Camping near Wagon Mound, New Mexico offers outdoor experiences in the high desert terrain at elevations ranging from 6,000 to 8,500 feet. The area experiences dramatic temperature variations with summer daytime highs reaching 90°F while dropping to the 50s at night. Winter camping remains possible at lower elevations, though higher altitude campgrounds close seasonally.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Lake 13-Maxwell National Wildlife Refuge, campers can fish for stocked rainbow trout and bullheads. "The lake was completely dry but has fishing and trolling motor boats only allowed when there is water," notes one visitor, highlighting the lake's seasonal water levels.
Wildlife viewing: The region hosts diverse wildlife throughout the year. At Maxwell Wildlife Refuge, campers report frequent sightings. "Lots of wildlife and pets allowed on leash," one reviewer mentions, while another describes their experience: "Lots of birds, a couple of deer, lots of coyotes off in the distance."
Historical exploration: The Mills Canyon area contains numerous ruins to explore. "The key attractions are the river, often a rippling stream, and sometimes mere puddles, but still, water in a dry land, and the ruins of a thriving orchard and stagecoach stop, complete with an impressive hotel," explains a visitor at Mills Canyon Dispersed.
What campers like
Stargazing conditions: The dark skies in northeastern New Mexico provide exceptional stargazing opportunities. "The Milky Way was to die for," reports a camper at Maxwell Wildlife Refuge, while another mentions they "got a great view of Neowise" from the region's dark sky areas.
Affordability: Most campsites near Wagon Mound are budget-friendly. "FREE campground! Large relatively flat grass lot with garbage cans and picnic tables," notes a reviewer about Maxwell Wildlife Refuge. Morphy Lake State Park Campground provides similar value with basic amenities.
Wildlife encounters: The natural setting attracts wildlife enthusiasts. "Saw lots of wildlife (deer, eagle, foxes as well chipmunks)," reports one Morphy Lake visitor. Another camper mentions, "We could hear owls every night, and saw a mountain lion one morning" during their stay at Mills Canyon.
What you should know
Seasonal road conditions: Access to many campsites varies dramatically with weather. "We were looking forward to boondocking at Maxwell National Wildlife Refuge today, in early May - and we will try again in Oct when we come back this way. But north eastern and north central New Mexico have had days of heavy rain and flooding alerts," notes one traveler who had to find alternatives.
Site amenities vary widely: Facilities range from primitive to developed. At North Area Campground — Storrie Lake State Park, "This time of year water is shut off except for one spigot in entire park. No water at dump station. They close entry gate at 5 pm sharp," reports one camper.
Insect activity: Mosquitoes can be problematic in certain areas, especially after rain. "The real downer for us was the plethora of vicious mosquitos. We were eaten alive even though we sprayed with bug spray often," reports a Mills Canyon visitor, adding "It had rained recently, which may have been the problem."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer playground facilities for children. At Coyote Creek State Park Campground, one visitor notes, "There is a large field that gets mowed and great for kids to play. There's also a small playground."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Turn camping into educational experiences with wildlife watching. "We too had the mosquito swarms but it was early summer so a lot of runoff. I'd go back in a second," mentions a Mills Canyon camper, suggesting that even challenging conditions offer worthwhile experiences.
Year-round options: Families can camp throughout the year by choosing locations strategically. "Summer heat can be intense at lower elevations, while higher sites like Morphy Lake remain cool. "Very cool even in July; need blankets," notes a camper who experienced the temperature difference at 8,500 feet elevation.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: RV campers have several options for hookups near Wagon Mound. Las Vegas/New Mexico KOA Journey offers full hookups, though one visitor notes, "The only bad is water pressure; very low. We slowly filled tank and used our pump."
Site sizes: RV length restrictions apply at some campgrounds. "Large travel trailers work for the 1st 10 sites then path gets too windy and hilly," explains a visitor to Morphy Lake State Park, providing crucial information for drivers of larger rigs.
Weather preparedness: RV campers should prepare for rapid weather changes. At Maxwell Wildlife Refuge, one camper reported "Very high winds with a wind advisory when we arrived. 30-40 mph winds with gusts to over 60 mph," demonstrating the importance of securing equipment properly.
