Valley of Fires Recreation Area

Verizon and T-Mobile speeds were both serviceable. No obstructions for Starlink or solar.

We arrived here 15 minutes after check out time (11am) and were able to grab one of the handful of first come first serve sites for RVs. That was the only one that was open that day and most of the week. The reservation sites were all booked. We saw a lot of people trying for sites without luck.

Accessing this spot is easy and right off the highway. Most sites are pull through and some have water and electric. Potable water fill and a dump station is available for non campers for $15.

The site we ended up in was dry and levelable with standard techniques. It and the other sites had good overlooking views of the surrounding lava field. The visitor center was closed due to staffing issues at the time. Each site had its own trashcan and there was a dumpster in the loop as well. Propane was available in Capitan about half an hour away.

There was a moderate amount of road noise but it died down at night.

We camped at the Valley of Fires campground in late-April with amazing views of the lava flow area and beautiful sunsets. The rate of $9.00 per night reflects our discount using the Lifetime Pass, otherwise the rate is $18.00. Our campsite was a pull-thru with 30 amp hookup, water hookup, picnic shelter, fire ring, trash container, and the paved pad was level. Our campsite was a mere 20 feet from the lava flow area, the trail through the lava flow area was located a short distance away. The visitors center has brochures available with great information about the lava flow area, I highly recommend using this for your hike. The trail is paved and approximately 1 1/4 miles in length. Vault toilets are located throughout the campground, the restrooms and shower facility was spacious, clean, and free hot showers. We had 3-bars with Verizon.

We loved going from White Sands to Valley of Fires – what a contrast! The campground at Valley of Fires is lovely, with very spacious sites spread out so you have lots of space and stunning views of the mountains and lava fields. Each site has a covered picnic area, grill and trash can. Roads are paved, sites are gravel and some can take a little work to get level.

Although we had a reservation, I appreciate that there is a mix of first come/first served and reservable sites. The boardwalk/trail through the lava field with interpretive signs is a must-do and dog-friendly too. Very nice staff at the tiny visitor center/office.

We had 3 bars of Verizon 4G.

Just as heads up, there is an $8 fee to make a reservation which might be worth it as it can be busy. There are some first come first served sites as well. Our site did not have electricity. Easy dump station on the way in. Water access all over the campground. Huge bathrooms with 3 showers. Pit toilets in several other locations. Tenting at the further end. Our site was at a higher spot next to a view point. A bit of wind while we were there. The nature trail was great. Took our time to enjoy all the wildflowers blooming. Never heard a generator. Super quiet except for the wind.

This is a very unique place to visit. We are thoroughly enjoying it. Been here since December 30. Very peaceful place. Great sunsets. The nearby town of Carrizozo has a Family Dollar. 20 miles away is Capital which has Smokey’s Country Market, a very organized, reasonably priced store with a good amount of selections to restock your pantry.

would be 5 stars, was last year BUT they switched from ALL first come first serve to at least 1/2 reservation sites...with most of the good sites by reservation only...
otherwise it is a great spot...mile long interpretive trail is great...beautiful night skies...decent room between the sites...small guest center/bookshop...not as many tent sites as rv...a couple reviews mentioned bugs...2 visits and no bug problems..nice camp host...didnt use showers or toilets...