The best desert campgrounds near Quemado, New Mexico

If you're looking to camp near Quemado, New Mexico, Hipcamp has over 500 options for you to choose from. With options as low as $5 per night and an average price of $19 per night, you're sure to find something that fits your budget. Some of the top campsites in the area include Star Gazer Ranch (141 reviews), Desert Skies (136 reviews), and Raven's Nest On Route 66 (113 reviews). Popular amenities at these campsites include potable water, campfires, and toilets. And if you're into surfing, whitewater paddling, or off-roading (OHV), you'll find plenty of opportunities for those activities as well. Happy camping!

93% (31)

Top-rated campgrounds near Quemado

If you're looking to camp near Quemado, New Mexico, Hipcamp has over 500 options for you to choose from. With options as low as $5 per night and an average price of $19 per night, you're sure to find something that fits your budget. Some of the top campsites in the area include Star Gazer Ranch (141 reviews), Desert Skies (136 reviews), and Raven's Nest On Route 66 (113 reviews). Popular amenities at these campsites include potable water, campfires, and toilets. And if you're into surfing, whitewater paddling, or off-roading (OHV), you'll find plenty of opportunities for those activities as well. Happy camping!

93% (31)

Top-rated campgrounds near Quemado

1. Mountain Vista Trails

100%

(6)

7.9mi from Quemado · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Ten minutes of single-lane dirt roads lead you to your own private 30-acre campground at 7600 feet overlooking the mountain valley. We offer 3 kinds of gigantic secluded pristine sites: A tiny glamping shuttle bus cabin, 2 car/suv/campervan spots, & several remote hike/bike in dispersed camping options. With any choice, you get the whole place and can enjoy a network of bike trails in untouched mature forest, several unique mountain vistas, outdoor shower and toilet, extra optional amenities, active wildlife, and unmatched peacefulness and quiet. The whole 'campground' is all yours! - Because we don't want crowds and we only accept 1 reservation (up to 6 guests as a single party) at any given time. Super private wooded surroundings with mountain views. Our home is only slightly visible from 2 sites. We can be social hosts, or leave you completely undisturbed. Quiet hours after 9pm either way. Access to Toilet, outdoor heated shower, small gas burner or wood-fired grill are included with any confirmed reservation. Guests may opt additional $ for many extras including firewood by the bundle, Potable Water in 5 gallon jugs, Camping equipment rental, and small use of Laundry (by appointment - water supply permitting) . Pets are welcomed and can be allowed off leash here but should not roam without supervision because we do have coyotes and pets can get lost.

2. Apache RV Park

100%

(14)

38mi from Quemado · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

Learn more about this land: Apache RV Park is a quiet and spacious RV Park with beautiful Mountain View’s in Gila National Forest. We have full hookups, clean bathrooms with showers, Wi-Fi, Laundromat, propane, tent sites, and country hospitality. Our lots are extra wide with plenty of space for your trailer and any extra vehicles. Paint the nearby village of Reserve red by stopping by the local watering holes and eating some great New Mexico cuisine. There is close access to local trail heads, side by side trails, Gila National Forest, Petroglyphs, historic ruins and the continental divide trail. We are your home away from home for hunting, rock hounding, fishing and hiking adventures. As always, your furry friend is always welcome to stay with us.

3. Mujeres Valley Campground

81%

(8)

22mi from Quemado · 17 sites · Tents, RVs

This is a drycamping venue that has gravel roads leading up to the venue. Fresh well water can be provided for small groups without a fee but guests will need to provide their own containers to use during their stay. The campground has a fairgrounds across the road that is not part of registration access through this site. Please contact us directly for booking options for the fairgrounds and please make sure to only access the property pinned in the location provided to you through this site. This property was obtained around 60+ years ago via the Homestead Act by a family who we have become very close friends with. Over the last 60 years it's only been used sparingly as grazing land for cattle. Since we've obtained the land we've been focused on learning it's history from those who have been here the longest while also being proud BIPOC owners of land in this area. We've also connected with the original people's of this land who were here during the time the land was colonized. We've found ceremonial and everyday pottery, crystals, and underground caves throughout the surrounding properties which we own. Over the last 2 years we've learned about the Redwoods that have been wiped out of the area and that the mountain is eroding quickly. It has become our mission to plant indigenous plants and trees that are extinct from the area, reviving the plant like, reviving the mountain and doing what we can to encourage the water table to rise! Our plans for the 12 acres the campground occupies is to add an outdoor shower that can be used all year, installing solar powered water heaters & bathrooms as well as establishing a community meeting space and a greenhouse where we can host gardening classes and provide fresh fruits and veggies in this food desert! This land is sacred and we intend to continue treating it as such!

4. Carson National Forest

91%

(40)

463 sites · La Madera, New Mexico

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

5. Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest

87%

(44)

1058 sites · Heber Overgaard, Arizona

Explore the vast Apache and Sitgreaves National Forests known for its jaw-dropping mountain country in east-central Arizona. Trek out onto the other worldly Mogollon Rim, and dive into sparkling cold-water lakes. Climb out of the muggy valleys and into the refreshing high country—the forest is known for hundreds of miles of hiking filled with stunning vistas. Most importantly, stay awhile and be sure to bring your tent!

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

6. Dancing Juniper Gardens

39mi from Quemado · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging

DJG is a respite nestled at 7500 ft in the arid mountains amongst the Piñon-Juniper-Ponderosa forest of west-central New Mexico. The property has a garden, greenhouse, the owners trailer, a 10' guest bell tent, and outdoor kitchen. Plenty of tent camping space available. Relaxing vibe, lots of sitting spaces, fire pit benches, chairs, hammocks. Very rural so walking the dirt roads of the neighborhood is akin to hiking in the back country with a house every now and then. Located in historic Candy Kitchen which is also home to the Wild Spirit Wolf Sanctuary. About 25 minute drive to El Morro National Monument and two local cafes. 1 hr drive to the Ice Caves and volcano hike. 2 hrs west of Albuquerque, 3 hrs west of Santa Fe. 3 mile dirt road in is a tad rough, high clearance recommended. Seasonal monsoons possible June through September

7. Little Iron Campground

47mi from Quemado · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Little Iron Campground Little Iron Campground sits on 5 acres of undeveloped land, with a single road running through the property. Vehicles with higher clearance are recommended, and 4x4 may be required depending on the time of year and weather conditions. Multiple campsites are available to choose from among the piñon-juniper trees. The campground is located in Pine Meadow Ranches, behind El Morro National Monument (about 25 minutes away). Little Iron Campground is located in Game Unit 12. Campsites are marked and include established fire pits. Be smart, stay safe, and always check local fire advisories before lighting a fire. Explore the grounds and surrounding areas, or spend the day visiting one of the nearby national monuments. Getting outdoors and enjoying nature is what Little Iron Campground is all about. Things to Do Nearby • El Morro National Monument • El Malpais National Monument • The Ice Caves • Wolf Spirit Wolf Sanctuary Nearby Lakes & Reservoirs • Ramah Lake – 30 min • Nutria Lakes – 1 hr Nearby Services • Closest Gas Station: Lewis Trading Post – 25 min • Grants: 1 hr • Gallup: 1 hr 20 min • Albuquerque: 2.5 hrs

8. Hills of High Country

83%

(3)

26mi from Quemado · 7 sites · Tents, RVs

We arrived at this beautiful property at the end of 2023 and have since worked diligently to create a space that we and others would love. Our location boasts a stunning views with hills all around and beautiful views of both sunrise and sunsets. We're working on adding showers and hot/cold plunge tubs for your enjoyment. Notably, we have a composting toilet that efficiently turns waste into fertilizer in just 3 weeks! We have two very sweet dogs that are off leash that may come up and say hello. If that is a bother please let us know in advance and we will try and accommodate your preferences. The property is accessible using 2WD, weather permitted, and when it is muddy or snowy we offer shuttle services. About us I specialize in building vans and RVs, so if you need any assistance with your rigs, I'm here to help. We are planning to expand our offerings in the future to include organic coffee, food, and a variety of fun activities. Join us in this evolving adventure!

9. Saffron Sanctuary

48mi from Quemado · 1 site · RV

Welcome to Saffron Sanctuary — 40 Acres of Wide-Open Arizona Freedom Escape the noise and reconnect with nature at Saffron Sanctuary, a private 40-acre off-grid retreat near St. Johns, Arizona. This expansive high-desert property offers uninterrupted horizons, stunning sunsets, star-soaked night skies, and total privacy—perfect for campers who want real solitude and space to breathe. Wake up to crisp mountain air, enjoy peaceful mornings with nothing but the wind and wildlife, and spend your nights around the campfire under one of the darkest skies in Arizona. Whether you’re tent camping, van-lifing, overlanding, or parking an RV, there’s plenty of room to spread out and truly unplug. This land is ideal for: • 🌅 Sunset & stargazing lovers • 🚙 Overlanders and off-road explorers • 🏕️ Quiet, private camping • 📸 Photography, mindfulness, & creative retreats • 🔥 Campfires, cooking under the stars, and total reset from city life The terrain is accessible yet rugged enough to feel like an adventure. You’ll be surrounded by open grasslands, high-desert beauty, and complete silence—no traffic, no crowds, no neighbors. If you’re looking for peace, space, and an authentic off-grid Arizona experience, Saffron Sanctuary is your place.

10. Skywater Ridge

41mi from Quemado · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

🌿 Community Stewardship Site – Tent, RV, Van, or Car Camping Welcome. This land is offered as a community-based, low-impact camping space for travelers, nomads, and people seeking quiet connection with land, sky, and each other. This is not a commercial campground. It is a shared stewardship space rooted in mutual respect, care, and autonomy. The listed price exists only to meet Hipcamp’s system requirements. Stays are free by arrangement. Please message before booking. 🏕️ What You Can Camp In Tents RVs Vans Car camping Both short stays and longer stays are welcome. There is no minimum or maximum stay, as long as shared guidelines are respected. 🌱 How This Space Works This is a mutual aid–inspired space, not a traditional host/guest dynamic. There is no boss, leader, or hierarchy here Roles exist for function, not authority People are trusted to self-regulate with care You are welcome to: Rest Pass through Stay awhile Contribute if and when you feel called Donations are accepted and appreciated, and never required. 🤝 Participation & Shared Care Participation is voluntary and self-directed. You may choose to: Help with light land care Share skills or knowledge Contribute labor, resources, or presence Simply be respectful and low-impact No one is required to “work” to stay here. 🔥 Land Use & Respect Leave no trace Fires only when conditions allow and with care Respect wildlife, plants, and other campers Quiet, grounded presence preferred over party energy Dogs are welcome if they are well-managed and respectful of others and wildlife 🌌 What This Space Is (and Is Not) ✔ A calm place to land ✔ A community-oriented environment ✔ A space for autonomy and respect ✔ A place for travelers who value cooperation ✖ Not a party site ✖ Not a commercial RV park ✖ Not a place for disruptive or extractive behavior If something doesn’t feel aligned, open communication is encouraged. 📩 Before You Book Please message before booking to: Introduce yourself Share what you’re traveling in Let me know how long you’re thinking of staying This helps keep the space balanced and intentional. 🌄 Closing Note This land exists as an experiment in trust, shared care, and gentler ways of living on the earth. If that resonates with how you move through the world, you are welcome here.

Camper favorites near Quemado

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Dancing Juniper Gardens

39mi from Quemado · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging

DJG is a respite nestled at 7500 ft in the arid mountains amongst the Piñon-Juniper-Ponderosa forest of west-central New Mexico. The property has a garden, greenhouse, the owners trailer, a 10' guest bell tent, and outdoor kitchen. Plenty of tent camping space available. Relaxing vibe, lots of sitting spaces, fire pit benches, chairs, hammocks. Very rural so walking the dirt roads of the neighborhood is akin to hiking in the back country with a house every now and then. Located in historic Candy Kitchen which is also home to the Wild Spirit Wolf Sanctuary. About 25 minute drive to El Morro National Monument and two local cafes. 1 hr drive to the Ice Caves and volcano hike. 2 hrs west of Albuquerque, 3 hrs west of Santa Fe. 3 mile dirt road in is a tad rough, high clearance recommended. Seasonal monsoons possible June through September

Little Iron Campground

47mi from Quemado · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Little Iron Campground Little Iron Campground sits on 5 acres of undeveloped land, with a single road running through the property. Vehicles with higher clearance are recommended, and 4x4 may be required depending on the time of year and weather conditions. Multiple campsites are available to choose from among the piñon-juniper trees. The campground is located in Pine Meadow Ranches, behind El Morro National Monument (about 25 minutes away). Little Iron Campground is located in Game Unit 12. Campsites are marked and include established fire pits. Be smart, stay safe, and always check local fire advisories before lighting a fire. Explore the grounds and surrounding areas, or spend the day visiting one of the nearby national monuments. Getting outdoors and enjoying nature is what Little Iron Campground is all about. Things to Do Nearby • El Morro National Monument • El Malpais National Monument • The Ice Caves • Wolf Spirit Wolf Sanctuary Nearby Lakes & Reservoirs • Ramah Lake – 30 min • Nutria Lakes – 1 hr Nearby Services • Closest Gas Station: Lewis Trading Post – 25 min • Grants: 1 hr • Gallup: 1 hr 20 min • Albuquerque: 2.5 hrs

Hills of High Country

83%

(3)

26mi from Quemado · 7 sites · Tents, RVs

We arrived at this beautiful property at the end of 2023 and have since worked diligently to create a space that we and others would love. Our location boasts a stunning views with hills all around and beautiful views of both sunrise and sunsets. We're working on adding showers and hot/cold plunge tubs for your enjoyment. Notably, we have a composting toilet that efficiently turns waste into fertilizer in just 3 weeks! We have two very sweet dogs that are off leash that may come up and say hello. If that is a bother please let us know in advance and we will try and accommodate your preferences. The property is accessible using 2WD, weather permitted, and when it is muddy or snowy we offer shuttle services. About us I specialize in building vans and RVs, so if you need any assistance with your rigs, I'm here to help. We are planning to expand our offerings in the future to include organic coffee, food, and a variety of fun activities. Join us in this evolving adventure!

Saffron Sanctuary

48mi from Quemado · 1 site · RV

Welcome to Saffron Sanctuary — 40 Acres of Wide-Open Arizona Freedom Escape the noise and reconnect with nature at Saffron Sanctuary, a private 40-acre off-grid retreat near St. Johns, Arizona. This expansive high-desert property offers uninterrupted horizons, stunning sunsets, star-soaked night skies, and total privacy—perfect for campers who want real solitude and space to breathe. Wake up to crisp mountain air, enjoy peaceful mornings with nothing but the wind and wildlife, and spend your nights around the campfire under one of the darkest skies in Arizona. Whether you’re tent camping, van-lifing, overlanding, or parking an RV, there’s plenty of room to spread out and truly unplug. This land is ideal for: • 🌅 Sunset & stargazing lovers • 🚙 Overlanders and off-road explorers • 🏕️ Quiet, private camping • 📸 Photography, mindfulness, & creative retreats • 🔥 Campfires, cooking under the stars, and total reset from city life The terrain is accessible yet rugged enough to feel like an adventure. You’ll be surrounded by open grasslands, high-desert beauty, and complete silence—no traffic, no crowds, no neighbors. If you’re looking for peace, space, and an authentic off-grid Arizona experience, Saffron Sanctuary is your place.

Skywater Ridge

41mi from Quemado · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

🌿 Community Stewardship Site – Tent, RV, Van, or Car Camping Welcome. This land is offered as a community-based, low-impact camping space for travelers, nomads, and people seeking quiet connection with land, sky, and each other. This is not a commercial campground. It is a shared stewardship space rooted in mutual respect, care, and autonomy. The listed price exists only to meet Hipcamp’s system requirements. Stays are free by arrangement. Please message before booking. 🏕️ What You Can Camp In Tents RVs Vans Car camping Both short stays and longer stays are welcome. There is no minimum or maximum stay, as long as shared guidelines are respected. 🌱 How This Space Works This is a mutual aid–inspired space, not a traditional host/guest dynamic. There is no boss, leader, or hierarchy here Roles exist for function, not authority People are trusted to self-regulate with care You are welcome to: Rest Pass through Stay awhile Contribute if and when you feel called Donations are accepted and appreciated, and never required. 🤝 Participation & Shared Care Participation is voluntary and self-directed. You may choose to: Help with light land care Share skills or knowledge Contribute labor, resources, or presence Simply be respectful and low-impact No one is required to “work” to stay here. 🔥 Land Use & Respect Leave no trace Fires only when conditions allow and with care Respect wildlife, plants, and other campers Quiet, grounded presence preferred over party energy Dogs are welcome if they are well-managed and respectful of others and wildlife 🌌 What This Space Is (and Is Not) ✔ A calm place to land ✔ A community-oriented environment ✔ A space for autonomy and respect ✔ A place for travelers who value cooperation ✖ Not a party site ✖ Not a commercial RV park ✖ Not a place for disruptive or extractive behavior If something doesn’t feel aligned, open communication is encouraged. 📩 Before You Book Please message before booking to: Introduce yourself Share what you’re traveling in Let me know how long you’re thinking of staying This helps keep the space balanced and intentional. 🌄 Closing Note This land exists as an experiment in trust, shared care, and gentler ways of living on the earth. If that resonates with how you move through the world, you are welcome here.

Public campgrounds near Quemado

Laguna Larga Campground

43mi from Quemado · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · in Carson National Forest

100%

(1)

Luna Lake Campground

48mi from Quemado · 42 sites · Tents, RVs · in Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest

Alpine Divide Campground

48mi from Quemado · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · in Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

This is the actual campsite. Drive entrance is on the left side and is more visible in the other photos.

Chenoa

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Mountain Vista Trails

This is a beautiful, private site! Ben and Danielle are very friendly and helpful. This is a little detail, but I appreciated that they have a sink set up with the composting toilet for hand-washing. They had the chiminea prepared for a fire when I arrived.

R

Rachel

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Mountain Vista Trails

The campsite offers a truly remarkable experience for anyone seeking solace in nature. The sunrises paint the sky with vibrant hues, casting a magical glow over the entire landscape. Every evening, the sunsets create a breathtaking spectacle, as the sun dips below the horizon. The outdoor shower and toilet provide a unique way to connect with the natural environment, enhancing the overall camping adventure. The campsite offers a truly breathtaking experience for anyone seeking respite. Majestic mountains provide a stunning backdrop to the grounds, fostering a sense of tranquility. The hosts' gracious hospitality further enhances the welcoming atmosphere of the site. You can quickly settle into a feeling of serene peace at this beautiful location. This campsite is a fantastic escape from the everyday world. This campsite is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to unwind.

R

Rachel

September 2025

16 ft car

1 night at Mountain Vista Trails

The campsite offers a truly remarkable experience for those seeking a natural escape. The beauty of both the sunrises and sunsets paints the sky with breathtaking colors each day. Moreover, the unique outside shower and toilet add an element of rustic charm to the experience. This feature allows one to connect with nature in a very special way. Majestic mountains provide a stunning backdrop to the grounds, fostering a sense of tranquility. The hosts' gracious hospitality further enhances the welcoming atmosphere of the site. You can quickly settle into a feeling of serene peace at this beautiful location. This campsite is a fantastic escape from the everyday world. Overall, it is a highly recommended destination.

B

Brandyn

July 2025

Tent

1 night at Mujeres Valley Campground

Loved every second of our stay! The owners were extremely friendly and helpful! The site was stunning! Will definitely return soon!

D

Donna

April 2025

4 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Apache RV Park

Lovely location, very quiet. Restrooms and showers were clean.

Susie

March 2025

25 ft travel trailer

With pets

7 nights at Apache RV Park

This place has the best vibes. Laundry, full hookups, a library, and super cool people! Big campsite too! Our host, Adam, was very helpful with whatever questions we had!

Susie

March 2025

25 ft travel trailer

With pets

2 nights at Apache RV Park

The sites are bigger than they look in the pics. Loved how spacious it was. We didn't use the amenities, but there's laundry and a bathhouse. check in was easy and hist was very nice!