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Bluewater Lake State Park

The best camping in Bluewater Lake State Park, NM

100% (6)

Discover Bluewater Lake State Park's scenic vistas and thrilling outdoor activities.

The best camping in Bluewater Lake State Park, NM

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.

100% (6)

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

Popular ways to camp

Camper favorites near Bluewater Lake State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Stargazer Ranch

88%

(12)

35mi from Bluewater Lake State Park · 41 sites · Tents, RVs · Pinehill, NM

A peaceful and serene camping site. We've built a Zen Garden at the top of the hill. This is a very rustic place to camp up in the Central Mountains of New Mexico. The Stargazing view is stunning! About an hour from Gallup, near the Wolf Sanctuary. All the Land of Enchantment has to offer in the Spring, Summer and fall! A sacred place where your family can go car camping. I like having my 4x4 Truck...right here at my campsite. For others that don't care, there's lots of tent camping available. One must see it to believe it it's absolutely sublime. We're building a retreat for camping with groups it's so peaceful and beautiful. A peaceful Serene setting definitely a getaway spot nestled in 7,300' Mountains.

Mujeres Valley Campground

81%

(8)

48mi from Bluewater Lake State Park · 17 sites · Tents, RVs · Fence Lake, NM

This is a drycamping venue that has gravel roads leading up to the venue. Fresh well water can be provided for small groups without a fee but guests will need to provide their own containers to use during their stay. The campground has a fairgrounds across the road that is not part of registration access through this site. Please contact us directly for booking options for the fairgrounds and please make sure to only access the property pinned in the location provided to you through this site. This property was obtained around 60+ years ago via the Homestead Act by a family who we have become very close friends with. Over the last 60 years it's only been used sparingly as grazing land for cattle. Since we've obtained the land we've been focused on learning it's history from those who have been here the longest while also being proud BIPOC owners of land in this area. We've also connected with the original people's of this land who were here during the time the land was colonized. We've found ceremonial and everyday pottery, crystals, and underground caves throughout the surrounding properties which we own. Over the last 2 years we've learned about the Redwoods that have been wiped out of the area and that the mountain is eroding quickly. It has become our mission to plant indigenous plants and trees that are extinct from the area, reviving the plant like, reviving the mountain and doing what we can to encourage the water table to rise! Our plans for the 12 acres the campground occupies is to add an outdoor shower that can be used all year, installing solar powered water heaters & bathrooms as well as establishing a community meeting space and a greenhouse where we can host gardening classes and provide fresh fruits and veggies in this food desert! This land is sacred and we intend to continue treating it as such!

Flying Horse Retreat

100%

(13)

17mi from Bluewater Lake State Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · El Morro, NM

El Morro is rich with history. Home to the ancient Pueblo Indians, what is now the monument was once their settlement and visited by Conquistador's and explorers during early explorations. It's famous Inscription Rock has over 2000 names carved in sandstone, including one from Conquistador Coronado. Geronimo, and Billy the Kid are said to have frequented the area and even lived in nearby Candy Kitchen. But today, a rich group of homesteader's make up the community. Artisan's, actors, musician's, writers, spiritual healers, organic farmers, and free thinkers inhabit the Valley. The land here hosts retreats and workshops for those wishing to enrich their nighttime dream life. We provide a place for vision quest and have an emphasis on sound healing. Our SolTec Lounge is perfect for stress relief and can help induce lucid dream experiences. Sitting near the top of Oso Ridge at approximately 7700', we have one of the most inspiring views in the area. From our firecircle, El Morro Monument, Los Gigantes, and numerous mesas are in complete view. Learn more about this land: Flying Horse Retreat is a place for spiritual seekers to find vision and renewal through sound healing and retreat. We offer private retreat, sound healing chair sessions, vision quests, and Summer Camp (coming soon), but we are very excited about opening up the land to campers. It is a unique opportunity to experience normally private areas of this sacred land. Our remote and quiet 20 acres of heavily forested mountainside includes deep gorges and rocky terrain, while Ponderosa Pine canopies offer shade from the sometimes intense NM sun. Wildlife is plentiful, though sometimes elusive. Deer, Elk, Fox, Bobcat, Lynx, Wild Turkey, Roadrunners and Coyotes are all regularly seen on the land. El Morro Monument, easily seen from our Firecircle on the opposite end of the Valley, is a world class travel destination. The water tank at the base of it's rock was a relied upon water source during early expeditions. Conquistador Coronado, Lt. Beale and other famed explorers stopped here before traveling further west. Flying Horse Retreat is across El Morro Valley, near the top of Oso Ridge in the Zuni Mountains, and has a panoramic view of the surrounding mesas. You may want to get a closer view of Los Gigantes - amazing sand sculptures carved by the wind and sacred to ancient tribes. We're just a few miles from the Continental Divide and Pie Town is a couple of hours further south. Two art galleries, a Feed Store, a Holistic Food Store, and a gift/coffee shop are right across the highway and next door to the Cafe. Come visit our eclectic community of actors, healers, artisans, writers, organic farmers, and unique thinkers. (We are 50 miles from a town where supplies can be purchased, though the nearby Feed Store has a few camp related supplies and their holistic and organic food selections may surprise you.) You may also want to visit the local Wild Spirit Wolf Sanctuary in Candy Kitchen. At any one time they are host to 50+ Wolves and Hybrids. Note: The Google Maps indicator is at the gate. There is an additional 3 mile drive up the mountain to my home. (Special pricing for longer stays. Campers can add $25 for a dream chair session, regularly $50.) Projects under way: Outdoor Solar Shower B&B Room nearing completion Note: Sorry, no after dark arrivals.

Dancing Juniper Gardens

35mi from Bluewater Lake State Park · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging · Pine Hill, NM

DJG is a respite nestled at 7500 ft in the arid mountains amongst the Piñon-Juniper-Ponderosa forest of west-central New Mexico. The property has a garden, greenhouse, the owners trailer, a 10' guest bell tent, and outdoor kitchen. Plenty of tent camping space available. Relaxing vibe, lots of sitting spaces, fire pit benches, chairs, hammocks. Very rural so walking the dirt roads of the neighborhood is akin to hiking in the back country with a house every now and then. Located in historic Candy Kitchen which is also home to the Wild Spirit Wolf Sanctuary. About 25 minute drive to El Morro National Monument and two local cafes. 1 hr drive to the Ice Caves and volcano hike. 2 hrs west of Albuquerque, 3 hrs west of Santa Fe. 3 mile dirt road in is a tad rough, high clearance recommended. Seasonal monsoons possible June through September

Chain of Craters Hiker Hideout

21mi from Bluewater Lake State Park · 1 site · Tent · San Rafael, NM

** ATTENTION: If you do not have a high clearance 4-wheel drive do not book this site! The Hiker Hideout is an in-holding inside El Malpais National Monument. The Continental Divide Trail goes through the property. The Hiker Hideout was purchased by the Lava Flow Hostel to be a place for hikers to rest, congregate, and socialize. The property once had a cabin and an outhouse, unfortunately a wildfire in June of 2022 burnt the cabin and outhouse. The property now has just primitive campsites. Lava Flow Hostel is working on rebuilding the cabin and water storage. There is an outdoor composting toilet.

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Little Iron Campground

24mi from Bluewater Lake State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Pinehill, NM

Little Iron Campground Little Iron Campground sits on 5 acres of undeveloped land, with a single road running through the property. Vehicles with higher clearance are recommended, and 4x4 may be required depending on the time of year and weather conditions. Multiple campsites are available to choose from among the piñon-juniper trees. The campground is located in Pine Meadow Ranches, behind El Morro National Monument (about 25 minutes away). Little Iron Campground is located in Game Unit 12. Campsites are marked and include established fire pits. Be smart, stay safe, and always check local fire advisories before lighting a fire. Explore the grounds and surrounding areas, or spend the day visiting one of the nearby national monuments. Getting outdoors and enjoying nature is what Little Iron Campground is all about. Things to Do Nearby • El Morro National Monument • El Malpais National Monument • The Ice Caves • Wolf Spirit Wolf Sanctuary Nearby Lakes & Reservoirs • Ramah Lake – 30 min • Nutria Lakes – 1 hr Nearby Services • Closest Gas Station: Lewis Trading Post – 25 min • Grants: 1 hr • Gallup: 1 hr 20 min • Albuquerque: 2.5 hrs

San Isidro Farm

22mi from Bluewater Lake State Park · 1 site · Lodging · Church Rock, NM

Working farm/ranch with 4 mile trail on property and easy access to Zuni Mountain trail system.

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Stories from the community

Nadja

3 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Grants KOA- On Historic Route 66

Great facility! Used a basic tent camping spot which is right behind the main office. Bathrooms and laundry were just a step away. We only stayed one night so this was a great plus for us. They had an evening dinner menu, which we didn’t partake in but awesome to have after a long travel day and free pancake breakfast. Also great general store with all kinds of things you might need.

Amanda

October 2025

22 ft campervan

With pets

1 night at Grants KOA- On Historic Route 66

Great location, easy back in sites, super clean campground.

Sietske

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Mujeres Valley Campground

Beautiful spot, lovely clear skies, everything is very well-maintained. We saw a ton of elk tracks which was pretty cool also!

Jeremy

September 2025

30 ft toy hauler

With pets

1 night at Blue Water Camp And Boondocking

This was an excellent site if you like to be in a private setting. We had no issues finding it. There are all kinds of places to set up camp here as there are no “designated” campsites. It worked great for our 30ft toyhauler.

Brandyn

July 2025

Tent

1 night at Mujeres Valley Campground

Loved every second of our stay! The owners were extremely friendly and helpful! The site was stunning! Will definitely return soon!

Top-rated campgrounds

Grants KOA- On Historic Route 66

100%

(2)

17mi from Bluewater Lake State Park · 50 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Grants, NM

Discover the unique charm of Grants KOA, where the stunning beauty and rich history of northwestern New Mexico come together to create an unforgettable camping experience. You can conveniently reserve your stay online for dates up to the night of November 28th, 2024, ensuring you have a spot to unwind after your travel day. Setting up at this award-winning campground is a breeze, featuring spacious 85-foot-long Pull-Thru RV Sites equipped with up to 50-amp service, providing ample room for slide-outs. In addition to RV accommodations, we offer Tent Sites and cozy Camping Cabins for those seeking a more rustic experience. From March to October, let our friendly staff treat you to delicious Campground Cuisine dinners delivered right to your site, allowing you to relax and enjoy your evening. Families will love the playground, while your furry friends can frolic at our on-site KampK9, ensuring everyone has a great time. Take a leisurely stroll through the ancient lava beds nearby, immersing yourself in the area's natural beauty. As the day winds down, enjoy complimentary wireless internet and cable TV, perfect for unwinding before your next adventure. Start your mornings right with a free continental breakfast, fueling you for a day of exploration. With so much to see and do,

Blue Water Camp And Boondocking

100%

(1)

4.5mi from Bluewater Lake State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV · Bluewater Acres, NM

Escape to a secluded and peaceful property surrounded by tall trees and flat terrain—perfect for both tent and RV camping. Just 7 miles off I-40 at the Thoreau exit, the site is easily accessible for any type of vehicle. A convenient pull-around loop with makes setting up camp simple. Only 5 minutes from Bluewater Lake State Park, you can spend your day fishing, boating, or hiking, then return to your own quiet, scenic forest retreat. Park your RV right on the loop or just off it on level ground, and soak in the tranquility of nature.

Cubero Goat Farm and Gallery

75%

(8)

36mi from Bluewater Lake State Park · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · Cubero, NM

Located in the wild Wild West of Northwest New Mexico. The tribes of Navajo, Zuni, Acoma, Apache all surround this wonderful watering hole. Frequented by traders, outlaws, artists and those who appreciate and enjoy nature. Hawks, Eagles, Owls, Mountain Lions, Bobcats and our other relatives frequent this beautiful piece of heaven as well. Old adobe ruins are located on the property to show old architecture and the civilizations that have been here long before the formation of the United States. The view of the stars are unobstructed and the sunsets and sunrises are breathtaking. Come share this piece of heaven with us.

Other options near Bluewater Lake State Park

El Morro RV Park & Cabins

25mi from Bluewater Lake State Park · 1 site · Ramah, NM

Discover the unparalleled charm of our campground, nestled in a breathtaking corner of New Mexico, where ancient history meets stunning natural beauty. Here, you can wander through prehistoric ruins, marvel at the striking lava flows, and explore the majestic red rock mesas. The vibrant Native American arts and crafts add a unique cultural touch to your experience. With warm, sunny days and cool nights, our location is ideal for a variety of outdoor activities. Whether you enjoy hiking, biking, birdwatching, or fishing, there’s something for everyone. If relaxation is what you seek, our serene environment provides the perfect backdrop for unwinding and rejuvenating. Choose from a range of accommodations, including cozy mountain cabins, a full-service RV park, or private tent sites. Each option offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Join us for a memorable experience filled with delicious food, relaxation, healing, and adventure. Your journey into the heart of nature awaits!

Pets

USA RV Park

42mi from Bluewater Lake State Park · 103 sites · Gallup, NM

Discover the unique charm of USA RV Park, the premier RV and camping destination in Gallup, New Mexico. Nestled along the historic Route 66, this park serves as a gateway to breathtaking national and tribal parks, including Mesa Verde, El Morro, Window Rock, Zuni, Four Corners, Monument Valley, and the stunning Painted Desert. At USA RV Park, we prioritize your comfort and convenience with flexible daily, weekly, and monthly rates. Our clean facilities and spacious RV sites cater to all types of vehicles, providing essential amenities such as water, electric, sewer, and cable hook-ups. In addition to our generous RV accommodations, our park boasts a variety of amenities designed to enhance your stay. Enjoy our gift shop and convenience store, take a dip in the heated outdoor pool, or let your kids have fun at the playground. For those traveling with pets, we offer a designated dog walk area. Engage in friendly competition in our game room or stay connected with our computer facility featuring free Wi-Fi. We invite you to experience the rich beauty and vibrant culture of Gallup, New Mexico, the heart of Indian Country. Your adventure awaits at USA RV Park!

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

Lavaland RV Park

20mi from Bluewater Lake State Park · 43 sites · Grants, NM

Discover the charm of Lavaland RV Park, the friendliest RV park in Grants, New Mexico, where comfort meets convenience. Our park stands out with spacious pull-through sites that make it easy for you to set up without the hassle of disconnecting your large recreational vehicle. Nestled close to Interstate 40, Lavaland RV Park offers effortless access to the highway, making it an ideal stop for travelers. Each site is shaded by beautiful trees, providing a cool retreat from the warm New Mexico sun. For those cozy evenings indoors, we offer cable TV at each space, ensuring you can unwind after a day of adventure. Our clean, full-size showers with hot water add to the comfort of your stay. Conveniently located near restaurants and gas stations, Lavaland RV Park caters to all your travel needs. If you're looking for outdoor activities, an eighteen-hole golf course is just minutes away, offering stunning southwestern views. With reasonable prices and the comforts of your RV, Grants is the perfect stop on your journey. For more information, feel free to reach out to us at 505-287-8665 or info@lavalandrvpark.com. We look forward to welcoming you!

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

Bar S RV Park

18mi from Bluewater Lake State Park · 21 sites · Grants, NM

Nestled conveniently just off I-40 at exit 79, Bar S RV Park stands out as a unique haven for travelers exploring the captivating landscapes of Northwest New Mexico. Our park is designed for both those passing through and guests looking to settle in for a longer stay, providing easy access to the interstate while ensuring a peaceful retreat. At Bar S RV Park, we pride ourselves on offering affordable rates without compromising comfort. Our welcoming atmosphere is perfect for a restful night or an extended visit, allowing you to unwind and recharge. In addition to our convenient location, guests can enjoy nearby attractions such as stunning natural features, inviting swimming holes, and a variety of outdoor activities. Explore local restaurants and shops to experience the charm of the area. Choose Bar S RV Park as your ideal destination for relaxation and adventure in Northwest New Mexico.

Pets

Toilets

Showers

Blue Spruce RV Park

17mi from Bluewater Lake State Park · 32 sites · Grants, NM

Discover the charm of Blue Spruce RV Park, a unique family-owned retreat that has been providing a tranquil and secure environment for over 30 years. Nestled in a serene setting, our well-maintained RV park stands out for its commitment to cleanliness and comfort, making it an ideal choice for travelers seeking a peaceful getaway. At Blue Spruce RV Park, we offer a variety of amenities designed to enhance your stay. Enjoy our clean laundry facilities, perfect for long-term guests, and let your children explore our dedicated play area. Whether you’re planning a brief overnight visit or an extended stay, our park provides a welcoming atmosphere for everyone. In addition to our excellent facilities, Blue Spruce RV Park is conveniently located near stunning natural features, inviting swimming holes, and a range of outdoor activities. You’ll also find nearby restaurants and shops to satisfy your cravings and shopping needs. Experience the difference at Blue Spruce RV Park, where comfort and community come together for an unforgettable stay!

Pets

Toilets

The best camping in Bluewater Lake State Park, NM guide

Overview

About

The best way to cure your summertime blues is a trip to Bluewater Lake State Park. The serene and glassy lake, with killer views of the Zuni Mountains, offers incredible canoe and kayaking opportunities or just lay back on your paddle board and stare at the picture perfect sky! Anglers are going to be super stoked on the world class tiger muskie fishing; you can even snag a guide to find all the best spots for a record catch. Water lovers who don’t want the day to end can boat into primitive campsites, or pitch your tent at one the parks campgrounds. Hiking at Bluewater is the perfect way to catch panoramic views of the lake and mountains, and there’s tons of gorgeous spots for a picnic lunch. You will be worry free after a trip to Bluewater Lake, say buh-bye to those blues!

Notable campgrounds

Developed Campsites: Offering 149 sites, these campgrounds provide the perfect balance of nature and convenience.
Electric Sites: With 14 electric sites available, enjoy the great outdoors without forgoing modern comforts.
Group Campsites: Ideal for larger gatherings, these sites allow for memorable group camping experiences.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Book early, especially for peak season, to ensure your spot amid the park's natural beauty.
Consider mid-week stays for better availability and a quieter camping experience.
Keep an eye on cancellation policies for last-minute openings.
Explore nearby camping options to maximize your chances of securing a reservation.

When to go

The best time to visit Bluewater Lake State Park is from April 1st to October 30th, when the park is open from 6am to 9pm, offering longer days for exploration. Winter months bring shorter hours, from 7am to 5pm, and can be quite cold, so prepare accordingly if you choose to visit during this time.

Know before you go

Check park alerts for any closures or restrictions before your visit.
Life jackets are a must for water activities – safety first!
Accessibility is a priority, with amenities to accommodate diverse visitor needs.
Remember to pack out your trash and respect the park's pristine environment.
Visitor center and staff are available to enhance your park experience and provide information.

100%

6 ratings · 2 reviews

Recommends

· November 2017

Lakeside Campground

Small campground. Pack in, pack out. There are some easy RV sites and some sites better left for tents. Great view. There is an easy way in and a hard way in. Taking the 412 by Thoreau is the easy way!

Catherine H.

2 reviews

April 2017

Canyonside Campground

We were pleasantly surprised by this campground. We needed a place to stop for the night and the canyon sites were the first we looked at and thought they were awesome. It was very quiet (we camped in a loop for tents only) and we practically had the place to ourselves on a summer weeknight! The paved roads were nice to walk the dog around and the weather was lovely (although distant and extremely loud thunderstorms happened during the night). Mosquitoes were not bad at all. The next day we took a trail in the canyon below. It was beautiful! The flies were bad down there-take bug spray! This was way better than the loud lakeside sites we explored on our way out.