Best Camping near White Sands, NM

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near White Sands. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Get the dirt on all the best camping near White Sands. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Best Camping Sites Near White Sands, NM (64)

    Camper-submitted photo from Aguirre Spring Recreation Area and Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Aguirre Spring Recreation Area and Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Aguirre Spring Recreation Area and Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Aguirre Spring Recreation Area and Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Aguirre Spring Recreation Area and Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Aguirre Spring Recreation Area and Campground

    1. Aguirre Spring Recreation Area and Campground

    50 Reviews
    164 Photos
    524 Saves
    White Sands, New Mexico

    The high wall, needle-like spires of the Organ Mountains curve dramatically around a semicircle of Chihuahuan Desert habitat at the Aguirre Spring Campground. The campground, nestled at the base of spectacular cliffs, overlooks the Tularosa Basin and White Sands National Park. Alligator juniper, gray oak, mountain mahogany and sotol are a few of the abundant plant species here. Seasonal springs and streams occur in the canyon bottoms, with a few perennial springs that support riparian habitats. Entrance Gate Hours (change with Daylight Savings Time) Winter Hours (Nov - March): 8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Summer Hours (March - Nov): 7:00 - 8:00 p.m. The campground has a total of 55 sites that are available at a first come, first served basis, and two group sites that can be reserved by calling 575-525-4300. Water is only available at the entrance of the recreation site by the Camp Host Site. RVs can camp in the campground but should be aware that the road up to the campground becomes narrow and winding. Due to safety precautions for vehicles, the recommended max length for RVs is 23 feet. All sites have a shade shelter, picnic table, grill and tent pad.

    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Equestrian
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from Las Cruces KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Las Cruces KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Las Cruces KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Las Cruces KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Las Cruces KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Las Cruces KOA

    2. Las Cruces KOA

    47 Reviews
    125 Photos
    88 Saves
    Mesilla, New Mexico

    This KOA is conveniently located one mile from I-10, overlooking the amazing views of Las Cruces, Mesilla Valley, and nearby mountains. Many upgrades have taken place over the last year, including Wi-fi with which you can stream and zoom, paved streets and a new playground. Choose from breathtaking view sites, big-rig friendly pull-thru sites, KOA Patio Sites with fire pits, Tent Sites or one-room Camping Cabins with refrigerator/freezer and fire pits. An RV wash area (Care Camps donation encouraged), 24-hr laundry and heated pool (seasonal) will complete your visit. Many come for one night and end up staying longer. Visit La Mesilla, known for its rich history and great cuisine. Shop for local specialties, chilies, and pecans at the popular farmers' market in downtown Las Cruces. Other area attractions include White Sands National Park & Missile Museum, Spaceport America Visitors Center, and the New Mexico Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum. Pool: Mid May – Sept 31st. Max pull thru 85 ft.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Sierra Vista
    Camper-submitted photo from Sierra Vista
    Camper-submitted photo from Sierra Vista
    Camper-submitted photo from Sierra Vista
    Camper-submitted photo from Sierra Vista
    Camper-submitted photo from Sierra Vista
    Camper-submitted photo from Oliver Lee Memorial State Park — Oliver Lee State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Oliver Lee Memorial State Park — Oliver Lee State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Oliver Lee Memorial State Park — Oliver Lee State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Oliver Lee Memorial State Park — Oliver Lee State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Oliver Lee Memorial State Park — Oliver Lee State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Oliver Lee Memorial State Park — Oliver Lee State Park

    4. Oliver Lee Memorial State Park — Oliver Lee State Park

    60 Reviews
    192 Photos
    326 Saves
    Sunspot, New Mexico

    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

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $10 - $14 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Baylor Canyon Rd Spur, BLM, Free
    Camper-submitted photo from Baylor Canyon Rd Spur, BLM, Free
    Camper-submitted photo from Baylor Canyon Rd Spur, BLM, Free
    Camper-submitted photo from Baylor Canyon Rd Spur, BLM, Free
    Camper-submitted photo from Baylor Canyon Rd Spur, BLM, Free
    Camper-submitted photo from Baylor Canyon Rd Spur, BLM, Free
    Camper-submitted photo from Hacienda RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Hacienda RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Hacienda RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Hacienda RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Hacienda RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Hacienda RV Resort

    6. Hacienda RV Resort

    16 Reviews
    36 Photos
    31 Saves
    Mesilla, New Mexico

    We’ll Give You Something To Talk About!

    Welcome to the beautiful Hacienda RV Resort, New Mexico’s finest RV Park! Our resort provides the perfect setting for rest and relaxation with stellar accommodations and breathtaking views. New Mexico’s historic cultural activities combined with our resort’s high-speed WiFi makes Hacienda RV Resort a perfect destination for tech-savvy tourists and work-away-from-home explorers!

    Hacienda RV Resort offers a warm and welcoming retreat for adventurous adults, families and pets! Immediately located off the I-10, exit 140, in Las Cruces, New Mexico. We’re only minutes from downtown. Less than 1.5 miles away is the heart of Old Mesilla, where the Gadsden Purchase was signed, making New Mexico a part of the United States in 1854. Just 45 minutes from the RV resort is the bustling City of El Paso, Texas.

    Paved roads lead into our spacious pull-thru or back-in sites, many boasting breathtaking views. Watch the sun rise over the Organ Mountains, relax on our large outdoor patio with a wood burning fireplace, or enjoy our comfortable southwestern community room with an indoor fireplace. Our gift shop is stocked with locally sourced products that make excellent gifts for those back home!

    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $36 - $64 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Leasburg Dam State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Leasburg Dam State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Leasburg Dam State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Leasburg Dam State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Leasburg Dam State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Leasburg Dam State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Raptor Lake Dispersed / Holloman Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Raptor Lake Dispersed / Holloman Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Raptor Lake Dispersed / Holloman Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Raptor Lake Dispersed / Holloman Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Raptor Lake Dispersed / Holloman Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Raptor Lake Dispersed / Holloman Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Baylor Pass West Trailhead Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Baylor Pass West Trailhead Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Baylor Pass West Trailhead Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Baylor Pass West Trailhead Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Baylor Pass West Trailhead Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Baylor Pass West Trailhead Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Backcountry Primitive Sites — White Sands National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Backcountry Primitive Sites — White Sands National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Backcountry Primitive Sites — White Sands National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Backcountry Primitive Sites — White Sands National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Backcountry Primitive Sites — White Sands National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Backcountry Primitive Sites — White Sands National Park

    10. Backcountry Primitive Sites — White Sands National Park

    23 Reviews
    123 Photos
    266 Saves
    Holloman Air Force Base, New Mexico

    Due to rehabilitation of camping sites, backcountry camping is closed.

    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Equestrian
    • Market
    • Trash
    • Drinking Water
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Showing results 1-10 of 64 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near White Sands

Recent Reviews in White Sands

500 Reviews of 64 White Sands Campgrounds


  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Oregan Wilderness Dispersed
    Nov. 30, 2024

    Oregan Wilderness Dispersed

    Lots of dispersed sites Mountain View’s

    Lots of dispersed sites but looks like a very popular area we passed over 20 campers before finding a spot. Spots are pretty well spaced out with lots of vegetation inbetween. Road is a little rough 4x4 definitely recommended.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Raptor Lake Dispersed / Holloman Lake
    Nov. 26, 2024

    Raptor Lake Dispersed / Holloman Lake

    Windy at night, but lots of room and views

    The road is a bit lumpy getting in, so bigger rigs will have to take their time. But once you’re in, there’s good spacing so you’re not on top of everyone. Lake is very peaceful in the morning and evening, but wouldn’t swim in it.

  • Douglas M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Fort Bliss RV Park
    Nov. 19, 2024

    Fort Bliss RV Park

    Great place

    Easy layout. Concrete spots with the usual tables nearby. All the hook ups ans amenities you need. Near a gas station and a Walmart for convenience as well.

  • UThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Aguirre Spring Recreation Area and Campground
    Nov. 17, 2024

    Aguirre Spring Recreation Area and Campground

    Hidden gem

    Stayed in #43. Most sites are uneven and short. BLM recommends nothing more than 23' long. Water available at host site near gate before driving about 4 or 5 mi to campsites. Road IS narrow and winding and steep in place but pave and ONE way (don't turn wrong direction). Toilets were clean and mens toilets all had soft-close lids. I am told womens do not. Campground was clean, great 4 mile loop hike, and other much more strenuous/technical options for mountain climbers. Mountain crags remind me of a mix of Tetons, Patagonia and Sawtooth in Idaho. Great views to Sacramento Mountains to the east (Ruidoso/Cloudcroft area--Sierra Blanca covered in snow early Nov.). White Sands nearby along with White Sands Missile Range Museum).  Met some BLM peeps who were very nice, helpful and provided great information re: geology of the area and other points of interest. We brought our own 5 gal of water and were fine for 3 nights.

    ALSO: shout out to New Mexico Volunteers for the Outdoors who were doing trail rehab./maintenance work while we were in area, yay!

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Gleatherland
    Nov. 14, 2024

    Gleatherland

    Best Camping Near Hueco Tanks!

    Only five miles from Hueco Tanks SP. Has all the amenities, tons of primitive campsites, RV sites (electric/gray water & potable water hookups), yurt rentals and camp trailer rentals. Primitive sites are only $5/person nightly. Quiet desert scenery surrounding!

  • Christian M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Alamogordo / White Sands KOA
    Nov. 13, 2024

    Alamogordo / White Sands KOA

    Loved this KOA

    Local to everything in Alamogordo. Propane available, laundry, cabins, hot as hell showers, water pressure is really high at around 155 psi. So definitely bring a regulator. Two KOA cats that are friendly so FYI

  • Kara S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Aguirre Spring Recreation Area and Campground
    Nov. 8, 2024

    Aguirre Spring Recreation Area and Campground

    Views and hikes

    Great sites with close and clean toilets. We found a few level spots that would work for rooftop tents, but most spots seemed a little rocky and uneven for tents. There is a lovely 4 mile hike that loops up in the mountains by the sites.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sunland Park Racetrack & Casino
    Nov. 5, 2024

    Sunland Park Racetrack & Casino

    Great overnight

    Water, electric and dump station for $15/ night. It is just a parking lot though. The steak house was excellent and the staff are all friendly and helpful. There are 6 RV sites on a first come first serve basis. I arrived early afternoon and there were already 2 rigs parked. The Dyrt directions took me across the street not to the casino.

  • James W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Alamogordo / White Sands KOA
    Nov. 4, 2024

    Alamogordo / White Sands KOA

    Great place WiFi weak

    Everyone was super nice! Place was well kept and clean. Note: there is lots of railroad train coming by throughout the evening WiFi could be better. White Sands National Park is very close.

  • Roy G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Baylor Canyon Rd Dispersed Site
    Nov. 3, 2024

    Baylor Canyon Rd Dispersed Site

    Convenient

    Not bad at all. Not far off the main road. Paved road to it. Gravelled grounds. Pretty level. Quiet. This isn't a huge campground but we had no trouble finding a spot.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Oliver Lee Memorial State Park — Oliver Lee State Park
    Nov. 2, 2024

    Oliver Lee Memorial State Park — Oliver Lee State Park

    4-star for the sunsets

    Beautiful location for sunsets. Sites are spread out, private, and a bargain at $10 ($14 for electric/water). Clean bathrooms. One very strenuous hike from the campground. We only went up 1/4 mile. The footing was challenging (along with the elevation gain). Good overnight. Quiet at night.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Las Cruces KOA
    Nov. 1, 2024

    Las Cruces KOA

    5-star city light view!

    We usually opt more for National Forests and Parks, but this was a great stop after a fabulous but more rustic experience camping at Chiricahua National Monument. This place has been updated and has more amenities than I’ve ever seen at an RV park including a dog bath! The bathrooms are updated and clean. Our view site was great and more spacious than the pull through ones. No one was to our right, so our site felt extra spacious. Staff were kind and helpful. Very clean and quiet park. I’d stay here again.

  • jam
    Camper-submitted photo from Aguirre Spring Recreation Area and Campground
    Oct. 29, 2024

    Aguirre Spring Recreation Area and Campground

    insights on the Aguirre Spring Recreation Area and Campground

    It’s great to hear about the spacious sites and beautiful surroundings that enhance the outdoor experience. Your mention of nearby hiking trails is particularly helpful for those looking to explore. Sprunki

  • Jeff P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Smokey Bear Campground
    Oct. 28, 2024

    Smokey Bear Campground

    Smokey Bear Historical Park

    This small camp site is next to Smokey Bear Historical Park and museum is in a small town of Capitan, New Mexico.

  • Lindsey M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Oliver Lee Memorial State Park — Oliver Lee State Park
    Oct. 9, 2024

    Oliver Lee Memorial State Park — Oliver Lee State Park

    Lovely Little Stop

    Car camped in a tent site for just a night after visiting WSNP. Non-flush toilets without sinks near tent sites and the full bathhouse is a bit of a walk away. Worth it, though, with spacious shower stalls and well-kept buildings. Sweet views of the valley and mountains and far off the highway.

  • Candy P.
    Camper-submitted photo from Las Cruces KOA
    Oct. 8, 2024

    Las Cruces KOA

    Great New Mexico Stop

    We stopped on either end of our trip to the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta. It was a great midway point from home. We stayed in a patio site. The site was spacious and level. A fire pit with chairs, a propane grill, and table with 4 chairs was provided. The kids enjoyed cornhole, basketball, tetherball, and the playground. The store was well stocked. I only wish more local products were sold. Many of the items that appeared to be made by Native Americans were actually imported from overseas. We also wish the community room had board games or movies to check out. The coffee and pastries was a great touch! We will definitely be back to explore the area more. Employees were friendly and kind. A great place to stay!

  • D
    Camper-submitted photo from Organ Mountains Campground
    Sep. 16, 2024

    Organ Mountains Campground

    Dripping Springs Visitor Parking Lot Areas

    Briefly stopped to scouts the sites and area. A few people hiking. Several cars and trucks parked in the area. Day use and picnic areas here. Sure wish to see camping or dispersed in this area. Evening and night skies are beautiful but gate usually closes at sunset. We driven near this area late night and still catch a glimpse of vehicles traveling out of this area.

  • Ivy M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sierra Vista - Back Side Dispersed
    Jul. 25, 2024

    Sierra Vista - Back Side Dispersed

    nice post

    Sierra Vista’s Back Side Dispersed camping offers a pristine, serene outdoor experience. Its remote location provides ample space and minimal distractions, ideal for those seeking solitude and natural beauty. Proper preparation is key—bring sufficient supplies and be ready for self-sufficiency to fully enjoy this hidden gem. rv park rio hondo


Drive Time


Guide to White Sands

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near White Sands, NM?

    According to TheDyrt.com, White Sands, NM offers a wide range of camping options, with 64 campgrounds and RV parks near White Sands, NM and 21 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near White Sands, NM?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near White Sands, NM is Aguirre Spring Recreation Area and Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 50 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near White Sands, NM?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 21 free dispersed camping spots near White Sands, NM.

  • What parks are near White Sands, NM?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 3 parks near White Sands, NM that allow camping, notably Lincoln National Forest and Gila National Forest.