National Park
The best camping in Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument, NM
100% (7)
100% (7)
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument adventure.
Top-rated campsites near Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument
Thunderbird a frame
1. Thunderbird a frame
100%
(30)
19mi from Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
A small A-frame on the Thunderbird Ranch
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Manzano Mountain Retreat
2. Manzano Mountain Retreat
100%
(12)
24mi from Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument · 1 site
Hello!
Our little adventure on 178 acres called Manzano Mountain Retreat provides 40+ acres of Apple Orchard (33 Varieties), hiking trails, a pond, tons of wildlife, a swimming pool, rock climbing wall, ropes course, restaurant, 16 cabins, 4 RV power hooks ups, an indoor basketball court, and so much more!
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
Camp Darkmoon
3. Camp Darkmoon
100%
(103)
30mi from Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument · 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Mountain View Camping
4. Mountain View Camping
92%
(13)
32mi from Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument · 1 site
Welcome to our 30 acre Ranch where we train horses including wild mustangs. You can schedule a visit with the horses as well as our resident goats and pot belly pig. One of our unique features is that you can bring your horse and keep in our barn while you camp at our campsite in the wilderness. There is a hiking and riding trail. The camp site has cushy chairs, a fire, propane grill, outdoor shower and bathroom amenities.
4 wheel or all wheel drive is recommended to get to the site or you can park at the bottom and hike up.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Plateau Hame De Colquhoun
5. Plateau Hame De Colquhoun
100%
(40)
37mi from Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
🌵 Ka-Hoon Desert Campground Experience
Welcome to Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center, also known as Plateau Hame De Colquhoun — a remote off-grid desert campground in central New Mexico.
Located on the edge of a mesa with sweeping views of the Rio Grande Valley and surrounding mountain ranges, Ka-Hoon offers a peaceful desert stay for both solitude and community connection.
This is a natural, evolving desert property designed for camping, stargazing, and occasional community events.
🚧 IMPORTANT BEFORE BOOKING
Access requires driving on an 11-mile unpaved desert road with washboard sections, dips, and dust.
* Passable by most standard vehicles
* No 4x4 required
* Drive slowly and carefully
* Please read guest reviews before booking
🌿 WHAT KA-HOON IS ABOUT
Ka-Hoon is a respect-based desert space built on one principle:
Respect yourself, others, the land, and local laws.
Established in 2020, this land is part homestead, part campground, and part creative gathering space for guests seeking simplicity, nature, and connection.
Guests may come for privacy, reflection, or light community interaction depending on the season.
🌄 WHAT TO EXPECT
* Wide open desert skies, sunsets, and mountain views
* Rustic, evolving campsites across natural terrain
* Off-grid homestead environment
* Occasional events (music, movies, seasonal gatherings)
* 420-friendly atmosphere
* Wildlife present (including snakes — please be aware)
* Simple shower facilities planned (availability not guaranteed)
🌙 EXPERIENCE STYLE
Ka-Hoon is:
* Not a resort or hotel
* Raw, natural, and minimally developed
* A working desert space that continues to evolve
Guests should expect a real desert experience with limited infrastructure and strong connection to nature.
🌵 FINAL NOTE
Whether you are passing through or staying longer, Ka-Hoon welcomes respectful guests who value open land, quiet space, and desert living.
Come as you are — and experience the desert in its natural form.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Perry Farms RV Park
6. Perry Farms RV Park
93%
(67)
47mi from Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument · 14 sites · Tents, RVs
Perry Farms is the home place of the Perry Family, established in 1980, and provided much open space for the children to grow and play.
It is located in the northern edges of the Chihuahuan Desert.
Native fauna and flora as well as beautiful blue skies, with millions of stars provide peaceful, quiet moments of nature.
Learn more about this land:
Desert Camp consists of six RV spots with full hookups (electricity-30 and 50 amp, septic, water, and WIFI) and 11 unimproved tent camping areas on family property of Perry Farms. There are no restroom or shower facilities. This is a smoke-free zone, however, you may smoke in your trailer/camper.
The land has arroyos, mesas, lots of flat areas to car camp, pitch a tent or sleep on the ground under the beautiful, dark New Mexico skies. There are also a few places to hang a hammock. To the west, there are miles and miles to hike, mountain bike, or just enjoy the view of the Magdalena Mountains. Neighbors are quiet and you can choose a spot away from anyone.
Spaces 1-5 are pull-through spaces, Space 6 is back-in.
Pets
Potable water
Full hookups
Small Town Memories
7. Small Town Memories
12mi from Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument · 1 site
This is a small private plot of land just outside of town that used to be a homesite. There are NO AMENITIES currently, but possibly in the future. RV site is for DRY CAMPING ONLY. Pets are allowed but must be contained due to the nearby road.
The property still has a few areas that need a bit of cleanup, but the advantage is that it’s a private site conveniently located just outside of town. The Town of Mountainair is known for its vibrant arts scene, local studios, and galleries. It offers a true small-town feel with great restaurants, including the famous—and haunted—Shaffer Hotel. There are even rumors of sightings of the ghost of Billy the Kid!
While not entirely remote, this is a peaceful spot where you can sit outside and marvel at the galaxy of stars visible on a clear night. You’ll be neighbors with the Forest Service and only a few miles from Cibola National Forest, the Manzano Mountains, and several Park Service sites such as the Abo and Quarai ruins. Nearby, you’ll also find a farmer’s market, a grocery store, and a few dollar stores for essentials.
This is a great location for birdwatching, spotting small wildlife, and occasionally seeing deer. My favorite memory growing up here was listening to the great horned owls—you’ll likely find owl pellets and other interesting natural treasures on the lot. While the 4-acre property isn’t large enough for real hiking, it’s perfect for peaceful walks and exploring nature.
Please note: there is still some debris left from the old homesite, such as tires, but cleanup can be arranged based on rental interest. Campfires are welcome, as long as they comply with current Forest Service fire bans. You must bring your own water for fire extinguishing.
Pets
Manzano Mountain Retreat
8. Manzano Mountain Retreat
100%
(1)
25mi from Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument · 7 sites
Manzano Mountain Retreat | 140 Acres of Orchards, Trails & Glamping
Discover Manzano Mountain Retreat, a 140-acre haven of orchards, meadows, and forest in New Mexico’s Manzano Mountains. Stay in cozy cabins, bunkhouses, or glamping tents surrounded by mountain views and starry skies. Meet friendly farm animals, explore scenic trails, and enjoy seasonal apple harvest traditions. With onsite dining, a pool, fitness center, and plenty of space to relax, our retreat is perfect for families, couples, and groups seeking authentic New Mexico hospitality
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
Kumi's Tents and RV's sports
9. Kumi's Tents and RV's sports
29mi from Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument · 1 site · Tent, RV
Unpaved, open lots right off the corner of US 60 and Jacinto Street. There is electricity available with 20A, 30A, and 50A options in one box, so guests can choose based on their connection type. There’s also a septic tank on the property for emptying gray water before checking out.
Currently, there is no running water on the property, but a water tank will be provided for use. This property is on a beautiful corner, with lots offering a great view of the mountains across the street.
Pets
NM Nora Vang
10. NM Nora Vang
29mi from Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument · 1 site
One acre of unfenced land with a 8x8 shed on a semi-arid waste land that cattle has overgrazed. View the beautiful New Mexican desert night sky with little to no light pollution. During the day, bask in the heat of the day and view the surrounding Mazano, Sierra Landrones and Sandia mountain ranges. Always beware of the winds that constantly blow.
Pets
Desert Yurt
11. Desert Yurt
29mi from Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument · 1 site · Tent, RV
Enjoy the vast openess and beautiful view of the manzano mountains disconnect from the daily hustle, reconnect with nature and feed your soul. Hike the mountains during the day. Set up camp before night fall and take in the night sky with no light pollution around you will be in for a delight.
As always leave no trace
Pets
Campfires
Brown Family Camping
12. Brown Family Camping
29mi from Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument · 6 sites · Tents, Lodging
2 acres on an old free range cattle grazing area. Away from the cities, central to the scattered historic sites like Gila Dwelling, Bandolier national monument, Salina’s mission ruins. Also an hour drive to the balloon festival in Albuquerque. 10 minutes to the Rio Grande River and the wildlife refuge.
Pets
Campfires
Vanlife Desert Escape Parking NM
13. Vanlife Desert Escape Parking NM
30mi from Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument · 1 site · Tent, RV
This is not a campground. There’s no toilet, no shade, no water, no table, no firepit, no welcome sign. This is just one acre of untouched New Mexico desert, available for you to park, pitch a tent, and disappear for a bit.
If you’re looking for hookups or amenities, this isn’t your spot. But if you want silence, space, stars, and solitude, keep reading.
📍 Located in Veguita, NM (Socorro County, ZIP 87062) inside the Rio Grande Estates subdivision. You’ll drive about 10 minutes off I-25 on mostly flat dirt roads. This lot sits in a wide open desert plain — dry brush, hard sand, big sky. The access is pretty solid, but not paved. Most vehicles can make it if dry.
🏕️ There is nothing built here — this is true primitive camping. Bring everything. You’ll pack it in, pack it out.
💡 There is a utility pole a few lots over but no power is connected. People in this area use solar or generators.
🚰 For water, you’ll need to haul it in or bring your own container. Septic or compost toilet if staying long.
📶 Surprisingly, cell service is solid (Verizon & AT&T tested). Enough to stream, text, or hotspot.
🌄 What’s around?
– 30 min to Belen (groceries, fuel, etc)
– 45–50 min to Socorro, Los Lunas & Albuquerque
– Manzano Mountains, Rio Grande River, San Lorenzo Canyon, Salinas Pueblos & more within driving range.
🏜️ Neighbors? Technically yes — but nobody close. There’s a visible structure a few lots away, but otherwise you’ll likely see nobody.
🌌 What you will get:
– A full, unobstructed view of the stars
– Quiet
– Space
– And a solid dirt patch of Earth to make your own for the night
💬 GPS coordinates + pin are sent after booking.
📏 1 acre = 43,560 sq ft. That’s a lot of space for you to breathe.
Not a resort. Not a campsite. Just freedom.
Pets
Socorro Sunsets
14. Socorro Sunsets
31mi from Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument · 1 site
Welcome to your desert escape. The property is 1 acre and features desert and mountain views.
Nearby attractions include: Several Wineries in the town of Belen, just 25 mins away.
Must see: The Bosque Del Apache National Wildlife Refuge, The Manzano Mountains State Park, The Rio Salado River, and Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument.
Pets
Happy campsite
15. Happy campsite
31mi from Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Great place to camp with views in all directions. Beautiful night skies. Lots of exploring near by in all directions. A taste of the Wild West. Also have spots for long term renting. We have 3 acres with 3 sites.
Pets
Mountain View Campgrounds
16. Mountain View Campgrounds
31mi from Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument · 1 site · Tent, RV
Experience the freedom of camping on this 0.25-acre lot just 24 miles northeast of Belen, Valencia County. This property is a wonderful spot to create your own getaway. Picture yourself camping beneath open skies or unwinding in your tranquil outdoor haven. Bring your tent or RV for weekend fun or longer stays.
The Encino Trailhead is only 0.2 miles away, serving as your gateway to the Cibola National Forest. Everyday conveniences are close by in Meadow Lake, just 16 miles away, with a grocery store for quick errands. For bigger shopping trips, Walmart is only 17 miles away.
Enjoy the local community too—Rio Communities is just 22 miles down the road, while Belen’s shops and restaurants are 24 miles away. Los Chavez (27 miles) and Los Lunas (21 miles) are also within easy reach. And for big-city excitement, Albuquerque is only a 40-minute drive—close enough to visit, yet far enough to keep your peace and quiet.
This property offers the perfect balance of country living with all the comforts of town nearby.
Parcel Number 1-024-034-345-290-000110
Legal Summary Subd: RIO DEL ORO Lot: 11 Block: 58 Unit: 37 .25 AC
Location
Valencia county New Mexico
Area
.25
GPS 34.7472872, -106.4726053
Power: By Alternative system
Water: By Alternative System
Sewer: By Alternative System
Roads: dirt
Terrain: hill
Pets
Desert Oasis With Mountain View
17. Desert Oasis With Mountain View
100%
(2)
33mi from Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument · 1 site · Tent, RV
Welcome to your serene escape in central New Mexico! Our site offers a stunning and unique vista overlooking the majestic Mount Ladrone and the green Rio Grande Valley. Whether you’re seeking peaceful solitude or a rural base camp, this location provides a perfect mix of beauty and tranquility. Enjoy breathtaking sunsets, stargazing under clear skies, and easy access to nearby trails. Full RV hookups are available, including water, electricity, and sewer, ensuring a comfortable stay while you soak in the natural surroundings.
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
Bare Nature Ranch
18. Bare Nature Ranch
35mi from Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument · 1 site · Tent, RV
Bare Nature Ranch is a five-acre piece of beautiful desert land with perfect sunsets, mountain views, and endless night skies.
While we are currently focused on dispersed camping, we are working on establishing glamping and long-term rental options.
We also rent our rugged desert land for photography sessions, weddings, outdoor concerts, and other events.
Our end goal is to create an intentional community with tiny homes, day campers, and a dog sanctuary. Help us start something beautiful!
Please message us to talk more about volunteering, long-term camping, or renting the property for your next event.
Pets
La Joya Wildlife
19. La Joya Wildlife
100%
(2)
37mi from Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument · 1 site · Tent, RV
**Welcome to La Joya, New Mexico!**
Nestled near the breathtaking Sevilleta National Wildlife Refuge and the serene Rio Grande River, La Joya is steeped in rich history and natural beauty. The area is known for its diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes, making it a perfect retreat for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
As an international traveling musician, I invite you to stay at my RV spots. Your visit not only supports my passion for music but also contributes to initiatives that provide instruments and music education for local youth. Together, we can inspire the next generation of musicians while you enjoy the tranquility of La Joya. Come experience the beauty of New Mexico and make a difference!
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
Camp Valencia
20. Camp Valencia
81%
(24)
37mi from Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument · 1 site · Tent, RV
Enjoy a secluded property filled with wildlife. Migratory birds fly through. If you are a bird watcher this is a great location. The area attracts predatory birds as well as migratory birds. Bald eagles have been frequantly seen as well as a variety of hawks. The fishing is good the ditch is regularly stocked.Learn more about this land:Enjoy a large private property that butts up to the Rio Grande. This property is near the Whitmore wild life preserve in Valencia County. Kid friendly and dog friendly. A stone's throw away from the Bosque del Apache wildlife preserve. Cranes, other migratory birds and predatory birds frequent the area. The ponds and swamp are unusual for New Mexican landscapes.
Pets
Campfires
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
C
Cindy
2 weeks ago
40 ft travel trailer
It was very quiet which is what we loved most. We never did any exploring but will the next time. Thank you for an enjoyable weekend
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Robert
2 weeks ago
Tent
I always love to stay here. Camp Dark Moon is delightfully sticker-free, so walking barefoot is a joy!
The sand has a great exfoliating effect on my feets!
See moreM
Mia
3 weeks ago
Tent
Roan and Ivy are incredible hosts!! They came out and welcomed me and I felt right at home. If you want a remote spot but also feel safe, this is it. The stars filled the whole sky and they have the funniest bathroom I’ve ever been in. Highly recommend!!
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R
Robyn
May 2026
1 night at Camp Darkmoon
Peaceful and remote. There's a dirt road the last 2 miles but my van made it, no problem.
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J
Jackie
May 2026
24 ft travel trailer
With pets
The directions to the site provided were very helpful.
The site was level, clean, and ready for a full hook up for water, electric, and sewer.
Susan is very thoughtful with the set up of the site for guests. She provided a clean water hose, a water filter, bricks, and pieces of wood to help with your set up(if needed/forgotten) and she also provides a cord if you need to convert to 50amp.
The site is peaceful, beautiful, and well maintained; the bird feeders and nature are a great addition too! We would stay again!!
See more
S
Stephen
May 2026
10 ft toy hauler
Got it—keep it grounded but lean into the good stuff. Here's a revised version:
Title: Great hosts and a fun weekend
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Enjoyed my stay. The hosts were super welcoming and quick to communicate, which made everything easy. The live music was a nice touch, and movie night under the stars was a lot of fun. Would happily go back.
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A
Arron
May 2026
50 ft fifth wheel
Wonderful spot and great host!! I loved our visit and hope to be back soon
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Robert
May 2026
12 ft truck camper
I was in my truck this visit and was able to park in the trees and get some shade and more privacy. Feel like the place could benefit from a little mowing and tree trimming.
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Elise
April 2026
Tent
Just stayed for a night over on my way up north. The hosts were super sweet and communicative and helpful. Really beautiful spot and gorgeous views of the sunset and mountains. Would come back thru!
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M
Maralena
April 2026
With pets
Super sweet little spot! Host are gracious and welcoming! So reasonably priced! The night sky - wowwwwwwww
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Alexis
April 2026
Tent
Chill, friendly spot that is not too far from some great places. Was glad I found this spot and would recommend to others who are interested in a small taste of off-grid desert life, with the views to match (one of the best views from an outhouse I’ve ever had).
See moreM
Mark
April 2026
Weekend Trip to Camp Darkmoon
We love this place! It never disappoints!
Pet friendly! Great hosts! Cozy accommodations!
See moreRobert
April 2026
Tent
With pets
Always love Roan and ivy's welcoming vibe! I will return for sure.
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T
Theodore
April 2026
Tent
With pets
What a great place. Twenty five stars. You will be peaceful there
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Karmyn
April 2026
1 night at Camp Darkmoon
I first learned about Camp Dark Moon by watching a video on the Tiny Home Living YouTube channel. I’m interested in relocating to New Mexico so I reserved my stay here. The YouTube video didn’t do this place justice! It totally exceeded my expectations! Casa Huevo was clean, tidy & cozy. I slept REALLY WELL in it! Ivy & Roan were incredibly amazing hosts! Camp Dark Moon is really beautiful and peaceful. I highly recommend this place to anyone who wants a fun and relaxing getaway experience!
See moreH
Heather
April 2026
42 ft fifth wheel
With pets
Vannetta was very friendly and helpful! I definitely recommend staying at her Hipcamp site!
See moreKarmyn
April 2026
2 nights at Camp Darkmoon
I first learned about Camp Dark Moon by watching a video on the Tiny Home Living YouTube channel. I’m interested in relocating to New Mexico so I reserved my stay here. The YouTube video didn’t do this place justice! It totally exceeded my expectations! Casa Huevo was clean, tidy & cozy. I slept REALLY WELL in it! Ivy & Roan were incredibly amazing hosts! Camp Dark Moon is really beautiful and peaceful. I highly recommend this place to anyone who wants a fun and relaxing getaway experience!
See moreK
Kristen
April 2026
Weekend Trip to Camp Darkmoon
We absolutely loved our stay! Even better than we had hoped. It was early spring, so we weren’t sure how cold the nights would get, but it stayed warm and cozy in Casa Huevos. Great location for incredible sunrises, sunsets, and night skies. Beautiful, lovingly cared for site with lots of personality. The hosts were helpful and communicative, and Roan gave us great recommendations on things to do in the area. We would definitely return to Camp Darkmoon.
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T
Todd
April 2026
30 ft travel trailer
With pets
Sorry for the delay. Melodie and Brent's property is very quiet and peaceful. Take your time after getting off the highway and you will be fine getting to their property. We chose to stay with them for a dark sky and a have a quiet place to work remotely and we were not dissapointed. We will definitely stay again when we are in the New Mexico Area!
See moreRobert
April 2026
Tent
With pets
I love Camp Dark Moon. I will be back in the future for sure.
See moreSalinas Pueblo Missions National Monument camping guide
Overview
About
Out in the middle of nowhere New Mexico, these well-preserved ruins tell the stories of ancient Native American pueblos and 17th-century Spanish missions. Three sites — Abó, Gran Quivira and Quarai — dominate this 1,112-acre historic monument. You'll drive about 85 miles to visit all three, so allow at least a half-day for this fascinating adventure.
Start with a short film at the National Parks headquarters in Mountainair. Head to the most-visited and desolate Abó ruins 9 miles west, or drive 8 miles north to the least-visited site of Quarai. Here in the foothills of the Manzano Mountains, you'll find a massive red brick mission with 40-feet-high walls built from sandstone. The imposing Spanish church is surrounded by long-abandoned outbuildings. Nearby grassy mounds hold the relics of ancient pueblo foundations.
The most extensive site is 26 miles further southeast at Gran Quivira. This huge mission complex lies next to a partially excavated multi-room pueblo village. All of these structures were abandoned in the late 1670s due to drought. The general remoteness of the grasslands of central New Mexico has left the remains in excellent condition.
Each of the three sites has a visitor center with interesting displays and a gift shop. Park Rangers and volunteers are on hand to educate and answer questions. These spectacular ruins were once home to the thriving trade communities of Tiwa and Tompiro-speaking Puebloans. Today they bear silent witness to the contacts and conflicts between the Native Americans and the 17th-century Spanish Franciscan priests who hoped to bring them Christianity.
Plan your visit in the cooler seasons. There's not a lot of shade at Abó or Gran Quivira, so summers can be toasty. View all nearby options for camping on both public campgrounds and private land by diving deeper on Hipcamp.
Reviews for Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument Campgrounds
100%
7 ratings · 5 reviews
Recommends
· April 2026
Really cool site easy access!
A
Adam S.
2 reviews
Recommends
· November 2025
interesting restored ruins
Very interesting restored ruins. Construction methods similar to those used at Camp Dark Moon.
L
Lisanne A.
4 reviews
Recommends
· September 2025
Really cool historical site and its an easy drive up !
M
Mark P.
2 reviews
Recommends
· July 2025
Very interesting but we didn't have time to see them all.
G
Gail B.
2 reviews
Recommends
· May 2025
Lots of history in this area. Very interesting to see.
S
Stephanie S.
2 reviews
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