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The best desert camping in New Mexico

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Looking for a camping experience in the desert of New Mexico? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 1200 options specifically tailored to your desert terrain preference, you'll be sure to find the perfect spot to pitch your tent or park your RV. Whether you're seeking a unique experience like the Santa Fe Treehouse Camp (512 reviews), or a peaceful retreat like the Star Dance High Desert Retreat (271 reviews), or even a secluded hideaway like the Hermitory (202 reviews), Hipcamp has got you covered. And with popular amenities like showers, campfires, and pet-friendly sites, you'll have everything you need for a comfortable stay. Plus, don't forget to take advantage of the popular activities available, such as wildlife watching, fishing, and exploring historic sites. With an average price per night of $30 and options as low as $10, camping in the New Mexico desert has never been more affordable. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable camping adventure!

95% (5.2K) 2,796 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in New Mexico

Santa Fe Treehouse Camp & Wilderness Preserve

1. Santa Fe Treehouse Camp & Wilderness Preserve

98%
(1733)
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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HarmonyTaos Regenerative Farm

2. HarmonyTaos Regenerative Farm

97%
(258)
Taos, NM · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Harmony Taos is a regenerative farm w stellar views of the Sangre De Cristos Mtns., located on approximately 4 acres, just minutes from the town of Taos. We specialize in Permaculture . Yurt on site for stretching, yoga , working out. Check us out: www.harmonytaosfarm.com. Come enjoy the butterflies, raptors, magpies and hummingbirds fluttering throughout the orchards, ponderosas, vegetable gardens, and flowers on our organic community farm. Join us for camping, soup nights, ceremonies, yoga, dance (in the new yurt) Latest Offerings: DM Anastasia if you would like an intuitive reading and clearing. 90 minutes long. RENT THE ENTIRE PROPERTY FOR EVENTS: DM host for availability & rates. Pitch your tent, stay in our yurt at of our 3 mountain view campsites or rent the garden cottage bedroom, located on the lush grounds of our regenerative agriculture farm and gardens. Rest and rejuvenate in this quiet haven, nestled below the canyon yet just minutes from town. All Sites have access to a beautifully equipped bathhouse, tables, and an outdoor cold water washing area . Campsite UNO: Uno fits small trailer and/ or a RV. You will need to be proficient at backing it into position. This site can accommodate two vehicles. Campsite DOS: It is large enough for a sprinter or small camper van. You can pull right in. You will need to back out to depart. It now accommodates two vehicles (two cars, a sprinter and a car, a car with teardrop and another car.) Glampimg Mtn View . Walk-in approx 40 paces. Very Private . Twin bamboo mattresses on frames off ground. Can be converted to king. byo bedding. Charge phones in the bathhouse. There are no electrical hook ups. EVENTS: Harmony Taos Farm is avail for day long/weekend events. Weddings, family gatherings. There are 4 types of accommodations (hotels, lodges, Inns, rental homes) within 1 mile of property as well as more tent sites than listed above. Host can help arrange catering, flowers, music, rentals, etc. Things to know: This is the hosts homesite and farm. You will be camping near host's home. We welcome all; grounds are community shared spaces with outlets under porticos for laptops.
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Camp Darkmoon

3. Camp Darkmoon

100%
(108)
Belen, NM · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging
Camp Darkmoon is a living example of alternative architecture and the off-grid lifestyle. On site are a handful of earthen structures. Lodging and tent site are available to book. 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. We live on-site, so holler if you need anything! Otherwise, we'll give you total privacy.
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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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Lincoln National Forest

5. Lincoln National Forest

92%
(31)
National forest in New Mexico · 386 sites
Lincoln National Forest is a delight for the senses! Gaze upon cacti, smell the spruce at the top of the Sierra Blanca mountains, and feel the cool water on your skin relaxing at Sitting Bull Falls. With a range of elevation comes a range of activities; trails for both beginner and experienced hikers or hop on your horse and explore Dog Canyon Trail that traverses up over 2,000 feet (gnarly!). Camping is cushy and available year round, allowing you to experience the vast array of wildflowers at Bluff Springs in the springtime, or surf the snow in the winter at Ski Apache. With scenic mountain views, ranger programs to brush up on the area, and easy access to the town of Ruidoso, Lincoln is a mountain lovers dream without the crowds!
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Star Gazer Ranch

6. Star Gazer Ranch

97%
(284)
Tohajiilee, 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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Mesa Top camping

7. Mesa Top camping

96%
(207)
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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River Sanctuary by Ojo Hot Springs

8. River Sanctuary by Ojo Hot Springs

96%
(218)
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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Walk to Concerts|Power/Water!

9. Walk to Concerts|Power/Water!

96%
(24)
Albuquerque, NM · 1 site · Tent, RV
Less than a mile to Downtown with all the urban amenities nearby, this spot is also tucked away and shaded for most of the afternoon. It is part of my short term rental compound that I've been creating since 2020 in the historic Barelas neighborhood of Albuquerque. Lock your RV/vehicle in and exit through the pedestrian gate. Enjoy the common areas and your own private yard with table and grill. This is urban van life at its best!!
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Santa Fe National Forest

10. Santa Fe National Forest

94%
(45)
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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Bandelier National Monument

11. 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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Rockhound State Park

12. Rockhound State Park

100%
(3)
State park in New Mexico · 5 sites
Discover the scenic trails and diverse wildlife at Rockhound State Park.
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Cibola National Forest

13. Cibola National Forest

83%
(9)
National forest in New Mexico · 245 sites
America the beautiful, indeed! Don’t miss out on the wild and scenic slice of New Mexico.
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Healing on the Rio Grande !

14. Healing on the Rio Grande !

95%
(307)
Albuquerque, NM · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Come to New Mexico ! The Land of Enchantment. Sing Chants to the Moon, The Sun, The Rain, The Stars , The Beautiful Land and the Ancestors ! We won , an award with Hipcamp, Best of 2023 !!!! We are so happy to Host . Come enjoy organic . Urban Permaculture . Awesome, thanks for loving on our peaceful garden. It is an honor to serve the traveler, the camper, sweet tourist , wild vacationer , folks visiting friends and family , the many folks who explore and folks on grand adventures. We love to camp as well. . We have a lot to offer. Our place is good for folks who work on the road, Great WIFI ! Easy to manage a job while on the road . Our Space is in the heart of the Griegos Neighborhood , A very old style , old world area. Safe area. Hispanic families have lived here since 1712, no joke, that is real. Rural feel for an urban / suburban setting , space space, off street parking. We are NOT an RV park nor are we a " camp ground " . We Are an Organic Garden ( Urban Permaculture ) that you can stay inside a magical, growing goodness space . This place is very, very private . The parking area is not private . Our road is dead end , very low traffic . The garden wall around the whole tent area has a 6 foot tall , very thick wall , and trees , surrounding every thing. There is a forest and pond for ducks behind the garden . Our place is for Wildlife, to be fed, and given water and safe space to raise young. We are located in an area where the birds of the world fly from the north to the south and then change direction each season. Many lizards . Many wild mammals . There are many farms in the area. With Horses , goats , chickens , ducks , mules, donkeys , other livestock . We have no pets and no livestock. At night this is dark ( we do have solar lights on walk ways ) and it is peaceful. A safe zone for travelers . Serene , gentle and lovely . You get your privacy . New Mexico is so amazing, all year . We have inside space in Fall / Winter . Welcome to Mother Bosque Garden . Started in Corrales NM in 2010 . We are in the North valley of Albuquerque New Mexico 87107. The same families have lived here for 100, 200, 300 plus years . 1000s of years . Native people have lived in this valley for close to 20,000 years more . The Rio Grande is very close by ( 2 miles west of us ) bike or by car . We are close to route 40 and route 25, just 7 mins. away . There is a Food Co-op with in a 5 mins. drive . And a regular store and gas within one mile of our place. Come eat Traditional New Mexican Foods and Heal with Very Living Traditional New Mexican Herbal Medicines . Relax, rest, find repose. Happy travels, happy hiking, happy sleeping under the stars, happy home made food, happy resting. Old Town is close by, so is the Rio Grande River So many things in our area to see, to do, learn history . Awesome food, music and arts/ crafts, everywhere. So much activity all over. SO MANY CULTURES and Languages , so much diversity !
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Juniper Mesa Camp

15. Juniper Mesa Camp

99%
(78)
Abiquiu, NM · 2 sites
Remnants of the ancient Tewa culture accompany breathtaking views of the Sangre de Cristo range to the east, Jemez range and village of Abiquiu to the south. On the north, vast dramatic views of the Plaza Blanca, stretch out toward the towering Sierra Negra peak. A few acres of short juniper forest top the mesa, leaving the sky wide open for stargazing. An easy 10 minute drive to Bode's general store, dollar store, Cafe Sierra Negra, Abiquiu Inn, 15 to Abiquiu Lake, and 20 to Ghost Ranch, 10 miles off.
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Sleeping Bear Canyon

16. Sleeping Bear Canyon

100%
(11)
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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Desert Rose Stopover

17. Desert Rose Stopover

100%
(146)
Roswell, NM · 1 site
5 acres bordered by pecan trees. Level area, cement slab, large trees on site. We have recently added gravel to the parking area. Water, septic, electricity provided. NO BATHROOM FACILITIES available, please bring your own if car camping. No human waste allowed in site trash bin. 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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Nakation Getaway

18. Nakation Getaway

99%
(99)
La Plata, NM · 11 sites · Tents, RVs
Bare your soul (and everything else) in the Desert. Please read the full description. Step out of your tent and feel the sun kiss your cheeks…all of them. This is a private, Adult-Only (18+) clothing-optional dry tent camping experience designed for those who want to strip away the noise of the world. Because we are a hidden gem and still growing, there is a high chance that you will have the horizon to yourself. Imagine a morning coffee or sunset stroll where the only other living soul you might see are the hawks and the bunnies. We are a work in progress with a mission: turning one man’s trash into campground treasures. We work to upcycle as many materials as possible, including a former football field turned grassy landing sites for tents and RV’s. Solar showers from recycled pallets. Signage created from old drill pipe and bed boards. Our 15 acres butts up against some BLM land offering more terrain to explore in the buff. When you’re done exploring, cool off with a skinny dip in our 16’ x 32’ above ground pool. Or just lounge in the sun and work on your tan. Gateway to the 4 Corners: Within 45 minutes (New Mexico): • World-class fishing at San Juan Quality Waters, or a day at Navajo Lake State Park, or Farmington Lake. • Step back in time at Aztec Ruins, Salmon Ruins or Jackson Lake Wildlife Refuge. • Grab a tube for a fun afternoon on the Animas River Within 60 minutes (Colorado): • Hike or drive LaPlata Canyon (only 30 minutes away!) or have an adventure at Purgatory Ski Resort. • Visit world-famous Mesa Verde National Park, Canyon of the Ancients or Chimney Rock. • Check out Lake Nighthorse • Spend a day in Historical Downtown Durango. If you’re looking for a crowd, you’ll have to bring it with you. If you want a quiet, liberating sanctuary where you can be your most authentic self, we can’t wait to host you.
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Heaven or Taos 🪐

19. Heaven or Taos 🪐

97%
(100)
San Cristobal, NM · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
We offer discounts for stays over 14 days! It is an incredible little gem right off the highway in San Cristobal, 8 miles north of Taos. Best of both worlds, with direct access to trails and also the ability to hop onto the enchanted circle (road next to sites) to explore all the Taos county has to offer. RV/tent spots have running water and electricity/hook-ups, something that is incredibly rare considering the views/forest accessibility. Vast, breathtaking views of the Sangre de Cristos mountains to one side and if you follow the national forest trail in our backyard to the top of the hill, beautiful views of the gorge on the other side. Easy access to the midtown market, where you can pick up breakfast burritos, beer, drinks, and limited supplies for camping. Wake up to mountains, hiking, and breakfast burritos that will make you ask yourself, “Is this heaven or Taos?”
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Horse-Thief Campground

20. Horse-Thief Campground

86%
(141)
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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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field