract the railroad to the area.
Oliver Lee’s home at Dog Canyon Ranch has been completely rebuilt from ruins. It is authentically furnished providing visitors with a glimpse of Lee’s life at the ranch. The house is closed for renovations. Please monitor the park events page to find out when tours resume.
Want to Visit?
The campground, just southwest of the mouth of Dog Canyon, is dry and rocky with desert grasses, mesquite, ocotillo, creosote, yucca, and various species of cacti. The sites vary widely in elevation offering privacy and incredible views across the Tularosa Basin.
Travel Tips:
Peak season for the park is October through April Park Elevation 4,400 ft We are the closest campground to White Sands National Park (30 min. / 27 miles) The park makes an excellent base for day trips Ruidoso 1.25 hours / 66 miles Three Rivers Petroglyph Site 56 min. / 50 miles Cloudcroft 44 min. / 35 miles There are attractions in Alamogordo less than 30 minutes away Alameda Park Zoo New Mexico Museum of Space History Heart of the Desert Pistachios & Wine McGinn’s Pistachio Land The nearby Lincoln National Forest offers miles of trails ranging from very easy to very challenging
$10 - $14 / night
From the KOA website: Nestled in the Tularosa Basin, the Alamogordo / White Sands KOA is a perfect location to set up as your base camp while touring the beauty and attractions of Southern New Mexico! With RV sites, tent sites, and cabins we can accommodate most every type of traveling camper. Mild winters make Alamogordo a wonderful place to escape the cold and snow of northern climates so be sure to ask about winter rates. Escape the desert heat by cooling off in our inviting pool. A large rec room and long covered outside patio work great for group events. Enjoy hiking or disk-sledding down the vast gypsum dunes at White Sands National Monument, only a short 15 mile drive from the campground! Learn about New Mexicos role in the US space program through interactive exhibits at the New Mexico Museum of Space History. Explore ancient rock drawings at the Three Rivers Petroglyph site, just 30 miles north of the campground! Or, simply unwind while taking a leisurely stroll through the oldest zoo in the Southwest the Alameda Park Zoo established in 1898. Though were located in the southern New Mexico desert, the tall, cool pines of Cloudcroft (8600 feet) and Ruidoso (7000 feet) are within an hours drive of the campground and make great day trips to escape the heat. Your hosts will gladly share other hidden gems in Alamogordo during your stay. Well see you soon!
Sleepy Grass offers a total of 15 units of which 2 are double and 3 are triple units leaving 10 single units. Located just south of the Village of Cloudcroft, this site offers many sites for RV's, tents and campers. RV's limited to >30' in length. (Sacramento District Camping Brochure)
This rustic style campground has 12 sites set at the base of southern New Mexico's tallest mountain. A portion of the site is designed for Group Camping. Three Rivers is a great place to go to get away from the crowds and is located at a much lower elevation than our other campgrounds (around 5000'). From here you can access the Three Rivers trailhead (T44) into the White Mountain Wilderness is located. Access to the site and the roads throughout the site are all well maintained dirt roads. Don't miss the Three Rivers Petroglyph Site on the way in or out. ACTIVITIES Camping Hiking Horseback Riding Picnicking: Smokey Bear Ranger District picnic area.
Beautiful park on the Rio Bonito. Come spend one night or longer with us at Bonito Hollow Rv park. Located 15 minutes north of Ruidoso. One of the best parks in Ruidoso area with a wooded environment. We accommodate rigs of all size. We have a large park area for your enjoyment, which includes sand volleyball, horseshoe pits and a dog run. Within seconds to the national forrest.
$40 - $54 / night
Owners Barry and Donna Bell of Along the River RV Park are glad to welcome you to Ruidoso, New Mexico! Whether you are a first-time camper with us or have been here before, Along the River has a campsite for you! We offer more than a place to stay, we present a delightful and memorable experience. Our RV Park is for every age group, so give us a call and come see us soon!
Located on the outskirts of Ruidoso, Cedar Creek provides a wonderful space for groups visiting for the day or staying overnight. With a picnic shelter and three group campsites, the recreation area is ideal for an outing in Lincoln National Forest. A popular pastime is is hiking and mountain biking along the scenic multi-use trails adjacent to the Sam Tobias Memorial Group Campground. There are opporunities to see a number of different wildlife, including Mule deer and Elk in the area.
Hiking and biking are among the most popular activities here, with options like the T90 fitness Trail which extends 1.3 miles and includes exercise stations. Bilking trails T120 A-D and T121 A& B are also nearby. Also we have an expert-only downhill mountain bike trail, located near the water tower to the east of the Campgrounds. The trail ends at the picnic area. Dogs must be kept on leash at all times while hiking. Dogs are not allowed on the Fitness trail.
Cedar Creek is perched along its namesake, Cedar Creek at a 7,000 foot elevation. Lincoln National Forest, located in south-central New Mexico, is most notable as the birthplace of the original Smokey Bear.
Ruidoso is a delightful town with quaint shops, restaurants and art galleries. If picnickers wish to camp overnight, they can head to Sam Tobias Memorial Group Campground.
$40 - $125 / night
Ranger
This was a fantastic state park very close to White Sands National Park. The park is halfway up a mountain with great views of the desert valley / Tularosa Basin below. It’s far enough outside Alamogordo to feel remote but close enough to be able to get to White Sands and nearby amenities easily. Not all the sites in the park are level so be ready.
ScoutVery 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. Everything above standards with wonderful staff. Was there with a friend and had an outstanding experience.
Scout
I was looking to get away from the heat in Albuquerque and maybe even do a little fishing. I picked a site next to the upper river (Rio Bonito). The water was clear and moving, but no sign of any fish. The river is more of a creek (expected for New Mexico), but still pretty. It was barely visible from my camp, but just a short hike away. No ATT or Verizon cell service at my site, but I did find a weak signal up near the office. The wifi was a struggle. It was barely adequate the first day, but absolutely miserable the second day. I could easily connect to their router, but constantly got an error of “no internet service” and had to log off and on several times. I had limited shade at my site, but thankfully the AC kept the trailer cool enough, as it was nearly 90 degrees outside. The hosts were very nice and the park is kept pretty clean. No tents allowed, though.
Traveler
We love Royce and the Camp @ Cloudcroft. We started out coming here NYE. We stayed in the teardrop camper — so cold outside but the teardrop was warm and cozy. Since then we’ve been back several times! They have new beautifully renovated shower houses. They have a Yurt with all you could ever think of as well as a pop up trailer (amazing king size bed). When you rent these, you basically can come with clothes and food. They think of everything else from utensils, grills, stoves, linens, seasonings ... even a deck of cards! There’s WiFi throughout the campground. They also have RV spaces and tent areas. Super super nice staff (Sissy and her pup Mickey). Can’t recommend this place enough and we can’t wait to get back to our home away from home!!
Legend
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 of home. Located about 10 minutes from White Sands this campground is in a great location for a run to the store, a meal at one of the great local restaurants or a trip to some of the other area attractions.
While visiting here I noticed there were plenty of options for RV campers, something lacking at the White Sands itself. But RV camping is not all created equal, and this one by far surpasses other area options. Sites were latge enough even for the largest of rigs but also offered smaller sites for someone traveling a bit lighter like myself.
Tent row seemed to be a very popular options and while the sites here were a bit closer together there was still plenty of room to move around.
The hosts were extremely friendly and welcoming. The restrooms were private and very well throught creating a feeling of being at home while on the road. There was even a small store located on property with goodies and merchandise to commemorate your trip to the area.
This place really has the family in mind with a pool, playground and game room which will leave a smile on the faces of even the smallest guests.
Tips:
RangerCampground Review:
Oliver Lee is an amazing place to stay in southern New Mexico. This park is located about 20 minutes south of Alamogordo and a half hour drive to White Sands National Monument. We spent two nights here and were blown away with the desert views that surround the site. They have both developed sites with access to electricity and water as well as some undeveloped sites. We went in the middle of June during a heat wave that was hitting the southwest United States, but was really able to enjoy the park and surrounding hiking during the morning and afternoons.
I was actually pretty surprised at the amount of other campers that were there, and available amenities. When I was beginning to look at camping here I thought it would be a pretty primitive site, but was blow away at the available bathrooms, showers, and hook ups. While we were here they were replacing much of the water hook ups in the park, which meant the water was shut off during most of the day, but really increased the availability of the water.
If we are ever back in southern NM we will definitely be sure to swing by and stay for a night.
Click here to see the video review!
Product Review:
As a Ranger for The Dyrt, I occasionally get products to test, and on this trip i was able to test the Klymit Insulated Static V Luxe sleeping pad.
I was excited to be able to test out this pad primarily for its claim of being comfortable for side sleepers.
With other pads that I've tried in the past I always run into the problem of whenever I try to sleep on my side I get spots what are always in contact with the ground and will eventually begin to hurt.
Not with this pad. Except for the times when I was changing my sleeping position, I never felt the ground.
I am truly in love with this pad! So far I've only been able to use pad in warm climates, so I can't attest to its insulative properties, but I can't wait to take it out this winter!
Click here to see an extended video review!
Camping with the GO: DAY 1
During our road trip around the US, I was able to try out the GO camper from SylvanSport. This was the first night we stayed in the GO and were blown away. Our first impression of this camper is SPACIOUS!! There is so much room in this camper, it's almost unfair. Definitely, loved our first night!
Guide
Very well run place, the property inside and out is clean, it was quite, easy to,get in and out of, some long pull through sites, some covered sites, nice dog run. Would highly recommend this place! Cell great for Verizon and only 1-2 bars for AT&T
GuideRight across the road from the world's largest pistachio, this RV campground has all you would ever want. Friendly folks (both staff and campers) made it fun. We visited White Sands NP and Three Rivers Petroglyph Area from this spot, and each was about equal distance. Not that far from Alamogordo so we splurged and ate out one night. We missed the space museum, so we'll be back for that.
GuideVery clean was nice layout bathrooms very clean . 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
GuideIf you are looking for a safe, easy stop with easy check-in for a night or two this will fit the bill. Easy to pull into sites. No scenery. Clean bathrooms and showers. Nice laundry and book exchange.
TravelerWhat a nice experience we had staying at Boot Hill it was within close proximity to the pistachio farm which was fascinating and the sunsets were just omg what a great view. Must add 5 stars for cleanliness of the facilities and happy demeanor of the host.
GuideNice park, lovely sights, friendly staff and close to white sands National park!
TravelerSo much to see in this area. White Sands, Cloudcroft Village, space museums, petroglyphs and the list goes on. Level sites, friendly helpful staff.
GuideWe were able to get in last minute for a two night stay. We stayed in Site 604. Pull through, level spot. Very close to neighbor RVs. But, nice and quiet. Dogs enjoyed the fenced dog park (although gravel). Full Hookups.
Location great for White Sands National Park, Cloudcroft, NM (Brewery up there at 9000 ft) and Las Cruces, NM.
GuideWe are traveling with our Sprinter camper van and tried to make a reservation there, based on the very positive reviews. Unfortunately, we were told, that their insurance does not allow these kinds of campers to stay in their park. I had to send the pictures of the inside and outside of our van before they decided that we can't stay there. I have no clue, what problem the insurance has with Mercedes Sprinter vans, so just a heads up.
RangerWe stayed here 2 nights while exploring the Alamogordo/ White Sands area. The park is well equipped with your basic needs-- laundry, FHU, gift shop, office, and a nice covered picnic area. 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.
RangerMy children and I stayed only one night at the Alamogordo/White Sands KOA, but it was a great place to stop and play! The kids enjoyed the pool and game room, our camping cabin was clean and neat. They had the nicest KOA showerhouse I have seen in my travels. They were having an ice cream social as we arrived which was a bonus after a long hot day of adventure. This was a great base for exploring the area, including White Sands National Monument and the White Sands Missle Range Museum/Missle Park.
Prepare for the heat! There is not much shade on these adventures. My one complaint about this KOA is it needed more shade around the pool.
ScoutThe plot was a nice sized area with electric plug ins available at the campsite and your own fire pit and picnic table. Would camp here again.
TravelerThe staff is friendly and helpful. Clean bathrooms and showers. Campground is well kept. There is a dog run, pool and a place to do laundry. A playground next to the pool makes for a fun afternoon. We will definitely come back.
GuideWe stayed here 3 night while touring White Sands and doing the Billy the Kid Trail. Spacious patios on their deluxe sites.
GuideGreat campground with nice semi-private deluxe sites. Nice central location to visit White Sands and the Billy the Kid Trail.
GuideCity camping close to restaurants and stores. Only about 10 minuets from White Sands State Park. Partly shaded gravel sites with water, electric, fire ring, picnic table. Campsites are very close to pool, playground, and restroom/showers. Very clean with a well stocked store and friendly staff. The staff gave us great tips for local venues, loaned us sleds for White Sands and rewarded my boys with popsicles for their good manners.
GuideOne of the prettiest places in the U.S.A and the sand never gets hot! We go a lot.
TravelerEXTREMELY friendly staff and very accommodating!! All of the sites are easily accessible to the showers and the location is perfect for White Sands National Monument. I would definitely stay here again if we go back to the region.
GuideAre growing actual biomasses as well within the sand
TravelerViews are spectacular! Campground is well maintained. Will come back soon!
ScoutClean campground. Staff was pleasant
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular glamping campsite near Tularosa, NM?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular glamping campground near Tularosa, NM is Oliver Lee Memorial State Park — Oliver Lee State Park with a 4.8-star rating from 60 reviews.
What is the best site to find glamping camping near Tularosa, NM?
TheDyrt.com has all 18 glamping camping locations near Tularosa, NM, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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