Best Campgrounds near White Sands, NM

Camping near White Sands, New Mexico, offers a unique experience with stunning landscapes and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to relax or an adventurous getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

• Hiking: Explore the trails in the Organ Mountains. Many campers enjoy the scenic hikes available nearby. One reviewer mentioned, "Good spot to stay if you want to hike any of the trails in the Organ mountains" at Aguirre Spring Recreation Area and Campground.
• Visit White Sands National Park: Just a short drive away, this park is famous for its beautiful white gypsum dunes. A camper noted, "This is probably one of the coolest places I've visited in a long time" about the Backcountry Primitive Sites — White Sands National Park.
• Wildlife Watching: The area is home to various wildlife, making it a great spot for nature lovers. One visitor shared, "The sunsets are always spectacular" at Raptor Lake Dispersed / Holloman Lake.

What campers like:

• Scenic Views: Campers rave about the breathtaking views. A review for Sierra Vista highlights, "The mountain view is amazing."
• Quiet Atmosphere: Many campgrounds offer a peaceful environment. One camper mentioned, "This campground was very quiet; two nights was the perfect amount of time" at Leasburg Dam State Park Campground.
• Spacious Sites: Campers appreciate the roomy sites available. A review for Las Cruces KOA states, "Clean, roomy sites, nice people."

What you should know:

• Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Raptor Lake Dispersed / Holloman Lake, have no amenities, so be prepared to bring everything you need. A visitor noted, "There’s nothing in the way of services at this place."
• Weather Conditions: The area can be windy, especially at higher elevations. One camper at Aguirre Spring Recreation Area and Campground mentioned, "Very windy road back to campground."
• Wildlife Caution: Be aware of wildlife, especially when setting up camp. A reviewer at Baylor Canyon Rd Spur, BLM, Free warned about "large piles" of scat, likely from cows.

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with amenities like clean restrooms and picnic areas. One family enjoyed the "clean and nice" facilities at Hacienda RV Resort.
• Plan for Activities: Make sure to have activities for kids, like hiking or exploring. A camper at Las Cruces KOA mentioned, "Really nice pool," which is great for families.
• Safety First: Always keep an eye on children, especially in areas with wildlife. A visitor at Baylor Pass West Trailhead Dispersed noted, "It’s a parking area for hiking with a few places for RVs to park for a night."

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Hacienda RV Resort mentioned, "The sites here are also very close together."
• Be Prepared for Noise: Some campgrounds near highways can be noisy. One camper at Leasburg Dam State Park Campground said, "Aside from an occasional train, this campground was very quiet."
• Plan for Dump Stations: Ensure you know where the nearest dump station is located. A visitor at Franklin Mountains State Park Campground noted, "No amenities like electricity, water or dump stations."

Camping near White Sands, New Mexico, offers a mix of adventure and relaxation, making it a great destination for all types of campers.