Best Tent Camping in New Mexico
Searching for a tent campsite in New Mexico? It's easy to find a New Mexico campground for tent camping with the Dyrt. Each tent site offers quick access to one or more of New Mexico's most popular destinations.
Best Tent Sites in New Mexico (115)
1. Backcountry Primitive Sites — White Sands National Park
Holloman Air Force Base, New Mexico23 Reviews•123 Photos•269 SavesDue to rehabilitation of camping sites, backcountry camping is closed.
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Equestrian
- Market
- Trash
- Drinking Water
2. Dispersed Camping off FS 542
Tijeras, New Mexico23 Reviews•40 Photos•432 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Group
- Dispersed
3. Joe Skeen Campground
San Rafael, New Mexico11 Reviews•12 Photos•33 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- ADA Access
- Tents
4. Big Tesuque Campground
Tesuque, New Mexico9 Reviews•30 Photos•138 SavesBig Tesuque is a walk in campground not conducive to trailer or RV campoing. There are 10 units, Picnic tables and grills, and Vaulted toilets in the parking lot. There is no potable water and no Campground Host. The entire area is very scenic, and NM 475 is also designated as the Santa Fe Scenic Byway. Because of the large stands of aspen, the area is very busy, especially in the fall aspen viewing season. There are additional recreation opportunities along NM 475, both above and below Big Tesuque Campground, including hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, and in the winter. both nordic and alpine skiing. Tesuque is pronounced "Tess-U-key"
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Trash
5. Silver City KOA
Arenas Valley, New Mexico8 Reviews•28 Photos•18 Saves- Pets
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
6. Enchanted Circle Campground E<< - #1 Campground in NM
Angel Fire, New Mexico7 Reviews•29 Photos•78 SavesPLEASE READ ALL OF THE DESCRIPTIONS OF EACH SITE BEFORE YOU BOOK. NOT ALL SITES ARE ACCESSIBLE TO RVs.
PLEASE READ…
Nestled in the Carson National Forest@ 9000ft in the Sangre de Cristo mountains in the southern region of the Colorado Rockies lies Enchanted Circle Campgrounds. E<< is a quiet, exclusive, totally unique, primitive campground that generally has open camping sites during the camping season of May 1st until October 31st.
E<< was Voted #1 Campground in NM for 2020, 2021, and 2022." Number #4 in the Country by Forbes!
There are 7 Private campsites.
Site#1: This is the smallest campsite, but it overlooks the valley and lakes and is most often the favorite. It is not large enough for any camper beside teardrops, popups, and anything smaller than 16 ft. It is best served as a tent site.
Site#2: is located in the middle of the ranch. It is one of the larger of the spots and perfect for campers and trailers. It overlooks the valley and has 2 fire pits and hammocks. A great site for more than one trailer or RV. It is also easily accessible.
Site#3: It is the most remote. It sits on top of a pretty large cliff system that the Ute Indians actually lived in and has some of the best views. It is on top of a cliff though and is not the best fit for groups with small children. TRAILERS CANNOT GET TO SITE 3, due to tight turns.
Spot 4. This spot is great for larger groups. It is the furthest spot from the gate. It is nestled in the middle of a valley full of Aspens. There are Hammocks, giant fire pits, pergolas, Log Benches, and plenty of space to explore.
Spot 5. It is the flattest spot on the entire ranch, and the easiest to access. This spot is our stargazer site, it has the biggest views and is the most open site@ECC. There are trees, but it is mainly the sky. This site was built and intended for Large RVs and Motor Homes larger than 34 ft. But, If it is available, feel free to book it whether or not you are in a tent or RV.
Spot 6 was also built for Larger Rvs Or larger Groups with multiple tents. It is also very accessible to Motorhomes and large units. It is a mix of all of the environments we have here, with Big skies, Big trees, big views, and great privacy.
Spot 7 is Identical to spot 6. Big RVs, Big Skies, Big Views. Easy accessibility.
Spot 8 is only accessible to tents. It is the newest and most remote site. Surrounded by forest it is tucked away and feels the wildest.
At ECC, you are surrounded by trees and wildlife no matter what spot you choose. Each spot usually has a campfire grill, cast iron skillet, dutch oven, coffee pot, grilling utensils, shovel, hatchet, trash can, hammocks, and other small necessities. With Covid 19, we have removed all of the cooking utensils, cast iron, and coffee pots. You will need to bring these items with you. We have also added handwashing stations and Antibacterial hand soap at each site. We are also Sanitizing the entire campsite after each checkout to ensure all of our guest Safety to the best of our abilities. Numerous trails wander their way through the pine forest, with many more hiking opportunities within a short drive. The Ranch has both long and short nature hikes that allow for views of local flora, fauna, and wheeler peak. We have too many to count, primitive and natural mountain bike trails, and many more to discover or trail blaze. We also offer Coleman 49CC mini bikes for rent by the day to explore all over the ranch. They are great fun.
ECC has 7 natural ground(underground) fed springs that run year-round. 3 spring-fed ponds, 2 of which are stocked with rainbow trout as well as native brown trout, and crawfish. The natives are very picky eaters and require more patience than I usually have. Many of our campers seem to have what it takes as they are caught often, but the rainbows bite on a few different things, you just have to find the right one, and then it's game on. We stock the ponds at the beginning of the season each year. You can keep what you catch, up to 2 per person per day. But, you are also more than welcome to catch and release as often as you like. We have just about every terrain here as well, from prairie and marshland to cliffs and mountainous forests. We have a little over 900 feet of elevation change on the ranch. We have numerous species of wildlife that call the ranch home. We have elk, mule deer, turkeys, bobcats, prairie dogs, beavers, bears, and the occasional mountain lion. We also have our horses, goats, pigs, and chickens free-roaming within the fenced ranch. It is really important to leave all objects you find on the land where you found them(bones, things at the sweat lodge, etc) because this is sacred land and we all need to respect that.
Our Ranch can accommodate individuals, families, and both large and small groups. We also love to support Veterans, LEO, and Emergency Services. We will cover one night, for up to 4 campers, for any of those professionals.
The biggest draw to ECC besides ECC itself is its proximity to Angel Fire and the Ski and Mountain Bike Resort. Located just 5 miles from Town. There is plenty of exploring to do both on the ranch and in town. We are also located within 15 minutes of 3 State Parks. Come check it out! It might just be your favorite secret spot.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- Tents
$75 / night
7. Mother Bosque Gardens
Albuquerque, New Mexico7 Reviews•93 Photos•42 SavesMother Bosque Garden , in Albuquerque , NM USA 87107
We are on Google, and Google Maps, easy to find. We are in the North valley , in the Griegos neighborhood .
Urban Organic Permaculture in an Urban / Suburban Setting, We are 2 miles East of the Rio Grande River. and walking, bike paths . The paths starts at our neighborhood.
contact , Michaela and Ernesto Maestas . 505 688 9721, text is best
6 camp sites only , 8 x 8 is the largest tent . $45- per night, 2 adults . 2 Inside rooms too.
NO RVs , We take vans, cars , truck, bikes . You may sleep in your van , truck or car.
We are NOT an RV park . We are Not a camp- ground. We are organic gardens .
Urban Permaculture, with Fruit trees , flowers, cactus and herbs.
We are a wildlife safety zone , we feed birds and provide water .
A Clean shared bathroom , inside toilet / shower , includes towels, soap , shampoo.
We have a shared kitchen / laundry room you can use . we ask for $3- to do laundry , cash .
We are 7 Mins. from Route 40 and 25.
No smoking, no drugs , no parties , dog friendly , 420 ok.
We are 10 mins. from Old town and 15 mins. from Downtown .
We are close to the Rio Grande Nature Center .
There are gas stations and stores within a 2 mins. drive .
We are one hour to Santa Fe , NM and 3 hours to Taos, NM.
We are 2 hours to T or C, NM and 5 hours to Silver City , NM .
We are dog friendly, must be on a leash and please clean up poo. We will give you bags .
We have trash cans, and recycling and compost.
Our tent sites are private , if you choose to sleep in your van or car , you are in a parking area but may use the house and gardens . There is a public pool , 2 mins, from the house . A city pool , that is awesome.
- Pets
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Trash
$45 - $50 / night
8. Fort Stanton Cave Campground
Capitan, New Mexico7 Reviews•18 Photos•77 SavesSeveral shelters, tables and fire rings are located here as well as a vault toilet. All sites are dry and on a first come/first served basis. The access road off of US 380 is graveled. There are no fees for camping in this area.
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Group
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Tent Cabin
- Glamping
9. Taos Junction Campground
Carson, New Mexico6 Reviews•7 Photos•127 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Drinking Water
10. Cuchilla Campground
Valdez, New Mexico6 Reviews•34 Photos•206 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Picnic Table
- Toilets
Recent Tent Reviews in New Mexico
3239 Reviews of 115 New Mexico Campgrounds
Luke G.
Scout
Dog Canyon
Be careful
Great views and very accessible. Although, at 1am as I was sleeping in my car, a UTV pulled up behind my vehicle and started flashing their lights. I quickly drove but they followed me down the dirt road. Pulled infront of slammed on their breaks but luckily was able to get around them and make it to the highway.
Matthew D.
Traveler
Rio Costilla Park
Beautiful Area
It is very well kept and managed. The care takers are nice. It's a little more expensive to stay per night than a state park but the views are well worth it.
- TTeresa A.
Guide
Oregan Wilderness Dispersed
Overnight stop
The road is a bit rough but we found a great spot to spend the night. Sunset on the Organ Mtns was beautiful and we woke up to a light dusting of snow.
- TTeresa A.Guide
Dog Canyon
Overnight stop
Great views with easy access for our overnight stop before heading into White Sands NP the next morning. A few other campers out on this cold January evening but it was quiet.
- JJody D.Traveler
Clayton RV Park
Perfect Winter Overnight
Stopped here just for an overnight. Deep cold, light snow. Cozy and quiet spot this time of year. Used power, but no water. Bathrooms are dated, but clean. Wifi worked well.
- LLisa D.Scout
SaddleHawk Ranch
Truly amazing people !
I booked a stay during a New Mexico snow/ice storm!! I went past the farm by a couple blocks and couldn’t get turned around or backed up. The wife opted to have her husband come get me into place. The farm is full of animals with a beautiful view and great rates. In addition it’s an EQUINE SAFE HAVEN. So if you ever come to visit please leave a little extra cash, They’re doing Gods work here and it truly a blessing to see.
I will be back!
Michael D.Traveler
BLM Near City of Rocks
Open BLM land
This is open BLM land. When you turn off Highway 61, you go through a gate. There are multiple pull-outs along the road. Great views, desert terrain. I have good cell service, and my home fi hot spot is working great.
- TTeresa A.Guide
Sunset Reef Campground
Three nights base camp
We stayed three nights for free while hiking and exploring Guadalupe Mountain NP and Carlsbad Caverns NP. Plenty of space and a room to let the dog explore. Close to both parks. Even in January the spots stayed full but there is lots of room around the parameter. We preferred those spots as it kept more distance from the other campers.
- Stephen A.Scout
Mesa Top Camping
Most interesting spot we have stayed at.
My wife and I drove in late 9PM Friday night and host was there to meet us. Our 27ft class C RV made it up the hill, but kinda bumpy steep road. Rode our bikes all over Madrid and spent a lot of time exploring Madrid Cemetary, which is Awesome! The view and spot are breathtaking. We will return again.
- Renee T.Guide
San Lorenzo Canyon Dispersed
Hidden Gem
Not easy to find but gorgeous spot to hike many canyon trails. Zero cell service. Don't follow goggle to find.
- Rosie G.Guide
Silver City RV Park
Great for overnight
Very small and tight park. It was basically cheap and cheerful. Used the laundry which wasn’t exciting but it did the job. You can walk to the old town from here. It was $40 for the night which we thought ok. Gravel lots but flat.
Luke M.Guide
Black Canyon Campground
Well spaced lots, amenities, beautiful trails, and wildlife!
To begin, the lots are far enough away from fellow campers that you're seldom disturbed by noise or movement. During the day, there will be plenty of new faces passing through to get to the Black Canyon Loop, which has its access point at the back of the camping property. There are, I believe, three pit toilets (possibly four, but I only recall seeing 3, one at the entrance, one on the right hand side up the pavement, and one before the trail access point). The trail is phenomenal. The incline is quite steep, but the loop is a reasonable length and I've seen families with young children and elderly folks successfully complete the loop. In the spring and early summer a small (VERY small) stream cuts through the trail from the snowmelt. You're likely to encounter wildlife in the evening if there aren't many campers, as bears are everywhere here. While HIKING at this location in the off season (site is closed for winter, but you can still access the trail) my wife and I encountered large mountain lion tracks. Parking at the lots is limited, with most spaces only fitting one car comfortably, and the space for tents varies but isn't enormous. Overall, a very cozy, shaded, quiet campground right off the main road making driving up or down the mountain for more trails during your stay very feasible. I personally have no cell service here, and use Mint Mobile, as a heads up. There is a functioning payphone near the entrance.
- RRick M.Guide
BLM Dispersed camping along B059 New Mexico
VERY rough unpaved road
My bus was squeaking, twisting, driving at an angle, and it was a brutal drive... While I'll not come back because it's not well maintained, it does have very beautiful vistas, so that's why it got 3 stars.
Jorge G.Guide
Apache Creek Campground
Perfect secluded free stopover
Lovely area in western NM. Many spaces to set up and hunker down for a night or two. The general lack of amenities probably precludes a long term stay for most. Access to the rest of the forest and great hiking on a dirt road headed south. Lower elevation than other areas nearby so it stays snow free through the winter for the most part.
The general store nearby is also a nice plus. No T-Mobile cell service anywhere in the area though.
David W.Scout
Holloman AFB FamCamp
It's ok for a night
The coordinates are not exact. It's a little west of the air force base. Right next to white sands.
Brad H.Traveler
Taos Monte Bello RV Park
Exceptionally Clean, Centrally Located, Amazing Owner
I stayed here the second week of a two week vacation to the Taos area. I had been at the State Park out of Pillar the week before. As a veteran RV owner and road warrior for many decades I know my stuff. This RV park is very well maintained and managed. The owner went out of her way to provide tips and maps of things to do in the area. It is out of the way yet close to everything you’d want to do. I highly recommend!
- LLiz W.Scout
Santa Fe KOA
Great Spot
Great location just outside of Santa Fe, super easy to get to off of I-25. Bathrooms are clean and showers are comfortable. Everything is well maintained and the dog park is a massive plus if you have pups. There’s a little road noise, but not bad, and definitely worth it for ease of use. Would recommend!
- tthomas V.Guide
Bosque Redondo Park
Basic quiet layover
Site is about 2 miles of main highway on paved road. Sites look like they double as day-use, with small shelter, picnic table, trash, grill, and fire pit. Some right on pond. Park has playground and vault toilets. Very quiet. Good star gazing.
- TTeresa A.Guide
Swingle Canyon
Overnight stay
Easily found the dispersed sights from the app. Spent a very quiet night nestled back off the highway under the stars.
- Luke M.Guide
Big Tesuque Campground
Stunning, Running Water, and Clean Restrooms
I will start with the only downside of this site: it is very active with hikers, families, dogs, and photographers. You can expect dozens upwards of a hundred faces a day hiking up here which can be extremely annoying and the car traffic can drive you nuts. That said, for the ease of access, for the beautiful trails, and for the clean amenities I think it is worth it. In the winter right before the ski area opens is your best bet for quiet camping. But in the summer, spring, fall, and during ski season you will have a lot of friendly faces. Again, not bad, but I know some folks are very interested in getting "away" from people while camping. To those I recommend this site for hiking and not staying. Highly recommend for folks who are less physically abled; I developed a heart condition which limits my abilities most days and the ease of access to these sites and close parking is great for someone who wants to be in touch with nature while enduring limiting conditions.
- JJosh F.Traveler
Sky City RV Casino & RV Park
Great overnighter for a awesome price $18
$18 rate if you mention the billboards on the highway, but $22 otherwise so it's a good deal. Park is close to the casino, pretty level sites, clean, with full hookups (including sewer), no riffraff. Call the casino hotel front desk, or stop in at the front desk to register. Only about 10% of sites occupied when I was there in December.
Big truck stop gas station across the street if you need anything. Casino has a buffet restaurant and another bar to watch the game. Ended up staying an extra night to get prime rib on Saturday.
Security will drive you back and forth to the casino if you request, but it's only a 5 minute walk.
Ryan S.Scout
Jemez Falls Campground
Nice, clean, and comfortable
Stayed here 2 nights and had a great time. This campsite is in a great location to see the falls, and has a good layout. The pit toilets were clean, and well maintained. The camp hosts were very friendly and helpful when we had questions. I’ll definitely be back at some point!
Teresa T.
Legend
Desert Cove — Elephant Butte Lake State Park
Desert Cove is actually a campground and also dispersed camping area
This is a very nicely spaced campground. Can't really see the water from here but the sites have water and electric. The bathroom was being worked on so not open during the visit and the water level is at like 5 % capacity but there are lots of places to walk and bike and camping here in the winter provides very livable temperatures.
- Teresa T.Legend
Appaloosa Area — Caballo Lake State Park
Flat spots with hook ups
This is a pretty normal lake campground. Not a lot of shade or privacy but picnic tables and covered outdoor spaces. There are bathrooms close by and they seem fine. Quiet during the off season and nice hiking trails.
- Teresa T.Legend
Stallion Campground — Caballo Lake State Park
These spots are great
If it were to stay here again, I'd stay in this campground as the layout is a lot nicer and more private. This campground is full and none of the others are right now. Nice walking trails and spots with some privacy and full hook ups.
- Teresa T.Legend
Percha Flats Camping Area - Caballo Reservoir — Caballo Lake State Park
This is a dispersed camping area
You can camp right up next to the lake if you want. This appeals to certain campers. No services and you are literally just parking. I'm not sure what the above review is on about, this would be just like camping near any other lake in NM.
- Teresa T.Legend
Riverside Campground — Caballo Lake State Park
Very nice
Caballo is kind of hidden between Percha and Elephant Butte but has lots of places to camp and is well maintained. This has a nice paved road leading to it, tons of spots where you can have privacy and trees. During the spring, it would keep you out of the wind.
Guide to New Mexico
New Mexico offers a stunning backdrop for tent camping, with diverse landscapes ranging from mountains to forests, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Tent campers should check out local activities
- At Big Tesuque Campground, visitors can enjoy hiking trails that lead to breathtaking vistas and a serene babbling brook, ideal for family fun.
- Cuchilla Campground provides easy access to the Taos Ski Valley, where campers can explore nearby trails and enjoy refreshing dips in the creek.
- For those seeking solitude, Dispersed Camping off FS 542 offers a peaceful environment with opportunities for wildlife spotting, including coyotes.
Tent campers appreciate these amenities
- Silver City KOA features clean facilities, including showers and picnic tables, making it a comfortable stop for families.
- James Canyon Campground offers well-maintained pit toilets and fire rings, ensuring a pleasant camping experience.
- Aspen Basin Campground provides a beautiful setting with ample shade and access to hiking trails, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in nature.
Unique features of New Mexico camping
- Arroyo Seco Dispersed NF Camping boasts numerous campsites along the Hondo Rio, offering a tranquil atmosphere and opportunities for river play.
- Carson NF - Forest Service Road 578 - Dispersed Camping is known for its secluded spots and stunning mountain views, ideal for those seeking a more primitive experience.
- Lower Karr Canyon Campground features a remote setting with abundant wildlife, making it a great choice for nature lovers.
Keep Exploring
- Abiquiu
- Alamogordo
- Albuquerque
- Algodones
- Angel Fire
- Angostura
- Animas
- Anthony
- Arenas Valley
- Arrey
- Arroyo Hondo
- Arroyo Seco
- Artesia
- Aztec
- Belen
- Bent
- Bernalillo
- Blanco
- Bloomfield
- Bluewater Village
- Bosque Farms
- Buckhorn
- Caballo
- Canjilon
- Cañones
- Capitan
- Capulin
- Carlsbad
- Carlsbad Caverns
- Carrizozo
- Carson
- Cedar Crest
- Chama
- Chamberino
- Chamisal
- Chaparral
- Chimayo
- Cimarron
- Clayton
- Cleveland
- Cliff
- Cloudcroft
- Clovis
- Cochiti Lake
- Columbus
- Conchas Dam
- Continental Divide
- Corona
- Corrales
- Costilla
- Counselor
- Coyote
- Cuba
- Cubero
- Datil
- Deming
- Dexter
- Doña Ana
- Eagle Nest
- Edgewood
- Eldorado at Santa Fe
- Elephant Butte
- El Rito
- Embudo
- Española
- Estancia
- Farmington
- Faywood
- Flora Vista
- Folsom
- Fort Sumner
- Fort Wingate
- Gallina
- Gallup
- Gamerco
- Gila
- Glenwood
- Glorieta
- Grants
- Grenville
- Hanover
- Hatch
- Hillsboro
- Holloman Air Force Base
- Jal
- Jamestown
- Jemez Pueblo
- Jemez Springs
- Kirtland
- Laguna
- La Joya
- Lamy
- Las Cruces
- Las Vegas
- Lemitar
- Lincoln
- Lindrith
- Llano
- Logan
- Los Alamos
- Los Lunas
- Los Ojos
- Luna
- Magdalena
- Mayhill
- Medanales
- Mentmore
- Mescalero
- Mesilla
- Mills
- Mimbres
- Montezuma
- Monticello
- Mountainair
- Nageezi
- Navajo Dam
- Newcomb
- Nogal
- Ocate
- Ojo Caliente
- Organ
- Pecos
- Peña Blanca
- Peñasco
- Pinehill
- Pinos Altos
- Placitas
- Playas
- Polvadera
- Ponderosa
- Portales
- Prewitt
- Quemado
- Questa
- Radium Springs
- Ramah
- Ranchos de Taos
- Raton
- Red River
- Rehoboth
- Reserve
- Ribera
- Rincon
- Rio Rancho
- Rociada
- Rodeo
- Roswell
- Rowe
- Ruidoso
- Ruidoso Downs
- Salem
- San Acacia
- San Antonio
- San Cristobal
- Sandia Park
- San Fidel
- San Mateo
- San Rafael
- Santa Clara
- Santa Fe
- Santa Rosa
- Santo Domingo Pueblo
- San Ysidro
- Sapello
- Shiprock
- Silver City
- Socorro
- Sunland Park
- Sunspot
- Taos
- Taos Ski Valley
- Tererro
- Tesuque
- Tierra Amarilla
- Tijeras
- Timberon
- Tome
- Torreon
- Truchas
- Truth or Consequences
- Tucumcari
- Tularosa
- Ute Park
- Vadito
- Valdez
- Vallecitos
- Wagon Mound
- Weed
- White Rock
- White Sands
- Whites City
- Winston
- Youngsville