96% (264) • 12 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Houck
Sun Country campground
1. Sun Country campground
92%
(57)
41mi from Houck · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Explore the Painted Desert wonderland to play around in and stargaze. The campsite is shared with Wild Horses, Pronghorns, Owls and Bovine that wander around the area. Look out to the south and a view of Petrified Forest National Park is right there. And when you're in the park, using binoculars, you can see the campsite from Pintado Point. Just search left from the towers. A fantastic campsite built by independent outdoor company @hetchyoutdoors
This is a remote, private campground with a canopy, picnic bench and fire pit that relieves you from the crowds of hotels and RV campgrounds in the area. There are no predators or threats to worry about at night, just the the most stars in the sky you've probably ever seen. Views of the National Park to the south and only a 15 minute drive to the North Gate.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$25
/ night
Painted Desert Ranger Cabin
2. Painted Desert Ranger Cabin
97%
(251)
40mi from Houck · 1 site · Lodging
ATTENTION: If you do not have a lifted, high-clearance, 4-wheel drive vehicle with locking differentials, and prepared for self-rescue with a winch, shovel, and rigging DO NOT BOOK THIS CABIN. The cabin sits at the end of an unmaintained, unimproved, dirt road that becomes impassible during winter snow events and summer monsoon rains!
The Painted Desert Ranger Cabin is a backcountry, off grid cabin acquired by Ranger Ross in 2011. Ranger Ross lived in the cabin while he worked as a resource protection ranger at the Petrified Forest National Park.
The ranger cabin is a rustic off grid cabin that offers no amenities. There is no concierge, room service, or continental breakfast. There is no linen service or fancy little bottles of shampoo. It does however, offer beautiful views of the Painted Dessert wilderness, quiet serenity, and amazing star gazing opportunities. All from the comfort of a cozy one room cabin with a queen size bed and a flush toilet.
The ranger cabin sits on the border of the north wilderness area of the Petrified Forest National Park. There are great hiking and exploration opportunities right out the back door of the cabin.
Toilets
Cooking equipment
from
$60
/ night
Skywater Ridge
3. Skywater Ridge
39mi from Houck · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
🌿 Community Stewardship Site – Tent, RV, Van, or Car Camping
Welcome.
This land is offered as a community-based, low-impact camping space for travelers, nomads, and people seeking quiet connection with land, sky, and each other.
This is not a commercial campground. It is a shared stewardship space rooted in mutual respect, care, and autonomy.
The listed price exists only to meet Hipcamp’s system requirements.
Stays are free by arrangement. Please message before booking.
🏕️ What You Can Camp In
Tents
RVs
Vans
Car camping
Both short stays and longer stays are welcome.
There is no minimum or maximum stay, as long as shared guidelines are respected.
🌱 How This Space Works
This is a mutual aid–inspired space, not a traditional host/guest dynamic.
There is no boss, leader, or hierarchy here
Roles exist for function, not authority
People are trusted to self-regulate with care
You are welcome to:
Rest
Pass through
Stay awhile
Contribute if and when you feel called
Donations are accepted and appreciated, and never required.
🤝 Participation & Shared Care
Participation is voluntary and self-directed.
You may choose to:
Help with light land care
Share skills or knowledge
Contribute labor, resources, or presence
Simply be respectful and low-impact
No one is required to “work” to stay here.
🔥 Land Use & Respect
Leave no trace
Fires only when conditions allow and with care
Respect wildlife, plants, and other campers
Quiet, grounded presence preferred over party energy
Dogs are welcome if they are well-managed and respectful of others and wildlife
🌌 What This Space Is (and Is Not)
✔ A calm place to land
✔ A community-oriented environment
✔ A space for autonomy and respect
✔ A place for travelers who value cooperation
✖ Not a party site
✖ Not a commercial RV park
✖ Not a place for disruptive or extractive behavior
If something doesn’t feel aligned, open communication is encouraged.
📩 Before You Book
Please message before booking to:
Introduce yourself
Share what you’re traveling in
Let me know how long you’re thinking of staying
This helps keep the space balanced and intentional.
🌄 Closing Note
This land exists as an experiment in trust, shared care, and gentler ways of living on the earth.
If that resonates with how you move through the world, you are welcome here.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from
$1
/ night
Cedar Embers Ranch
4. Cedar Embers Ranch
5.3mi from Houck · 1 site · Lodging
Cedar Embers Ranch is a rustic outdoor retreat designed for comfort, connection, and adventure. Our glamping village features nine fully furnished bell tents, including five spacious 20-foot diameter bell tents and four cozy 16-foot bell tents. Each bell tent is thoughtfully set up with beds, bedding, and comfortable seating—ready for guests to arrive and relax.
Each glamping area includes picnic spaces with tables and shade covers, creating inviting spots for meals, conversations, and evening gatherings.
For those bringing their own setup, Cedar Embers Ranch offers 10 private camp areas suitable for pitching personal tents or parking vehicles with campers. We also provide a large dirt parking area for RVs, available for dry camping (no hookups or on-site facilities).
Guests can enjoy a shared outdoor kitchen, equipped for both wood-fired and gas cooking, along with a large central gazebo designed for communal dining and social time. Maintained portable restrooms are conveniently located throughout the property.
At the heart of the ranch is our Watering Hole—an outdoor, tavern-style gathering space offering refreshments and a relaxed, old-west-meets-campfire atmosphere.
The property is surrounded by walking trails and open adventure terrain, making it ideal for a variety of outdoor activities, exploration, and peaceful nature walks. For guests who wish to stay connected, Starlink Wi-Fi is available for an additional fee.
Cedar Embers Ranch is where glamping comfort meets open skies, cedar-scented air, and the freedom of the outdoors—perfect for retreats, gatherings, and unforgettable stays.
Pets
Toilets
Wifi
from
$52
/ night
Star Gazing Cabin #2
5. Star Gazing Cabin #2
100%
(18)
49mi from Houck · 2 sites · Lodging
This is a nice spot on a hill with a gentle slope that overlooks the beautiful plateaus of Petrified Forest National Park. Enjoy the stars from the comfort of your bed through a roof glass window. Cook outside on our outdoor cooking area and enjoy the fresh breeze. There is a convenient store located over the bridge, south of the Sun Valley exit off the 40 freeway.
Very light local traffic. Sometimes you can expect wild horses, jack rabbits and cows at a safe distance. Also highway noise depending on direction of wind.
Here you can enjoy amazing star gazing and shooting stars on a dark night with no or quarter moon.
We have added lots more amenities than before.
This is an adorable 10x10 non-insulated shed/cabin with one bunk bed, a sofa bed, refrigerator, Kurig coffee counter top machine with kitchenette cabinets with storage for dishes, pots and pans and utensils.
You can also enjoy an indoor wood burning stove or a Portable Buddy heater and a two burner Coleman stove with propane tank (on request) , hot or cold running water indoor sink and outdoor shower. We provide a double cartridge toilet just outside in out house.
Enjoy the outdoor patio area with hammocks, patio tables and chairs, two bonfire pits to pick from (when wind conditions are ideal)
More pictures to come soon. Owner is always on site unless you request for more privacy ahead of time.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$110
/ night
San Isidro Farm
6. San Isidro Farm
42mi from Houck · 1 site · Lodging
Working farm/ranch with 4 mile trail on property and easy access to Zuni Mountain trail system.
Toilets
Potable water
Cooking equipment
from
$90
/ night
USA RV Park
7. USA RV Park
28mi from Houck · 103 sites
Discover the unique charm of USA RV Park, the premier RV and camping destination in Gallup, New Mexico. Nestled along the historic Route 66, this park serves as a gateway to breathtaking national and tribal parks, including Mesa Verde, El Morro, Window Rock, Zuni, Four Corners, Monument Valley, and the stunning Painted Desert.
At USA RV Park, we prioritize your comfort and convenience with flexible daily, weekly, and monthly rates. Our clean facilities and spacious RV sites cater to all types of vehicles, providing essential amenities such as water, electric, sewer, and cable hook-ups.
In addition to our generous RV accommodations, our park boasts a variety of amenities designed to enhance your stay. Enjoy our gift shop and convenience store, take a dip in the heated outdoor pool, or let your kids have fun at the playground. For those traveling with pets, we offer a designated dog walk area. Engage in friendly competition in our game room or stay connected with our computer facility featuring free Wi-Fi.
We invite you to experience the rich beauty and vibrant culture of Gallup, New Mexico, the heart of Indian Country. Your adventure awaits at USA RV Park!
96% (264) • 12 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Houck
Sun Country campground
1. Sun Country campground
92%
(57)
41mi from Houck · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Explore the Painted Desert wonderland to play around in and stargaze. The campsite is shared with Wild Horses, Pronghorns, Owls and Bovine that wander around the area. Look out to the south and a view of Petrified Forest National Park is right there. And when you're in the park, using binoculars, you can see the campsite from Pintado Point. Just search left from the towers. A fantastic campsite built by independent outdoor company @hetchyoutdoors
This is a remote, private campground with a canopy, picnic bench and fire pit that relieves you from the crowds of hotels and RV campgrounds in the area. There are no predators or threats to worry about at night, just the the most stars in the sky you've probably ever seen. Views of the National Park to the south and only a 15 minute drive to the North Gate.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$25
/ night
Painted Desert Ranger Cabin
2. Painted Desert Ranger Cabin
97%
(251)
40mi from Houck · 1 site · Lodging
ATTENTION: If you do not have a lifted, high-clearance, 4-wheel drive vehicle with locking differentials, and prepared for self-rescue with a winch, shovel, and rigging DO NOT BOOK THIS CABIN. The cabin sits at the end of an unmaintained, unimproved, dirt road that becomes impassible during winter snow events and summer monsoon rains!
The Painted Desert Ranger Cabin is a backcountry, off grid cabin acquired by Ranger Ross in 2011. Ranger Ross lived in the cabin while he worked as a resource protection ranger at the Petrified Forest National Park.
The ranger cabin is a rustic off grid cabin that offers no amenities. There is no concierge, room service, or continental breakfast. There is no linen service or fancy little bottles of shampoo. It does however, offer beautiful views of the Painted Dessert wilderness, quiet serenity, and amazing star gazing opportunities. All from the comfort of a cozy one room cabin with a queen size bed and a flush toilet.
The ranger cabin sits on the border of the north wilderness area of the Petrified Forest National Park. There are great hiking and exploration opportunities right out the back door of the cabin.
Toilets
Cooking equipment
from
$60
/ night
Skywater Ridge
3. Skywater Ridge
39mi from Houck · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
🌿 Community Stewardship Site – Tent, RV, Van, or Car Camping
Welcome.
This land is offered as a community-based, low-impact camping space for travelers, nomads, and people seeking quiet connection with land, sky, and each other.
This is not a commercial campground. It is a shared stewardship space rooted in mutual respect, care, and autonomy.
The listed price exists only to meet Hipcamp’s system requirements.
Stays are free by arrangement. Please message before booking.
🏕️ What You Can Camp In
Tents
RVs
Vans
Car camping
Both short stays and longer stays are welcome.
There is no minimum or maximum stay, as long as shared guidelines are respected.
🌱 How This Space Works
This is a mutual aid–inspired space, not a traditional host/guest dynamic.
There is no boss, leader, or hierarchy here
Roles exist for function, not authority
People are trusted to self-regulate with care
You are welcome to:
Rest
Pass through
Stay awhile
Contribute if and when you feel called
Donations are accepted and appreciated, and never required.
🤝 Participation & Shared Care
Participation is voluntary and self-directed.
You may choose to:
Help with light land care
Share skills or knowledge
Contribute labor, resources, or presence
Simply be respectful and low-impact
No one is required to “work” to stay here.
🔥 Land Use & Respect
Leave no trace
Fires only when conditions allow and with care
Respect wildlife, plants, and other campers
Quiet, grounded presence preferred over party energy
Dogs are welcome if they are well-managed and respectful of others and wildlife
🌌 What This Space Is (and Is Not)
✔ A calm place to land
✔ A community-oriented environment
✔ A space for autonomy and respect
✔ A place for travelers who value cooperation
✖ Not a party site
✖ Not a commercial RV park
✖ Not a place for disruptive or extractive behavior
If something doesn’t feel aligned, open communication is encouraged.
📩 Before You Book
Please message before booking to:
Introduce yourself
Share what you’re traveling in
Let me know how long you’re thinking of staying
This helps keep the space balanced and intentional.
🌄 Closing Note
This land exists as an experiment in trust, shared care, and gentler ways of living on the earth.
If that resonates with how you move through the world, you are welcome here.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from
$1
/ night
Cedar Embers Ranch
4. Cedar Embers Ranch
5.3mi from Houck · 1 site · Lodging
Cedar Embers Ranch is a rustic outdoor retreat designed for comfort, connection, and adventure. Our glamping village features nine fully furnished bell tents, including five spacious 20-foot diameter bell tents and four cozy 16-foot bell tents. Each bell tent is thoughtfully set up with beds, bedding, and comfortable seating—ready for guests to arrive and relax.
Each glamping area includes picnic spaces with tables and shade covers, creating inviting spots for meals, conversations, and evening gatherings.
For those bringing their own setup, Cedar Embers Ranch offers 10 private camp areas suitable for pitching personal tents or parking vehicles with campers. We also provide a large dirt parking area for RVs, available for dry camping (no hookups or on-site facilities).
Guests can enjoy a shared outdoor kitchen, equipped for both wood-fired and gas cooking, along with a large central gazebo designed for communal dining and social time. Maintained portable restrooms are conveniently located throughout the property.
At the heart of the ranch is our Watering Hole—an outdoor, tavern-style gathering space offering refreshments and a relaxed, old-west-meets-campfire atmosphere.
The property is surrounded by walking trails and open adventure terrain, making it ideal for a variety of outdoor activities, exploration, and peaceful nature walks. For guests who wish to stay connected, Starlink Wi-Fi is available for an additional fee.
Cedar Embers Ranch is where glamping comfort meets open skies, cedar-scented air, and the freedom of the outdoors—perfect for retreats, gatherings, and unforgettable stays.
Pets
Toilets
Wifi
from
$52
/ night
Star Gazing Cabin #2
5. Star Gazing Cabin #2
100%
(18)
49mi from Houck · 2 sites · Lodging
This is a nice spot on a hill with a gentle slope that overlooks the beautiful plateaus of Petrified Forest National Park. Enjoy the stars from the comfort of your bed through a roof glass window. Cook outside on our outdoor cooking area and enjoy the fresh breeze. There is a convenient store located over the bridge, south of the Sun Valley exit off the 40 freeway.
Very light local traffic. Sometimes you can expect wild horses, jack rabbits and cows at a safe distance. Also highway noise depending on direction of wind.
Here you can enjoy amazing star gazing and shooting stars on a dark night with no or quarter moon.
We have added lots more amenities than before.
This is an adorable 10x10 non-insulated shed/cabin with one bunk bed, a sofa bed, refrigerator, Kurig coffee counter top machine with kitchenette cabinets with storage for dishes, pots and pans and utensils.
You can also enjoy an indoor wood burning stove or a Portable Buddy heater and a two burner Coleman stove with propane tank (on request) , hot or cold running water indoor sink and outdoor shower. We provide a double cartridge toilet just outside in out house.
Enjoy the outdoor patio area with hammocks, patio tables and chairs, two bonfire pits to pick from (when wind conditions are ideal)
More pictures to come soon. Owner is always on site unless you request for more privacy ahead of time.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$110
/ night
San Isidro Farm
6. San Isidro Farm
42mi from Houck · 1 site · Lodging
Working farm/ranch with 4 mile trail on property and easy access to Zuni Mountain trail system.
Toilets
Potable water
Cooking equipment
from
$90
/ night
USA RV Park
7. USA RV Park
28mi from Houck · 103 sites
Discover the unique charm of USA RV Park, the premier RV and camping destination in Gallup, New Mexico. Nestled along the historic Route 66, this park serves as a gateway to breathtaking national and tribal parks, including Mesa Verde, El Morro, Window Rock, Zuni, Four Corners, Monument Valley, and the stunning Painted Desert.
At USA RV Park, we prioritize your comfort and convenience with flexible daily, weekly, and monthly rates. Our clean facilities and spacious RV sites cater to all types of vehicles, providing essential amenities such as water, electric, sewer, and cable hook-ups.
In addition to our generous RV accommodations, our park boasts a variety of amenities designed to enhance your stay. Enjoy our gift shop and convenience store, take a dip in the heated outdoor pool, or let your kids have fun at the playground. For those traveling with pets, we offer a designated dog walk area. Engage in friendly competition in our game room or stay connected with our computer facility featuring free Wi-Fi.
We invite you to experience the rich beauty and vibrant culture of Gallup, New Mexico, the heart of Indian Country. Your adventure awaits at USA RV Park!
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
B
Ben
2 weeks ago
Tent
With kids
Ken's land was great for tent camping! He provided clear, easy to follow directions for accessing the property. Would recommend if you are looking for a camping spot near Petrified Forest NP.
See more
J
Jim
2 weeks ago
1 night at Painted Desert Ranger Cabin
We loved our stay!
The cabin is comfortable and well equipped. Having a full bathroom, running water, and lights is a luxury! Ross is a great host. His advice and directions were helpful. We have a high clearance 4 wheel drive vehicle so we were able to get to the cabin without any difficulty. We can’t wait to return!
See moreC
Colin
2 weeks ago
20 ft campervan
This is a great place to stay! It’s a little bit of a tricky drive down dirt roads but Ken’s directions are easy to follow and we very much enjoyed our time.
See more
Zach
3 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to Painted Desert Ranger Cabin
Incredible place, loved it! Road is as advertised but really manageable if it’s dry and you have the ground clearance.
See moreP
Peter
November 2025
16 ft car
Private location with a good view of the starry sky.
See moreC
Caroline
November 2025
Tent
With kids
We loved this spot!! Beautiful wide open space with a nice table / overhang, bathroom and some fun yard games. And we were so glad to be right near Petrified Forest National Park. It was a bit tricky to get there, but Ken talked us through every step and even spent extra time setting up alternative paths (it had rained) and putting out reflective poles so we could find our way. We really, really appreciated his extra care and hospitality and would love to stay again next time we're in the area!
To note, if it's rained recently, we would recommend a high clearance / 4-wheel drive vehicle, but if conditions are dry, we hear you can navigate the road in a Prius!
See more
S
Sisi
November 2025
With pets
AMAZING SPACE!!! And amazing host. 10/10- lovely, beautiful, relaxing, accommodating, memorable, happy. Host also offered spots to check out and wow, you should listen to him
See more
Payten
November 2025
16 ft campervan
With pets
The directions were very easy to follow! The road is a bit bumpy in some areas so a high clearance car is what I would recommend, but our 2WD sprinter did just fine! The property was very private and quiet, and my daughter loved seeing the all the cows. The cherry on top was the ending the night with one of the prettiest sunsets I’ve ever seen.
See more
m
miki
October 2025
1 night at Star Gazing Cabin #2
Great spot. Eymos was an awesome host, responsive to questions, and present to welcome/orient us, as well as giving us ample space to relax and enjoy the site on our own. Vibes are rustic/DIY but very intentional and thoughtful. The stargazing roof was a highlight.
See more
s
sophie
September 2025
Weekend Trip to Painted Desert Ranger Cabin
Such a beautiful, peaceful stay!!! The property, ranger cabin and surrounding land is breathtaking and we are so grateful to Ranger Ross, Ranger Kip & previous people who stayed who helped make this place an amazing stop!
See more
h
haley
August 2025
Tent
Sun county offered the most beautiful views! It was private and allowed us to take in the scenery and listen to the noises around us. We loved playing with the activities that were left for us. Overall really peaceful time! Ken was great with instructions and we found it with no problem
See more
Sam
July 2025
1 night at Painted Desert Ranger Cabin
My daughter and I are on an across the country roadtrip and stayed here for 1 night. The place is in an incredible location with complete solitude. However, even my Chevy Silverado bottomed out lightly in a few spots. The description is very clear that access is limited and that is very true, but it’s worth the visit. I wouldn’t recommend a visit in the summer because the building remains hot all night long (even with the garage door open), but it would seem perfect for spring and fall visits. We set up our cots outside for a relaxing night under the stars, but an unexpected storm rolled in and quickly cancelled those plans. Inside worked fine, but it was very warm. There’s a lot of space inside for a couple or small family.
Would I or we return again, certainly. It’s truly a unique experience you’ll be unlikely to match.
Thank you,
Sam & Olivia
Essex, VT
See more
Jeffery
July 2025
Weekend Trip to Painted Desert Ranger Cabin
Great place to be away from everything and be in a natural environment. Fun drive to get there. Very relaxing even in the heat. Nice to find a place with a shower and a flush toilet. The view in every direction is beautiful.
See more
J
Jamie
June 2025
12 ft pop-up camper
With kids
We really enjoyed our stay here! The location was private and had incredible views of the sunset and stars. We loved the set up and took advantage of playing horseshoe. The host was helpful and communicative. I highly recommend this if you enjoy camping, the outdoors, and a very private setting!
See more
E
Elena
June 2025
Weekend Trip to Painted Desert Ranger Cabin
The Ranger Cabin is the type of place you go and time slips away from you in the best way possible. Remote, off-grid, and right up against the wilderness area of the Painted Desert side of the Petrified Forest National Park. You escape the cars, pavement, crowds and commercialization that so many of our beautiful parks are now riddled with. A chance to leave behind civilization, but still enjoy the amenities of an off-grid cabin is a rarity. The shower is a delight after a day of hiking out into the wilderness. There is a little pellet stove there for those that stay in the cold winter months. The cabin has a mini fridge that stays on long enough to give you the luxury of a cold beverage when you need it most. Cookware, and a stove, and all that is provided for those that need it. Leave the place cleaner than you found it, please. This is a special place, one that inspires you to leave it all behind. Read Desert Solitaire while you're there and you just might never leave. I look forward to returning someday. Until then, I will be dreaming of the gorgeous view of the seemingly eternal desert.
See moreA
Andrea
June 2025
Tent
My husband and I camped here for one night. The site was very private and peaceful. The road to get here was a little rough, but Ken gave good directions so it was easy to find overall. We would stay here again if we were back in the area.
See moreS
Sally
June 2025
Tent
Very peaceful! We were the only people there and it’s great for stargazing!
See moreI
Ian
June 2025
15 ft campervan
I loved the spot. First time in a Desert and wanted to stay in a vast and quiet space. It was exactly what I was looking for. Lots of Cow and Deer walking around. Only stayed the one night but would recommend.
See morep
pam
June 2025
20 ft travel trailer
With kids
This is a beautiful spot. The kids loved playing horseshoes and they had plenty of room to play. The moon and stars were beautiful.
It was tough navigating the ruts in the road with a 19 ft camper trailer, however.
I would recommend a stay here but be aware it’s a rough road and I wouldn’t attempt it at night.
See morek
kalie
June 2025
Weekend Trip to Painted Desert Ranger Cabin
Loved the place and the views were unreal. Great way to see part of petrified National Forest. Definitely check out devils playground.. looked like something from another planet. Would definitely stay there again.
See more
