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The best camping in New Mexico

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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.

94% (7.8K) 5,668 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in New Mexico

Santa Fe Treehouse Camp & Wilderness Preserve

1. Santa Fe Treehouse Camp & Wilderness Preserve

98%
(1709)
Santa Fe, NM · 37 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Brad and Ciana welcome you to the Santa Fe Treehouse Camp & Wilderness Preserve, managed by The Wilderness Institute. 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. "BE A CAMPER CONSERVATIONIST"! Register for our nature education activities and resources lead by The Wilderness Institute (available for all of our guests). 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, Tai Chi, Climbing Into The Heart of the Mother Tree, Star talks and more! (https://wildernessinstitute.org/outdoor-programs/) 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. This is a non-smoking, no candle facility.
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Enchanted Circle Campground (E<<)

2. Enchanted Circle Campground (E<<)

99%
(1512)
Angel Fire, NM · 9 sites · Tents, RVs
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 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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Nakation Getaway

3. Nakation Getaway

99%
(94)
La Plata, NM · 11 sites · Tents, RVs
Bare your soul (and everything else) in the Desert. Please read the full description. Step out of your tent and feel the sun kiss your cheeks…all of them. This is a private, Adult-Only (18+) clothing-optional dry tent camping experience designed for those who want to strip away the noise of the world. Because we are a hidden gem and still growing, there is a high chance that you will have the horizon to yourself. Imagine a morning coffee or sunset stroll where the only other living soul you might see are the hawks and the bunnies. We are a work in progress with a mission: turning one man’s trash into campground treasures. We work to upcycle as many materials as possible, including a former football field turned grassy landing sites for tents and RV’s. Solar showers from recycled pallets. Signage created from old drill pipe and bed boards. Our 15 acres butts up against some BLM land offering more terrain to explore in the buff. When you’re done exploring, cool off with a skinny dip in our 16’ x 32’ above ground pool. Or just lounge in the sun and work on your tan. Gateway to the 4 Corners: Within 45 minutes (New Mexico): • World-class fishing at San Juan Quality Waters, or a day at Navajo Lake State Park, or Farmington Lake. • Step back in time at Aztec Ruins, Salmon Ruins or Jackson Lake Wildlife Refuge. • Grab a tube for a fun afternoon on the Animas River Within 60 minutes (Colorado): • Hike or drive LaPlata Canyon (only 30 minutes away!) or have an adventure at Purgatory Ski Resort. • Visit world-famous Mesa Verde National Park, Canyon of the Ancients or Chimney Rock. • Check out Lake Nighthorse • Spend a day in Historical Downtown Durango. If you’re looking for a crowd, you’ll have to bring it with you. If you want a quiet, liberating sanctuary where you can be your most authentic self, we can’t wait to host you.
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Carson National Forest

4. Carson National Forest

91%
(40)
National forest in New Mexico · 463 sites
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!
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Gila National Forest

5. Gila National Forest

88%
(25)
National forest in New Mexico · 304 sites
Explore some of the most secluded regions of the American Southwest.
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HarmonyTaos Regenerative Farm

6. HarmonyTaos Regenerative Farm

97%
(253)
Taos, NM · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Harmony Taos is a regenerative farm w stellar views of the Sangre De Cristos Mtns., located on approximately 4 acres, just minutes from the town of Taos. We specialize in Permaculture . Yurt on site for stretching, yoga , working out. 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, soup nights, ceremonies, yoga, dance (in the new yurt) Latest Offerings: DM Anastasia if you would like an intuitive reading and clearing. 90 minutes long. RENT THE ENTIRE PROPERTY FOR EVENTS: DM host for availability & rates. Pitch your tent, stay in our yurt at of our 3 mountain view campsites or rent the garden cottage bedroom, 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. All Sites have access to a beautifully equipped bathhouse, 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 position. 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.) Glampimg Mtn View . Walk-in approx 40 paces. Very Private . Twin bamboo mattresses on frames off ground. Can be converted to king. byo bedding. Charge phones in the bathhouse. There are no electrical hook ups. EVENTS: Harmony Taos Farm is avail for day long/weekend events. Weddings, family gatherings. There are 4 types of accommodations (hotels, lodges, Inns, rental homes) within 1 mile of property as well as more tent sites than listed above. Host can help arrange catering, flowers, music, rentals, etc. Things to know: This is the hosts homesite and farm. You will be camping near host's home. We welcome all; grounds are community shared spaces with outlets under porticos for laptops.
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Creekside Glamping Tipis on Off-Grid, 70 Acre Working Ranch

7. Creekside Glamping Tipis on Off-Grid, 70 Acre Working Ranch

99%
(137)
Tres Piedras, NM · 5 sites
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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Heaven or Taos 🪐

8. Heaven or Taos 🪐

96%
(97)
San Cristobal, NM · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
We offer discounts for stays over 14 days! It is an incredible little gem right off the highway in San Cristobal, 8 miles north of Taos. Best of both worlds, with direct access to trails and also the ability to hop onto the enchanted circle (road next to sites) to explore all the Taos county has to offer. RV/tent spots have running water and electricity/hook-ups, something that is incredibly rare considering the views/forest accessibility. Vast, breathtaking views of the Sangre de Cristos mountains to one side and if you follow the national forest trail in our backyard to the top of the hill, beautiful views of the gorge on the other side. Easy access to the midtown market, where you can pick up breakfast burritos, beer, drinks, and limited supplies for camping. Wake up to mountains, hiking, and breakfast burritos that will make you ask yourself, “Is this heaven or Taos?”
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Edge of the Rez

9. Edge of the Rez

98%
(71)
Twin Forks, NM · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
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. Less than a mile walk to National Forest and 8 miles from Cloudcroft.&nbsp; Free-roaming horses, elk, mule deer, whitetail, turkey, and all critters in between. Awesome sunsets and perfect for stargazing.
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Lincoln National Forest

10. Lincoln National Forest

92%
(31)
National forest in New Mexico · 386 sites
Lincoln National Forest is a delight for the senses! Gaze upon cacti, smell the spruce at the top of the Sierra Blanca mountains, and feel the cool water on your skin relaxing at Sitting Bull Falls. With a range of elevation comes a range of activities; trails for both beginner and experienced hikers or hop on your horse and explore Dog Canyon Trail that traverses up over 2,000 feet (gnarly!). Camping is cushy and available year round, allowing you to experience the vast array of wildflowers at Bluff Springs in the springtime, or surf the snow in the winter at Ski Apache. With scenic mountain views, ranger programs to brush up on the area, and easy access to the town of Ruidoso, Lincoln is a mountain lovers dream without the crowds!
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Santa Fe National Forest

11. Santa Fe National Forest

94%
(45)
National forest in New Mexico · 444 sites
Santa Fe National Forest isn’t just a cool spot in New Mexico, it’s a place that painters, poets, photographers and adventurers have waxed poetic about since...well, forever. It’s easy to see why, with over 1.6 million acres and over 1,000 miles of trails to explore. Whether it’s an autumn day trekking under trees blazing gold, or taking turns down the slopes at Santa Fe Ski Basin, the forest is a year round wonderland! Spring and Summer offer thrilling whitewater rafting down the Rio Grande, trout fishing, hunting, and nights under the stars. It’s easy to set up camp here too in one of the forests many campgrounds, and if you plan on staying away, be sure visit the town of Santa Fe, one of the most artistic and beautiful towns in America. This trip is bound to have you channeling your inner artist in no time!
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Brantley Lake State Park

12. Brantley Lake State Park

100%
(5)
State park in New Mexico · 27 sites
Discover Brantley Lake State Park: A Haven for Water Sports and Camping.
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Bandelier National Monument

13. Bandelier National Monument

100%
(8)
National park in New Mexico · 5 sites
Discover ancient Native American history in these sublime Southwestern lands.
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Agua de Vida

14. Agua de Vida

97%
(383)
NM · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
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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Jemez Mountains A-Frame Cabin

15. Jemez Mountains A-Frame Cabin

100%
(36)
Jemez Springs, NM · 1 site
We are excited to share our little A-frame cabin in the woods! The cabin is quite rustic ( and quite cute). Think of it like glamping -- outhouse, wood burning stove, dirt roads, and beautiful trees and mountains included. ** To keep the cabin affordable, all guests are responsible for cleaning up the cabin at the end of the stay and making it ready for the next guest. There are no cleaners coming in after you. ** The cabin is a 432 square foot A-frame in a small mountain community, which is surrounded by the Jemez National Forest. There are a few places to hike right from the front door, and many, many trailheads within a 20 minute drive. Fenton Lake is a short drive away, and the San Antonio Hot Springs is a 2.5 mile hike, bike, or ski away right out the front door for the confident adventurer. Located 1.5 hours from Albuquerque and Santa Fe, a few miles off of NM-4 between the town of Jemez Springs and the Valles Caldera National Preserve. No outdoor fires in the fire pit are permitted at this time. As of April 10th, 2026 water is on and running, potable water is available.
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Camp Darkmoon

16. Camp Darkmoon

100%
(107)
Belen, NM · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging
Camp Darkmoon is a living example of alternative architecture and the off-grid lifestyle. On site are a handful of earthen structures. Lodging and tent site are available to book. Two acres of sage flatlands. Close to town but even closer to the mountains. Monte Largo Cañon is a short rocky drive away. Perfectly clean air, peaceful atmosphere, and flawless stars at night. We live on-site, so holler if you need anything! Otherwise, we'll give you total privacy.
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Healing on the Rio Grande !

17. Healing on the Rio Grande !

95%
(302)
Albuquerque, NM · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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. . 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 . Our Space is in the heart of the Griegos Neighborhood , A very old style , old world area. Safe area. 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 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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Walk to Concerts|Power/Water!

18. Walk to Concerts|Power/Water!

96%
(23)
Albuquerque, NM · 1 site · Tent, RV
Less than a mile to Downtown with all the urban amenities nearby, this spot is also tucked away and shaded for most of the afternoon. It is part of my short term rental compound that I've been creating since 2020 in the historic Barelas neighborhood of Albuquerque. Lock your RV/vehicle in and exit through the pedestrian gate. Enjoy the common areas and your own private yard with table and grill. This is urban van life at its best!!
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Little River Mountain Camp

19. Little River Mountain Camp

95%
(29)
Questa, NM · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
Experience 1) peaceful, powerful & serene alpine forest energy 2) refreshing cool dry climate refuge in pure unpolluted air at 8k elevation 3) soul-soothing musical waters flowing from Sangre de Cristo mountain snow melt. Deeply relax into a 9 acre forest-bath, under fragrant cedars, pines, oaks, aspens & cottonwoods. Cold plunge with cutthroat trout. Zone 1 Stargazing rating, virtually no light pollution. See the Milky Way, shooting stars & more. Quiet, with breathtaking views in northern New Mexico's San Luis Valley. Ute Mountain, Mount Blanca, Mount San Antonio, the largest free standing granite dome on earth, 10,908 ft. 9 acre private property, surrounded by forest. Deer, elk, bear, mountain lion. World class hiking in nearby Latir Wilderness Area, within a few miles of the Rio Grande del Norte National Monument, Wild & Scenic Rivers National Monument. Kagyu Mila Guru Stupa, Meditation Temple & labyrinth, 1 mile away. Little River Mountain Camp is in ongoing transformation as it is being restored. Please pardon our projects. The stewards of this land practice regenerative farming, gardening, forest health ancient technology. Your camp host welcomes you, can show you to your campsite, the outhouse & shared areas in the Little River Mountain Camp, explain camp safety guidelines. Many available extras make this a smooth, enjoyable camp experience. There is a common kitchen/cooking area. We limit the number of campsites & campers for sustainability, serenity & privacy, however, guests may encounter other campers at this property. The entire campground may be reserved for your event , please inquire. Taos County seasonal activities: horseback riding, skiing, fly fishing, whitewater rafting, frisbee golf, golfing, mountain bike trails, hiking trails, hot springs, atv tours, museums, concerts, farmers markets, trade days, Taos Pueblo and casino. Bring your own drinking water or be prepared to boil available water. Fire pit will be lit by Camp Host due to fire safety concerns. Propane grill available when fire ban is in effect. Camp catering available. Camp host on property.
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Mesa Top camping

20. Mesa Top camping

96%
(206)
Los Cerrillos, NM · 1 site · Tent, RV
Set above the historic town of Madrid N.M. is Waldo Mesa, the location of past mining operations and stunning vista's.The campsite is 0.9 miles off highway 14 in the historic town of Madrid and up to the mesa. Site 1 can accommodate RV's and tall setups as well as tents. The hill going to the site is short, approx. 0.2 ml. Its dirt and rock and a little steep but everything from bikes, motorcycles, sedans and buses can easily navigate without bottoming out, just take it slow. It has beautiful mesa views with plenty of privacy and nice outhouse within 50 yards. Madrid and sister village, Cerrillos are loaded with places to explore on foot or by other means. Both towns are very rich in history, from past ocean existence to Native American civilizations, silver and gold mining to booming wartime coal mining industries, to ghost towns.
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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

New Mexico camping guide

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, out-of-state visitors can go camping in New Mexico, but it's essential to check the latest information and guidelines before planning your trip. Campgrounds in New Mexico include those in state parks, national forests, and private campgrounds, which you can find more information about on Hipcamp. Always follow local regulations and practice Leave No Trace principles while camping.

Yes, out-of-state residents can camp in New Mexico. There are many camping options available, including state parks, national forests, Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands, and private campgrounds. Please note that some locations may have restrictions or require reservations, so it's important to check the specific campground or park you plan to visit for any updated guidelines or requirements. You can find a variety of camping options in New Mexico on Hipcamp.

Whether you need a permit to camp in New Mexico depends on where you plan to camp. For most developed campgrounds on public lands, such as state parks, national forests, and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) areas, you typically do not need a permit. However, you may need to pay a fee and reserve a campsite in advance. For dispersed camping on BLM or national forest lands, you generally do not need a permit. However, some specific areas may require permits for overnight stays, especially in wilderness areas or where resources need to be protected. It's essential to check with the local BLM office or national forest ranger district for specific information on the area you plan to camp in. If you plan to camp on private land, you will need the landowner's permission, which may involve reserving a site and paying a fee. Hipcamp is a useful resource for finding and booking private campsites in New Mexico.

The cost of camping in New Mexico State Parks varies depending on the type of site and amenities provided. Here's a general breakdown of the fees:

  • Primitive camping (no developed facilities): $8 - $10 per night
  • Developed campsites (with picnic table, fire ring, and nearby restrooms): $10 - $14 per night
  • Developed campsites with electric and/or water hookups: $14 - $18 per night
  • Full-hookup campsites (water, electric, and sewer): $18 - $22 per night

Additional fees may apply for extra vehicles, day-use, or other services. You can find more information and discover campgrounds in New Mexico State Parks on Hipcamp.

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