Desert camping in New Mexico with campfires

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

93% (2516 reviews)
93% (2516 reviews)

Popular camping styles for New Mexico

Under $50

Star Hosts in New Mexico

12 top desert campgrounds in New Mexico with campfires

98%
(1169)

Santa Fe Treehouse Camp

58 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents156 acres · Santa Fe, NM
This is a non-smoking, no candle facility. The camp was founded 40 years ago as a summer camp for kids. Now we welcome adults, and other groups to enjoy the vast and wild high desert nature up on this ridge. 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). NOTE: We are up 1.3 miles of dirt road 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.
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$25
 / night
95%
(146)

River Sanctuary by Ojo Hot Springs

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents3 acres · La Madera, NM
Learn more about this land: Lush high desert river oasis nestled in a fertile valley in the Carson National Forest right between the fiery expanse of Taos and the rolling colorful formations of Abiquiu. Peaceful and private 3 acres right by the river at the edge of a little quaint town called La Madera (145 people, no shops)- just 6 miles to the healing mineral Hot Springs of Ojo Caliente, a place of emergence or rebirth as known to the local Natives. Right by the river, held by a ridge (that makes for amazing sunset hikes), I have a 16ft Yurt Canvas set up with furnishings (desk, couch, wash stand) and a wooden Queen Bed with down bedding. This site can only be reached by foot across the river via stumps- a car can be parked near by.. approx. 50ft.  I also have a Vintage Camper that can be heated, has a kitchen, electricity and plenty of outdoor furniture with a fire pit and serene mountain views. As well as a monastic and very grounding Ensuite Bedroom, or a simple campsite if you want to bring your own camper or tent. All facilities have access to a guest bathroom inside the main house. I offer dog sitting while you soak at Ojo, healing modalities that you'll find in the Extras section, and my dear neighbor Jackie takes appointments for massages with homemade essential oils. +++ 6 miles to Ojo Caliente Hot Springs. There you will find the best restaurant in the area, with locally/organically farmed produce. Very yummy!  The land is naturally and beautifully wild- it is not a manicured campsite. The dirt rd down to the property is best suited for higher clearance vehicles, but is manageable for city cars.  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 reaches around the house/deck and allows for WiFi Calling: that’s a setting in your phone that enables phone calls & texts beside usual internet access.
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$50
 / night
100%
(11)

Mars Research Base (MRB)

8 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Boles Acres, NM
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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$25
 / night
98%
(93)

A True Cold War Relic..Missile Silo

6 sites · RVs, Tents12 acres · Roswell, NM
Learn more about this land: ALL camping stays include an extensive 1.5 to 2 hour Missile Site Tour, with an underground Silo portion. 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
100%
(11)

Camp Darkmoon

2 sites · Lodging, Tents2 acres · Madrone, NM
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
 / night
99%
(279)

Sunny Mellow Eco Villa

4 sites · Lodging8 acres · Tijeras, NM
Sunny Mellow Eco Villa is the land with a great history. The QUIET, secret Shangra-La Valley just over the ridge from Route 66 (and I-40) was the camping place for Billy the Kid and his gang! They could quickly saddle up when the posted lookout on the ridge above signaled the passing of the stagecoach! Even more stunning, it was the Tijeras Indian Pueblo Tribe's place of roaming and rest. The land now sports an Organic Vineyard, Orchard and Vegetable Garden that guests my forage from when in bloom. A Large, Clean, Secluded Redwood Yoga Deck, Ping-Pong, Horseshoes, and a Giant Swing Set, along with patios and lounges that are found over the 8 acre land, and all joined by a network of Scenic Pathways and Bridges that connect The Vineyard, The Orchard, The Garden, The Solar Array, The Swing, The Yoga Deck, Ping Pong Terrace, Horse shoe Pit... Perfect Place and Feel The Akashic Records of Where Billy the Kid and his gang camped and the Tijeras Indians Lived! 8 Minutes to Albuquerque. 7 minutes to Cedar Crest, 20 minutes to The Infinite View off the Sandia Crest, 10 minutes to Edgewood. 50 minutes to Santa Fe. Located in THE CENTER of The ZIA of NEW MEXICO! Views of meadows, mountains and the Enchanting New Mexico sky from the Every stopping point on the Eco Villa Trail System. Ride a bike, take a sauna, Read a book... Take a nap. Enjoy the Unique Feel and Romance of the Yoga Yurt, The Awesome Modern Outdoor Kitchen, The delicious KING Bed. Watch 4K TV with 900 download and 35 upload! Enjoy Dining at your Private HipCamp Site! Hike into the Cedro National forest a short walk to the end of the road. If you feel sociable, join in a campfire with the guests at The Chi-Treehouse or Invite guests to the Fire-pit at your own Yoga Yurta! Sit in the Secluded "Starchamber" by day for a sun tan, or by night for moon glow and infinite star gazing. Drive to Sandia Peak, Hike, Ski, Mountain Bike (Even out your back door if you do not want to drive). Albuquerque and The East Mountains has more trails in proximity to a metropolis than an city in the country. Pick sandy, rocky, or meadow, or a forest ascent. Grove at top notch restaurants in ABQ and some local ones just down the street.
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$77.77
 / night
93%
(58)

1972 Winnebago Convert to Tiny Home

1 site · Lodging2 acres · 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. 
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$55
 / night
91%
(58)

Horse-Thief Campground

12 sites · RVs, Tents15 acres · NM
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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$35
 / night
97%
(128)

Mesa top camping

1 site · RV, Tent20 acres · Madrid, NM
Set above the historic town of Madrid N.M. is Waldo Mesa. The location of past mining operations and stunning Vista's.
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$35
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100%
(66)

Desert Rose Stopover

2 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Roswell, NM
5 acres bordered by pecan trees. Level area, cement slab, large trees on site. Water, septic, electricity provided. NO BATHROOM FACILITIES available, please bring your own if tent camping. I do have septic you can connect to your RV. Quiet rural area NW of Roswell, 6 miles from downtown where you can explore alien museums and attractions. Bottomless lakes state park and Bitter Lake National Wildlife Refuge nearby. 70 miles from Ruidoso with hiking, bike and equestrian trails, skiing, shopping, fishing. Haystack mountain recreation area, Pecos river, rockhounding sites in vicinity. White Sands, Carlsbad Caverns, Valley of Fires a short drive away.
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$35
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Booked 4 times

Art City Tucumcari

35 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Tucumcari, NM
Nestled along the historic Route 66 in Tucumcari, NM, our unique sculpture park and glamping destination offers an immersive art experience in the heart of nature. Our site features fourteen large-scale sculptures crafted by internationally renowned artists, making it an ideal backdrop for photography and a source of creative inspiration. Guests can indulge in luxury with our on-site amenities including a hot tub, sauna, and outdoor showers, perfect for relaxation after a day of exploration. Our outdoor kitchen is fully equipped for your culinary adventures, allowing you to dine al fresco surrounded by breathtaking art installations. For convenience and comfort, the site includes three indoor bathrooms complete with sinks and an indoor shower, all seamlessly integrated with a modern septic system to ensure environmental sustainability. Experience the perfect blend of art, nature, and comfort at our exclusive glamping getaway.
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$44
 / night
94%
(146)

Taos Goji Farm & Eco Lodge

13 sites · Lodging, TentsSan Cristobal, NM
Taos Goji Ecolodge, is an historic property with ten renovated cabins and a 4-acre goji berry farm located on 40 acres of pristine land in San Cristobal, New Mexico. The cabins were built at the beginning of last century, originally for sheep herders. Both Alduous Huxley and D.H. Lawrence lived and wrote in this cabins, and later Elizabeth Kubler Ross and Ram Dass stayed here.
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$33
 / night

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Desert camping in New Mexico with campfires guide

Overview

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.

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