The best camping in New Mexico with campfires

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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.

94% (3.7K) 4,472 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in New Mexico

Santa Fe Treehouse Camp & Wilderness Preserve

1. Santa Fe Treehouse Camp & Wilderness Preserve

98%
(1658)
Santa Fe, NM · 37 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Brad and Ciana welcome you to the Santa Fe Treehouse Camp & Wilderness Preserve, managed by The Wilderness Institute. The camp was founded 40 years ago as a summer camp for kids. We continue to offer camps for children and their parents and grandparents (family camps), as well as welcome adults and other groups to enjoy the vast and wild high desert nature up on this ridge. "BE A CAMPER CONSERVATIONIST"! Register for our nature education activities and resources lead by The Wilderness Institute (available for all of our guests). These topics include sustainability, recycling, composting, water conservation, wildfire prevention, outdoor safety, and nature awareness along with the use of our hiking trails. You can also join an archery class, tomahawk throwing, climbing on the mobile climbing wall, Yoga, Tai Chi, Climbing Into The Heart of the Mother Tree, Star talks and more! (https://wildernessinstitute.org/outdoor-programs/) There are beautiful views and access to Shaggy Peak, the southernmost tip of the Rocky Mountains and the Sangre de Cristo Mountain Range. Wander our land to enjoy various level hiking trails including a 20 minute hike to a creek and waterfall in the forest (some steep spots and creek is intermittent) or climb up Shaggy Peak (seasoned hikers only please). IMPORTANT: We are up 1.3 miles of dirt road (with 5-7+% grade in a few short stretches) and are not near public transportation so you will need your own vehicle! Be aware that the roads can be snowy, icy or muddy and rutted ( 4-wheel or All-trak recommended in certain times of year). We don’t guarantee the road will be plowed. We generally close for the season due to cold weather around Halloween and reopen just before Memorial Day. This is a non-smoking, no candle facility.
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Mars Research Base (MRB)

2. Mars Research Base (MRB)

90%
(123)
Boles Acres, NM · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Nestled amid the breathtaking mountains near Alamogordo, New Mexico, our off-grid camping haven is a gateway to the untamed beauty of the desert. Campers can enjoy the serenity of nature while being just a stone's throw away from the Oliver Lee Memorial State Park, offering fantastic hiking opportunities. Whether you choose to pitch a tent or park your RV, our property is the perfect base for outdoor adventures, complemented by wildlife, mesmerizing sunsets, and the warmth of a campfire shared with friends.
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Picnic table
Star Gazer Ranch

3. Star Gazer Ranch

97%
(276)
Highland Meadows, NM · 1 site · Tent, RV
We are a secluded, one site camp. Our home is 22 miles west of Albuquerque NM. Just 4 miles from i40. Adjacent to Navajo reservation where “Breaking Bad” was filmed. Hundreds of acres of naturalized land. Panoramic view of mountains and unobstructed view of the night sky. Beautiful sunrises, sunsets and starry nights. We would love to share our homestead with you. Come unplug, Safe. Everybody welcome. Most of your questions are answered in this listing. Text me for any additional concerns.
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Picnic table
Carson National Forest

4. Carson National Forest

91%
(40)
National forest in New Mexico · 463 sites
Come get lost in the wild, enchanted lands of New Mexico! One of five unearthly National Forests in this great state, Carson National Forest is open for business all year round, and never fails to bring the heat with magnificent mountain scenery and some seriously stunning natural features. If solitude is your muse than look no further! Cold mountain streams, ample trout fishing, and out of sight camping is sure to give you your fix. With over 1.5 million acres laden with high ridges, dense vegetation and some of the cleanest air you’re likely to find west of the Mississippi, Carson is simply the epitome of Southwestern frontier!
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Gila National Forest

5. Gila National Forest

88%
(25)
National forest in New Mexico · 304 sites
Explore some of the most secluded regions of the American Southwest.
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Electrical hookup
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Adamsville

6. Adamsville

Angel Fire, NM · 1 site · Tent, RV
Heavily wooded and landscaped mountain property at 9000 foot elevation. Hiking and biking trails with many metal and wood sculptures to enjoy. Borders state land and 3 miles from Angel Fire Bike Park. Bring your RC rock crawler if you have one.
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Full hookups
Camp Rio

7. Camp Rio

95%
(304)
Mayhill, NM · 49 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
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Full hookups
River Sanctuary by Ojo Hot Springs

8. River Sanctuary by Ojo Hot Springs

96%
(211)
La Madera, NM · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Lush high desert river oasis on three acres, nestled in a fertile valley in Carson National Forest, right between the fiery expanse of Taos and the rolling colorful formations of Abiquiu. Peaceful, private and serene land right by the river at the edge of a little quaint town called La Madera (145 people)- just 6 miles to the healing mineral Hot Springs of Ojo Caliente, a place of emergence or rebirth as known to the local Natives. At the moment we have five options 1) Spacious, cozy, and private Vintage Camper that can be heated, with kitchen, electricity and plenty of outdoor furniture with a fire pit and serene mountain views. 2) A Gazebo Tree shaded campsite for tents only, with fire pit, outdoor seating and the tranquil sounds of the gently flowing river in the background. 3) The Riverside Gypsy Wagon with electric, heat and kitchen, 4) The Riverside Campsite for tents, and 5) If you would like to bring your own camper/or tent we have a Willow brush enclosed meadow with stunning views. You can go on a panoramic ridge hike right off the property, or just relax by the flowing creek, or listen to the bird symphonies. Some campsites have access to a guest bathroom inside the main house, others have private outhouses. 🌿🌿🌿 We offer DOG SITTING so you can relax at the Springs, or PRIVATE MASSAGE here on the land with the senior therapist from Ojo Hot Springs for less $$$ - check out the Extras. 🌿🌿🌿 The land is beautifully wild with lots of animal life. The dirt rd down to the property is best suited for higher clearance vehicles, but is manageable for city cars. If you're pulling your trailer/camper you'll need 4W. With land by the river comes the mosquitos- June to August. They are predominantly active during sunrise and sunset; long loose fitting clothes and/or a repellent work great. Waterhole, Waterfall and climbing sites near by, as well as Plaza Blanca, Abiquiu, Ghost Ranch and the Taos Gorge are 30 mins drive away. *No cell service in the greater area. Wifi available around the house for calling and texting.
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Horse-Thief Campground

9. Horse-Thief Campground

86%
(135)
NM · 12 sites · Tents, RVs
From U.S. Highway 550 (mile marker 112.5), you will see the National Park sign, drive south on County Road 7900 for 5 miles. After 5 miles (the road comes to a “T”) you will see another National Park sign, on the right hand side. Turn right on County Road 7950. You cannot turn left. (If you go straight, that will take you to Pueblo Pintado). Drive 3 miles on County Road 7950. The pavement will end. On the right hand side you will see a sign that says "Dry Camp". THE CAMPGROUND IS ON THE LEFT HAND SIDE. There will be a sign that reads: “Horsethief Campground”. In front of the short road to the Campground. At the end of the short road to the campground is: a large portable building, and 2 other buildings. We apologize that the road is a little uneven, but we are looking to improve this real soon. You are welcome to park inside or outside the gated area. 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 sunrises; 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. P.S. If you have already paid on Hipcamp, you do not need to pay again. However, please sign the Waiver provided. With the war going on across the country and gas prices on the rise; if you we would like to save a little money instead of making a reservation on Hipcamp, you can pay for the fees upon arrival with cash, check or Zelle. We are a dry dispersed campground with plenty of room. Thank you very much! We hope you enjoy your stay. 😊
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Santa Fe National Forest

10. Santa Fe National Forest

94%
(43)
National forest in New Mexico · 444 sites
Santa Fe National Forest isn’t just a cool spot in New Mexico, it’s a place that painters, poets, photographers and adventurers have waxed poetic about since...well, forever. It’s easy to see why, with over 1.6 million acres and over 1,000 miles of trails to explore. Whether it’s an autumn day trekking under trees blazing gold, or taking turns down the slopes at Santa Fe Ski Basin, the forest is a year round wonderland! Spring and Summer offer thrilling whitewater rafting down the Rio Grande, trout fishing, hunting, and nights under the stars. It’s easy to set up camp here too in one of the forests many campgrounds, and if you plan on staying away, be sure visit the town of Santa Fe, one of the most artistic and beautiful towns in America. This trip is bound to have you channeling your inner artist in no time!
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Electrical hookup
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Brantley Lake State Park

11. Brantley Lake State Park

100%
(5)
State park in New Mexico · 27 sites
Discover Brantley Lake State Park: A Haven for Water Sports and Camping.
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Bandelier National Monument

12. Bandelier National Monument

100%
(8)
National park in New Mexico · 5 sites
Discover ancient Native American history in these sublime Southwestern lands.
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Hyde Memorial State Park

13. Hyde Memorial State Park

100%
(5)
State park in New Mexico · 9 sites
Hyde Memorial State Park: A Haven Amid Pines and Peaks.
Toilets
Potable water
Sewer hookup
Sleeping Bear Canyon

14. Sleeping Bear Canyon

100%
(4)
Cañones, NM · 18 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Sleeping Bear Canyon is a peaceful stretch of high-desert mountain land near Abiquiú, where rimrock cliffs, juniper and pine trees, the flowing waters of the Cañones Creek, and open sky create space to slow down and reconnect. Located in the heart of Georgia O’Keeffe country and just minutes from Ghost Ranch and Abiquiú Lake, Sleeping Bear Canyon offers a quiet base for exploring one of the most iconic landscapes in the Southwest where wide skies, red mesas, and luminous canyon light continue to inspire artists, travelers, and seekers from around the world. Guests come here for stillness, stars, and the feeling of being gently held by the landscape. Whether visiting for a quiet camping stay, future glamping cabins, a creative retreat, or time away from the noise of everyday life, Sleeping Bear Canyon offers a simple and grounding experience shaped by the rhythm of the land itself. This is a place to rest. Wake slowly. Walk the canyon trails or follow the path along the Cañones Creek. Watch evening light settle across the mesas. Sleeping Bear Canyon is a place to return to nature and to yourself.
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Luxx Lodge Glamping & RV Park

15. Luxx Lodge Glamping & RV Park

85%
(20)
Ranchos De Taos, NM · 20 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Hookups included are all 30/50 amp with electric, sewer and water. We have pull thru spots as well as back in spots and are conveniently located to Taos Plaza and Taos Ski valley. Bathrooms are completely redone with showers free for our guests to use. We also have our new "Space Cabins" studios with private bath and kitchenettes.
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Full hookups
The Rabbit Property

16. The Rabbit Property

95%
(39)
Cedar Crest, NM · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Open field with beautiful views of the mountains. Quiet neighborhood. Hiking, biking and horseback riding within minutes. Restaurants within walking distance - Ribs BBQ and Bar, Rumor Brewing, Cabra Coffee. This is an undeveloped lot with plenty of space if you need a place to pitch a tent or park an RV. If you’re in a tent you will need a means of toileting. For RVs I can provide water hookup and electric if you park near the house.
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Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Creekside Glamping Tipis on Off-Grid, 70 Acre Working Ranch

17. Creekside Glamping Tipis on Off-Grid, 70 Acre Working Ranch

99%
(121)
Tres Piedras, NM · 5 sites
Unforgettable Stargazing Awaits in Luxurious Glamping Tipis Under the Darkest Skies in the US Escape to our gorgeous "Glamping" Tipis and luxury Yurt, nestled amidst the whispering pines and beside a gurgling mountain stream on our peaceful ranch in Northern New Mexico. Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring vastness of the Carson National Forest and its endless recreational opportunities. Gaze at a Universe of Stars from Your Private Tipi Sanctuary As day surrenders to dusk, prepare to be spellbound by the spectacle above. Far from light pollution, our secluded location boasts some of the darkest skies in the United States, transforming into a mesmerizing canvas for stargazing and astrophotography. Imagine the Milky Way ablaze with a million shimmering stars, planets twinkling like celestial diamonds, and shooting stars streaking across the velvet darkness. Luxurious Comfort Meets Untamed Nature in Your Glamping Tipi Choose from our beautifully furnished tipis, each offering a unique haven for relaxation and stargazing adventures. The Kokopelli tipi cradles you in a queen-sized bed, while our Elk and Zia tipis sleep four with a king or queen bed and a cozy bunk bed. All tipis are adorned with bedside tables, a device charger, and a camp stove for brewing coffee and tea under the starlit sky. Your All-Inclusive Glamping Retreat Awaits We've meticulously curated everything you need for a comfortable and unforgettable stay. Each tipi boasts a single-burner camping stove, a kettle, a French press coffee maker with coffee and tea selections, a cooler, and a drinking water dispenser. Step outside to find a grill for open-air cooking, a crackling fire pit with comfy camping chairs, a picnic table, and a ramada strung with a hammock for stargazing naps. Unwind and Explore at Your Pace For meals, unleash your inner chef on the grill or savor delicious home-cooked fare at the Chili Line Depot, owned by your hosts and just 7 miles away. You can choose to dine in at the restaurant or call for convenient pick-up. We'll even provide a menu in your tipi. After a day of exploring the surrounding wilderness, rejuvenate in the shared bathhouse, featuring a composting toilet, a hot shower, and an outdoor sink. Bath towels, soap, and shampoo are thoughtfully provided for your comfort. Experience the Enchantment of Nature Up Close Our 70-acre working ranch offers endless opportunities to connect with nature. Cast a line for rainbow trout in the sparkling stream (NM fishing license required) or let the kids enjoy catch-and-release fishing in our stocked pond. Hike through the whispering pines, scale rugged rock faces, or simply bask in the tranquility of your private tipi sanctuary. Sustainable Glamping in Harmony with Nature We are committed to responsible tourism and operate entirely off-grid. A solar-powered charging station keeps your essential devices connected, while minimal light pollution preserves the breathtaking night sky. Escape the Ordinary, Embrace the Extraordinary At our glamping tipis, we promise an unforgettable experience that blends luxurious comfort with the untamed beauty of nature. Come disconnect from the everyday and reconnect with the universe under the breathtaking tapestry of stars.
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Ray & Lucille's place

18. Ray & Lucille's place

99%
(166)
La Mesa, NM · 2 sites
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.
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Full hookups
Dragonfly Mountain Ranch

19. Dragonfly Mountain Ranch

98%
(79)
Arroyo Seco, NM · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
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
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Mesa Top camping

20. Mesa Top camping

96%
(199)
Los Cerrillos, NM · 1 site · Tent, RV
Set above the historic town of Madrid N.M. is Waldo Mesa, the location of past mining operations and stunning vista's.The campsite is 0.9 miles off highway 14 in the historic town of Madrid and up to the mesa. Site 1 can accommodate RV's and tall setups as well as tents. The hill going to the site is short, approx. 0.2 ml. Its dirt and rock and a little steep but everything from bikes, motorcycles, sedans and buses can easily navigate without bottoming out, just take it slow. It has beautiful mesa views with plenty of privacy and nice outhouse within 50 yards. Madrid and sister village, Cerrillos are loaded with places to explore on foot or by other means. Both towns are very rich in history, from past ocean existence to Native American civilizations, silver and gold mining to booming wartime coal mining industries, to ghost towns.
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New Mexico camping 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.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field