The best camping in New Mexico with campfires

·

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.

95% (5.1K)

Top-rated campgrounds near New Mexico

2. Camp Rio

95%
(291)
57 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Mayhill, NM
Camp Rio, formerly named Camp @ Cloudcroft is located in beautiful SE New Mexico! This clean family 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.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$40
 / night

8. Dragonfly Mountain Ranch

99%
(69)
7 sites · Tents, RVs · Arroyo Seco, NM
Instagram - dragonflymountainranch Enjoy the majestic beauty of the Taos Valley from the verdant fields and cerros of the Dragonfly Mountain Ranch! Whether a seasoned traveler or one's first visit to Taos our goal is to exceed expectations. With site options to accommodate various needs and tastes within the Rio Grande Del Norte Nat’l Monument that encompass the Taos Volcanic Plateau or the pastoral fields of Des Montes, just 10 minutes from Arroyo Seco. While here one can see history come to life by way of our living history ranch and historic home, one of the first homesteads in Des Montes owned by the same family for over 150 years. See firsthand how the unique Acequia system of New Mexico has given life to the surrounding pastoral fields and the agricultural practices of the past still relevant in today’s Taos Valley. For those wanting the best of both worlds, access to in-town activities as well as trail/hiking/river adventures, the Des Montes sites would be the best selection. Close enough to town for groceries and conveniences along with other sought after tourist attractions such as the Taos Pueblo, Taos Plaza and surrounding galleries/shops. In addition, Arroyo Seco and Arroyo Hondo are quaint little villages less than 10 minutes away for for addt'l groceries/market/restaurant options. The John Dunn Recreation Area is also less than 15 minutes drive from the campsites. Despite accessibility to endless activities just minutes away there remains a sense of solitude, space and privacy that one would be hard pressed to find elsewhere. Cerro Chiflo, Cerro Montoso and the Miner's Trail are within driving/hiking distance. Spend a day down on the banks of Rio Grande and unwind around the campfire and while stars light up the dark skies. Your next adventure awaits...hope to see you soon! Please see Sol at Rio Grande Balloons to book your hot air balloon ride while in Taos! 575-208-1888. https://www.riograndeballoons.com Taos Pueblo - 15min Taos Plaza and Business District - 15min The Gorge Bridge - 20 min Ojo Caliente Hot Springs - 1hr Carson National Forest - 10min Rio Grande Del Norte Nat'l Monument - 20min Arroyo Hondo - Midtown Market 10min Arroyo Seco - 10min Taos Ski Valley - 30min
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
from 
$25
 / night

14. Ray & Lucille's place

99%
(157)
2 sites · RVs · La Mesa, NM
Our farm is located in La Mesa, NM in the Mesilla Valley. Centered between Las Cruces, NM and El Paso, TX . The farming community offers open fields of various crops as well as pecan orchards. Minutes from hiking destinations Organ Mountain Desert Peaks National Monument and Franklin Mountains State Park. Various wineries and breweries within minutes. Elephant Butte Lake State Park 1 hr 41 min (104 miles) White Sands National Park 1 hr 8 min (72 miles)Learn more about this land:Come stay at our fully equipped, safe RV Sites with full hook ups here at our little farm in the middle of Mesilla Valley. Just 6 miles off I-10 in La Mesa, NM. We are in a farming community among pecan orchards, cotton fields, hay fields. Easy to find, our peaceful and private RV sites are 1/4 mile off scenic NM Hwy 28. There are 4 wineries and a brewery within 20 minutes of our farm. Great country setting 20 minutes south of Mesilla and Las Cruces and 20 minutes North of El Paso, TX.
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$45
 / night

15. Camp Across From Pecos River

96%
(24)
4 sites · Tents, Lodging · Tererro, NM
Escape the crowds and reconnect with nature at Vida Bonita Pecos. Tucked deep in the heart of the Santa Fe National Forest, our three private campsites offer quiet seclusion, stunning views, and exclusive access to a peaceful slice of Northern New Mexico wilderness. Full Description: Welcome to your own private forest escape. At Vida Bonita Pecos, our two campsites are designed for those seeking quiet, space, and solitude. Set apart from each other and completely removed from any other campers, you’ll feel like you have the entire forest to yourself. Each site is nestled beneath towering Ponderosa and Blue Spruce pines and Aspens. They offer level ground for tents, grill for cooking, and easy access to nearby hiking trails, Cowles Ponds, and the soothing sounds of the Pecos River. Whether you’re stargazing by your campfire or sipping coffee with the morning breeze, this is where relaxation lives. Your campsite is part of the Vida Bonita Pecos complex, which includes beautifully remodeled cabins and the remodeled Ponderosa Lodge. While you’ll have total privacy at your site, guests are welcome to explore designated areas of the property, our trout pond, and free roaming chickens and turkeys. We don’t pack campers in. No RVs. No generators. Just you, the trees, and a sky full of stars. What’s Included: Two secluded tent campsites (book one or both) Access to filtered spring drinking water Campfire ring (fire restrictions may apply) Access to clean outhouse toilet. Cell service is spotty—perfect for unplugging, but we have free WiFi at the main cabin. Things to Know: No other campers will be placed near you—guaranteed privacy. Firewood available on request. Check-in at our main lodge before heading to your site. Come experience the slower pace of mountain life. Whether you’re here to hike, fish, write, or simply breathe, our campsites at Vida Bonita Pecos are the perfect place to begin your New Mexico adventure.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$41
 / night

16. 1972 Winnebago Convert to Tiny Home

90%
(72)
1 site · Lodging · Truth Or Consequences, NM
Learn more about this land:Relax and be inspired during your stay in the renovated Winnebago at, The Western Star. This is a quaint, cozy space designed and decorated with a mix of natural materials, old desert wood and old metal found on the property or nearby. There are 2 beds (full and a twin), 10 ft sloped ceiling, sink with cold running water- no hot water, flushing toilet, mini-refrigerator, electric 2 burner stove, toaster oven, heater, plates, forks, cups, cookware and electricity. There are curtains and sun blockers for privacy. When you wake up in the morning you will watch the sun rise over Turtleback Mountain. 1 block away is the Rio Grande and Rotary Park. It's 4 blocks to the main. Located in the downtown area and hot springs district, the property has a well that draws out the hot springs at about 98 degrees and pours it in to an outdoor tub- perfect for a warm winter day or summer evenings. It can be reserved for an additional fee upon arrival. 4 blocks from the downtown area you can easily access other spas, restaurants, coffee shops, art galleries, thrift shops, and the grocery store. Wake up in the morning, walk down to the river and you'll see heron, coots, osprey, sandhill crane, red wing black birds, and so many more wildlife. The coyotes regularly sing throughout the night.  I tend the property and you may see me around if I need to do light repair work. There is a care taker for the property who lives there and may be another guest as well. The property is 1/2 a city block. Your living quarters are private but the land is shared space. I'm available to engage if desired and I respect your privacy. The property is 6 city lots large and you will have access to 4 of them. Dogs are allowed for an additional fee. You must be responsible to clean up after them and they must be friendly with strangers. 
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$55
 / night

18. Dusty Rabbit Van Life

99%
(238)
5 sites · Tents, RVs · Roswell, NM
STARGAZING & MYSTERIOUS LIGHTS ABOUND! Dusty Rabbit Van Life @ Schrimsher Ranch is an alternative camping and Star Gazing location just outside of ROSWELL, 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 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!
Pets
Picnic table
from 
$32
 / night

20. Timberon NM Golf & RV Camping Site

91%
(48)
2 sites · Tents, RVs · Timberon, NM
Timberon, New Mexico, is a charming and peaceful retirement community nestled in the scenic Sacramento Mountains on the southern edge of the Lincoln National Forest. Timberon offers a tranquil escape surrounded by natural beauty and abundant outdoor activities. The town features a 9-hole golf course, two fishing ponds, a lodge, a swimming pool, a church, an airstrip, and a volunteer fire department. Visitors can enjoy a variety of recreational activities, including camping, fishing, swimming, golfing, hiking, biking, and ATV/UTV riding areas. During the winter months, the area also offers seasonal activities for outdoor enthusiasts. Cell reception is limited in the town of Timberon but all the local businesses will share their Wi-Fi password. Timberon has a local restaurant Connie's Deli and the High Country Lounge and Grill (Saturday karaoke night 8pm). Two well-equipped stores stocked with groceries, camping supplies, ice, and RV accessories. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, Timberon provides the perfect retreat. . For more details, visit Timberon.org.
Pets
Potable water
Full hookups
from 
$37
 / night

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.

95% (5.1K)

Top-rated campgrounds near New Mexico

2. Camp Rio

95%
(291)
57 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Mayhill, NM
Camp Rio, formerly named Camp @ Cloudcroft is located in beautiful SE New Mexico! This clean family 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.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$40
 / night

8. Dragonfly Mountain Ranch

99%
(69)
7 sites · Tents, RVs · Arroyo Seco, NM
Instagram - dragonflymountainranch Enjoy the majestic beauty of the Taos Valley from the verdant fields and cerros of the Dragonfly Mountain Ranch! Whether a seasoned traveler or one's first visit to Taos our goal is to exceed expectations. With site options to accommodate various needs and tastes within the Rio Grande Del Norte Nat’l Monument that encompass the Taos Volcanic Plateau or the pastoral fields of Des Montes, just 10 minutes from Arroyo Seco. While here one can see history come to life by way of our living history ranch and historic home, one of the first homesteads in Des Montes owned by the same family for over 150 years. See firsthand how the unique Acequia system of New Mexico has given life to the surrounding pastoral fields and the agricultural practices of the past still relevant in today’s Taos Valley. For those wanting the best of both worlds, access to in-town activities as well as trail/hiking/river adventures, the Des Montes sites would be the best selection. Close enough to town for groceries and conveniences along with other sought after tourist attractions such as the Taos Pueblo, Taos Plaza and surrounding galleries/shops. In addition, Arroyo Seco and Arroyo Hondo are quaint little villages less than 10 minutes away for for addt'l groceries/market/restaurant options. The John Dunn Recreation Area is also less than 15 minutes drive from the campsites. Despite accessibility to endless activities just minutes away there remains a sense of solitude, space and privacy that one would be hard pressed to find elsewhere. Cerro Chiflo, Cerro Montoso and the Miner's Trail are within driving/hiking distance. Spend a day down on the banks of Rio Grande and unwind around the campfire and while stars light up the dark skies. Your next adventure awaits...hope to see you soon! Please see Sol at Rio Grande Balloons to book your hot air balloon ride while in Taos! 575-208-1888. https://www.riograndeballoons.com Taos Pueblo - 15min Taos Plaza and Business District - 15min The Gorge Bridge - 20 min Ojo Caliente Hot Springs - 1hr Carson National Forest - 10min Rio Grande Del Norte Nat'l Monument - 20min Arroyo Hondo - Midtown Market 10min Arroyo Seco - 10min Taos Ski Valley - 30min
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
from 
$25
 / night

14. Ray & Lucille's place

99%
(157)
2 sites · RVs · La Mesa, NM
Our farm is located in La Mesa, NM in the Mesilla Valley. Centered between Las Cruces, NM and El Paso, TX . The farming community offers open fields of various crops as well as pecan orchards. Minutes from hiking destinations Organ Mountain Desert Peaks National Monument and Franklin Mountains State Park. Various wineries and breweries within minutes. Elephant Butte Lake State Park 1 hr 41 min (104 miles) White Sands National Park 1 hr 8 min (72 miles)Learn more about this land:Come stay at our fully equipped, safe RV Sites with full hook ups here at our little farm in the middle of Mesilla Valley. Just 6 miles off I-10 in La Mesa, NM. We are in a farming community among pecan orchards, cotton fields, hay fields. Easy to find, our peaceful and private RV sites are 1/4 mile off scenic NM Hwy 28. There are 4 wineries and a brewery within 20 minutes of our farm. Great country setting 20 minutes south of Mesilla and Las Cruces and 20 minutes North of El Paso, TX.
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$45
 / night

15. Camp Across From Pecos River

96%
(24)
4 sites · Tents, Lodging · Tererro, NM
Escape the crowds and reconnect with nature at Vida Bonita Pecos. Tucked deep in the heart of the Santa Fe National Forest, our three private campsites offer quiet seclusion, stunning views, and exclusive access to a peaceful slice of Northern New Mexico wilderness. Full Description: Welcome to your own private forest escape. At Vida Bonita Pecos, our two campsites are designed for those seeking quiet, space, and solitude. Set apart from each other and completely removed from any other campers, you’ll feel like you have the entire forest to yourself. Each site is nestled beneath towering Ponderosa and Blue Spruce pines and Aspens. They offer level ground for tents, grill for cooking, and easy access to nearby hiking trails, Cowles Ponds, and the soothing sounds of the Pecos River. Whether you’re stargazing by your campfire or sipping coffee with the morning breeze, this is where relaxation lives. Your campsite is part of the Vida Bonita Pecos complex, which includes beautifully remodeled cabins and the remodeled Ponderosa Lodge. While you’ll have total privacy at your site, guests are welcome to explore designated areas of the property, our trout pond, and free roaming chickens and turkeys. We don’t pack campers in. No RVs. No generators. Just you, the trees, and a sky full of stars. What’s Included: Two secluded tent campsites (book one or both) Access to filtered spring drinking water Campfire ring (fire restrictions may apply) Access to clean outhouse toilet. Cell service is spotty—perfect for unplugging, but we have free WiFi at the main cabin. Things to Know: No other campers will be placed near you—guaranteed privacy. Firewood available on request. Check-in at our main lodge before heading to your site. Come experience the slower pace of mountain life. Whether you’re here to hike, fish, write, or simply breathe, our campsites at Vida Bonita Pecos are the perfect place to begin your New Mexico adventure.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$41
 / night

16. 1972 Winnebago Convert to Tiny Home

90%
(72)
1 site · Lodging · Truth Or Consequences, NM
Learn more about this land:Relax and be inspired during your stay in the renovated Winnebago at, The Western Star. This is a quaint, cozy space designed and decorated with a mix of natural materials, old desert wood and old metal found on the property or nearby. There are 2 beds (full and a twin), 10 ft sloped ceiling, sink with cold running water- no hot water, flushing toilet, mini-refrigerator, electric 2 burner stove, toaster oven, heater, plates, forks, cups, cookware and electricity. There are curtains and sun blockers for privacy. When you wake up in the morning you will watch the sun rise over Turtleback Mountain. 1 block away is the Rio Grande and Rotary Park. It's 4 blocks to the main. Located in the downtown area and hot springs district, the property has a well that draws out the hot springs at about 98 degrees and pours it in to an outdoor tub- perfect for a warm winter day or summer evenings. It can be reserved for an additional fee upon arrival. 4 blocks from the downtown area you can easily access other spas, restaurants, coffee shops, art galleries, thrift shops, and the grocery store. Wake up in the morning, walk down to the river and you'll see heron, coots, osprey, sandhill crane, red wing black birds, and so many more wildlife. The coyotes regularly sing throughout the night.  I tend the property and you may see me around if I need to do light repair work. There is a care taker for the property who lives there and may be another guest as well. The property is 1/2 a city block. Your living quarters are private but the land is shared space. I'm available to engage if desired and I respect your privacy. The property is 6 city lots large and you will have access to 4 of them. Dogs are allowed for an additional fee. You must be responsible to clean up after them and they must be friendly with strangers. 
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$55
 / night

18. Dusty Rabbit Van Life

99%
(238)
5 sites · Tents, RVs · Roswell, NM
STARGAZING & MYSTERIOUS LIGHTS ABOUND! Dusty Rabbit Van Life @ Schrimsher Ranch is an alternative camping and Star Gazing location just outside of ROSWELL, 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 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!
Pets
Picnic table
from 
$32
 / night

20. Timberon NM Golf & RV Camping Site

91%
(48)
2 sites · Tents, RVs · Timberon, NM
Timberon, New Mexico, is a charming and peaceful retirement community nestled in the scenic Sacramento Mountains on the southern edge of the Lincoln National Forest. Timberon offers a tranquil escape surrounded by natural beauty and abundant outdoor activities. The town features a 9-hole golf course, two fishing ponds, a lodge, a swimming pool, a church, an airstrip, and a volunteer fire department. Visitors can enjoy a variety of recreational activities, including camping, fishing, swimming, golfing, hiking, biking, and ATV/UTV riding areas. During the winter months, the area also offers seasonal activities for outdoor enthusiasts. Cell reception is limited in the town of Timberon but all the local businesses will share their Wi-Fi password. Timberon has a local restaurant Connie's Deli and the High Country Lounge and Grill (Saturday karaoke night 8pm). Two well-equipped stores stocked with groceries, camping supplies, ice, and RV accessories. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, Timberon provides the perfect retreat. . For more details, visit Timberon.org.
Pets
Potable water
Full hookups
from 
$37
 / night

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The best camping in New Mexico with campfires guide

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.