The best family-friendly glamping in New Mexico

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.

97% (1.5K)

Top-rated campgrounds

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.

97% (1.5K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. El Mistico

96%

(42)

7 sites · Lodging · Nogal, NM

Unplug from the city to soak up in nature and experience El Mistico Ranch. El Mistico Ranch consist of 30 acres of natural high desert land with natural spring waters, nearby Lincoln National Forest as our next door neighbor, you are actually just a short drive to Capitan for basic services and shopping; Ruidoso for arts, golf, dining, skiing, and more. The climate is mild here and the property is vegetated with pinon pine, juniper, and a variety of cacti. We're delighted to introduce you to Chester, our friendly Saint Bernard. At just a year old, Chester is a gentle giant with a heart of gold, spreading joy to all who visit. Chester not only brings warmth and joy to our guests but also plays an important role in taking care of the property. He roams around the ranch, ensuring that everything is in order and providing a sense of security to our guests. Sometimes, he even accompanies guests to their units to ensure they arrive safely.

2. Camp Rio

94%

(290)

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.

3. Santa Fe Treehouse Camp & Wilderness Preserve

98%

(1647)

58 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Santa Fe, NM

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. 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, Qigong, Climbing Into The Heart of the Mother Tree, Star talks and more! 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.

4. Big Little Hideaway

99%

(68)

3 sites · Lodging · Taos, NM

We call it Big Little Hideaway and it will take you about 30 seconds upon arriving to discover why. My wife and I had been coming to Taos to ski for years and years and always felt at home, but it was a Summer trip that made us realize how much our souls belong here. My wife envisioned a property with a beautiful gate so that it feels like a courtyard (And she got it!) and after visiting the hot springs we knew this was The Spot!This is perfect if you're looking for a little bit of everything; mountain views, minutes away from hiking, paddle boarding, hot springs, skiing, and endless roads and beauty to explore. We're 15 minutes away from Taos and Arroyo Secco where you can enjoy great food, galleries and shopping, and 30 minutes away from the awesome Taos Ski Valley.Ideal for couples or families of 4 or close friends.

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

99%

(119)

6 sites · Lodging · Tres Piedras, NM

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.

Stories from the community

The Rainbow connection is a well designed tiny home we purchased new in 2021 and put it out on our land. We love the simplicity of this tiny home.

Natalya

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Big Little Hideaway

Adorable peaceful respite just 15 minutes from Taos. Ideal for 2 people needing a home base to run, hike, and explore. Hosts very proactive and responsive with instructions and communication. Would definitely go back!

Kamber

October 2025

With pets

1 night at Creekside Glamping Tipis on Off-Grid, 70 Acre Working Ranch

If I died and came back as a wildflower I would want to be here. Creekside! Very kind people and very accommodating! Magical experience!

G

Gretchen

October 2025

With kids

2 nights at Big Little Hideaway

Loved this tiny getaway home and how close it was to Taos attractions! The home itself is very nice and comfortable. We were 4 adults (including 2 seniors) and a child and it was perfect! Since there are several homes on the property, we will consider coming back next time with friends!

M

Malinda

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Creekside Glamping Tipis on Off-Grid, 70 Acre Working Ranch

Traveling cross country for 3 weeks, I have stayed at a few places and this is one of my favorites! The location is beyond beautiful. Creekside with foot bridges, tipi had everything I needed and MORE! The cows and horses were fun to watch and the hammock next to my tipi beside the creek was so relaxing. I could actually see the Milky Way. Lastly the hosts were so friendly and helpful. Bringing me extra firewood for the awesome stone fire pit I forgot to mention that has beautiful wooden rocking chairs. It’s beyond amazing and unbelievably priced.

Lindsey

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Santa Fe Treehouse Camp & Wilderness Preserve

The Tecolotes are amazing and the camp hosts are all very welcoming and friendly. Highly recommend this place. It has everything you need and is a wonderful place to disconnect.

J

James

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Creekside Glamping Tipis on Off-Grid, 70 Acre Working Ranch

I love this land in the Tusas Valley - the sounds of elks bugling, coyotes calling, and the Rio Tusas running nearby... Deborah is such a personable and attentive host but never intrusive. The restaurant her family owns over in Tres Piedras is a treasure too. I have stayed in both the yurt and tipis, and they are clean and fitted out with everything you need. Me and my dog were happy to return

M

MJ

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Santa Fe Treehouse Camp & Wilderness Preserve

Ciana and Brad have a wonderful property with terrific sites and views and all the accommodations needed to make a trip into the outdoors fun and enjoyable. Great place, great hosts. Grateful!

Jo Ann

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Santa Fe Treehouse Camp & Wilderness Preserve

We loved staying at Pegasus 1! Great fire pit, comfy beds, cool night breezes. We’ll be back!

M

Michael

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Big Little Hideaway

We loved staying at the Rainbow Connection in the Big Little Hideaway. The tiny home was quite comfortable and filled with all the amenities we could need. We are already planning a return visit next year.

E

Erika

October 2025

Group trip

2 nights at Santa Fe Treehouse Camp & Wilderness Preserve

Beautiful place. I’m going to stay longer the next time. The tree house is big and clean. Mattress are good. The kitchen and Comunity areas are big, clean, and have everything that you need. Kid and dog friendly. You can hike, archery, or just relax. Easy to arrive. Wonderful views.

S

Sara

October 2025

1 night at Creekside Glamping Tipis on Off-Grid, 70 Acre Working Ranch

We loved everything about staying here. The view and amenities were great and the host was very responsive and kind.

J

John

October 2025

1 night at Creekside Glamping Tipis on Off-Grid, 70 Acre Working Ranch

One of the most lovely places I’ve ever visited! Thank you so much I would highly recommend and I would love to visit again.

A

Ashley

October 2025

With kids

1 night at Santa Fe Treehouse Camp & Wilderness Preserve

We loved this intentional and creative spot! The treehouse is roomy and all the beds were comfortable- my kids loved the hanging bunks. It was a fun change from all the tent camping we were doing on our road trip through New Mexico and we appreciated the bathhouse and kitchen spaces. It’s a beautiful and serene area and Ciana was wonderfully welcoming and helpful with getting us settled in. We definitely recommended the treehouse!

Allegra

October 2025

With kids

2 nights at Santa Fe Treehouse Camp & Wilderness Preserve

Beautiful and peaceful land and wonderful hosts! We will be back for sure.

H

Harold

October 2025

Group trip

5 nights at Santa Fe Treehouse Camp & Wilderness Preserve

Incredible place!! So peaceful and well set up. Beautiful views and great accommodation

I

Isabel

October 2025

With kids

3 nights at El Mistico

This place exceeded my expectations! It was such a neat place to stay, very cut, clean, and had all the amenities we needed. What I loved the most is that the whole building and every room felt like a piece of art. From the wall trims and grout choice to the pieces hanging on the wall. Every single detail seemed carefully curated so that it felt as if I was staying in a work of art. 10/10

D

Diane

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Creekside Glamping Tipis on Off-Grid, 70 Acre Working Ranch

Such a beautiful place. The views are in incredible. We could see the Milky Way and shooting stars at night by the campfire. Listening to the creek and watching the cows and horses was so relaxing. The campsite was well provisioned and comfortable. When Deb said all you need to bring is yourselves and your food she wasn’t kidding. Wonderful, friendly hosts! The nights were cool but we were warm enough with the campstove and covers provided. After a drive one day we ordered carry out from the Chili Line Depot which was so good we stopped in again for breakfast the day we left. Chili Line had helpful friendly staff, too. We hope to visit this amazing ‘Glamp’ site again in the spring.

T

Tony

September 2025

3 nights at Big Little Hideaway

Very nicely appointed tiny house. Great location. Best part was proximity to Rio Grande Gorge for wading, hot springs, stargazing in total darkness.

Kathryn

September 2025

With pets

2 nights at Creekside Glamping Tipis on Off-Grid, 70 Acre Working Ranch

Nice getaway… by running creek, canoe to putz around pond, bathrooms and grill and stove to cook with. Was happy to be in glam tent when rains came… kept warm with pellet stove. Host very acccomodating

D

Debra

September 2025

2 nights at Big Little Hideaway

This tiny home was adorable! They appointed it with such nice touches and it was so comfortable to sleep in. We enjoyed our stay so much! The hosts were so accommodating too. Very kind people!

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best family-friendly glamping in New Mexico 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.