Free Rv Camping In New Mexico

New Mexico Rv Park Locators

New Mexico RV parks are located just about everywhere in the state. The trick is to find one that meets your expectations, not disappoint you. To improve your odds of finding the right campground, we recommend researching New Mexico RV parks as much as possible. The following links will take you to the best information sources for finding New Mexico RV parks and campgrounds.

About New Mexico Camping

From the vast Chihuahuan Desert to the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, New Mexico has a wealth of opportunities to get outside and explore. For outdoor adventurers, theres skiing in Taos, whitewater rafting on the Rio Grande, and plenty of hiking, from the Southern Rockies to dusty desert canyons. Thats what makes camping in New Mexico such a varied and fulfilling experience.

Carlsbad Caverns provides ample opportunities to hike, explore, learn about desert wildlife, even appreciate a few thousand Mexican free-tail bats take flight. They swarm out of the cave every night at dust for an audience that often numbers in the hundreds. Its a perfect excuse to stick around the park after dark and do some camping in New Mexico.

Of course, the only camping available within Carlsbad Caverns National Park is backcountry camping, so come prepared to Leave No Trace. Keep in mind that the desert landscape is often dry, so fire bans, even some backcountry cooking bans, are frequently in effect in the drier months. On the upside, backcountry camping permits are free and you can grab one at the visitor center when you arrive.

As for camping in White Sands, its backcountry camping or nothing and sites require a short hike through the dunes. Youll be camping on the gypsum, surrounded by shifting white hills, dark night skies up above, and no other campers in sight. Its definitely a unique experience. Permits are $3.00 per person and can be picked up at the visitor center.

Stone Mountain Rv Park

This resort is located within minutes of Bonito Lake, and only 20 minutes from Capitan, NM. The historic town of Lincoln is nearby, too.

History buffs will enjoy learning that Capitan is the home of Smokey Bear. Lincoln was where Billy the Kid made his last escape.

Stone Mountain Resort is also near a casino, fishing opportunities, zip-lining, shopping, golfing, and plenty of eateries within the nearby town of Ruidoso.

Amenities within this resort include laundry facilities, cable, water/sewer hookups, free Wi-Fi, and 30/50 amp. In this small park, there are 13 spaced out sites . Shaded picnic areas are spread throughout the property and there is a courtyard for groups. Pets and horses are welcome.

RV camping in New Mexico at Stone Mountain Resort Photo via resort

Read Also: Dispersed Camping Michigan Lower Peninsula

Kriver Ranch Rv/4kredrivercom Lodging

4K River Ranch is a historic 17-acre mountain landscape year-round RV camping and lodging site with family and pet-friendly apartments, rustic cabins, and tent sites.

We offer year-round relaxation and adventure! Enjoy cool mountains in the summer, a reprieve from the heat, and find the best snow-making in the southern Rockies in the winter! Since the 1970s, weve been hosting hardworking fun-loving folks like you who relish getting away for a few days or longer. Come up for the fresh air and forest, fishing and fun. On our 17-acre River Ranch landscape, youll find camping & RV sites, rustic cabins, and efficient apartments. Plus, we offer condos with hot tubs in town: these sleep 8-10 people.

1501 W Main St

Here’s What Others Are Saying About Rv Boondocking In New Mexico:

Read Also: Camping World Rv Sales Ocala Florida

Santa Fe Skies Rv Park

Santa Fe Skies RV Park is a popular choice, and with the views it provides, its no wonder. The quiet sunrises and peaceful sunsets behind the mountains provide the most breathtaking views.

One reviewer shared a highly positive review of the Santa Fe Skies RV Park:

Beautiful grounds with antique art displays of the wild west. Large RV sites with cement patio which keeps RV clean. There is a lovely walking trail around the park with machinery display and an exquisite view of Santa Fe mountains in the distance. Only inconvenience is the site is tight for vehicle parking but we managed. We will definitely be back!

While the amenities are standard, there arent many activities within the park. That is what the city of Santa Fe is for! The oldest capital city has virtually everything to provide entertainment, fine dining, nature trails, and shopping options.

Is There Blm Land In New Mexico

Yes. In New Mexico, the Bureau of Land Management is responsible for managing over 2 million acres of publicly-owned land. This includes national monuments as well as acres of public land that is prime for exploration.

New Mexico is home to some of the best free national forest camping, cheap camping in state parks, and ample dispersed camping on BLM land. Quaint little towns full of artists and the rich history of the people whove lived here for thousands of years dot two-lane roads that wind forever away from the hustle and bustle of civilization.

Also Check: Best Way To Get Internet While Camping

New Mexico Public Campgrounds

Public campgrounds in New Mexico are located in beautiful and historic areas. State and federal campgrounds offer facilities from primitive to full RV hookup sites. The following list is only an example of the available public campgrounds available in New Mexico.

COLUMBUS Located near Mexicos border, Poncho Villa State Park offers camping, picnicking, hiking, historic buildings and history, and wildlife viewing.

DEMMING City Of Rocks State Park offers numerous outdoor recreation opportunities, including RV camping, picnicking, star gazing, hiking, and wildlife viewing.

FARMINGTON The Chaco Culture National Historical Park offers camping. This area is also a World Heritage Site with Puebloan peoples ruins from around 850 to 1250 AD.

LOGAN Ute Lake State Park offers RV camping, hiking, boating, picnicking, fishing, water skiing, sailing, and wildlife viewing.

PENA BLANCA Cochiti Lake is managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers . The lake is on Indian Lands and is formed by one of the USAs largest earth dams. RV Dump station and pull-thru campsites.

QUEMADO

• The Pinon Campground offers outdoor recreation activities for the whole family. Dump station, water, fishing, boating, hiking, and more. First come, first serve.
• The popular offers RV camping with an RV dump station, water, and trash.

Best Winter Camping In New Mexico

New Mexico is undoubtedly one of the best states for wintercamping. Theres plenty of options to choose from whether you prefer to roughit hunkered down in a four-seasontent and cold-weathersleeping bag while snow piles up outside or keep cozy in your RV at one ofthe states many state park campgrounds that stay open year-round.

Here are 5 of the best places for winter camping in NewMexico:

• Ponil RV ParkSet atthe foot of the Rocky Mountains, this campground and RV park is open year-roundand is the perfect place to camp during the winter in northern New Mexico. FullRV hookups as well as an array of amenities are available.

• Rock HoundState ParkHome to 29 developed campsites and 23 electric campsites,this state park campground is a great place to camp no matter the season. Yetcamping here in winter is particularly special thanks to the smaller crowds andgreater sense of tranquility.

• Oliver Lee MemorialState ParkDramatic views, made even more dramatic in winter, are thehighlight of camping here. The Sacramento Mountains set in the background andthe surrounding Chihuahuan Desert make for a beautiful atmosphere. Year-roundcamping is available at nearly 40 spots, many with water/electric RV hookupsthat are left on throughout the winter.

Use our guide to winter camping and our winter camping gear guide to further help plan your New Mexico camping trip!

Also Check: Camping Near Ouachita National Forest

Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway / Angel Fire Rv Resort

Angel Fires RV Resort makes an excellent base camp for an adventure along the Enchanted Circle Scenic Bywaya picturesque 83-mile loop that takes travelers through the charming mountain towns of Taos, Questa, Red River, and Eagle Nest. Hit the road and experience the incredible amount of culture, food, sites, and outdoor adventure along the route before settling in and enjoying the numerous amenities, on-site activities, and resort-style adventure at the Angel Fire RV Resort. The Angel Fire RV Resort can accommodate all rig lengths and has more than 100 sites with full hookups available by reservation.

Bottomless Lake State Park

Bottomless Lake State Park is oneof the best state park campgrounds in New Mexico for RV camping. Although thereare just 32 total campsites in the main campground, all of them havewater/electricity hookups and 6 of them have full hookups. A smaller campgroundhas 10 additional campsites best suited for tent camping. In addition to RVcamping, Bottomless Lake is an ideal place for non-motorized boating, fishing,and swimming. Its also just 15 miles from Roswell, the town famous for the 1947 Roswell UFO Incident.

Learn more about camping at BottomlessLake State Park.

Also Check: Los Angeles National Forest Camping

Boondocking In New Mexico

For a really unique experience, try boondocking in New Mexico. True to itsnickname, New Mexico really is The Land Of Enchantment.

We were amazed at how many scenic free camping opportunities there are, many ofthem near this state’s most popular tourist attractions.

Of course the secret, as always, is finding them. And I’ve done that for you!

Here’s a glimpse of just a few of our free New Mexico campsites. All arescenic, safe, legal, and free!

The Frugal Shunpiker’s Guide “RV Boondocking In New Mexico”provides precise, easy-to-follow directions to 100 frugal campinglocations that we personally used near the most popular destinations in New Mexico.

Can You Camp Anywhere In New Mexico

No. Like most places, campers in New Mexico can not simply settle in for the night anywhere that they choose. The state has a mix of private land, national public lands, and state public lands. If you want to find free camping in New Mexico, you’ll need to pay attention to what type of land you’re on, and any rules or regulations for its use.

You May Like: Camping In Yellowstone In November

City Of Rocks State Park

Another New Mexico state parkcampground thats ideal for RV camping, City of Rocks State Park is mostnotable for the exquisite volcanic formations surrounding it. Although it hasless than 10 campsites with hookups, the additional 40 developed campsites arealso suitable for RVs. Dont forget to explore the surrounding ChihuahuanDesert for some of the most incredible sights in New Mexico.

Learn more about camping at City of RocksState Park.

Rv Boondocking In New Mexico

This 159-page printable eBook is now available for immediate download

Many other guidebooks and websites will tell you about campgrounds but not thefree ones.Through fifteen years of shunpiking , we’ve discovered manyscenic dry-camping options. Most are right on route to New Mexico’s majorattractions.

If you prefer to camp for free in the most scenic locations, prefer travelingaround rather than staying in one place, and are looking for affordableadventures and variety in your RV travels, you need this guide.

Don’t Miss: Free Camping Near Bangor Maine

Why Youll Love Enchanted Trails Rv Park & Trading Post

During a stay at Enchanted Trails, you can spend a day nature watching, enjoying the desert wildlife and stunning views. You can head inside the clubhouse for a look at some unique vintage memorabilia, or stop by the trading post for delicious southwestern food, Native American crafts, and more. Or, you could just lounge at the pool working on your tan all day! The possibilities at this park are endless!

Camping In New Mexico

New Mexico is also known as The Land of Enchantment, and true to its name, there is plenty about this state to enchant you. This is particularly true for outdoor enthusiasts. New Mexico provides stunning scenery and plenty of activities. Heres what you need to know before you go camping in New Mexico.

Don’t Miss: Best Rv Camping In The Us

Santa Fe National Forest Camping

Wrapped all around the city by the same name, Santa Fe National Forest holds everything from quaint little campgrounds to vista-laden dispersed camping. The perfect settings for exploring everything this forest has to offer, from the hot springs and fumaroles of Valles Caldera National Monument to the cliff dwellings of the Ancient Puebloans in Bandelier National Monument.

Elephant Butte Lake Rv Resort

This resort makes the list because of its solid score , based on reviews left by fellow RV travelers. The location is ideal as well, two hours south of Albuquerque, New Mexico, and two hours north of El Paso, Texas. Just a mile outside of the Elephant Butte Lake State Park, guests of the park can easily spend a day exploring all that the park offers.

Elephant Butte Lake RV Resort One of the top destinations for RV camping in New Mexico. Photo via Campground Reviews

The resort offers both back-in sites as well as pull-through sites. All sites feature 50/30/20 amp, sewer, and water, along with a picnic table. Back-in sites fit the largest of vehicles and are spacious, paved sites. The 13 pull-thru sites are either 45- or 60-feet long, and range in width sizes.

Just a mile away from the resort is the Elephant Butte Lake State Park. Visitors can easily spend a day exploring all that the park offers. Some activities within the park include boating, hiking, swimming, fishing, and bird watching.

Spending time at the resort can be just as busy! They have plenty of water activities to keep you active, such as windsurfing, sailing, and boating. Other activities include jet-skiing, water skiing, and canoe float trips. Cast your reel and hope for some big catches. Bass, walleye, catfish, and trout are some types of catch options.

Recommended Reading: Camping World Rv Sales Anthony Texas

Why Youll Love Santa Fe Skies Rv Park

Because of the convenient location, youll be able to visit the many attractions that the city of Santa Fe has to offer. There are two major shopping malls, restaurants, and other local shops, as well as some historic sites and museums that visitors can enjoy- including El Rancho de Las Golondrinas, a 17th century Spanish Colonial Living History Museum, and the Turquoise Trail, which is home to the historic villages of Cerrillos. And of course, staying at Santa Fe Skies RV Park also allows you to take in the beautiful views of the surrounding mountains!

Boondocking In New Mexico National Forests

The state harbors five different national forests, which lie mainly in the mountains and prairies. Carson National Forest is the northernmost forested area, covering the southern Rocky Mountains north of Taos. Santa Fe National Forest is just south of there, within the boundaries of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Gila National Forest is in the western part of New Mexico and is the most rugged. Lincoln National Forest lies in the southern part of the state, starting with the Jicarilla Mountains and continuing on south through the Guadalupe Mountains, and Cibola National Forest is in the west-central part of the state.

Dispersed camping is allowed in all of these national forests unless otherwise marked. In most cases, these sites will be primitive with no amenities, but on occasion you may come across a campsite with a pit toilet or picnic table. Campsites are usually free unless theyre located in an organized campground. Many times there will be group sites available as well, and some of these can be reserved in advance. Again, keep in mind that there is a 14-day limit for your stay, then you must move on to a different area.

The national forests offer hundreds of options for free or low cost camping to those who enjoy a bit of wilderness with peace and quiet.

You May Like: Birch Bay State Park Camping

Lincoln National Forest Camping

Why a national forest in New Mexico is named for Abraham Lincoln is a mystery best left to the shadowy throws of some long-gone mornings mist, but we can say for sure is that this national forest fills the gaps left by Carlsbad National Parks lack of RV camping, with plenty of adventure and the promise of the unknown. Not to mention that its the birthplace of the original, actual Smokey the Bear.

Legend has it that during an immense forest fire, a young black bear cub escaped seemingly certain death by climbing a tree, but not before his paws were singed. Rescued, he quickly rose to fame and now travels the nation dousing peoples fires if they get out of hand.

Its true, ask any bear in Lincoln National Forest and theyll tell you the same.