The best camping in Villanueva State Park, NM

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Discover the serene beauty of Villanueva State Park and its riverside retreats.  

The best camping in Villanueva State Park, NM

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.
Agua de Vida

4. Agua de Vida

97%
(337)
24mi from Villanueva State Park · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · NM
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
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$35
 / night
Santa Fe Treehouse Camp & Wilderness Preserve

7. Santa Fe Treehouse Camp & Wilderness Preserve

98%
(1647)
35mi from Villanueva State Park · 58 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Santa Fe, NM
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. 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, Qigong, Climbing Into The Heart of the Mother Tree, Star talks and more! 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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$25
 / night
Camp Across From Pecos River

8. Camp Across From Pecos River

96%
(23)
41mi from Villanueva State Park · 4 sites · Tents, Lodging · Tererro, NM
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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$41
 / night
Welcome to the Heavenly Hogan!

9. Heavenly Hogan

99%
(88)
44mi from Villanueva State Park · 1 site · Lodging · Los Cerrillos, NM
Looking for the perfect way to end your Hipcamp vacation? How about some true high desert GLAMPING!!!! Come enjoy a serene and restful vacation at a truly unique space. A straw bale hogan surrounded by a beautiful terraced garden with seating areas, water feature, and 360 degree views of desert and mountain ranges from its roof. The land in this part of New Mexico was part of the Madrid (family) Spanish Land Grant. It is the location of the oldest turquoise mines in North and South America. Plus one of the oldest gold mines in North America. The neighboring towns are close by and quite famous and filled with things to do. History abounds here and I am happy to tell the tales! There are several restaurants to find a great meal and musical entertainment. Believe it or not, there is a lot of talent in them thar hills! Hiking, biking and horseback riding are available in the Cerrillos Hills Park just a mile away. There's even a nice arroyo trail to take you to the Galisteo River riparian area just feet from the hogan door. We even have a horse barn, round pen and a couple acres of fenced desert. We just said farewell to our last horse who was 30 years old, so we also offer room for your horses if you are traveling with them. A $25 per horse fee will be charged per day. Bring your own feed, please. The property includes a round 350 square foot straw bale structure with a queen size bed, reading nook (which can also suffice for a second (twin sized) bed for a 3rd person). There is A/C and an electric 'wood stove' for heat. The kitchen includes instant hot water and everything to prepare a meal (you bring the food). Amazing 360 degree views from the rooftop include the Sangre de Cristo, Sandia and Jemez Mountain ranges. The outhouse is fully equipped (even heated in the winter months), super clean and just 25 feet from the door. We allow dogs (please let me know how many when making a reservation) and have room for tents and motorhomes. Soon to come next Spring is a Boho chic horse trailer!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$110
 / night
Use this 16 foot wide entrance. The gate may need to be opened if we are not there to open it for you.

12. Mountain View RV/Horse Motels Sites

99%
(62)
49mi from Villanueva State Park · 2 sites · RVs · Edgewood, NM
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
Potable water
Trash
from 
$40
 / night
Entrance to Rincon Del Cielo.

15. Rincon Del Cielo(corner of the sky)

29mi from Villanueva State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV · Pecos, NM
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
Toilets
Trash
from 
$35
 / night
Edge Of The Woods Camping

16. Edge Of The Woods Camping

86%
(7)
29mi from Villanueva State Park · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Pecos, NM
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. Take some time to rest and relax on our two acre property or stop by for a safe place to sleep on your way to your next adventure. 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
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$20
 / night
Opening faces west southwest toward the view of the mountains.

17. Vista Ortiz Retreat

100%
(2)
33mi from Villanueva State Park · 1 site · Lodging · Santa Fe, NM
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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$110
 / night
Campsite

19. Route 66 Skyview Camp

90%
(5)
34mi from Villanueva State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Moriarty, NM
Welcome to Route 66 Skyview Camp, where the essence of the open road meets the boundless beauty of New Mexico's landscape. Situated just off I-40 in New Mexico, before reaching Albuquerque in the westward direction, our campsite offers a serene retreat from the daily hustle and bustle. Positioned directly along the historic Route 66, our camp boasts two expansive one-acre campsites, tailor-made for #vanlife enthusiasts seeking a connection with nature while immersing themselves in the art of boondocking. Set off on a celestial voyage, tracing the stars like a wandering cowboy beneath the vast expanse of the open sky. We'll even refund up to $5 when you share your picturesque camping photos! Check out our Drone Video of Camp: youtube/@Route66SkyviewCamp Campsite Highlights: Remote ambiance with proximity to numerous attractions Perfect for self-sufficient van-life adventurers or primitive camping enthusiasts Each campsite offers a generous one-acre expanse No electricity or restroom facilities, just pure, untouched nature Attractions and Distances: 15 minutes (or less) from various gas stations, water sources, restaurants, and stores 17 minutes (13.5 miles) to a FREE RV dump station 44 minutes (41.5 miles) from Skate-O-Mania, featured in Netflix's Stranger Things 47 minutes (36.8 miles) to hiking at the Ancestral Pueblo source of salt 52 min (50.3 miles) from the I-40 and I-25 junction in Albuquerque 59 min (55.6 miles) from Petroglyph National Monument 1 hr 9 min (62.6 miles) from the Santa Fe Plaza
Pets
from 
$10
 / night

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

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Top-rated campgrounds

Agua de Vida

97%
(337)
24mi from Villanueva State Park · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · NM
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
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$35
 / night

Santa Fe Treehouse Camp & Wilderness Preserve

98%
(1647)
35mi from Villanueva State Park · 58 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Santa Fe, NM
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. 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, Qigong, Climbing Into The Heart of the Mother Tree, Star talks and more! 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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$25
 / night

Camp Across From Pecos River

96%
(23)
41mi from Villanueva State Park · 4 sites · Tents, Lodging · Tererro, NM
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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$41
 / night

Heavenly Hogan

99%
(88)
44mi from Villanueva State Park · 1 site · Lodging · Los Cerrillos, NM
Looking for the perfect way to end your Hipcamp vacation? How about some true high desert GLAMPING!!!! Come enjoy a serene and restful vacation at a truly unique space. A straw bale hogan surrounded by a beautiful terraced garden with seating areas, water feature, and 360 degree views of desert and mountain ranges from its roof. The land in this part of New Mexico was part of the Madrid (family) Spanish Land Grant. It is the location of the oldest turquoise mines in North and South America. Plus one of the oldest gold mines in North America. The neighboring towns are close by and quite famous and filled with things to do. History abounds here and I am happy to tell the tales! There are several restaurants to find a great meal and musical entertainment. Believe it or not, there is a lot of talent in them thar hills! Hiking, biking and horseback riding are available in the Cerrillos Hills Park just a mile away. There's even a nice arroyo trail to take you to the Galisteo River riparian area just feet from the hogan door. We even have a horse barn, round pen and a couple acres of fenced desert. We just said farewell to our last horse who was 30 years old, so we also offer room for your horses if you are traveling with them. A $25 per horse fee will be charged per day. Bring your own feed, please. The property includes a round 350 square foot straw bale structure with a queen size bed, reading nook (which can also suffice for a second (twin sized) bed for a 3rd person). There is A/C and an electric 'wood stove' for heat. The kitchen includes instant hot water and everything to prepare a meal (you bring the food). Amazing 360 degree views from the rooftop include the Sangre de Cristo, Sandia and Jemez Mountain ranges. The outhouse is fully equipped (even heated in the winter months), super clean and just 25 feet from the door. We allow dogs (please let me know how many when making a reservation) and have room for tents and motorhomes. Soon to come next Spring is a Boho chic horse trailer!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$110
 / night

Mountain View RV/Horse Motels Sites

99%
(62)
49mi from Villanueva State Park · 2 sites · RVs · Edgewood, NM
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
Potable water
Trash
from 
$40
 / night

Other options near Villanueva State Park

The best camping in Villanueva State Park, NM 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.
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