The best camping in Villanueva State Park, NM
100% (1)
Discover the serene beauty of Villanueva State Park and its riverside retreats.
100% (1)
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Villanueva State Park adventure.
Top-rated campgrounds in Villanueva State Park
El Cerro Campground
1. El Cerro Campground
100%
(1)
Nothing beats sleeping beneath the shade of a cottonwood tree
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Campfires
Top-rated campsites near Villanueva State Park
Las Sabinas Ranch
1. Las Sabinas Ranch
94%
(31)
9.8mi from Villanueva State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land:Beautiful views of Rowe Mesa, very quiet, hiking on ranch permitted, horses, stargazing,
Tellington Training with horses available.
Pecos River nearby (not on property) 40 miles from Santa Fe, 20 Miles from Las Vegas and Hot springs.
Pets
Potable water
San Pablo Ranch
2. San Pablo Ranch
100%
(44)
20mi from Villanueva State Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Off the beaten path, and located in the foothills of the the Sangre de Cristo Mountain Range. LOTS of peace and quiet on this 733 acre ranch! North half of the ranch is rolling pasture land. The South half of the ranch has the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains rising 450'.
ACTIVITIES:
- Hiking
- Biking
NATURAL FEATURES:
- Forest
- Wildlife
- Intermittent Creek
Pets
Potable water
Picnic table
Agua de Vida
3. Agua de Vida
97%
(362)
24mi from Villanueva State Park · 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!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Little Canyon
4. Little Canyon
93%
(37)
33mi from Villanueva State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
The property is part of a large, old land trust and ranch. There is plenty of hiking, some wild animals and birds, and the stars at night are phenomenal. Learn more about this land:We have simple accessible flat camping tent sites that are drive up and walk-in depending on your needs for privacy and access. There is a shaded cottonwood grove or sunnier spots depending on the season. The canyon is in the foothills of the Sangres and there is a seasonal creek that runs through the land. Family friendly! Private disc golf course is on property. We are approximately 5 miles from I-25 exit and 17 miles from center of Santa Fe.
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Toilets
Potable water
Field Trip NM
5. Field Trip NM
97%
(16)
34mi from Villanueva State Park · 10 sites
We are located in the Santa Fe National Forest, on 6 acres right on the Pecos river and El Macho creek. You can fish right off the property and explore local hikes. The elevation is 7200 feet in a gorgeous setting surrounded by mountains. We have a pavilion and a huge outdoor kitchen for you to enjoy.
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Santa Fe Ridgetop Oasis - Hike In
6. Santa Fe Ridgetop Oasis - Hike In
100%
(10)
35mi from Villanueva State Park · 1 site
Indulge in captivating sunrises and enchanting sunsets at your own private campsite. Nestled atop a ridgeline, this oasis is a mere 20 minutes from downtown Santa Fe and 10 minutes from the village of El Dorado,
Our secluded campspot in the heart of the high desert is a fantastic basecamp for all your outdoor adventures. World-class mountain biking, epic rock climbing, rafting, kayaking, and hikes for all levels are all within an hour's drive or less. Or choose to stay close and hike the trails on "our land."
Your lodging experience includes an enclosed shelter with windows/sliding door, a cozy bed, solar power for lighting and charging phones, a propane camp stove, and an outhouse equipped with a composting toilet. A one lb Coleman propane bottle is available for $18. Otherwise, you are welcome to bring your own. Please only cook outside.
Please read the following details carefully:
This site requires a hike. No vehicles are permitted beyond the cattle gate.
Potable water is available upon request, but we prefer that you BYO. Since I have to hike it out there, you must let me know what you need at the time of your booking.
This is a primitive shelter. There is no running water nor electricity (aside from a solar light). The solar will charge your phone, so bring your cord!
It's just like camping but with walls and a roof over your head - and the benefit of having no other campers around. You might see an occasional hiker with their dog. If you have a dog, take note. This site is completely fenced in so that your fur baby can safely roam.
There is no heating or cooling. The desert can get cold at night. With enough notice, a portable propane heater can be provided for an additional charge.
Hipcampers are kindly asked to park just outside our gate and embark on a picturesque 3/4 mile hike back to the shelter. The flat hike offers scenic views and adds to the adventure of your stay. PLEASE clean up after your pup.
Pets
Toilets
Cooking equipment
Santa Fe Treehouse Camp & Wilderness Preserve
7. Santa Fe Treehouse Camp & Wilderness Preserve
98%
(1647)
35mi from Villanueva State Park · 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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Toilets
Campfires
Camp Across From Pecos River
8. Camp Across From Pecos River
93%
(27)
41mi from Villanueva State Park · 1 site
Escape the crowds and reconnect with nature at Vida Bonita Pecos. Tucked deep in the heart of the Santa Fe National Forest, our three private campsites offer quiet seclusion, stunning views, and exclusive access to a peaceful slice of Northern New Mexico wilderness.
Full Description:
Welcome to your own private forest escape. At Vida Bonita Pecos, our two campsites are designed for those seeking quiet, space, and solitude. Set apart from each other and completely removed from any other campers, you’ll feel like you have the entire forest to yourself.
Each site is nestled beneath towering Ponderosa and Blue Spruce pines and Aspens. They offer level ground for tents, grill for cooking, and easy access to nearby hiking trails, Cowles Ponds, and the soothing sounds of the Pecos River. Whether you’re stargazing by your campfire or sipping coffee with the morning breeze, this is where relaxation lives.
Your campsite is part of the Vida Bonita Pecos complex, which includes beautifully remodeled cabins and the remodeled Ponderosa Lodge. While you’ll have total privacy at your site, guests are welcome to explore designated areas of the property, our trout pond, and free roaming chickens and turkeys.
We don’t pack campers in. No RVs. No generators. Just you, the trees, and a sky full of stars.
What’s Included:
Two secluded tent campsites (book one or both)
Access to filtered spring drinking water
Campfire ring (fire restrictions may apply)
Access to clean outhouse toilet.
Cell service is spotty—perfect for unplugging, but we have free WiFi at the main cabin.
Things to Know:
No other campers will be placed near you—guaranteed privacy.
Firewood available on request.
Check-in at our main lodge before heading to your site.
Come experience the slower pace of mountain life. Whether you’re here to hike, fish, write, or simply breathe, our campsites at Vida Bonita Pecos are the perfect place to begin your New Mexico adventure.
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Mesa Top camping
9. Mesa Top camping
96%
(197)
46mi from Villanueva State Park · 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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Campfires
Little Dancing Horse Ranch
10. Little Dancing Horse Ranch
100%
(47)
48mi from Villanueva State Park · 1 site
The Ortiz Mountains and enchanting Cerrillos Hills surround us. Our stars shine brighter than most, and coyote songs will remind you that you're dwelling amongst the high desert wildlife.The 1 3/4 mile road to Little Dancing Horse Ranch is not for everyone. I will reiterate this a couple times in this listing to make sure people understand that we live on a rocky, dirt road. Some folks find it not to be a big deal while others do. Most vehicles most of the time can make it fine if it's taken slowly although high clearance vehicles are ideal. During the rare big rain or snow 4 wheel drive may be needed. It's advisable to check the weather in advance.
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Mountain View RV/Horse Motels Sites
11. Mountain View RV/Horse Motels Sites
99%
(65)
49mi from Villanueva State Park · 2 sites
Sweet Melody Farm combines our love of music, horses and beautiful spacious landscape of New Mexico. We traveled from Oregon to Pennsylvania and then to New Mexico traveling with our horses and cats. Along the way we stayed at many horse hotels, and wanted to offer weary travelers a place to stop over with their ponies and even without horses. We have 2 Airbnb listings for those needing or wanting to stay with more comfort and space. See our Airbnb links below! Learn more about this land:Sweet Melody Farm has a spectacular view of South Mountain and the stars. Rural residential RV park with full hookups, picnic table and horse shelter. The horse hotel is great for those folks traveling east/west on I-40 that need a safe and secure site to camp in their LQ trailer and rest their horses. The shelter is matted and paddock fenced for safety with 2" x 4" woven wire 4 ft high.100 ft by 100 ft outdoor arena too!We are suited for those that are looking for a base camp to explore the local national forests and eclectic destinations along the Turquoise Trail, Hwy 14. Santa Fe and Albuquerque are easy day trips from here.The map on this site is very old and does not reflect the many improvements and landscaping we have completed since this Google map location.
Pets
Full hookups
Green Go Farm
12. Green Go Farm
9.2mi from Villanueva State Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
An up-and-coming regenerative farm and ranch in Northern New Mexico. We have an Artesian Well providing some of the purest water 24/7 and 365 days a year. We enjoy the bluest of skies with 278 avg sunny days and stunning sun rises and sun sets in Ribera, NM. We have 365-degree views with hiking, biking, trail riding and camping. As a former feed lot educational pilot project in the 1960s and 70s, we also have available huge secure pipe fenced pens for your horses while traveling.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
Rustic Airstream for Two!
13. Rustic Airstream for Two!
24mi from Villanueva State Park · 1 site
This 1969 Airstream sleeps 2 and is a block and a half from the historic Las Vegas, New Mexico Plaza. It is clean and located in a private tree filled fenced yard. It has a toilet but no running water - we have jugs of water in it. There is a coffee pot with coffee, sugar, and creamer, but no cooking facilities. The Montezuma Hot Springs are 10 minutes away, and restaurants are walking distance. If you want a budget friendly vintage vibe in a convenient location, this is it.
Toilets
Potable water
Montezumas Hidden Arts Land
14. Montezumas Hidden Arts Land
100%
(4)
27mi from Villanueva State Park · 3 sites
This over 100 year old Adobe house on 2 acres was once owned by a Russian professor who's land was named "Casa de los gatos" (house of cats), because of her 100 or more felines she had, After 95 yrs "Casa de Los gatos" was purchased by Procopio Gonzales a local contractor/ artist who doesnt consider him self an artist , has restored many local historical sites and built many custom homes in the surrounding area including "Leaping Deer Ranch" with his son who now runs the property and keeping the Gonzales legacy going as a contractor and artist him self.
Mr Procopio Gonzales now kicks back and enjoys his life giving inspiration with his vision to others. He might just pop in to say hello and tell his story.
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Montezuma Hot Springs Manor
15. Montezuma Hot Springs Manor
27mi from Villanueva State Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
2 acres Gated and fenced, with Flat land and lots of trees, view of the mountains, beautiful sunrises and sun sets, yard art, with a 1950s style vibe. Only 1 mile to our natural hot springs.
indoor half bathroom, A TV room, on property RV sewer drain, and water, a 110 electric cord hook up only.
Pets
Toilets
Water hookup
Montezuma Hot Springs Haven
16. Montezuma Hot Springs Haven
75%
(12)
27mi from Villanueva State Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Flat area with some trees for tent or RV boon docking, also furnished glamping tent. 1 mile to Montezuma Hot Springs; 10 minute drive to grocery stores and restaurants; ; houses nearby so quiet hours are 10 pm to 8 am; no wood fires; dogs must be kept on leash. Portapotty in place. Charcoal babecue on site. No electricity, no water, no wifi.
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Toilets
Rincon Del Cielo(corner of the sky)
17. Rincon Del Cielo(corner of the sky)
100%
(7)
28mi from Villanueva State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
A gated private property on a quiet 10 acres at the literal end of the road, backing up to Pecos National Park. Nestled in the Pecos National Forest, Rincon Del Cielo is the perfect getaway for active (or passive) individuals, couples, and families.
It’s a serene, relaxing environment that also offers plenty of activities both on and off the property. The campsite includes a four-burner grill with side burner, gas fire pit, electricity, trash can, picnic table, gated/fenced dog run/tent site, portable toilet w/hand washing sink and non-potable water.
Rincon Del Cielo’s property boasts meandering walking paths, including Hummingbird Lane, which features 18+ feeders to attract these little bundles of energy (seasonal). There’s plenty of birdwatching to make even the most experienced ornithologists envious.
For kids, there are slackline swings and swing bars, plus badminton and volleyball nets for families (seasonal). Nearby, you’ll find world-class river fishing, hiking, zip lines, mountain biking, national parks, and other points of interest.
There’s plenty to do—or not do—and plenty to see while visiting our corner of the sky.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Edge Of The Woods Camping
18. Edge Of The Woods Camping
86%
(7)
30mi from Villanueva State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to our sweet slice of life conveniently located just a few miles from everything you would want to explore!
- Famous Glorieta mountain biking trails
- Hiking trails
- High-quality fishing and adventures at the Pecos River
- Pecos Canyon State Park and Pecos National Historic Park
- Close to multiple ski resorts
- Historic Downtown Santa Fe, just 17 miles away!
If you want to have easy access to the city, but still enjoy nature, this is the perfect spot for you. We find the campers who enjoy this site the most are just stopping by for a safe and quiet place to sleep while passing through or they love exploring throughout the day and come back to the site to relax and rest up before their next adventure.
So come sleep under the stars, relax in the shade of the pinon trees, play in the grassy, wildflower fields, or cozy up to one of the fire pits on the property.
Camp sites have access to water and the covered RV space has electricity and water hookups. Love riding as much as we do? Clean off that New Mexico clay at our bike washing station! We are dog friendly and already love your furry companions, but please keep them leashed. We can provide long cables so your pup can still play outside with you!
The two acre property also includes our home, covered RV site, pear tree (help yourself to fresh fruit!), many shady areas to relax, large field to play, fire pits, and access to trails within walking distance!
After a few years of living on the road, we know how hard it can be to find a clean, safe place to stay and how magical it feels when you find just the right spot. Now that we are stationary, we want to share our home with you and give others a chance to enjoy nature and all of the beautiful adventures surrounding us!
We live full-time in the house and do have neighbors on our street (dirt road), please let us know if we can do anything to make your stay more comfortable!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Pecos Pinecone Camp
19. Pecos Pinecone Camp
30mi from Villanueva State Park · 1 site
Rural driveway campsite in residential area with plenty of tree cover. Car or tent camp at the beginning of my driveway, and small shelter available. Property is off an unmaintained dirt road. There are two neighbors on either side, so quiet hours are 9pm to 7am. No campfires on site but I have firewood available for sale.
Close access to mountain biking (4 miles), fishing (9 miles from the Upper Dalton Fishing Access Site), hiking, and backpacking (25 miles to Jacks Creek Trailhead).
Pets
Vista Ortiz Retreat
20. Vista Ortiz Retreat
100%
(2)
34mi from Villanueva State Park · 1 site
Our 12.5 acres residential lot sits at 6970 feet elevation and abuts a 4000 acres wilderness preserve. It is located 20 minutes from downtown Santa Fe and is near numerous hiking/mountain biking trails in Galisteo Basin Preserve and others. Great views of the Ortiz, Sandia and Manzano Mtns.
THE SPACE
The bell tent has a comfortable queen bed with fresh linens, pillows and comforter. Basket inside has additional pillows and blankets.
As a high desert, water is a precious resource.
We've built a custom outdoor solar-heated shower with both hot and cold water that is extremely efficient. The water-system is filled daily and holds approximately six gallons (hot). There is a water-saving shower head with an on/off mechanism. "Navy showers" are a must: turn on to get wet, turn off to lather up and then rinse off. With this method, more than one person can shower. To take advantage of the solar gain, best used in the afternoon or evening.
We offer soap, shampoo, conditioner and towels. There is a nice bench, lots of hooks to hang your towels/clothes, and a shower caddy. The area is private and secluded with solar lighting for nighttime use.
There is a separate sink (cold water only) and private enclosed toilet facility next to the shower area.
Guidebook in tent listing restaurants, bars, tap houses within 10 minutes drive and without need to go into Santa Fe.
Pack & Play available for an additional fee ($25 for stay) if infants/toddlers accompany the adult guests.
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Showers
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
Mark
6 days ago
19 ft Class B
Very nice corner of New Mexico. We loved the property. We used the picnic table, grille and gas fireplace. Rasy access with a 24' Class C. Elect hookup is handy.
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A
Alex
2 weeks ago
21 ft Class C
Kim’s land had an amazing view and it was great looking at all the stars. I felt safe and would recommend.
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B
Beth
2 weeks ago
16 ft travel trailer
Very secluded and quiet. Be sure to read the host's messages as you really need the instructions about how to get into the site.
One nice bathroom and one nice shower that are a short walk away at the bathhouse. The host was very helpful .
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R
Richard
2 weeks ago
Tent
Brenda's place was wonderful. I had the place to myself and privacy, but yet support if I needed it. Loved the pets. Get me company out in my tent. Enjoye pooches hanging out with me and the pond was awesome ! The convenience and experience of showering in 'the bathhouse' was way cool. The light and the privacy was wonderful. Very easy to get to and a very secure area. I'd go there again in a heartbeat! Thanks Brenda
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K
Kate
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
Very nice! Jon has a lovely little setup here, with great amenities. If you scroll down in the pictures you can see the most recent set up (with the teal picnic table). I loved wandering around the property with my dogs. There's a dirt/grass area behind the parking spot, which is where I set up my tent. Fair warning: there is a rooster!
See moreP
Pierre
3 weeks ago
21 ft Class B
With pets
Jon’s site is very nice and well maintained. It is simple to get there and the parking spot is perfect and very leveled, à ne you have everything needed, BBQ, picnic table, fire table and chairs to sit around it. There are Small walking path around for stretching your legs
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Eric
3 weeks ago
23 ft campervan
With pets
The road is rough so be prepared for that but it is very easy to get to and once you’re there the views are more than worth it. Sunset and sunrise are just spectacular. The host is a wonderful person and gave our pups lots of love.
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C
Charity
3 weeks ago
20 ft campervan
With pets
It was a lovely secluded spot. We enjoyed the sunset very much. I would like to come back and visit Madrid but we were just passing through. Kim was super helpful, too.
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Morgan
April 2026
19 ft travel trailer
With pets
The site was lovely. It was quiet and beautiful. We enjoyed the resident dogs who barked a bit at our dogs but caused us no trouble whatsoever. The bathhouse was clean and nice. Hosts were kind and responsive. Our dogs and disabled goat enjoyed this spot for relaxing when we weren’t hiking and exploring the Santa Fe area.
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Jeff
April 2026
26 ft Class C
Nice quiet place with water and electric. Nice clean bathhouse and shower and toilet.
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Margaret
April 2026
22 ft campervan
Very easy to pull in and hook up. A little close to other campers but they were very quiet.
Great view!
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K
Kirsten
April 2026
23 ft Class B
With pets
Loved the quiet privacy in a secluded beautiful setting. Brenda was a super hostess that was very welcoming, and gracious.
See moreM
Mark
April 2026
20 ft campervan
Very quiet and spread out
Nice little lake on property. I liked the seclusion. Close to Pecos National Monument. It is worth the visit.
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Charlie
April 2026
17 ft travel trailer
Group trip
Great spot. Would love to come back Short walk to Madrid but still quiet in the junipers
See moreCharlie
April 2026
17 ft travel trailer
Group trip
Great spot with views. Enjoyed visiting the funky cemetery next to to us. Would come back
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H
Heather
April 2026
With pets
Gave me a perfect spot for my dog to stretch his legs and not have to bother with setting up tent after my 11hr journey from TX. Peaceful and away from people and everything noisy so was able to pass out successfully at like 6pm and slept a solid 11hr then waited patiently for the beautiful sunrise. Was greeted by a rather large coyote (bigger than my Pitt Bull) on the way out which startled all of us I think. But it was in the wee hours of morning so he was still hunting from the night before. My dog is a solid 86lbs so we’re both a pretty large obstacle for the lone coyote. However if you have a smaller dog and are timid at all you need to keep in mind that you are in the WILD out there so it’s up to you to figure it out if you encounter wilderness in your face like that.
See moreB
Brendan
April 2026
19 ft campervan
With pets
Sweet spot on a great piece of property. Everything was so clean and as advertised. The dog pen was awesome after a long travel day. And fun string lights on the property to really make it homey at night. Thanks to Jon for sharing this space with people!
See moreS
Shelby
April 2026
16 ft travel trailer
With kids
Lovely little site with many camping options. Well maintained bath house everything clean. We very much enjoyed our stay there and will likely return.
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c
charles
April 2026
With pets
Very scenic area. Sunset and sunrise were beautiful. The road was rough but easy enough if you go slow. The bus was cozy and perfect for a little get away
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F
Frankie
April 2026
30 ft travel trailer
With pets
The RV site was really nice. It felt like we were out in the middle of no where with hook ups! The Bath House was very nice and clean. The hosts are awesome and friendly. We will definitely be back. Thank you for a fun camping experience.
See moreVillanueva State Park camping guide
Overview
About
Villanueva State Park is a quaint and peaceful spot, along the Pecos River, for those looking to leave the hustle and bustle of everyday life behind. Wake in spacious campgrounds beneath the cottonwood trees before heading out on the trails or saddling up for a horseback ride. Nestled between sandstone bluffs, you’re sure to spot an array of southwestern wildlife and stunning vistas on your trek. Take to the Pecos River for a day of canoeing and fishing and a brew or two. Even if you’re just visiting for the day, Villanueva has picnic shelter (even for large groups) surrounded by the canyon that will guarantee you'll be back for a longer stay!
Notable campgrounds
- El Cerro Campground: Offers stunning views from April to October, ideal for those seeking a scenic outdoor stay.
- Riverside Campsites: Enjoy the soothing sounds of the Pecos River at these year-round sites, perfect for water enthusiasts.
- Equestrian Camping: Campsite 3 is specially designed for visitors with horses, merging nature with equestrian pursuits.
Tips for snagging a campsite
- Book early through Reserve America to secure your preferred spot, especially during peak seasons.
- Consider mid-week stays for better availability and a quieter experience.
- Keep an eye on park alerts for last-minute openings due to cancellations.
- Explore nearby camping options to ensure you have a backup plan in case the park is fully booked.
When to go
The best time to visit Villanueva State Park is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural beauty is at its peak. Summer offers warm days perfect for river activities, while winter provides a quiet, stark landscape. Note the park's gate hours change seasonally.
Know before you go
- Check the latest park alerts for any closures or restrictions before your visit.
- Remember to bring life jackets for all river activities—it's the law.
- Pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash, and owners should clean up after them.
- Prepare for all four seasons; the park's elevation can lead to cooler temperatures.
- Local stores and gas stations are a short drive from the park, so plan accordingly.
Reviews for Villanueva State Park Campgrounds
100%
1 ratings · 1 review
Recommends
· March 2026
Tent · With kids ·
El Cerro Campground
The family and I had a great camping experience here. Temperature dropped compared to the previous day, so it was quite cold at night. But the campsite was nestled in the trees and was perfect. Not super far from home, so we will definitely be back in the future.
Jesse D.
8 months on Hipcamp
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