Best Dog-Friendly Camping in New Mexico
Chosa Campground near Carlsbad offers free dispersed camping that welcomes pets, featuring wide-open spaces where dogs can explore the desert terrain. All sites at Oliver Lee Memorial State Park Campground accommodate dogs year-round, with pet-friendly tent and RV camping options. Leashed pets are permitted throughout the campgrounds, though owners should be prepared for goat heads and pokey seedheads that can stick in paws at some locations. The Top of New Mexico dispersed site accepts pets at its tent camping areas with drive-in access, maintaining a pet-friendly environment despite having no formal amenities. USA RV Park in Gallup provides pet-friendly accommodations across all lodging types including cabins, RV sites, tent camping, and glamping options. Despite limited shade at some campgrounds, dogs find comfortable spots at campgrounds like Albuquerque KOA Journey, where pets are welcome year-round.
Dog owners camping in New Mexico's dispersed sites should carry sufficient water for pets as drinking water is unavailable at many locations including Aguirre Spring Campground and Chosa Campground. Las Cruces KOA provides pet-friendly amenities with fresh water access and designated areas for pet waste disposal. Forest Road 376 offers endless possibilities for pet owners with sites right on the river, in forested spots, or meadows—a go-to summer repeat for many local campers with dogs. The USA RV Park accommodates dogs alongside market facilities and trash service, making longer stays with pets more convenient. Campers report that even during busy holiday weekends like July 4th, many dispersed sites remain relatively uncrowded, allowing dogs space to explore without disturbing other campers. When planning trips with pets to New Mexico campgrounds, owners should consider high desert temperatures and pack appropriate pet gear for weather protection.












