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, there’s skiing in Taos, whitewater rafting on the Rio Grande, and plenty of hiking, from the Southern Rockies to dusty desert canyons. That’s 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. It’s 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.
Visit White Sands National Monument for an unmatched, natural experience. Acres upon acres of white gypsum dunes stretch into the distance, offering hours of diversion, be it hiking across the dunes or sledding down them. If you forgot your sled, don’t worry, you can pick one up in the gift shop. Just be sure to enjoy these activities early in the morning or late in the evening during the summer months; it gets hot in the desert during midday!
As for camping in White Sands, it’s backcountry camping or nothing and sites require a short hike through the dunes. You’ll be camping on the gypsum, surrounded by shifting white hills, dark night skies up above, and no other campers in sight. It’s definitely a unique experience. Permits are $3.00 per person and can be picked up at the visitor center.
Wherever your adventures take you in the Land of Enchantment, get out there and we'll help you locate the best camping in New Mexico.
Camp on the Gila River amongst the century old Cottonwoods and Mulberry trees, with Bermuda grass carpeting. Plenty of shade ...
Setting up your own campsite away from developed fee sites, also known as dispersed camping, is allowed on the GMUG ...
Our 74-acre ANIMAS RIVER FRONT RV Park is the only Costa Rican-inspired resort in the United States!!! It’s the perfect ...
Bring your family, bring your pets, and discover the beauty of Rio Chama RV Park, where adventure and relaxation meet ...
The nature enthusiast will appreciate the abundance of wildlife, birds, butterflies, and wildflowers among the lakes, creeks, forests, and meadows.Nearly ...
4 developed campsites + dispersed camping at 8000' with superb river fishing access just west of NM Game & Fish ...
The nature enthusiast will appreciate the abundance of wildlife, birds, butterflies, and wildflowers among the lakes, creeks, forests, and meadows.Nearly ...
4 developed campsites + dispersed camping at 8000' with superb river fishing access just west of NM Game & Fish ...
These 18,902 acres of grass-banked streams, aspen groves and large, open meadows called "parks." Rolling hills above 8600 feet in ...
Located just 14 miles southeast of Roswell, Bottomless Lakes State Park is your place for bottomless fun! Enjoy non-motorized boating ...
From the website 10/2020The park is open daily to New Mexico residents only until at least 11/2020. Camping is available ...
The Chosa Campground is a maintained dry camping area. Camping is free and the camping limit is 14 days. The ...
The high wall, needle-like spires of the Organ Mountains curve dramatically around a semicircle of Chihuahuan Desert habitat at the ...
This KOA is conveniently located one mile from I-10, overlooking the amazing views of Las Cruces, Mesilla Valley, and nearby ...
