The best camping in Bottomless Lakes State Park, NM

·
96% (12)

Swimming, sailing, scuba diving…and mythical monsters?!  

The best camping in Bottomless Lakes State Park, NM

Figure 8 Lake Campground

1. Figure 8 Lake Campground

100%
(2)
1 site · Tent, RV · In Bottomless Lakes State Park
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Wake up and watch the sun rise over Mirror Lake from your site at Figure 8 Campground
Public campgrounds in Bottomless Lakes State Park are often sold-out.
Devil's Inkwell Campground

2. Devil's Inkwell Campground

100%
(1)
1 site · Tent, RV · In Bottomless Lakes State Park
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
The water of Devil’s Inkwell is stained turquoise by submerged aquatic plants, giving it the illusion of great depth...like an inkwell
Lea Lake Campground

3. Lea Lake Campground

94%
(8)
13 sites · Tents, RVs · In Bottomless Lakes State Park
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Lea Lake Campground sits on the shores of its namesake and this place has got the hook UP
Pasture Lake Campground

4. Pasture Lake Campground

1 site · Tent, RV · In Bottomless Lakes State Park
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
You won’t mind putting yourself out to pasture at Pasture Campground; with space for RVers and tent-lovers, this quiet little loop provides access to restrooms, showers, and prime views
Desert Rose Stopover

5. Desert Rose Stopover

100%
(122)
15mi from Bottomless Lakes State Park · 2 sites · RVs
5 acres bordered by pecan trees. Level area, cement slab, large trees on site. We have recently added gravel to the parking area. Water, septic, electricity provided. NO BATHROOM FACILITIES available, please bring your own if car camping. No human waste allowed in site trash bin. I do have septic you can connect to your RV. Quiet rural area NW of Roswell, 6 miles from downtown where you can explore alien museums and attractions. Bottomless lakes state park and Bitter Lake National Wildlife Refuge nearby. 70 miles from Ruidoso with hiking, bike and equestrian trails, skiing, shopping, fishing. Haystack mountain recreation area, Pecos river, rockhounding sites in vicinity. White Sands, Carlsbad Caverns, Valley of Fires a short drive away.
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$40
 / night
Dusty Rabbit Van Life

6. Dusty Rabbit Van Life

99%
(238)
23mi from Bottomless Lakes State Park · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
STARGAZING & MYSTERIOUS LIGHTS ABOUND! Dusty Rabbit Van Life @ Schrimsher Ranch is an alternative camping and Star Gazing location just outside of ROSWELL, yet close to the open road. A great place to relax under the stars, have a camp fire, and kick back next to your travel rig after a long day. You might just want to crash for the night in a safe location out on the rangeland or stay a day or two to enjoy the land to walk, mountain bike antelope trails, and maybe even Sniffers the pronghorn antelope will find ya before you head out. This is a primitive site, so leave no trace practice is appreciated and pack in/out is how we do it here. If you come in the summer prepare the morning coffee early and enjoy the desert sun's rays hit the Capitan, but by 9am it will be hot, so be ready! Best star gazing and satellite watching in the world! I have several sites to choose from. But remember to keep an eye on the wind and weather as it can get crazy out here sometimes…..!!! I try to keep the sites stocked with firewood, but fill free to bring your own. Lonely Bull Camp 1 is my most popular site. It is very private and is easily accessible by most vehicles and campers. Ask about Lonely Bull Camp 4x4 if you have a capable vehicle. Amazing stars!! Old Highway Camp is a great alternative if you want something closer to the highway and have a safe private place to pull over, camp, kickback, make a fire and get back to your life on the on the road in the morning. It is closer to the highway, but is quite at night and has great star gazing. Enjoy being greeted by The Mountain in the morning. Let me know where you would like to stay and I will do my best to accommodate you! Safe travels!
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$32
 / night
West Main RV Park

7. West Main RV Park

35mi from Bottomless Lakes State Park · 15 sites · RVs
West Main RV Park
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$35
 / night
Town and Country RV Park

8. Town and Country RV Park

10mi from Bottomless Lakes State Park · 120 sites
Discover the charm of Town & Country, Roswell’s premier Good Sam Park, where cleanliness, friendliness, and a wealth of amenities set us apart from the rest. Our park is not only the highest-rated in town but also offers unbeatable value, as echoed by our satisfied guests. Whether you're just passing through, exploring the intriguing alien lore, or immersing yourself in the rich cultural and scenic attractions of the area, Town & Country is the perfect destination. Nestled in the serene Pecos Valley, our campground provides a peaceful retreat for those looking to unwind or settle in for an extended stay. With spacious sites, privacy, and a variety of outdoor activities nearby, including swimming holes and hiking trails, there’s something for everyone. Plus, you'll find an array of restaurants and shops just a short drive away, making your stay both convenient and enjoyable. Come experience the unique hospitality and exceptional amenities that make Town & Country the ideal choice for your next adventure.
Spring River RV Park

9. Spring River RV Park

10mi from Bottomless Lakes State Park · 1 site
Discover the charm of our unique 2-acre gravel RV park, conveniently located in the heart of Roswell. This inviting park offers full hookups for both 30 and 50 amp RVs at each designated parking area, ensuring a comfortable stay for all guests. Our flexible check-in process allows you to choose between self-service at our office, which is open 24/7, or reserving your spot in advance by calling us directly. Our attentive manager is always just a phone call away, ready to assist you with any needs during your stay. Situated next to the city zoo and a lovely city park, our RV park provides easy access to a variety of attractions. You’ll find yourself just 2 minutes east of downtown Roswell, where shopping, restaurants, and museums await your exploration. Our dedicated staff regularly checks the park to maintain a clean and welcoming environment for all visitors. Enjoy the perfect blend of convenience and comfort at our RV park, where adventure and relaxation go hand in hand.
Trailer Village RV Park

10. Trailer Village RV Park

10mi from Bottomless Lakes State Park · 1 site
Experience the unparalleled convenience of the only RV campground located within Grand Canyon National Park, offering full hookups and paved pull-through sites designed for vehicles up to 50 feet in length. This unique campground allows you to wake up just steps away from the breathtaking South Rim, immersing you in the stunning natural beauty of one of the world's most iconic landscapes. Open year-round, our campground provides a perfect base for your Grand Canyon adventure. Enjoy the comfort of modern amenities while being surrounded by the park's majestic scenery. For those looking to start their day right, breakfast packages are available to fuel your explorations. Whether you're planning to hike the numerous trails, take in the awe-inspiring views, or simply relax in the serene environment, our campground is the ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts. With nearby attractions, including scenic overlooks and vibrant wildlife, your stay promises to be both exciting and memorable. Come and discover the wonders of the Grand Canyon from the comfort of our exceptional RV campground.
Artesia RV Park

11. Artesia RV Park

35mi from Bottomless Lakes State Park · 1 site
Nestled in a serene location on the southeastern side of town, Artesia RV Park stands out for its generous space, accommodating both RVs and personal vehicles with ease. This spacious campground is designed to provide guests with a comfortable and relaxing experience, making it an ideal choice for travelers seeking a peaceful retreat. The park boasts ample parking areas, ensuring that visitors can enjoy their stay without the hassle of cramped spaces. In addition to its convenient parking, Artesia RV Park offers a variety of amenities that enhance the camping experience. Guests can take advantage of well-maintained facilities, including restrooms and showers, which add to the overall comfort of their stay. Surrounded by natural beauty, the park is in close proximity to several outdoor attractions. Nature enthusiasts can explore nearby hiking trails, discover picturesque swimming holes, and engage in various outdoor activities. Additionally, the local area features a selection of restaurants and shops, providing guests with plenty of options for dining and shopping during their visit. Whether you're looking for a weekend getaway or an extended stay, Artesia RV Park offers a unique blend of convenience, comfort, and access to the great outdoors, making it a perfect destination for RV travelers.
96% (12)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Bottomless Lakes State Park adventure.

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Top-rated campgrounds near Bottomless Lakes State Park

Desert Rose Stopover

Desert Rose Stopover

100%
(122)
15mi from Bottomless Lakes State Park · 2 sites · RVs
5 acres bordered by pecan trees. Level area, cement slab, large trees on site. We have recently added gravel to the parking area. Water, septic, electricity provided. NO BATHROOM FACILITIES available, please bring your own if car camping. No human waste allowed in site trash bin. I do have septic you can connect to your RV. Quiet rural area NW of Roswell, 6 miles from downtown where you can explore alien museums and attractions. Bottomless lakes state park and Bitter Lake National Wildlife Refuge nearby. 70 miles from Ruidoso with hiking, bike and equestrian trails, skiing, shopping, fishing. Haystack mountain recreation area, Pecos river, rockhounding sites in vicinity. White Sands, Carlsbad Caverns, Valley of Fires a short drive away.
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$40
 / night
Dusty Rabbit Van Life

Dusty Rabbit Van Life

99%
(238)
23mi from Bottomless Lakes State Park · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
STARGAZING & MYSTERIOUS LIGHTS ABOUND! Dusty Rabbit Van Life @ Schrimsher Ranch is an alternative camping and Star Gazing location just outside of ROSWELL, yet close to the open road. A great place to relax under the stars, have a camp fire, and kick back next to your travel rig after a long day. You might just want to crash for the night in a safe location out on the rangeland or stay a day or two to enjoy the land to walk, mountain bike antelope trails, and maybe even Sniffers the pronghorn antelope will find ya before you head out. This is a primitive site, so leave no trace practice is appreciated and pack in/out is how we do it here. If you come in the summer prepare the morning coffee early and enjoy the desert sun's rays hit the Capitan, but by 9am it will be hot, so be ready! Best star gazing and satellite watching in the world! I have several sites to choose from. But remember to keep an eye on the wind and weather as it can get crazy out here sometimes…..!!! I try to keep the sites stocked with firewood, but fill free to bring your own. Lonely Bull Camp 1 is my most popular site. It is very private and is easily accessible by most vehicles and campers. Ask about Lonely Bull Camp 4x4 if you have a capable vehicle. Amazing stars!! Old Highway Camp is a great alternative if you want something closer to the highway and have a safe private place to pull over, camp, kickback, make a fire and get back to your life on the on the road in the morning. It is closer to the highway, but is quite at night and has great star gazing. Enjoy being greeted by The Mountain in the morning. Let me know where you would like to stay and I will do my best to accommodate you! Safe travels!
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$32
 / night
West Main RV Park

West Main RV Park

35mi from Bottomless Lakes State Park · 15 sites · RVs
West Main RV Park
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$35
 / night

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

The best camping in Bottomless Lakes State Park, NM guide

Overview

About

Legend has it that the nine sinkholes at New Mexico’s first state park are not only bottomless (hence the park’s name), but home to a gigantic monster turtle! Of course, the myths aren’t true, but these azure-blue cenotes still provide plenty of opportunities for adventure. Paddle your way around the gleaming blue pools, head to Lake Lea to swim or scuba dive, enjoy fishing and birding around the lakeshores, or hike the trail between the lakes. Campers can take their pick of four campgrounds, all by the lakeside, and the quirky Roswell UFO Museum is an easy day trip away.

Notable campgrounds

  • Best for RVs: Lea Lake Campground has it all—full hookups, pull-through or back-in sites, and space for big rigs up to 60 feet.
  • Best for crowd-free camping: Devil's Inkwell Campground has a single tent/RV site with direct access to a small fishing lake. 
  • Best for hikers: Figure 8 Lake Campground provides tent/RV camping just a few steps from the Bluff Trail.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  1. You can reserve sites at Lea Lake Campground online via the New Mexico State Parks website. The other campgrounds are only available on a first-come, first-served basis.
  2. Online reservations can be made up to six months in advance.
  3. Campsites can book up as fast, especially for holiday weekends, so book at least three months in advance.

When to go

New Mexican summers are best spent by the lakeside, and the crowds flock to Bottomless Lakes State Park from Memorial Day through Labor Day. This is the best time for swimming and getting on the water, although it’s often still warm enough through spring and fall. The park’s campgrounds stay open year-round, so plan a winter visit if you want to escape the crowd. Bonus: November through March is fishing season.

Know before you go

  • Bottomless Lakes State Park sits 14 miles southeast of Roswell. It’s a more than three-hour drive from both Albuquerque and El Paso.
  • Day passes are required for all vehicles entering New Mexico State Parks, and campsite booking fees also apply. Visitors arriving on foot or by bike can enter for free. 
  • You can bring your own non-motorized boat or watercraft to Bottomless Lakes State Park, and pedal boat and paddleboard rentals are also available in high season. 
  • Facilities at Bottomless Lakes include a Visitor Center, restrooms and showers, picnic areas, and an RV dump station.
  • There are accessible restrooms and campsites at Bottomless Lakes State Park.
96%
12 ratings · 10 reviews

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