The best mountainous campgrounds near White Sands, New Mexico

White sand dunes stretch as far as the eye can see at this unique desert in southern New Mexico. At 275 square miles, White Sands is the world's largest gypsum dune field. The wind brushes the endless sands into gentle ripples, creating an otherworldly landscape. Camping at the White Sands National Monument is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. But you'll have to hop a few hurdles first. Backcountry camping is on a first-come, first-served basis. The ten tent camping sites are hike-in only, so be prepared to haul your gear—and water—along a 1-mile trek. Hikers must be diligent about following the trail markers to avoid getting lost. Weather is a factor, too, with summer highs as hot as 110 degrees F. Play it smart and check with the rangers at the Visitors Center near the park entrance before you head out. You'll need to stop by for a camping permit anyway. Roughly half of the natural dune field is national parkland. The other half is an active military missile range. The park is closed on missile test days, locking out any chance of camping. The missile schedule is usually planned two weeks in advance, but last-minute schedule changes do happen. Several campgrounds near White Sands offer a plan B. The Lincoln National Forest is close by, offering nine campgrounds. Opt for the Silver Campground if you want basics like showers and water spigots. Several private campgrounds are located nearby along Highway 70 and Highway 54. This area is a good bet for RVs who want hook-ups or families looking to rent cabins.

94% (86)

Top-rated campgrounds

White sand dunes stretch as far as the eye can see at this unique desert in southern New Mexico. At 275 square miles, White Sands is the world's largest gypsum dune field. The wind brushes the endless sands into gentle ripples, creating an otherworldly landscape. Camping at the White Sands National Monument is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. But you'll have to hop a few hurdles first. Backcountry camping is on a first-come, first-served basis. The ten tent camping sites are hike-in only, so be prepared to haul your gear—and water—along a 1-mile trek. Hikers must be diligent about following the trail markers to avoid getting lost. Weather is a factor, too, with summer highs as hot as 110 degrees F. Play it smart and check with the rangers at the Visitors Center near the park entrance before you head out. You'll need to stop by for a camping permit anyway. Roughly half of the natural dune field is national parkland. The other half is an active military missile range. The park is closed on missile test days, locking out any chance of camping. The missile schedule is usually planned two weeks in advance, but last-minute schedule changes do happen. Several campgrounds near White Sands offer a plan B. The Lincoln National Forest is close by, offering nine campgrounds. Opt for the Silver Campground if you want basics like showers and water spigots. Several private campgrounds are located nearby along Highway 70 and Highway 54. This area is a good bet for RVs who want hook-ups or families looking to rent cabins.

94% (86)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. White Sands Smokehouse

95%

(58)

39mi from White Sands · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Alamogordo, NM

Welcome to White Sands Smokehouse! The summer of ‘25 has seen big changes to our little primitive campsite! We are proud to offer accommodations in our Air Conditioned 16’ diameter bell tent! You’re up off the ground on a sealed deck. The tent is waterproof and highly resilient in winds up to 50mph. **We do not have bedding available in the bell tent yet, so bring your own sleeping bag, cot, etc.** Your Camp Host, Chef Üdø, is onsite most days and evenings, and has 30 years' experience in the catering and private chef biz, and as a camp host. He's happy to coordinate hot meals for you and your companions! No more need to go into town to get a pizza or some icky fast food! We will make you a homemade pizza, dry-aged steak, brined chicken, smoked Wagyu burger, or lasagna...all in-house. Vegan, vegetarian, kosher, low-sodium, and most other dietary restrictions are no problem! We'll bake you a birthday cake, brownies, pie, or even Crème brûlée! Contact Chef Üdø for more details and please check out our menu in the “Extras” section of our campsite listing. We can make just about anything in our sanitary kitchen facilities. We cook with a spirit of Love and inclusion in our kitchen, and it shows! ❤️ Check our reviews! People love my food because I ❤️ to make it! Chef Üdø maintains current local food handler's certification, as well as HAACP federal certification. Prices are friendly and competitive with local restaurants. Vacuum-sealed frozen meals, aka “sous vide” available for most recipes. (Please check “extras” section for more detail) We offer a 15amp electrical connection, access to clean running water, and access to our 4 acre back pasture. We feature unparalleled views of the sunrise over the mountains, as well as convenient access to Lincoln National Forest, White Sands National Monument, BLM off-road parklands, and nearby Alamogordo. Firewood available onsite for friendly prices (provided there isn't a current burn ban). Additional onsite and backcountry packages are available, including fully-catered backcountry excursions in the Lincoln National Forest, wildlife spotting tours, photo tours, and even backcountry drive-in movies are available! Campfire setup, breakfast and omelette bar also available for large groups.

2. Organ Mountain Views

100%

(8)

6.8mi from White Sands · 1 site · Tent, RV · Organ, NM

Rugged, natural desert snuggled up against the Organ Mountains. Private & quiet with beautiful views. No amenities! No toilet, water or electricity. Paved road (County road D-087) access just 1 mile north of US-70 and Organ, NM. Property is 10 miles east of Las Cruces, NM & 45 miles west of White Sands National Monument. Great Thai restaurant (Renoo’s) in Organ as well as a US Post Office. Anything else you might need is available with a short drive to Las Cruces. Please, no fires & no shooting of firearms on the property.

3. Timberon NM Golf & RV Camping Site

91%

(48)

49mi from White Sands · 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. Camp Hueco

43mi from White Sands · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Butterfield, TX

Desert Retreat: Half-Acre Lot Near Hueco Tanks Escape to the rugged beauty of the Chihuahuan Desert with this private 0.5-acre lot, located just 3 miles from the main entrance of Hueco Tanks State Park & Historic Site, a short drive from El Paso, Texas. Perfect for adventurers and nature lovers, this off-grid property offers a raw, untouched camping experience ideal for RV parking or tent camping. Features: Prime Location: Only 3 miles from Hueco Tanks State Park, renowned for its world-class rock climbing, hiking trails, and ancient rock art. Spacious & Private: Half an acre of open, undeveloped land, giving you plenty of space to set up camp and soak in the stunning desert views. Off-Grid Adventure: Embrace the simplicity of off-grid living—no water, electricity, septic, or fencing. Come prepared for a true back-to-nature experience. RV & Tent Friendly: Flat, natural terrain suitable for parking your RV or pitching a tent under the starry Texas sky. Unpaved Access: Reachable via a dirt road off State Park Road, offering a rustic approach to your desert getaway. Ideal For: Outdoor enthusiasts seeking proximity to Hueco Tanks’ climbing, hiking, and birdwatching opportunities. Campers looking for a quiet, secluded spot to disconnect and enjoy the serene desert landscape. Stargazers and photographers captivated by unobstructed views of the night sky and dramatic sunsets. Things to Know: Completely Off-Grid: Bring your own water, power sources (like solar or generators), and camping gear. No amenities are provided. Leave No Trace: Help preserve the natural beauty by packing out all waste and respecting the desert environment. Accessibility: 4WD recommended for the unpaved road, especially after rain. Check weather conditions before arrival. Nearby Attractions: Explore Hueco Tanks’ guided tours, rock formations, and cultural history, or take a 30-minute drive to El Paso for dining and supplies. Book this unique desert lot for an authentic, off-grid camping experience near one of Texas’ most iconic natural landmarks!

5. Timberwood Glamp N Camp

50mi from White Sands · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Timberon, NM

TimberWood Glamp n Camp — Timberon, New Mexico A Quiet Mountain Retreat for RV Dry Camping Welcome to TimberWood Glamp n Camp, a peaceful 2-acre slice of raw, natural mountain land tucked away in beautiful Timberon, NM. If you’re looking for quiet, fresh air, and room to breathe, this is the perfect place to unplug and escape. We currently offer dry camping only — ideal for vans, overlanders, and self-contained RVs who love wide-open forest views and the sound of the wind through the pines. Bring your campers, coffee, and pets, and settle into a relaxing mountain stay. The property is spacious, very quiet, and surrounded by nature. Enjoy stargazing at night, crisp morning sunrises, and the peaceful simplicity that Timberon is known for. 🌲 Coming Soon: Our future development includes charming glamping cabins, RV pads, and upgraded amenities — but for now, you get the beauty of untouched land and true off-grid serenity. Come enjoy the stillness, the mountain breeze, and a cozy campfire under the stars at TimberWood Glamp n Camp.

6. Road Host RV

27mi from White Sands · 193 sites · Anthony, TX

Discover the unique charm of RoadHost RV, the premier RV park in El Paso, where stunning desert landscapes meet exceptional amenities. Nestled right on the Anthony, Texas city line, our park offers breathtaking southwest views that create a serene oasis for travelers seeking a memorable camping experience. As a proud member of the Good Sam campgrounds network, we cater to a diverse range of guests, including Snowbirds looking for a welcoming place to stay during the winter months. Our park is not only a beautiful retreat but also a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, with easy access to nearby attractions and activities that showcase the natural beauty of the region. Keep an eye out for the playful roadrunners that roam our grounds, adding to the park's vibrant atmosphere. For those in need of RV parts or services, Camping World is conveniently located just across the street, offering top-notch RV mechanics and sales to ensure your vehicle is in perfect condition. If you're planning to RV in El Paso, RoadHost RV is your ideal destination for relaxation and adventure. Join us and experience the best of what this beautiful area has to offer!

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

Stories from the community

Fin

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to White Sands Smokehouse

Beautiful place, lovely generous host. Üdø’s flavors pack a punch! He’s also very knowledgeable about the area. Miraculous experience to get a fresh warm cookie delivered to my tent haha. Felt safe as a solo camper. Roads are nice and calm too.

A

Andy

2 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to White Sands Smokehouse

Chef Üdø was an incredibly thoughtful and gracious host. He made sure we had everything we needed to be safe and comfortable. He had endless recommendations for the area and plenty of character. And his food was some of the best I’ve ever had

M

Michael

October 2025

19 ft campervan

With pets

1 night at Organ Mountain Views

Not only one of my most cherished Hipcamp spots but one of my absolute favorite spots in the country. My second time overnighting here in the past month. Truly truly special land with a perfect host.

L

Lisa

October 2025

24 ft Class C

With pets

Weekend Trip to White Sands Smokehouse

Awesome people and amazing food! Definitely recommend the smoked pork loin and the cookies!

M

Michael

October 2025

9 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Organ Mountain Views

I honestly can’t get this Hipcamp property out of my mind. It is truly everything I could ever hope for in my van travels. Breathtaking spot with a perfect host. I am profoundly grateful and will without question return. Thank you so much, Larry, for sharing this gift with us all!!

A

Ava

October 2025

1 night at White Sands Smokehouse

Chef Üdø’s site was a perfect spot for us as we stopped near White Sands NP during a longer camping roadtrip throughout the Southwest! The bell tent was super clean and fresh on a raised platform to keep away the mud and bugs. We enjoyed beautiful views of the Sandia Mountains / Dog Canyon while we ate a most scrumptious meal and woke up to a vibrant sunrise. I highly recommend Chef Udo’s food!! We had the world famous brined chicken, which came with a sweet potato mash and roasted asparagus - expertly seasoned and truly delicious. Udo was super communicative and helpful, reaching out well in advance to coordinate and he provided really useful tips about the area. Don’t skip the cookies! 🍪😋

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!

P

Paul

September 2025

20 ft campervan

2 nights at White Sands Smokehouse

We highly recommend Chef Udo’s property for anyone visiting the White Sands area! He provided helpful communication throughout our stay, a beautiful setting, and a delicious meal of brisket nachos, smoked and seared wagyu beef burger, and vegan ice cream. He flawlessly accommodated my wife’s numerous dietary restrictions without missing a step!

A

Adam

August 2025

Tent

1 night at White Sands Smokehouse

This was my first time camping and Udo was a great host. Very friendly and knowledgeable on the local environment. Was great at communicating and making us feel welcome. We got a pizza and a meatball sub which were delicious and highly recommend getting some food while staying here. Was a great location with a beautiful sunrise.

V

Vicky

August 2025

Group trip

1 night at White Sands Smokehouse

Staying there was very convenient for us not too far from White sands. The tent was great, the pizza and cookies were fabulous!

宗

宗钦

August 2025

Tent

2 nights at White Sands Smokehouse

Chef Udo is truly one of the best chefs I’ve ever met! Please order some cookies if you like desert. He knows exactly how to make incredible cookie. The fillings and toffee flavor are absolutely amazing. He’s also one of the kindest and most welcoming people I’ve ever met! The campsite itself offers beautiful sunset views (if in a good weather), and if you enjoy nighttime adventures, this is a great place to explore. You might spot some interesting insects. We came across a tarantula. He behaved very well and super friendly! Not friendly enough for you to pet him like a dog but at least he didn’t mind me pausing in front of his hole for a few minutes to see if hes in there. Definitely a unique experience! And the burgers. TRY THE BURGERS TOO.

S

Sarah

July 2025

Tent

1 night at Organ Mountain Views

This was my first Hipcamp stay! I stayed here by myself and had a great experience. Since it was my first time using Hipcamp I had a lot of questions and Larry always gave quick friendly and helpful responses. The Organ mountains are gorgeous. I loved the views I had from this property, which was easy to find with the directions given in the app. It made for a great affordable sleep on my way to White Sands the following day. Definitely recommend.

Gino

June 2025

Tent

1 night at White Sands Smokehouse

Chef Udo was super friendly, gave clear instructions, and makes a mean Hatch green chili enchiladas. Seeing the sunrise over the mountains in the morning was something real special. Would recommend to anyone passing through.

J

Judith

May 2025

32 ft Class C

With pets

4 nights at Timberon NM Golf & RV Camping Site

We loved camping up at Andrews place Peaceful, clean and quiet! Caught a lot of fish up at the ponds! Can’t wait to go back

A

Andreea

May 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to White Sands Smokehouse

The mountain and sunset views are exquisite. Very close to White Sands which was our destination. The bathroom was very well designed, comfortable and clean. Udo is an amazing chef, he makes gourmet meals with unique ingredients, full of flavor. I recommend the meals with the camping experience. He really cares about the full experience and his guests!

J

Jacob

May 2025

15 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Organ Mountain Views

Good simple campsite with nice views of the mountains. Easy to get to, but it is pretty close to the road, so not a ton of privacy. Also, as noted in the description, there are large dump trucks traversing the road (even pretty late at night and early in the morning and even on the weekend). Not a big deal, but just something to be aware of if you are looking for something a little quieter.

Kerry

May 2025

Tent

1 night at White Sands Smokehouse

If you are traveling in this area, you simply MUST stay with Chef Udo!! This may have been the most welcoming and hospitable hipcamp I have ever stayed at!! We ordered steak and baked potatoes which were quite literally the best we had ever tasted, with lots of options and HOME-MADE cheese! The ground was soft and easy to sleep on, and the location was easy to find, along with a really easily reachable camp host makes visiting this spot a no-brainer!

Sophie

April 2025

35 ft fifth wheel

Weekend Trip to White Sands Smokehouse

My family and I had a great time camping on Chęf-Üdø’s property. He was very accommodating and personable. The mountain views were an added bonus. You MUST add his cooking options to your trip—it’s absolutely incredible food that we won’t forget. We really appreciate him and highly recommend this Hipcamp!