The best campgrounds near Ruidoso, New Mexico with horseback riding

Looking for a camping adventure near Ruidoso, New Mexico? Hipcamp has over 150 options for you to choose from. Whether you prefer glamping, tent camping, or van life, we've got you covered. With top campsites like Hot Springs Glamp Camp (101 reviews), Camp Rio (95 reviews), and Dusty Rabbit Van Life (53 reviews), you can trust that you'll have an unforgettable experience. Prices start as low as $10 per night, with an average price of $45. And don't worry, popular amenities like campfires, pets, and toilets are available. Plus, you can enjoy historic sites, biking, and whitewater paddling in the area. So pack your bags and get ready for a camping adventure like no other!

96% (447)

Top-rated campgrounds

Looking for a camping adventure near Ruidoso, New Mexico? Hipcamp has over 150 options for you to choose from. Whether you prefer glamping, tent camping, or van life, we've got you covered. With top campsites like Hot Springs Glamp Camp (101 reviews), Camp Rio (95 reviews), and Dusty Rabbit Van Life (53 reviews), you can trust that you'll have an unforgettable experience. Prices start as low as $10 per night, with an average price of $45. And don't worry, popular amenities like campfires, pets, and toilets are available. Plus, you can enjoy historic sites, biking, and whitewater paddling in the area. So pack your bags and get ready for a camping adventure like no other!

96% (447)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Camp Rio

94%

(290)

33mi from Ruidoso · 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. El Mistico

96%

(42)

13mi from Ruidoso · 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.

3. Timberon NM Golf & RV Camping Site

91%

(48)

49mi from Ruidoso · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Timberon, NM

Timberon, New Mexico, is a charming and peaceful retirement community nestled in the scenic Sacramento Mountains on the southern edge of the Lincoln National Forest. Timberon offers a tranquil escape surrounded by natural beauty and abundant outdoor activities. The town features a 9-hole golf course, two fishing ponds, a lodge, a swimming pool, a church, an airstrip, and a volunteer fire department. Visitors can enjoy a variety of recreational activities, including camping, fishing, swimming, golfing, hiking, biking, and ATV/UTV riding areas. During the winter months, the area also offers seasonal activities for outdoor enthusiasts. Cell reception is limited in the town of Timberon but all the local businesses will share their Wi-Fi password. Timberon has a local restaurant Connie's Deli and the High Country Lounge and Grill (Saturday karaoke night 8pm). Two well-equipped stores stocked with groceries, camping supplies, ice, and RV accessories. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, Timberon provides the perfect retreat. . For more details, visit Timberon.org.

4. Sugarhill Campgrounds🐞🙏

98%

(63)

15mi from Ruidoso · 1 site · Tent, RV · Mescalero, NM

Sugarhill Campground is beautifully located on the Homelands of the Mescalero Apache. You will experience fresh mountain air in the cool pines, Native American Cuisine offerings and campfire storytelling. Enjoy nearby tourist attractions - St Joseph's Catholic Church, Inn of the Mountain Gods Resort & Casino, White Sands National Monument, Carlsbad Caverns, Space Hall of Fame, Historic Lincoln NM, Summer Horse RacingFitness Enthusiasts can enjoy mountain trail hiking, biking, golfing, disc golf, skiingLearn more about this land:Sugar Hill woodworks is nestled in the cool pines in the Mescalero Apache Indian reservation. Always nice meeting new friends and hearing their stories 😊..

5. Midtown Mountain Campground and RV

100%

(3)

1mi from Ruidoso · 32 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Ruidoso, NM

Midtown Mountain Campground and RV is one of the top 5 RV Parks and Campgrounds in New Mexico, as rated by RV Life Magazine. We have the fastest WiFi in any RV Park in New Mexico. And we are one of the top destination locations in the Nation! Ruidoso New Mexico has it all from horse racing, casinos, hiking, fishing, shopping and much more!!! Midtown Mountain Campground and RV Park is at it's center. Come stay here and get out there!!!

6. Edge of the Rez

98%

(67)

23mi from Ruidoso · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Mescalero, NM

Learn more about this land:Its dark, try to setup your camp before the sunsets. No light pollution unless there is a full moon. We are a primitive site with safe well water drawn from a sandstone bed. Walking distance to National Forest and 8 miles from Cloudcroft. Free-roaming horses, elk, mule deer, whitetail, turkey, and all critters in between. Awesome sunsets and perfect for stargazing.

7. Bonito Hollow RV Park and Campground

100%

(4)

7.2mi from Ruidoso · 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!

8. Cienega Arroyo Ranch

100%

(27)

19mi from Ruidoso · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Ruidoso Downs, NM

On a working ranch, this campsite is located up a secluded arroyo off of the Hondo Valley and Rio Ruidoso in San Patricio, NM. This ranch is nearly 1400 acres total that is available for exploring and wildlife watching. During wildlife watching, it is possible that you could see roadrunners, squirrels, coyotes, rabbits, hawks, deer, elk, lizards, foxes, and many different types of song birds. A road south of the campsite is available for hiking down.Ruidoso and Ruidoso Downs are just over a 20 minute drive from this campsite. Historic Lincoln and Fort Stanton are a quick drive from this area as well. The Hurd Gallery can be visited by driving down the highway a couple miles. A fishing spot open to the public on the Rio Ruidoso is available for fishing just a few miles down the highway as well. It has been reported that this arroyo contained a cienega many years ago which was a marshy area fed by a spring, before groundwater wells ran it dry. Most cienegas are now extinct in the southwest. Sheep and Firewood were the main commodities produced off of this ranch before cattle became dominant. NM State Land is 640 of these acres which requires an annual permit for recreational use.

9. Sugarhill Woodworks

95%

(50)

15mi from Ruidoso · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Mescalero, NM

Learn more about this land:Nice outdoor views with elk usually in the yard in the early mornings, outdoor grills available outdoor fire pits available. Very nice view of the church, and we have a homemade zipline!

Camper favorites near Ruidoso

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Sugarhill Campgrounds🐞🙏

98%

(63)

15mi from Ruidoso · 1 site · Tent, RV · Mescalero, NM

Sugarhill Campground is beautifully located on the Homelands of the Mescalero Apache. You will experience fresh mountain air in the cool pines, Native American Cuisine offerings and campfire storytelling. Enjoy nearby tourist attractions - St Joseph's Catholic Church, Inn of the Mountain Gods Resort & Casino, White Sands National Monument, Carlsbad Caverns, Space Hall of Fame, Historic Lincoln NM, Summer Horse RacingFitness Enthusiasts can enjoy mountain trail hiking, biking, golfing, disc golf, skiingLearn more about this land:Sugar Hill woodworks is nestled in the cool pines in the Mescalero Apache Indian reservation. Always nice meeting new friends and hearing their stories 😊..

Midtown Mountain Campground and RV

100%

(3)

1mi from Ruidoso · 32 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Ruidoso, NM

Midtown Mountain Campground and RV is one of the top 5 RV Parks and Campgrounds in New Mexico, as rated by RV Life Magazine. We have the fastest WiFi in any RV Park in New Mexico. And we are one of the top destination locations in the Nation! Ruidoso New Mexico has it all from horse racing, casinos, hiking, fishing, shopping and much more!!! Midtown Mountain Campground and RV Park is at it's center. Come stay here and get out there!!!

Edge of the Rez

98%

(67)

23mi from Ruidoso · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Mescalero, NM

Learn more about this land:Its dark, try to setup your camp before the sunsets. No light pollution unless there is a full moon. We are a primitive site with safe well water drawn from a sandstone bed. Walking distance to National Forest and 8 miles from Cloudcroft. Free-roaming horses, elk, mule deer, whitetail, turkey, and all critters in between. Awesome sunsets and perfect for stargazing.

Bonito Hollow RV Park and Campground

100%

(4)

7.2mi from Ruidoso · 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!

Cienega Arroyo Ranch

100%

(27)

19mi from Ruidoso · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Ruidoso Downs, NM

On a working ranch, this campsite is located up a secluded arroyo off of the Hondo Valley and Rio Ruidoso in San Patricio, NM. This ranch is nearly 1400 acres total that is available for exploring and wildlife watching. During wildlife watching, it is possible that you could see roadrunners, squirrels, coyotes, rabbits, hawks, deer, elk, lizards, foxes, and many different types of song birds. A road south of the campsite is available for hiking down.Ruidoso and Ruidoso Downs are just over a 20 minute drive from this campsite. Historic Lincoln and Fort Stanton are a quick drive from this area as well. The Hurd Gallery can be visited by driving down the highway a couple miles. A fishing spot open to the public on the Rio Ruidoso is available for fishing just a few miles down the highway as well. It has been reported that this arroyo contained a cienega many years ago which was a marshy area fed by a spring, before groundwater wells ran it dry. Most cienegas are now extinct in the southwest. Sheep and Firewood were the main commodities produced off of this ranch before cattle became dominant. NM State Land is 640 of these acres which requires an annual permit for recreational use.

Sugarhill Woodworks

95%

(50)

15mi from Ruidoso · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Mescalero, NM

Learn more about this land:Nice outdoor views with elk usually in the yard in the early mornings, outdoor grills available outdoor fire pits available. Very nice view of the church, and we have a homemade zipline!

Public campgrounds near Ruidoso

100%

(2)

Sam Tobias Memorial Group Campground

1.5mi from Ruidoso · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lincoln National Forest

100%

(1)

Oak Grove Campground

5.7mi from Ruidoso · 30 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lincoln National Forest

Skyline Campground

6.4mi from Ruidoso · 17 sites · in Lincoln National Forest

Sierra Blanca from Windy Point (copyright Jeff Rauland)

100%

(1)

Monjeau Lookout

6.9mi from Ruidoso · 1 site · Tent, RV · in Lincoln National Forest

Monjeau Campground

6.9mi from Ruidoso · 4 sites · in Lincoln National Forest

100%

(1)

South Fork Campground

8.7mi from Ruidoso · 61 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lincoln National Forest

94%

(10)

Three Rivers Campground

13mi from Ruidoso · 14 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lincoln National Forest

100%

(1)

Baca Campground

22mi from Ruidoso · 15 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lincoln National Forest

Silver Overflow Campground

26mi from Ruidoso · 52 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lincoln National Forest

Silver Campground and Amphitheater

26mi from Ruidoso · 30 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lincoln National Forest

Saddle Campground

26mi from Ruidoso · 16 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lincoln National Forest

Upper Fir Group Campground

26mi from Ruidoso · 1 site · Tent, RV · in Lincoln National Forest

Stories from the community

A

Anna

November 2025

23 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Sugarhill Campgrounds🐞🙏

This campsite is very peaceful! Kevin the host is the nicest person we’ve met along our journey. We will be coming back to his site we hope in May!! Go and support his nonprofit Sugar Hills Pathways!! He’s doing amazing work for kids!!! Our Dog Morty had a blast playing with Elsa!!

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.

Sheila

October 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Camp Rio

This hipcamp was super easy. Lots of space, there weren’t that many people there so it felt really private. The showers/bathrooms were great. We had a lovely night here

k

kevin

October 2025

19 ft Class B

1 night at Sugarhill Campgrounds🐞🙏

Great host! Very accommodating and nice, quiet location

K

Karissa

October 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Cienega Arroyo Ranch

Was the first place I’ve ever tried on Hipcamp. Only stayed for one night. Had more than enough room for my truck and rooftop tent. Road to find it was harder than expected but no issue for a smaller vehicle like mine. Land owner does mention free roaming cattle, but I had no issue with them. Overall would recommend as a place to stay.

A

Ashley

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Edge of the Rez

The surrounding land, the hospitality and kindness of Depree, the bugling elk, and the endless views of stars made for such a special and memorable camping adventure for our family. Coyote Bluff is a spacious camping set up with a gorgeous view. We appreciated how helpful Depree was during our stay and the wonderful communication regarding the weather and direction before hand. We love the space that Depree has been nurturing and would absolutely recommend staying here- I know we will next time we are in the area!

Lisa

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Camp Rio

Camp Rio location and staff were peaceful and welcoming. We tent camped and enjoyed the tranquility there.

I

Irma

September 2025

16 ft car

With pets

29 nights at Cienega Arroyo Ranch

Beautiful beyond words. The night stars were amazing. I saw a Ram! I would recommend to all nature lovers.

Jessica

September 2025

3 nights at Bonito Hollow RV Park and Campground

Cute cabin. Peaceful place. Hosts communicated well.

A

Anthony

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Edge of the Rez

We really appreciate camping here! Hospitality was amazing and she was super friendly and kind!

J

Julio

September 2025

33 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Timberon NM Golf & RV Camping Site

Very nice and peaceful. No phone service nothing but fresh air and wild life

H

Hannah

September 2025

33 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Timberon NM Golf & RV Camping Site

Love the remote location! It was peaceful to be the only campers at the time. Children loved playing around and exploring. Dogs also loved the freedom of being unleashed. Very peaceful and relaxing, wish we could have stayed longer!

T

Terry

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Camp Rio

Nice spot, separate from the RV sites. I was the only tent camper while I was there

R

Rich

September 2025

17 ft travel trailer

With pets

4 nights at Sugarhill Campgrounds🐞🙏

Four-year-old yellow Labrador Retriever, Molly, and I camped for four nights in our travel trailer on Kevin's, Shawn's, and Elsa's property. Elsa is a very friendly eight month old herding "sheep dog" puppy who showed Molly hours of off-leash joy around the campsite and property. The camp site is behind Kevin's and Shawn's home on a beautiful mountain overlooking the Mescalero Apache Reservation. The site has stunning mountain views with a nice view of a "tree framed" historic mission church across the valley. The sitting area that I set up outside the camper's door was peaceful, comfortable, and saturated with nature -- such as dense pine forests and "bugling" elk. The property also has very nice spacious "park-like" walking areas and trails that Kevin and friends made and maintain for hiking and mountain biking. Kevin and Shawn are the most hospitable, helpful, and gracious people that I have experienced in many years. They willingly shared their knowledge of the historic area with me. They even invited me to a family cookout around a campfire the night of Labor Day. The food, fellowship, and setting were spectacular.

H

Heather

September 2025

20 ft campervan

With pets

1 night at Cienega Arroyo Ranch

Excellent view of the stars! Seemed remote for where it is, was very quiet.

A

Anna

August 2025

30 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Edge of the Rez

Beautiful land! Quiet and peaceful. Depree is amazing

A

Aja

August 2025

32 ft Class C

With pets

1 night at Sugarhill Campgrounds🐞🙏

We absolutely loved camping on Mr.Kevins land. His property is beautiful, and he and his wife are very nice people we will definitely be back. Thank you again for your hospitality Mr.Kevin

L

August 2025

27 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Midtown Mountain Campground and RV

Everything was very nice about this park. The bathrooms were clean staff was friendly and the park was very pleasant. Would stay here again

A

Amy

July 2025

Tent

1 night at Camp Rio

Beautiful place with great staff. I would highly recommend.

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.