The Dyrt – find campgrounds for tents, RVs, cabins, glamping and more.
Open in App
Camper submitted image from Johnson Mesa Campground - 1

View Photos

Camper submitted image from Johnson Mesa Campground - 2
Nature
Camper submitted image from Johnson Mesa Campground - 3
Roads
Camper submitted image from Johnson Mesa Campground - 4
Animals
Unlock Planning Tools in App

Public Campground

Johnson Mesa Campground

4 Reviews
CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Johnson Mesa Campground, near Las Vegas, New Mexico, is a unique spot for those who appreciate a more primitive camping experience. This area offers a chance to connect with nature, featuring vaulted toilets and a few picnic tables, but keep in mind that there’s no potable water available.

Visitors have enjoyed the stunning views and peaceful atmosphere, making it a great place to unwind. One camper mentioned, “Had a picnic table and fire pit. Beautiful view and very peaceful.” Just be prepared for some wind, especially if you choose a site with fewer trees for shelter.

The campground is surrounded by the remnants of the 2022 Hermits Peak/Calf Canyon Fire, which adds a layer of caution to your visit. It's a good idea to stay alert to weather conditions, as flash floods can be a concern in the area. If you're up for a little adventure, hiking to Hermits Peak is a rewarding option, with a trail that offers breathtaking scenery.

While some amenities are limited, the natural beauty and tranquility of Johnson Mesa make it a worthwhile destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle. Just remember to pack in what you need and enjoy the great outdoors!

Suggest an Edit

Detours Nearby

LOCAL FAVORITES PRESENTED BYToyota Trucks
Santa Fe Treehouse Camp

Santa Fe Treehouse Camp

1 hr 56 min away

Mesa Top Camping

Mesa Top Camping

2 hrs 2 min away

Drive Time

Presented byToyota Trucks

Location

Johnson Mesa Campground is located in New Mexico

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

35.70378448 N
105.469463 W

Open in Google Maps

Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

The Dyrt Alerts

Get reservations at sold-out campgrounds.

Learn More
Presented byFord

Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)

Features

For Campers

  • Phone Service
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol

Contact

General Info

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

New Mexico Contest

Enter to Win

Reviews

Add Review

5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

25%
25%
50%
0%
0%

4.0

out of 5

4 Reviews

William C.The Dyrt PRO User
Reviewed Mar. 13, 2024

Burn notice

Notice from the USDA Forestry Service:

Johnson Mesa is a dispersed camping area located east of Las Vegas on NM 65 and FR 153. Facilities: vaulted toilets, tables and grills. NO potable water available. This recreation site and its surroundings were burned in the 2022 Hermits Peak/Calf Canyon Fire. Use of this site is not recommended. Exercise extreme caution and pay attention to the weather to avoid flash flood danger.

Month of VisitJanuary
Karen N.
Reviewed May. 31, 2020

Mesa

Nice undeveloped spot we found Had picnic table and fire pit. There were a few sites with pits. Beautiful view and very peaceful.

The 2 nights we stayed got very windy but we were camping in a site with few trees for wind barrier. They were several standalone pit toilets.

  • Review photo of Johnson Mesa Campground by Karen N., May 31, 2020
  • Review photo of Johnson Mesa Campground by Karen N., May 31, 2020
  • Review photo of Johnson Mesa Campground by Karen N., May 31, 2020
  • (9) View All
Showing results 1-4 of 4 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Johnson Mesa Campground located in New Mexico?

Johnson Mesa Campground is located east of Las Vegas, New Mexico, accessible via NM Highway 65 and Forest Road 153. This dispersed camping area sits on Johnson Mesa, providing visitors with a remote high-elevation experience. The campground is managed by the USDA Forest Service and offers a peaceful retreat in this scenic part of northeastern New Mexico.

What does Johnson Mesa Campground look like?

Johnson Mesa Campground features an open landscape with beautiful panoramic views and a peaceful atmosphere. The camping area has some sites with limited tree coverage, which can make it quite windy at times. Each site typically includes a picnic table and fire pit. The area was affected by the 2022 Hermits Peak/Calf Canyon fire, which may have altered the landscape. The mesa setting provides a scenic backdrop for camping with wide-open vistas typical of high-elevation New Mexico terrain.

What facilities and amenities are available at Johnson Mesa Campground?

Johnson Mesa Campground offers basic amenities for a rustic camping experience. Facilities include vault toilets, picnic tables, and fire pits/grills at several sites. It's important to note that no potable water is available, so campers must bring all the water they'll need. This is an undeveloped dispersed camping area, so visitors should come prepared with their own supplies and be ready for a more primitive outdoor experience.

Keep Exploring