Mountainous camping in New Mexico

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

95% (6037 reviews)
  1. New Mexico
95% (6037 reviews)

Popular camping styles for New Mexico

Community favorites in New Mexico

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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Under $50

12 top mountainous campgrounds in New Mexico

98%
(1446)

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. 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 available for everyone who stays on the property. 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.
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$25
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99%
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Enchanted Circle Campground (E<<)

13 sites · RVs, Tents161 acres · Angel Fire, NM
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 (but 7) 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.
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$67.50
 / night
95%
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Camp Rio

57 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents9 acres · Mayhill, NM
Camp Rio, formerly named Camp @ Cloudcroft is located in beautiful SE New Mexico! The 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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$40
 / night

Southern Rockies Camp & Retreat

5 sites · Lodging10 acres · Sacramento, NM
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.
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$79
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99%
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Dragonfly Mountain Ranch

7 sites · RVs, Tents300 acres · Arroyo Seco, NM
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, and we have a variety of campsites to accommodate various needs and tastes. 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/restaurants 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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$25
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97%
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Agua de Vida

10 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · NM
This charming land has been in the family since my husband was a young boy. The Indian ruins and artifacts fascinated him then and he is still happy to share this history with whoever shows an interest. With all the improvements made by his father and family through the years, you will also learn to have a love for the history and beauty here on this unique 30-acre treasure. You can explore Native American ruins that were inhabited by some 2,000 people between 700-1100 AD. The grounds are wonderful to walk with a little lake which draws elk, deer, hawks, blue herons, etc. Easy to access just 3 minutes off I-25. We are 5 minutes away from the Pecos Natl Monument and 15 minutes away from the Pecos River with plenty of great fishing spots ;Visit Santa Fe (20-minute drive) or Las Vegas (30-minute drive) with dozens of restaurants, museums, art galleries, etc. We look forward to your stay!
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$35
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99%
(799)

Mystical & Enchanted Desert Escape

9 sites · Tents50 acres · Youngsville, NM
Discover the magic of Star Dance High Desert Retreat—a serene haven nestled in New Mexico’s breathtaking high desert. Here, expansive views of rugged canyons, majestic mountains, and a starlit sky set the stage for an unforgettable escape. Whether you choose the convenience of a car camping spot or the secluded charm of a tent site, every space is thoughtfully designed to immerse you in nature’s splendor. At Star Dance, modern comforts blend seamlessly with the wild beauty of the desert. Enjoy a fully stocked, well-equipped kitchen perfect for preparing a cozy meal, and experience the luxury of clean, inviting bathrooms. Imagine stepping into an outdoor shower framed by stunning mountain vistas or relaxing in a hot tub under a canopy of twinkling stars. The retreat’s peaceful atmosphere and gentle, healing energy have touched the hearts of many. Guests have described their stays as “magical,” “healing,” and “beyond words” as they connect with the landscape and embrace the soulful ambiance of the high desert. With warm, welcoming hosts who add personal, thoughtful touches, Star Dance is more than just a place to camp—it’s a sanctuary where nature, comfort, and inspiration dance together. Step into a world of tranquility and wonder at Star Dance High Desert Retreat, and let the beauty of the desert soothe your spirit. Star Dance provides a secluded experience for travelers, artists, fishermen, birdwatchers, stargazers, and more. Star Dance sits above the upper Rio Chama canyons on 30 acres of trails and undisturbed natural terrain. **ATTENTION POTENTIAL GUESTS** Recently we've had a rash of guests who, either through the difficulties with using the mobile app or just not reading our provided information, have been arriving passed our check in time. We require guests to arrive no later than an hour before sundown (summer 7:30pm - winter 5:00pm) We require this because we are very rural and our sites are not lit to keep our property natural and prevent light pollution for ourselves and our neighbors. In the past we've issued refunds for people who have neglected this rule. We will no longer be doing so in the future.
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$50
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HarmonyTaos Regenerative Farm

6 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Taos, NM
Harmony Taos is a regenerative farm located on approximately 4 acres, just minutes from the town of Taos. We specialize in Permaculture . 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, monthly soup nights, ceremonies, cultural events Latest Offerings: DM Anastasia if you would like an intuitive reading and clearing. 90 minutes long. RENT THE ENTIRE PROPERTY: DM the host for availability and rates. Pitch your tent at of our 2 drive-in mountain view campsites, 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. Sites Uno and Dos has access to a beautifully equipped bathhouse, picnic 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 Campsite Uno. 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 Site : Deluxe bamboo encased memory foam king bed (breaks down to two twin beds). Stellar views of the mountains . BYO bedding or DM host for full sheets and towels set up. Charge phones in the bathrouse. but there are no dedicated electrical hook ups. However, you can text the owner if you want to use a converter and access a nearby outlet with your extension cord for additional fee (Site Uno only). EVENTS: Harmony Taos Farm is open in 2025 for day long or weekend events. Weddings, family gatherings. There are 4 types of accommodations (hotels, lodges, Inns, rental homes) within 1 mile of the property for your wedding and invite guests who require a hotel etc. And of course there are plenty of tent sites available at Harmony. Harmony host Anastasia can also arrange for catering, flowers, music, party rentals, etc. Things to know: This is the hosts homesite and farm. You will be camping near the host's actual home.
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$48
 / night
95%
(263)

Healing on the Rio Grande !

20 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents1 acre · Albuquerque, NM
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. BE OUTSIDE ! Heal from Nature . 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 . Eat flowers and herbs. There is a great herb store , herbal clinic and more . Just down the road, called, RED ROOT , next to the Food Co-op on Rio Grande Blvd. Our Space is in the heart of the Griegos Neighborhood , A very old style , old world area. Safe area. Same 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 and Nature Center ( 2 miles up the street ) . 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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$45
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Creekside Glamping Tipis on Off-Grid, 70 Acre Working Ranch

6 sites · Lodging70 acres · 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.
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$114.40
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Other options in New Mexico

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

Mountainous camping in New Mexico 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.