Dispersed camping near Winston, New Mexico offers campers diverse terrain from desert basins to mountain forests with elevations ranging from 4,200 feet to over 7,500 feet. Road conditions significantly impact access, with many routes requiring high-clearance vehicles, particularly after precipitation. Seasonal temperature variations are extreme, with daytime summer highs reaching 90-100°F while nighttime temperatures drop 30-40 degrees.
What to do
Soak in mineral hot springs: Truth or Consequences, just 22 miles from Winston, offers multiple natural hot spring options. "This is a cool & nicely maintained RV/campsite with a few permanent vintage trailers & a yurt. It is only a short walk to Main Street but it is very quiet at night. Highlight: It includes access to incredible mineral water baths built out of kitschy farm troughs!" notes a visitor at Hot Springs Glamp Camp.
Fishing at Gila River: The river system near Winston provides fishing opportunities for native species. "Lots of spots with rock firepits. Amazing sundown and sunrise. But too hot at daytime," reports a camper at Monticello Road Dispersed Camping. Another visitor adds that "Spots close to the water too. Can't hear interstate traffic."
Rock climbing at mountain sites: Areas northwest of Winston feature established climbing routes. "Luna Park for an overnight with my wife and dogs. While I'm a climber, she only does it occasionally. This seemed like it'd be a good spot to hang out and climb a little without being too much of a 'climbing trip'. There are 2-3 camp sites here and a handful of both sport and trad routes," explains an experienced climber.
What campers like
Affordable waterfront options: State park camping provides economical access to lake activities. "This was my first time stay here. I found staff very friendly and helpful. Location was very clean and very easy to back into. I used my NM state park pass on this stay and for only $4 a night includes 30Amp and water," shares a visitor at Lower Ridge Road Camping Area.
Exceptional stargazing: The high desert landscape minimizes light pollution. "We stayed here one night on our way back to CO. Several pull offs with already made fire pits. Could see the stars like crazy! Can't hear interstate traffic," notes a camper at Monticello Road Dispersed Camping.
Natural hot springs access: Multiple hot spring options exist within 30 minutes of Winston. "I loved being able to soak in a couple nice little pools. Spots were fine. Nothing fancy. The soaking and the night sky is the draw," reports a visitor at Gila Hot Springs Campground.
What you should know
Temperature extremes: The high desert experiences significant day-night temperature fluctuations. "This place was really hot during the day time but the night was freezing cold. The site are full of wildlife and at night there are scorpions and tiny little rodents that come out," warns a summer camper at Luna Park.
Road condition challenges: Many access roads deteriorate with weather events. "This road is not maintained at all but is passable but has alot of potholes. There are a few spots right of hwy 25 and more down the road. The spots are very spread out and all a decent size," explains a visitor to the Monticello area.
Seasonal water level fluctuations: Water-based recreation depends on reservoir levels. "Great visit, excellent sites," comments one visitor at Elephant Butte, while another notes, "Lions Beach Campgroud was very clean. The view from our spot was very nice and the site had water and electricity. Only a couple of minutes to the lake. October is a great month for this lake. The weather is great however the lake is pretty low."
Tips for camping with families
Hot springs pools suitable for children: Several managed hot spring facilities welcome families. "Multiple hot springs tubs, private and not private. New water every time you soak. Lovely outdoor living room with bbq and fire pit. Spotless bathrooms. Hosts are so kind," mentions a visitor at Hot Springs Glamp Camp.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Numerous species can be spotted from campsites. "The campsites and facilities were excellent. Wildlife: Qual, Dove, Lizards, Rabbits, Deer and more. The lake front was crowded with campers and people. Water was clear and cool with lots of carp," shares a camper at South Monticello Campground.
Sandy beaches for water play: Elephant Butte Lake offers child-friendly areas. "Sandy beaches in most places we camped, great for privacy and space away from others. Inner-tubbeing and boat space. Nice marina and has some amazing festivals through out the year," reports a visitor with childhood memories of the area.
Tips from RVers
Private RV parks with hot springs access: Several facilities combine RV amenities with mineral springs. "We are full-timers in a 36 ft Class A with a Cherokee Trailhawk tow. We were here for just an overnight in site 4, the alley side. We had no issues getting backed in after dropping and parking our tow in the overflow next door," explains an RVer at Riverbend Hot Springs.
Dispersed options for large rigs: Free camping areas accommodate various vehicle sizes. "Big pullouts down gravel road off I-25. Great place for a quick overnight. You can go all the way to the old camp grounds for the upper end of Elephant Butte reservoir, but you might struggle getting back up the hill with anything bigger than a teardrop," advises an experienced RVer about Monticello Road.
Lake view RV resorts: Several commercial campgrounds offer premium amenities. "Very clean park. Concrete roads and gravel sites. Very nice shower/laundry facility. Sites are a little close upfront and the road noise can be a bit of an issue. Good cell service with Verizon and AT&T. Nice area to visit with the lake and dam close by," notes a visitor to Elephant Butte Lake RV Resort.
