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Best Campgrounds near Whites City, NM

466 Reviews

Several campgrounds near Whites City, New Mexico provide convenient access to Carlsbad Caverns National Park, with options ranging from developed RV parks to dispersed camping on public lands. Whites City RV Park offers full hookup sites within minutes of the national park entrance, while multiple free BLM dispersed camping areas like Chosa Campground, Mile 10 Dispersed, and Carlsbad BLM Land Dispersed accommodate both tent and RV camping. Parks Ranch Campground and Sunset Reef Campground provide additional established options in the area, serving visitors to both Carlsbad Caverns and nearby Guadalupe Mountains National Park.

The region experiences hot summers and mild winters, with most campgrounds open year-round. BLM dispersed sites typically allow 14-day stays with varying levels of accessibility—many require high-clearance vehicles for comfortable access. While developed campgrounds like Whites City RV Park offer amenities including water, electric, and sewer hookups, dispersed sites provide no facilities and campers must pack out all trash and waste. Cell service can be limited or non-existent at more remote camping areas. As one visitor noted, "There are numerous BLM areas near the caverns but we needed an electric hookup so settled for Whites City RV Park. Great location, just a 10-minute ride to the Caverns."

Proximity to Carlsbad Caverns represents the primary draw for most campers in the area, with many willing to sacrifice amenities for convenience. The closest established camping to the caverns is at Whites City, though reviews suggest basic conditions. "Nothing special other than it's 7 miles from Carlsbad Caverns. Clean facilities, including Grocery Store, laundromat, post office," commented one camper. Those seeking more solitude often prefer the dispersed options on public lands, which typically receive higher ratings despite lacking amenities. For visitors planning multi-day stays to explore both Carlsbad Caverns and Guadalupe Mountains National Parks, the mixed-use campgrounds in this area serve as strategic base camps, though advance planning is recommended during peak seasons.

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Best Camping Sites Near Whites City, New Mexico (40)

    1. Chosa Campground

    55 Reviews
    Carlsbad Caverns, NM
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 234-5972

    "Close to Carlsbad Caverns, Rattlesnake Springs and Cottonwood Day Use Area with had a spring fed pool . Saw several Rio Grand Turkey near the two springs.

    Saw Pronghorn Antelope."

    "We only stayed two nights visiting Carlsbad Caverns (20 min drive) and pretty much had the place to ourselves. Great T-Mobile service."

    2. Sunset Reef Campground

    43 Reviews
    Carlsbad Caverns, NM
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 234-5972

    "Sunset reef is small and does fill up quickly as there is limited spots but you can always park on the outskirts of the corral like fencing and there’s still plenty of space."

    "Sunset Reef is great place to spend a night, or a few days exploring the area around Carlsbad."

    3. Mile 10 - Dispersed Camping

    33 Reviews
    Whites City, NM
    6 miles
    Website

    "Stayed: 10/11/2020- FREE Site: Corner of entrance and 10 Mile Rd, on the right

    Vehicle: Hyundai Rogue

    Equipment: Tent

    “10 Mile Rd” runs parallel to the highway."

    "Quiet place away from others, which we like. We followed the GPS coordinates and found a spot away from the freeway. It had a firepit and we weren't super close to our neighbors."

    4. Carlsbad BLM Land Dispersed

    24 Reviews
    Whites City, NM
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 234-5972

    "My husband and our two dogs stayed at Mile Marker 19 on BLM Land, it is way up high and not marked, we are on National Parks Highway on 180."

    "Only 5 minutes from Carlsbad caverns, this dispersed OHV trail is accessible to anyone with a vehicle that can make it over potholes and speed bumps."

    5. Whites City RV Park

    23 Reviews
    Whites City, NM
    0 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 361-3665

    $20 - $45 / night

    "Full hookups and a store right next door within walking distance."

    "Located directly at the entrance to the Carlsbad Canyon National Park. Small restaurant across the street and a general store, gift shop and post office right next door."

    6. Carlsbad RV Park & Campground

    35 Reviews
    Carlsbad, NM
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 885-6333

    "Very convenient to Carlsbad Caverns National Park and to Carlsbad, New Mexico. Nice indoorheated pool and a family-friendly environment. Treats for your dog and several dog parks fort off leash fun."

    "So many positive things to say about this site. First of all- Excellent and helpful staff."

    7. Dark Canyon Dispersed

    10 Reviews
    Whites City, NM
    8 miles
    Website

    "I went further up the trail past the lot and there are a few spots up there as well. Nice view of the city and zero noise. Trail up to the top is a rough one though."

    "Great location when checking out Carlsbad Caverns. Close to the road."

    8. Parks Ranch Campground

    7 Reviews
    Whites City, NM
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 525-4300

    "Great free spot close to whites city with laundry and showers as well as the national park. Close enough to highway where you can see headlights in the distance but you can’t hear the noise at all."

    "Nice, open area by the highway with many campsites along the road. A few people around but not near. Caves to explore by the loop!"

    9. Carlsbad Caverns Dispersed

    7 Reviews
    Whites City, NM
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 234-5972

    "High clearance for the upper levels of the roadway but several vans could stay below close to the entrance.  Quiet nights rest with occasional truck driving by on the roadway below"

    "We arrived late at night, so we couldn’t see the surrounding area. The road is a bit rough, but driving slowly should be fine in a car. The wind kept us cool overnight."

    10. Rattlesnake Canyon - Backcountry Camping — Carlsbad Caverns National Park

    5 Reviews
    Whites City, NM
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 785-2232

    "Permits are required for camping along the Rattlesnake Canyon Trail, but those are easily acquired at the visitor center."

    "Rattlesnake canyon- backcountry camping close to Carlsbad caverns- wayyy cooler than the KOA in town or the other camping options I've explored."

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Recent Camping Photos near Whites City, NM

83 Photos of 40 Whites City Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Whites City, NM

466 Reviews of 40 Whites City Campgrounds

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

    Limestone Campground — Brantley Lake State Park

    Primitive camping along the lake side

    Can’t go wrong with primitive camping here on the west side of lake. Woke up in the morning and when to the east side to use the showers and facilities, all were super clean. Nice and secluded in October.

  • mThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 13, 2025

    Sunset Reef Campground

    Very Nice - FREE

    Probably would have found faster if had this app.  Nice clean campground with bathroom.  Very open & no trees.  Stayed here 3 nights in my vehicle mid-April 2025 while i visited the 2 National Parks in the area (Guadalupe & Carlsbad). I could be over-rating but hard not too since it was free & had a bathroom facilities.

  • B
    Sep. 13, 2025

    Limestone Campground — Brantley Lake State Park

    Great for visiting Carlsbad Caverns

    We were trying to find a campground close to the caverns. But the reviews didn’t seem exceptionally promising on most. So I looked at state parks and found Brantley Lake State Park. The campground was a bit off the beaten path as it was over 4 miles down a side road that appears to have lots of truck traffic. We entered the park and realized the entrance was not manned at the time so continued to the campground. Another 2 miles. The campground is laid out like a figure 8 mostly with views of the lake in most areas. The sites are spacious with a picnic table under a canopy for shade. There are few trees that provide shade so the canopy was a welcome addition. The site was paved for the RV but the remaining area was rock. It was mostly level but the pavement wasn’t wide enough to have our step on the pavement. The bathhouse was nice, updated and clean there were multiple trash receptacles located around the campground. The dump station was roped off so we asked about it. We were told it was not available currently but we could use site 1 sewer to dump when we leave. They do have a few FHU sites. It is about 15 minutes to the town of Carlsbad and then another 20 minutes to the caverns.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 27, 2025

    Avalon Lake Dispersed

    Nice spot for an overnight

    This is the second time here and we love it. Very little traffic, but seems to be a place for weekend parties. More trash and glass in some spots, but many options for us in a small class C. Bumpy dirt road, but passable in a motorhome.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 19, 2025

    Carlsbad BLM Land Dispersed

    Easy quick spot for one night

    Stopped after guard just did a lot right over the cattle guard. Didn’t venture up further at Knight given other review stating four-wheel-drive, even though I have clearance and tires, fairly quiet far enough from the road that the Van fan covered car noise

  • J W.
    Jun. 15, 2025

    Sunset Reef Campground

    Great BLM Site!

    Nice Quiet Clean campground. Beautiful views of the Guadalupe Range. Can see the Carlsbad Caverns Visitor center from the site. Free campground! Trash ca s and clean well stocked pit toilet also has tent camping. Fire pit, grill, and covered picnic table. Beautiful sunrise.

  • Rock E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 10, 2025

    Limestone Campground — Brantley Lake State Park

    Everyone gets a view!

    If you camp there, you are guaranteed a breathtaking view. The sites are so well made that you still get some privacy with a little wall near the picnic table that blocks the view on your neighbors. Also the table is shaded. The showers are great! However, not that easy to swim in the lake on this campground. There are designated swimming areas though a few minutes drive away from the campground.

  • Maddy K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 7, 2025

    Limestone Campground — Brantley Lake State Park

    Great one night stay

    Camp sites were clean and developed. We were able to get a spot away from others easily and paid upon arrival at the self pay station. Be prepared for heavy winds and ants! Besides the uncontrollable forces of nature, it was a great site to pull off to for the night. We paid $10 for the night in the sites reserved for FCFS sites.

Guide to Whites City

Camping near Whites City, New Mexico, offers a unique experience with stunning landscapes and proximity to natural wonders like Carlsbad Caverns. Whether you're looking for a free spot or a more established campground, there are plenty of options to suit your needs.

What to do:

  • Explore Carlsbad Caverns National Park: Just a short drive away, this park is famous for its stunning underground formations. Many campers appreciate the convenience, with one reviewer noting, "This is a great free area of land located conveniently between the Guadalupe mtns and The Carlsbad Caverns" at Chosa Campground.
  • Hiking in Guadalupe Mountains National Park: The trails here offer breathtaking views and a chance to see local wildlife. A visitor at Pine Springs Campground mentioned, "Great access to trails - we woke up and immediately did Guadalupe trail!"
  • Stargazing: The clear desert skies provide an excellent opportunity for stargazing. Campers at Sunset Reef Campground have enjoyed the night sky, with one stating, "Great night sky. Quiet."

What campers like:

  • Free camping options: Many appreciate the availability of free campsites. One camper at Mile 10 - Dispersed Camping said, "Spacious with fire rings, and a thousand times better than Sunset Reef."
  • Clean facilities: Campers often mention the cleanliness of restrooms and showers. A review for Brantley Lake State Park Campground highlighted, "Clean bathrooms and showers, hot showers, wheelchair accessible showers and bathrooms."
  • Convenient locations: Many campgrounds are close to major attractions. A visitor at Carlsbad KOA noted, "Good location for both Guadalupe Mountains NP and Carlsbad Caverns."

What you should know:

  • Limited amenities at some sites: Many dispersed camping areas lack basic amenities. A camper at Mile 10 - Dispersed Camping mentioned, "No sun or wind protection though!"
  • Weather conditions: Be prepared for changing weather, especially wind. One reviewer at Mile 10 - Dispersed Camping warned, "I was caught in a two-day dust storm with 70mph winds."
  • Road access: Some campgrounds may have rough access roads. A visitor at Carlsbad BLM Land Dispersed noted, "The road past the first parking area a little rough but 4WD made it seem easy."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose family-friendly campgrounds: Look for sites with amenities like picnic tables and restrooms. A reviewer at Carlsbad RV Park & Campground mentioned, "The showers are brand new. The laundry is clean and all the machines work."
  • Plan for activities: Make sure to have a list of nearby attractions. One family at Whites City RV Park enjoyed the location, stating, "Best part it was just at the entrance to get to the caverns."
  • Pack for the weather: Be ready for hot days and cool nights. A camper at Chosa Campground advised, "I highly recommend if you camp in Summer months to get there closer to sunset."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site sizes: Some campgrounds have limited space for larger RVs. A visitor at Dog Canyon Campground noted, "The 'RV' sites are just a gravel parking lot."
  • Be prepared for dry camping: Many sites do not have hookups. A reviewer at Pine Springs Campground mentioned, "There are bathrooms but no hookups. No generator use either so be prepared to dry camp."
  • Plan for road noise: Some campgrounds are near highways. A camper at Carlsbad KOA pointed out, "Site is close to highway, so lots of road noise throughout the day and night."

Camping near Whites City, New Mexico, offers a mix of free and established campgrounds, each with its own charm and challenges. Whether you're in an RV or tent camping, there's something for everyone in this beautiful area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Whites City a good base camp for visiting Carlsbad Caverns?

Yes, Whites City is an excellent base camp for visiting Carlsbad Caverns due to its proximity. Only about 7 miles from the national park entrance, it offers the closest accommodations to the caverns. For those seeking alternatives, Chosa Campground provides a free BLM option just 8 miles north of the Texas border and about 20 minutes from the caverns. Parks Ranch Campground is another good option close to Whites City that offers laundry and shower facilities while still providing convenient access to the national park.

What amenities are available at Whites City Campground?

Whites City Campground offers basic amenities for RV campers, though reviews suggest facilities may be somewhat dated. For those seeking alternatives with better amenities, Limestone Campground at Brantley Lake State Park provides spacious sites with picnic tables, shade shelters, and well-maintained facilities including hot showers. Another option is Mile 10 - Dispersed Camping, which offers quiet, free camping with firepits and beautiful sunrise views, though as dispersed camping it lacks developed amenities.

Where is Whites City RV Park located in New Mexico?

Whites City RV Park is located in southeastern New Mexico, at the gateway to Carlsbad Caverns National Park. It sits just off Highway 62/180, approximately 20 miles southwest of the city of Carlsbad and about 7 miles from the entrance to Carlsbad Caverns National Park. The small community of Whites City serves as the last stop for services before entering the national park area.

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