Camping in New Mexico

Explore ancient pueblos, soak in restorative springs, and see Mission-style architecture in this southwestern state.

94% (5510 reviews)

Popular camping styles for New Mexico

Under $50

Dog-friendly getaways

12 top campgrounds in New Mexico

95%
(184)

Camp Rio

59 sites · Lodging, Tents9 acres · Mayhill, Otero
Camp Rio, formerly named Camp @ Cloudcroft is located in beautiful SE New Mexico! The park is surrounded by thousands of acres of the Lincoln National Forest. The forest is laced with small villages, picturesque roads, riding, hiking, golf, and walking trails. Small valleys, surrounding mountains, racing streams, wildlife, birds, mountain glens and outdoor activities are available to Camp Rio guests. The small towns around us are Mayhill, Cloudcroft, Weed, and Pinion. These towns have scheduled activities such as arts and craft fairs, car shows, bluegrass festivals, dog shows, and Lumberjack days. Additional day trips to Alamogordo, Capitan (Smokey the Bear), Carlsbad, Las Cruces, Lincoln (Billy the Kid), Ruidoso (skiing), Sunspot (National Solar Observatory, Truth or Consequences (Hot Springs) and White Sands National Monument! Guests enjoy our upgraded free wifi to have the best of both worlds, surrounded by beautiful nature, while still being able to connect with family/friends/work. Our location is superb to use as a base camp for numerous attractions as a centralized location to have many adventures.
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$35
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Camp Darkmoon

2 sites · Lodging, Tents2 acres · Madrone, Valencia
Two acres of sage flatlands. Close to town but even closer to the mountains. Monte Largo Cañon is a short rocky drive away. Perfectly clean air, peaceful atmosphere, and flawless stars at night. Camp Darkmoon is a school of alternative architecture. On site are a handful of earthen structures. Lodging and tent site are available to book.
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$20
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97%
(74)

A True Cold War Relic..Missile Silo

6 sites · RVs, Tents12 acres · Roswell, Chaves
Learn more about this land:The Missile Base property with it's underground Launch Control Center and a Utility Tunnel that leads to the 186 ft deep Missile Silo, with much of it's original floors still intact. Learn what it took to operate one of these amazing sites. The major construction/refurbishment areas, have been renovated into an unbelievable underground home and office. Prepare for one of the most awesome tours included with the cost of your stay.This is the site of a decommissioned Atlas F Missile Silo which was deactivated by the United States Air Force in 1965, located in Southeastern New Mexico, close to Roswell, NM.Explore the property that once housed our Country's first InterContinental Ballistic Missile ICBM Site and pick out your own camp spot.Everyone is invited on the top of the Missile Silo Cap for great stargazing and campfires in the evening. Just 20 short minutes from downtown Roswell, New Mexico, USA with many local stores and restaurants.The Missile Site is very near many activities such as hiking, biking and 4 wheel drive trails to include nearby Bottomless Lake State Park and the World famous International UFO Museum in downtown Roswell.
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$149
 / night
99%
(174)

Dusty Rabbit Van Life

5 sites · RVs, Tents2000 acres · Roswell, Chaves
Learn more about this land:Dusty Rabbit Van Life @ Schrimsher Ranch is an alternative camping & Star Gazing location just outside of town, yet close to the open road. A great place to relax under the stars, have a camp fire, and kick back next to your travel rig after a long day. You are welcome to explore the 600+ acres of rolling hills and high desert of our ranch. If you cross a fence you've gone too far, so that makes it easy for you to know where you're at. You might just want to crash for the night in a safe location out on the rangeland or stay a day or two to enjoy the land to walk, mountain bike antelope trails, and maybe even Sniffers the pronghorn antelope will find ya before you head out. This is a primitive site, so leave no trace practice is appreciated and pack in/out is how we do it here. If you come in the summer prepare the morning coffee early and enjoy the desert sun's rays hit the Capitan, but by 9am it will be hot, so be ready! Best star gazing and satellite watching in the world! I have several sites to choose from. But remember to keep an eye on the wind and weather as it can get crazy out here sometimes…..!!! I try to keep the sites stocked with firewood, but fill free to bring your own. Lonely Bull Camp 1 is my most popular site. It is very private and is easily accessible by most vehicles and campers. Ask about Lonely Bull Camp 4x4 if you have a capable vehicle. Amazing stars!! Old Highway Camp is a great alternative if you want something closer to the highway and have a safe private place to pull over, camp, kickback, make a fire and get back to your life on the on the road in the morning. It is closer to the highway, but is quite at night and has great star gazing. Enjoy being greeted by The Mountain in the morning. Let me know where you would like to stay and I will do my best to accommodate you! Safe travels!
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$30
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97%
(15)

La Vina rd

3 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Chamberino, Doña Ana
A two acre camping ground located next to Sombra Antigua Winery located in the middle of farmland along the historic highway 28. Bathrooms and trash disposal available as well as 1 electric hook up. Live music Saturday and Sunday from 2-6pm and 2 day stay limit. Tables and fire pits at each campsite.
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$30
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86%
(7)

Silver City above San Vicente Creek

2 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Silver City, Grant
Learn more about this land:Looking for a place to park your rig while checking out Silver City, gateway to the Gila Wilderness? Park at Perk! Located conveniently on the outskirts of town, the park borders the San Vicente creek open space with hiking and biking trails that lead downtown through a beautiful riparian area. Overlooking the expanse, our sites are level and easy to access from town. Each site has easy access to WiFi, water and electric, and with a little creativity, even sewer hookups! This is not your typical RV park, with limited sites and no onsite bathroom, it's a diamond in the rough!
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$20
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98%
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Quail Run Tiny Guesthouse

2 sites · Lodging1 acre · Alamogordo, Otero
Quail Run was delivered to us June 10th 2020. In decorating the house I wanted it to have the feel of the Old West so it is rustic and cozy at the same time. The outside was finished with American cedar and corrugated metal giving it a modern twist on the old west. Inside you'll find neutral tones, curtains made with from burlap bags, kitchen sink which is actually a galvanized pail. There are other surprises in the bathroom which is quite ample. Upstairs in the loft is a memory foam mattress, quilts, fluffy pillows and two small Windows which offer a pleasant cross breeze. Also displayed outside on the fence is an old saddle which has seen better days. It was a gift from a Mescalero Apache fellow whose parents found that saddle in the woods in Mescalero in the 1950s. Although it's not beautiful I consider it a treasure. Make sure you take a look while you're here. Once the house was delivered we went to town adding our own touches to the decor, actually reworking the kitchen and finishing all the wood. The fellow who built it also delivered it from Denver for us, set it up, and built a ramp right on site. We rewarded him with a spaghetti dinner and sent brownies later, hahaha! Our tiny house is a little beauty and very popular! We hope you visit soon!
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$79
 / night
92%
(26)

Chiricahua Camp Site - 41 Acres

10 sites · RVs, Tents41 acres · Radium Springs, Doña Ana
Learn more about this land: RV and tent camping. Wide open spaces for camping and secluded privacy. Lots of privacy for hiking and exploring as well as camping on BLM land and unused or monitored State park property west and south respectively. Two miles away from a natural formation called Slot Canyon. Fishing on the Rio Grande. Hiking and climbing, nearby caves. Some controlled, slow quad vehicle exploration. Nearby is the Martinez Roping Arena for access to fishing. Caballo lake is just 30 miles away. Dancing and billiards at the Blue Moon Bar is 7 miles away. accomodations are under development and will have more available to campers in near future. Call for more information.
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$20
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90%
(45)

Horse-Thief Campground

12 sites · RVs, Tents15 acres · San Juan
From U.S. Highway 550 (north of Nageezi), follow the signs that say Chaco Canyon National Monument Park (County Road 7900). From County Road 7900 and County Road 7950 (turn right on 7950). After 3 miles, at the end of pavement, you will see a sign that says "Dry Camp", with a long dirt driveway. Our campground is 13 miles before the hazardous road to Chaco Canyon. We like to say the we are "The Gateway to Chaco Canyon". Save the wear and tear on your trailers, camp with us! Horse-Thief Campground is an upcoming camp; located on 5 acres of land and more, for campers to enjoy. In a quiet; serene, beautiful landscape area of the Dine Nation. With beautiful sunrise; sunsets and night sky is out of this world. There are trails in which visitors may walk or bike, as well as a Look Out Point. Horse-Thief is currently a Dry Camp with no Electricity or running water however generators are welcome. There is one portable restroom. We look forward to Meeting and Greeting you! We think you will enjoy your stay with us, and hope you give us a great review!
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$25
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Booked 2 times

Peace Farm

10 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Moriarty, Torrance
Hi there! My name is Faith-I live with my wife Jay, on our 10 acre farm! We have goats, chickens, and beautiful views! We enjoy exploring our mountains and forests or eating at the local restaurants! We have ALL the recommendations for eateries & places to explore! Just ask-we have hidden gems! Our place is fully fenced & equipped with security cameras so no need to worry. We’re LEASHED pet friendly-ALL breeds welcome. Yes, even your cat! Please be aware of your surroundings when walking around as you may see our beautiful snakes or loud coyotes! We offer water for every stay-although not drinkable(well water). It’s still great to cook and bathe in. We are 420 friendly but be responsible & respectful. No ashing directly on the ground-we’d like to prevent a fire! Absolutely no butts in the ground-pack in, pack out. NO alcohol allowed outside of your tent/van/camper-there will be no tolerance for disorderly conduct. Please be respectful of our home so we can continue to share our beautiful views with everyone! We are conveniently located between 2 cities with Dollar general’s, gas/grocery stores, restaurants, etc. Although, the house is pretty secluded. Come stargaze or enjoy the sunrise! We have the best! •campers of all sizes are welcome. •tent campers will have the option of camping where they please (you will not be close to large campers) •please clean up after your pets and yourself! No poo or trash please! •please do not open any gates pertaining to the animals. We will kindly ask you to leave. This is for their safety and my sanity! •please keep your fur-baby on a leash and away from the chickens/goats. We don’t want any injuries or incidents! •quiet hours are 10pm- 5am •late arrivals are welcome. We’ll be there to welcome you in! •please do not dump any liquid from your rigs! We will take legal action. This contaminates the well water!
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$20
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99%
(140)

Hot Springs Glamp Camp

10 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents1 acre · Elephant Butte, Sierra
Come for the Hot Springs, Stay for the Camping! For travelers looking for a unique and easy getaway or break from the road, Hot Springs Glamp Camp offers the perfect "Glamorous Camping" experience! Unlike chain hotels or Airbnb stays, Glamp Camp creates a place for both community and alone time; for rejuvenation and healing in the onsite hot springs, in a relaxing, friendly, tribe vibe. Well-behaved children and dogs are welcome (Pets must be approved to stay in accommodations, be on-leash, and cleaned up after at all times). Fun Fact: This property is rumored to have been a nudist colony and/or spiritual commune in the 80's. We look forward to hosting you!
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$50
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91%
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Smugglers' Roost

10 sites · RVs49 acres · Animas, Hidalgo
Smugglers' Roost is located in Animas, NM, situated at the site of the infamous Clanton Gang’s hideout along Smuggler’s Trail. The community is positioned along the original Butterfield Overland Stagecoach Winter Route; a short two hour drive from Las Cruces , New Mexico or just 2.5-hours from either El Paso, Texas or Tucson, Arizona. We are located in the Middle of Everywhere, surrounded by wealth of wide-ranging activities and natural amenities which include extraordinary, yet uncrowded state and national recreation areas, caves, mines, ghost towns, museums, historic locations, native sites, observatories, local wineries and micro-breweries. Learn more about this land: Bring your RV and join us at Smugglers' Roost for our warm sunny days and starlit nights! We are a pioneering community which serves as a hub for exploration, creativity, trade and most of all... the passionate celebration of life! We offer 228 Full Hook-up RV Sites with 50-amp electric, water, sewer and free high-speed Wi-Fi. Pull-throughs are available and there's plenty of room to spread out! Smugglers' Roost is located in Animas, NM, situated at the site of the infamous Clanton Gang’s hideout along Smuggler’s Trail. The community is positioned along the original Butterfield Overland Stagecoach Winter Route; a short two hour drive from Las Cruces , New Mexico or just 2.5-hours from either El Paso, Texas or Tucson, Arizona. We are located in the Middle of Everywhere, surrounded by a treasure trove of wide-ranging activities and natural amenities which include extraordinary, yet uncrowded state and national recreation areas, caves, mines, ghost towns, museums, historic locations, native sites, observatories, local wineries and micro-breweries. BIRD WITH US! We offer an onsite birding station and three additional affiliated and nationally acclaimed birding sites, including one at the mouth of the famed Cave Creek Canyon in Portal, AZ only a short drive away. EXPLORE THE UNIVERSE! Our dead-dark night skies are nothing short of awe-inspiring, so come explore with our onsite star guides with telescopes!
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$28
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Star Hosts in New Mexico

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Camping in New Mexico guide

In the southwestern US, New Mexico offers a distinct vibe not found elsewhere in the country, or even in the region. Here you’ll find Old West mining towns, restorative hot springs, and all sorts of historic sites, including ancient pueblos and protected national monuments, not to mention a distinct cuisine that borrows elements from Tex-Mex and Indigenous culinary traditions. You won’t be disappointed with the camping—the state offers a variety of terrains, from quiet forests to vast expanses of desert, and with five national forests, 30 state parks, and lots of untouched private land, there's no shortage of spots to set up a tent.

Where to Go

Central and North Central New Mexico

New Mexico's Central and North-Central regions are home to many of the state's most popular cultural attractions, and both Albuquerque and Santa Fe are here. Area highlights include Bandelier National Monument and Petroglyph National Monument, as well as numerous pueblos. The most famous of these—the Taos Pueblo—is a UNESCO World Heritage site that has been continuously inhabited for over 1,000 years.

Northwest New Mexico

Cultural attractions abound in Northwestern New Mexico. Highlights include the Zuni Pueblo and the Acoma Pueblo—both the Jicarilla Apache Nation and the Navajo Nation call this region home. Other points of interest include the Chaco Culture National Historical Park, Aztec Ruins National Monument, and El Mapais National Monument.

Northeast New Mexico

Situated where the Rocky Mountains give way to the Southwestern plains, this area is characterized by prairies, ranches, and Western charm. Popular historic and natural attractions include the Fort Union National Monument and the Capulin Volcano National Monument. Conchas Lake State Park and Ute Lake State Park offer ample opportunities for fishing, boating, and lakeside camping.

Southwest New Mexico

For a Wild West experience, head to the southwestern corner of the state. Here you'll find plenty of old ghost towns, historic mission communities, and pristine natural areas. The area is also rich with hot springs, particularly in the low-key spa town of Truth or Consequences.

Southeast New Mexico

Culture, history, and the great outdoors converge in southeastern New Mexico, home to both of the state's national parks (White Sands and Carlsbad Caverns) as well as a host of museums, from the New Mexico Museum of Space History to the Billy the Kid Museum in Fort Sumner. Fans of the paranormal won't want to miss Roswell, the site of the famous Area 51 UFO sightings and a de facto pilgrimage site for all things alien.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, out-of-state visitors can go camping in New Mexico, but it's essential to check the latest information and guidelines before planning your trip. Campgrounds in New Mexico include those in state parks, national forests, and private campgrounds, which you can find more information about on Hipcamp. Always follow local regulations and practice Leave No Trace principles while camping.

Yes, out-of-state residents can camp in New Mexico. There are many camping options available, including state parks, national forests, Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands, and private campgrounds. Please note that some locations may have restrictions or require reservations, so it's important to check the specific campground or park you plan to visit for any updated guidelines or requirements. You can find a variety of camping options in New Mexico on Hipcamp.

Whether you need a permit to camp in New Mexico depends on where you plan to camp. For most developed campgrounds on public lands, such as state parks, national forests, and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) areas, you typically do not need a permit. However, you may need to pay a fee and reserve a campsite in advance. For dispersed camping on BLM or national forest lands, you generally do not need a permit. However, some specific areas may require permits for overnight stays, especially in wilderness areas or where resources need to be protected. It's essential to check with the local BLM office or national forest ranger district for specific information on the area you plan to camp in. If you plan to camp on private land, you will need the landowner's permission, which may involve reserving a site and paying a fee. Hipcamp is a useful resource for finding and booking private campsites in New Mexico.

The cost of camping in New Mexico State Parks varies depending on the type of site and amenities provided. Here's a general breakdown of the fees:

  • Primitive camping (no developed facilities): $8 - $10 per night
  • Developed campsites (with picnic table, fire ring, and nearby restrooms): $10 - $14 per night
  • Developed campsites with electric and/or water hookups: $14 - $18 per night
  • Full-hookup campsites (water, electric, and sewer): $18 - $22 per night

Additional fees may apply for extra vehicles, day-use, or other services. You can find more information and discover campgrounds in New Mexico State Parks on Hipcamp.

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