The best river, stream, or creek RV campgrounds near Capitan, New Mexico

Camping near Capitan, New Mexico just got better with Hipcamp - the go-to website for outdoor enthusiasts. With over 280 options available that cater to RV campers who prefer to be near rivers, you'll be spoiled for choice. The average price per night is $35, and options start as low as $10. Top-rated campsites include Hot Springs Glamp Camp (101 reviews), Camp Rio (95 reviews), and Dusty Rabbit Van Life (53 reviews). Popular amenities include trash, campfires, and pets. Popular activities include visiting historic sites, fishing, and off-roading (OHV).

97% (214)

Top-rated campgrounds

Camping near Capitan, New Mexico just got better with Hipcamp - the go-to website for outdoor enthusiasts. With over 280 options available that cater to RV campers who prefer to be near rivers, you'll be spoiled for choice. The average price per night is $35, and options start as low as $10. Top-rated campsites include Hot Springs Glamp Camp (101 reviews), Camp Rio (95 reviews), and Dusty Rabbit Van Life (53 reviews). Popular amenities include trash, campfires, and pets. Popular activities include visiting historic sites, fishing, and off-roading (OHV).

97% (214)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Camp Rio

94%

(290)

46mi from Capitan · 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.

2. Bonito Hollow RV Park and Campground

100%

(4)

7.8mi from Capitan · 45 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Alto, NM

Discover the unique charm of Bonito Hollow RV Park and Campground, your ultimate vacation destination nestled in the heart of Lincoln National Forest, surrounded by the legendary tales of Smokey Bear and Billy the Kid. This privately owned campground spans 12 scenic acres along the tranquil Rio Bonito, offering a peaceful retreat just minutes from the vibrant attractions of Ruidoso, including delightful restaurants, shopping, nightlife, skiing, and horse racing. Additionally, the stunning Bonito Lake is only 3 miles away, making it an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts. At Bonito Hollow, you can unwind and create lasting memories with family and friends or enjoy a serene solo getaway. Engage in a variety of outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking along nature trails, and observing the diverse wildlife and bird species that call this area home. Let the soothing sounds of the Rio Bonito lull you to sleep each night, enhancing your camping experience. Marshall and Christina Thompson, along with our friendly camp hosts, are eager to welcome you and ensure your stay is filled with positive memories that will last for many seasons. Happy Camping and Safe Travels!

3. River Ranch RV Park

14mi from Capitan · 54 sites · Ruidoso Downs, NM

Discover the unique charm of River Ranch RV Park & Campground, nestled along the picturesque Rio Ruidoso River. This stunning natural setting provides a perfect blend of tranquility and modern amenities, ensuring an exceptional camping experience for all visitors. Here, you can immerse yourself in a variety of outdoor activities, including camping, hiking, fishing, and biking. The park's serene environment allows for peaceful relaxation while still offering the excitement of adventure. Conveniently located just 8 miles east of Ruidoso Downs, River Ranch is minutes away from shopping, fine dining, and the thrilling Ruidoso Downs Racing. Whether you’re seeking warm days or cool nights, this campground is an ideal escape throughout the seasons. Enjoy the beauty of nature and the comfort of modern facilities at River Ranch RV Park & Campground.

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4. Moonflower Meadow RV Resort

14mi from Capitan · 21 sites · San Patricio, NM

Moonflower Meadow RV Resort stands out as a hidden gem in San Patricio, New Mexico, offering visitors a serene escape across 8.5 stunning acres. The property is bordered by the picturesque Rio Ruidoso, which flows along the entire south side, providing breathtaking mountain views complemented by lush trees and vibrant flowers. Guests can immerse themselves in a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing, hunting, wildlife viewing, and scenic drives. For those looking to celebrate special occasions, Moonflower Meadow is an ideal venue for weddings, family reunions, class reunions, or any memorable outdoor event. Our onsite florist and party planner are dedicated to helping you create unforgettable experiences. The resort features 13 full hookup sites with 30/50 amp service, ensuring a comfortable stay. The shade provided by willow and cottonwood trees enhances the tranquil atmosphere, while the open slat fence offers privacy for your gatherings. Whether you're planning a short getaway or a longer stay, Moonflower Meadow is committed to making your visit exceptional. Please note that we no longer offer a bathhouse, so your RV must have a fully functioning restroom. To ensure a smooth arrival, please check in at least 30 minutes before sunset or by 6 PM, whichever comes first. We look forward to

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Public campgrounds near Capitan

Sierra Blanca from Windy Point (copyright Jeff Rauland)

100%

(1)

Monjeau Lookout

11mi from Capitan · 1 site · Tent, RV · in Lincoln National Forest

100%

(1)

South Fork Campground

11mi from Capitan · 61 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lincoln National Forest

100%

(1)

Oak Grove Campground

13mi from Capitan · 30 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lincoln National Forest

100%

(2)

Sam Tobias Memorial Group Campground

13mi from Capitan · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lincoln National Forest

100%

(1)

Baca Campground

14mi from Capitan · 15 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lincoln National Forest

94%

(10)

Three Rivers Campground

19mi from Capitan · 14 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lincoln National Forest

Silver Overflow Campground

40mi from Capitan · 52 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lincoln National Forest

Silver Campground and Amphitheater

40mi from Capitan · 30 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lincoln National Forest

Saddle Campground

40mi from Capitan · 16 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lincoln National Forest

Upper Fir Group Campground

40mi from Capitan · 1 site · Tent, RV · in Lincoln National Forest

Lower Fir Group Campground

40mi from Capitan · 1 site · Tent, RV · in Lincoln National Forest

Apache Campground

40mi from Capitan · 25 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lincoln National Forest

Stories from the community

T

Tishal

October 2025

36 ft fifth wheel

With pets

3 nights at Camp Rio

Camp Rio was a cool place. Nice and secluded in the mountains.

Cody

July 2025

36 ft Class A

With pets

2 nights at Camp Rio

This is a mixed site campground with some small and some spacious accommodations. Owners are very hands on and approachable. Our pack of six dogs in our 36' Class A were welcomed to join us! We already have another trip up booked for October in another site with more room. Site 11 is small but has a wonderful shade tree on the camp side.

E

Earl

June 2025

21 ft travel trailer

With pets

4 nights at Bonito Hollow RV Park and Campground

Campground was great! Helpful staff and friendly people. A true hidden gem. We plan on another trip this year.

Charlie

May 2025

24 ft pop-up camper

With pets

2 nights at Bonito Hollow RV Park and Campground

We rolled in for the night and were pleased with every aspect of this property. From the staff to the site... great property!

Shelise

November 2024

16 ft pop-up camper

With pets

14 nights at Camp Rio

The bathrooms were warm, clean and had consistent hot water! Water and power hook-up worked, as advertised. I used the pavilion to work out and it was clean (no hot water to wash dishes). I wouldn't say that my spot was "romantic" but the grounds were beautifully well-kept and the stream featured in all the photos online was as magical as people say. Firewood and a fire ring is $25 extra. The food truck that was open on Fridays had the best elote I have every tasted. The staff we met were all very nice, friendly and personable, with the exception of one male staff who took a rude tone with me about my 12 year old dog being off leash for less than five minutes. I welcome all reminders about the rules, I do not welcome rudeness. So keep your dog on a leash unless you want him to yell at you. Lauri was especially attentive (remembered my name) and wonderful to talk to! Make sure to throw your garbage away at the end of the night and supervise your food, as there was a stray dog that visited often, day and night. My wifi didn't work well in this mountainous valley (Starlink) but I was able to connect to the camp's wifi and was able to work my full schedule. What a god send. No phone service, so be prepared. A little slice of heaven with Elk, wonderful stars and lovely people. I would recommend this place and I would visit it again!