Best Camping in New Mexico

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. Here’s what you need to know before you go camping in New Mexico.

New Mexico State Parks

One of the biggest draws for camping in New Mexico is the state park system. There are 27 state parks, and some of the more popular ones include Oliver Lee Memorial State Park and Navajo Lake State Park.

The state has an excellent state park pass program that campers can take advantage of. The annual camping pass costs $225 for out of state residents and only $180 for residents. Plus, resident seniors can take advantage of camping in New Mexico state parks for only $100 annually.

Because camping in New Mexico is so popular, the state park system has adopted a rule that you can only camp in a state park for 14 days out of a 20-day period. This is designed to allow more visitors to enjoy these beautiful campgrounds.

Learn more about New Mexico State Parks.

New Mexico National Parks

The National Parks in New Mexico offer incredible scenery and plenty of recreational activities.Most don't offer camping within the park boundaries, however, there are usually multiple options within a short drive of each park.

New Mexico RV Parks

RV parks in the state are plentiful. Whether you want to go sight-seeing in Albuquerque or fishing in Questa, there are plenty of options for RV camping.

The amenities will vary per site. Some offer full hookups, including sewer, while other RV parks only offer partial hookups with water and electricity.

Learn more about RV Parks in New Mexico.

New Mexico National Forests

There are five national forests in the state, stretching throughout the state:

These forests offer various camping options ranging from primitive camping within the woods to rental cabins and everything in between.

Free Camping in New Mexico

One of the unique things about this state is that you can take advantage of free camping near a National Park. BLM land is abundant near Carlsbad Caverns National Park, where free camping is permitted.

Learn more about free camping in New Mexico.

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Recent New Mexico Campground Reviews

Bloomfield, NM

Angel Peak Campground

Mar 18, 2024

"second stay here. amazing views. "

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this is our second stay here. a favorite for sure. clean. great views. wonderful sunset. quiet. covered tables. good reception….can’t get any better. free.

carlala
18 reviews
Las Cruces, NM

Hacienda RV Resort

Mar 18, 2024

"A good place to stay in the area"

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This was just a short stay as I was passing through the area. The team at Hacienda was very nice. The sites are a fine gravel, which is not my favorite, but these were very clean and well maintained. The park is also designed with the FHUs placed together for adjacent sites. This places the utility side of the rigs together and here they...
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Doug Stovall
12 reviews
Mar 17, 2024

"Best rv park near Carlsbad Caverns"

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Ditto to the comments of recent reviews. Note that this park has had renovations. Bath House is super clean, great hot showers. EZ check in, friendly staff. Lots of long term rentals, likely oil field workers, but the whole place is tidy and nicely maintained. Close to Walmart, Albertsons, and lots of dining. Propane at Southern Supply. One...
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Sally K
42 reviews
Mar 15, 2024

"Overpriced; No Amenities. "

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I arrived in town after dark with light snow falling on March 14, 2024. The other RV parks in town didn’t appear to be open (winter season). I found a muddy site in Twin Rivers RV Park with electric power that was working. I didn’t find any information at the park’s office or at the Chevron Station next door. So I spent the night there because...
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Jack
14 reviews
Mar 15, 2024

"Excellent free spot"

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One of the best free spots we've ever seen. Fuel prices were reasonable. Friendly staff in the little convenience store. Verizon service was good. Not much noise.

camper-782383
2 reviews