The best forest camping in New Mexico

·

Looking for a camping experience surrounded by lush forests in New Mexico? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 1000 options to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect campsite that suits your needs. Whether you're interested in staying in a treehouse, campground, or high desert retreat, we have it all. Our top campsites, such as Santa Fe Treehouse Camp (512 reviews), Enchanted Circle Campground (397 reviews), and Star Dance High Desert Retreat (271 reviews), have received rave reviews from fellow campers. Plus, with popular amenities like showers, pet-friendly accommodations, and trash services, your camping experience will be comfortable and convenient. And don't forget the exciting activities you can enjoy, like biking, hiking, and whitewater paddling. So pack your bags, grab your gear, and get ready for an unforgettable camping adventure in New Mexico's forests!

97% (4.6K) • 2,617 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in New Mexico

Santa Fe Treehouse Camp & Wilderness Preserve

1. Santa Fe Treehouse Camp & Wilderness Preserve

98%
(1501)
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Art City Camp & RV Tucumcari

2. Art City Camp & RV Tucumcari

99%
(315)
Tucumcari, NM · 38 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Nestled along the historic Route 66 in Tucumcari, NM, our unique Big Art sculpture park and glamping destination offers an immersive art experience in the heart of nature. Our site features 4 large-scale sculptures crafted by internationally renowned artists, making it an ideal backdrop for photography and a source of creative inspiration. Art City Camp & RV Retreat is re-opening under new ownership. Most of the art displayed in these pictures have been moved to new permanent locations. These pictures display the creative and grand past of what made Art City a must see destination. Ownership is working diligently to bring back the art, sculptures and structures to Art City, and again add to it's unique setting. Guests can indulge in luxury with our on-site amenities including outdoor showers, flush toilets, and hammocks 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 when available. For convenience and comfort, the site includes bathrooms complete with sinks, 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. Make Art City your destination to get away and relax, as well as host your special event or party.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
HarmonyTaos Regenerative Farm

3. HarmonyTaos Regenerative Farm

96%
(278)
Taos, NM · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Book now for Oct and Nov. 2026! Camping season ends Nov 30, 2026. Don’t book after 11/30/26 please as Bathhouse shuts down til March 2027. 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. Search wwwHarmonytaosfarm to find out more about us. 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.) Glamping 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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
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!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Gila National Forest

5. Gila National Forest

93%
(27)
National forest in New Mexico · 304 sites
Explore some of the most secluded regions of the American Southwest.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Enchanted Circle Campground (E<<)

6. Enchanted Circle Campground (E<<)

99%
(986)
Angel Fire, NM · 9 sites · Tents, RVs
The Enchanted Circle Campground sits on the Avalon Ranch. It is 161 owned acres surrounded by a state trust lease. We are very proud to have been voted #1 Campground in NM 4 years in a row and ranked Top 5 by Forbes in the country. We have 8 Sites to choose from. (No large RVs at 4, 7 or 8) Campfires are permitted, and pets are welcome. Free potable water is available as well as a portable toilet. For cooking, you will have a fire pit, with a cast iron grill. Every site has a standing charcoal grill, with tongs, a spatula and a grill brush. A fire extinguisher and a shovel. We hang a hand washing jug at every site for your convenience, with potable water, but do not suggest this for drinking water source. The property was originally homesteaded in 1893. It was also the first potato farm in NM. It has seven ground-fed springs that run year-round and is officially the Coyote Creeks Headwaters. The springs converge after filling 4 of our ponds in the marshland where the potatoes were grown. A family of 4 lived in the first dwelling built here, not much larger than a shed. Since that time, 2 homes, 1 of which still stands, a barn, a smokehouse, and 4 other outbuildings were constructed. There are old wagons and farm equipment from the late 1800s and early 1900's still strewn about the ranch. We are home to Huge herds of Elk, mule deer, turkeys, prairie dogs, eagles, black bears, 9 horses, chickens, pigs, goats, our 2 dogs and 4 cats, and the occasional Mountain Lion. We live here year-round. We love our land and want to share it with others. I am a Veteran and our intent is to eventually have a Veterans Retreat facility here. Not a retreat itself, but rather a location for all of the retreats, nationwide, to be able to utilize, so they can use the funds they have to do what they do best. You are helping to make that possible. We do pride ourselves on minimally impacting our land. We strive to keep it clean and as close to nature as we can. And as always, Veterans, LEOs, and Fire Fighters are always free for one night up to 4 guests. Just book your reservation, and show us your ID during your stay, and we will reimburse you for your last night with us.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Dragonfly Mountain Ranch

7. Dragonfly Mountain Ranch

98%
(95)
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
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Southern Rockies Camp & Cabins

8. Southern Rockies Camp & Cabins

100%
(12)
Sacramento, NM · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Fully equipped cabins, hotel style rooms, glamper, bunkhouses and primitive tent sites. For groups, consider reserving our recreation, hall and commercial kitchen. Southern Rockies camp is the perfect destination for family reunions, club ATV groups or a getaway family or couples retreat. Situated at 8200 feet in the tall pines of the Sacramento mountains just 2 1/2 hours from an international airport makes this refuge a must stay opportunity. All the conveniences with fully equipped cabins and WIFI or bring your own tent and sleep under the stars. The camp is central to over 400 miles of hiking, biking, horseback riding, ATV trails. Area attractions include the historic community of Cloudcroft, New Mexico, The White Sands National Park, Space History Museum, Sunspot Observatory and loads of wildlife. Short drive to golfing, swimming, fishing, and waterfalls. Endless trails beckon our guests to explore the wonders of this magnificent forest. Pets ok with permission Closed during winter months. Reservations are subject to availability.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Camp Rio

9. Camp Rio

94%
(299)
Mayhill, NM · 48 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.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Lincoln National Forest

10. Lincoln National Forest

92%
(32)
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!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Santa Fe National Forest

11. Santa Fe National Forest

95%
(49)
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!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
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
Campfires
Potable water
River Sanctuary by Ojo Hot Springs

14. River Sanctuary by Ojo Hot Springs

96%
(201)
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Sleeping Bear Canyon

15. Sleeping Bear Canyon

100%
(16)
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Heaven or Taos 🪐

16. Heaven or Taos 🪐

97%
(111)
San Cristobal, NM · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
We offer discounts for stays over 14 days! It is an incredible little gem right off the Enchanted Circle 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?”
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Jemez Mountains A-Frame Cabin

17. Jemez Mountains A-Frame Cabin

97%
(47)
Jemez Springs, NM · 1 site
We are excited to share our little A-frame cabin in the woods! The cabin is quite rustic ( and quite cute). Think of it like glamping -- outhouse, wood burning stove, dirt roads, and beautiful trees and mountains included. If you want a hotel experience, this is (delightfully) not it. We are in the woods, and with that comes... nature! If you're okay with the occasional spider, and love the idea of a casual, down home family cabin experience, this is the perfect place for you. The cabin is a 432 square foot A-frame in a small mountain community, which is surrounded by the Jemez National Forest. There are a few places to hike right from the front door, and many, many trailheads within a 20 minute drive. Fenton Lake is a short drive away, and the San Antonio Hot Springs is a 2.5 mile hike, bike, or ski away right out the front door for the confident adventurer. Located 1.5 hours from Albuquerque and Santa Fe, a few miles off of NM-4 between the town of Jemez Springs and the Valles Caldera National Preserve. No outdoor fires in the fire pit are permitted at this time. As of April 10th, 2026 water is on and running, potable water is available.
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
Perry Farms RV Park

18. Perry Farms RV Park

93%
(72)
San Antonio, NM · 15 sites · Tents, RVs
Perry Farms is the home place of the Perry Family, established in 1980, and provided much open space for the children to grow and play. It is located in the northern edges of the Chihuahuan Desert. Native fauna and flora as well as beautiful blue skies, with millions of stars provide peaceful, quiet moments of nature. Learn more about this land: Desert Camp consists of six RV spots with full hookups (electricity-30 and 50 amp, septic, water, and WIFI) and 11 unimproved tent camping areas on family property of Perry Farms. There are no restroom or shower facilities. This is a smoke-free zone, however, you may smoke in your trailer/camper. The land has arroyos, mesas, lots of flat areas to car camp, pitch a tent or sleep on the ground under the beautiful, dark New Mexico skies. There are also a few places to hang a hammock.&nbsp; To the west, there are miles and miles to hike, mountain bike, or just enjoy the view of the Magdalena Mountains.&nbsp; Neighbors are quiet and you can choose a spot away from anyone. Spaces 1-5 are pull-through spaces, Space 6 is back-in.
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
Blue Water Camp And Boondocking

19. Blue Water Camp And Boondocking

91%
(11)
Bluewater Acres, NM · 1 site · Tent, RV
Escape to a secluded and peaceful property surrounded by tall trees and flat terrain—perfect for both tent and RV camping. Just 7 miles off I-40 at the Thoreau exit, the site is easily accessible for any type of vehicle. A convenient pull-around loop which makes setting up camp simple. Only 5 minutes from Bluewater Lake State Park, you can spend your day fishing, boating, or hiking, then return to your own quiet, scenic forest retreat. Park your RV right on the loop or just off it on level ground, and soak in the tranquility of nature.
Pets
Potable water
Mesa Top camping

20. Mesa Top camping

96%
(211)
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

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