The 26 Best Campgrounds In New Mexico: Top-Rated & Hidden Gems

Camping in New Mexico is without a doubt one of the very best ways to experience the Land of Enchantment. This beautiful southwestern state boasts an incredible variety of landscapes: lofty mountains, dense forests, deserts, and even plains. For those looking to experience the best of the great outdoors, we’ve compiled an overview of the very best campgrounds in New Mexico. On this list, you’ll find something for every kind of camper, ranging from truly off-the-beaten-path campsites to luxurious glampgrounds. No matter your preference, you’ll agree that nothing beats a night spent under the stars. Are you ready to explore the best places to camp in New Mexico? Let’s get started!

Best State Park Campgrounds in New Mexico

Did you know that New Mexico is home to 35 beautiful state parks? These parks offer a treasure trove of natural wonders, beautiful vistas, and incredible opportunities to engage with the landscape. Moreover, many of New Mexico’s state parks offer top-notch campgrounds. Below you’ll find a few of our favorite state park campgrounds in New Mexico.

City of Rocks State Park, 327 NM-61, Faywood, NM 88034, USA

UN VR en road trip / TripAdvisor

• Location: Faywood, New Mexico
• Popularity: Busy on weekends
• Park Info: The Pegasus North Campground can be found near a trailhead at the northern end of the park. Accommodates both tent and RV campers.
• Price: $14+

City of Rocks State Park measures just one square mile, but it's jam-packed with incredible, out-of-this-world rock formations that will make you feel as though you've arrived on another planet. The giant rock formations you'll find here were formed over 34.9 million years ago during a volcanic eruption. Today, you can camp right next to these otherworldly rocks for an overnight adventure you won't soon forget!

El Vado Lake State Park, NM-112, Tierra Amarilla, NM 87575, USA

Tony K. / Google Reviews

• Location: Rio Arriba County, New Mexico
• Popularity: Hidden gem
• Park Info: Campers will find a few campgrounds to choose from: Grassy Point Campground, Elk Run Campground, and Pinon Beach Campground. Looking for more of an off-the-grid camping experience? We'd recommend Hargroves Point Primitive Campground.
• Price: $10 for non-electric sites; $14 for electric sites

When it comes to lakefront campgrounds in New Mexico, it doesn't get much better than El Vado Lake State Park. This lovely natural space is tucked away near the mountains of northern New Mexico. As for waterfront activities, campers can look forward to boating and fishing. Prefer dry land? You'll love the 5.5-mile hiking trail along the Rio Chama. Keep your eyes peeled for majestic wildlife like bald eagles!

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Cimarron Canyon State Park, 28869 US-64, Eagle Nest, NM 87718, USA

Jessica Evans / Google Reviews

• Location: Colfax County, New Mexico
• Popularity: Busy on weekends
• Park Info: Cimarron Canyon State Park offers 94 sites in four unique campgrounds, accommodating both tent and RV campers.
• Price: $10

Welcome to Cimarron Canyon State Park! Nestled within the Colin Neblett Wildlife Management Area, this beautiful park is famous for its scenery and wildlife, which may include grouse, elk, and even bears. Visitors love the unique geology here as well as views of the iconic Cimarron River. Looking for tent camping only? Check out Blackjack Canyon, just steps away from the Jasper and Agate Trails.

Kyle McConaughey / Google Reviews

• 4) Santa Rosa Lake State Park: Situated on the eastern plains of New Mexico awaits Santa Rosa Lake State Park. You can even camp with your horse if you stay at Los Tanos Campground, and then in the morning, hit the trails for some unforgettable views.


• 5) Brantley Lake State Park: Brantley Lake State Park definitely flies a bit under the radar, but it's absolutely worth checking out, especially if you're looking for a more secluded camping experience. There are two campgrounds here: one that accommodates RVs and one offering primitive sites.


• 6) Sugarite Canyon State Park: If you love the idea of a wildflower campground, it doesn't get much better than Sugarite Canyon State Park during the springtime. From biking to boating, fishing, and even snowshoeing, this park offers something for every kind of outdoor enthusiast.

Best Beach Camping in New Mexico

The Land of Enchantment doesn’t have any coastal beaches, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a little beach camping in New Mexico! Cozy up on a lakeshore and enjoy the sights and sounds of the water when you opt for a night at any of the following beachfront campgrounds in New Mexico.

Elephant Butte Reservoir, New Mexico 87901, USA

Helen Hohman / Google Reviews

• Location: Elephant Butte
• Popularity: Very popular
• Park Info: There are plenty of campsites to choose from at Elephant Butte State Park. Some of the most popular include Three Sisters Campground, Desert Cove Campground, Lost Canyon Campground, and Quail Run Campground. If you want to camp right on the edge of the lake, we'd recommend South Monticello Campground.
• Price: $10 - $14

Part of New Mexico's largest state park. Elephant Butte Reservoir is action-packed during the summer months. It's popular for jet-skiing, sailing, pontooning, and even as a place to put a houseboat. But there are also quieter parts of the park, and over 15 miles of hiking trails to enjoy.

Ute Lake State Park, 1800 Loop 540, Logan, NM 88426, USA

Daniel Randolph / Google Reviews

• Location: Quay County, New Mexico
• Popularity: Very popular
• Park Info: This beautiful camping destination features over 146 unique campsites to choose from.
• Price: $10 - $14

Located in eastern New Mexico awaits a popular waterfront destination: Ute Lake State Park. Centered around a massive reservoir perfect for boating, fishing, and swimming, this park has become a local favorite for day trips and camping trips alike. There's lots of variety to choose from when it comes to camping here, from more primitive sites to RV-only sites.

Cochiti Lake Recreation Area, Cochiti Lake Rd, Cochiti Lake, NM 87083, USA

Chas Haworth / Google Reviews

• Location: Cochiti, New Mexico
• Popularity: Busy on weekends
• Park Info: This beautiful park is located within the boundaries of the Pueblo de Cochiti Indian Reservation. The campground offers four loops, which accommodate everything from traditional tent sites to RV sites.
• Price: $12 - $20

Tucked away in the foothills of the Jemez Mountains awaits a beautiful camping destination. Cochiti Lake Recreation Area is popular for its wide range of activities. Windsurfing, in particular, is one of the most popular adventures on the water.

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Top Glamping in New Mexico

If you love the idea of spending the night under the stars but don’t particularly relish sleeping in the elements, we’ve got the perfect solution: glamping. Glamping is short for “glamour camping,” and typically means that your tent is already set up for you. In some cases, your accommodation might even have running water! Below you’ll find a list of some of our top recommendations for glamping in New Mexico.

Abiquiu, NM 87510, USA

Erin / Airbnb

• Location: Abiquiu, New Mexico
• Popularity: Hidden gem
• Park Info: This beautiful 24-foot yurt can accommodate four campers comfortably.
• Price: $117 / night

Anyone looking for a secluded, quiet retreat in the breathtaking Cerrito Blanco in Abiquiu will fall in love with this amazing New Mexico yurt. In the mornings you can sip some delicious coffee out on the deck -- an organic roast is provided! -- and during the day you can enjoy all that the unique surroundings have to offer. Doesn't that sound absolutely dreamy?

Nogal, NM 88341, USA

El Mistico / Airbnb

• Location: Nogal, New Mexico
• Popularity: Popular on weekends
• Park Info: This might be one of the most romantic glamping getaways in all of New Mexico! Each dome can accommodate two guests. Campers should note that this retreat is adults-only.
• Price: $299 / night

How would you like to wake up on top of a mountain inside a one-of-a-kind glamping dome in New Mexico? This is the exact experience you can look forward to when you opt for a night at the lovely El Mistico Ranch. The views here are absolutely jaw-dropping, but the serenity of the evenings is just as magical. Amenities include a full bathroom, small kitchenette, outdoor grill, and fireplace.

Hyde Memorial State Park, 740 Hyde Park Rd, Santa Fe, NM 87501, USA

New Mexico Department of Energy, Minerals, and Natural Resources Website

• Location: Santa Fe, New Mexico
• Popularity: Popular on weekends
• Park Info: There are three yurts available to reserve at Hyde Memorial Park. Campers should note that you can only hike to these accommodations, so prepare accordingly! Each yurt can accommodate up to six guests.
• Price: $80 / night

Nestled in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Hyde Memorial State Park is a beautiful year-round destination. For those looking for a true outdoor adventure, a night or two inside the park's yurts is bound to be a delightful experience. The yurts are more sparse than other glamping options, but they're perfect for those who don't mind the rustic side of camping with the promise of protection from the elements. Learn more about booking your stay at a Hyde Memorial State Park yurt.

Jun / Glamping Hub

• 13) Treehouse in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains: Located on a working farm, this picturesque treehouse can accommodate up to four guests. It's especially suitable for those that love hiking. Inside, you'll find all the modern amenities you'll need for a comfortable stay.


• 14) The Chi-Treehouse at Sunny Mellow Eco Villa: Less than 10 minutes outside of Albuquerque awaits a true glamping getaway. The cozy treehouse is tucked away in the mountains and can accommodate two guests. Amenities include outdoor showers and even a sauna! Plus, there are plenty of nearby attractions to explore in this enchanted area.


• 15) Vintage Airstream with Mountain Views: How does a night inside a vintage airstream surrounded by mountain views sound? Not to mention your own private hot tub! That's exactly what you can look forward to at this unique Airbnb in El Prado. The camper can accommodate up to four guests.

Best RV Camping Sites in New Mexico

There’s really nothing like hitting the open road in an RV, complete with everything you need right there with you. Not all of us own RVs, but fortunately, you can rent one from companies like RV Share. Below, we’ve outlined some of the best RV camping sites in New Mexico.

Santa Fe Skies RV Park, 14 Browncastle Ranch, Santa Fe, NM 87508, USA

Scott Heflin / Google Reviews

• Location: Santa Fe, New Mexico
• Popularity: Very popular
• Park Info: Campers can choose from 55 pull-through and 43 back-in sites. Amenities include restrooms, laundry, showers, and lots of hiking trails to enjoy.
• Price: $71 - $76

Camping at Santa Fe Skies RV Park means you'll enjoy a beautiful view of Santa Fe. Within close proximity to the campground, you'll discover local shopping, historic sites, museums, and great restaurants. Reviewers agree that this RV park is especially well maintained. Plus, it's pet friendly!

American RV Resort, 13500 Central Ave SW, Albuquerque, NM 87121, USA

Dick Terpstra / Google Reviews

• Location: Albuquerque, New Mexico
• Popularity: Busy on weekends
• Park Info: This spacious RV campground features full hook-ups, water, sewer, electric, concrete patios, and picnic tables. The sites, which are both back-in and pull-through, can accommodate up to a 70-foot rig.
• Price: $50 - $75

This family-friendly RV resort in Albuquerque truly has something for everyone. Amenities include a pool, dog park, playground, horseshoe pits, game nights, and more.

Bonito Hollow RV Park & Campground, 221 NM-37, Alto, NM 88312, USA

Bonito Hollow RV Park & Campground / Google Reviews

• Location: Alto, New Mexico
• Popularity: Hidden gem
• Park Info: Amenities include full hookup RV sites, wireless internet, modern restrooms, hiking trails, a volleyball court, and more.
• Price: $25 - $50

If you're looking for a more secluded RV camping experience in New Mexico, you'll love what Bonito Hollow RV Park & Campground has to offer. There are full hookup RV sites situated alongside the Lincoln National Forest on twelve privately-owned acres. Campers also love that this campground is very quiet.

Thad Ferguson / Google Reviews

• 19) High Desert RV Park: This under-the-radar RV resort is considered an incredibly peaceful place to stay. Plus, it's located just off of I-40, so you won't have any trouble finding it. Campers will have 76 sites to choose from along with an impressive list of amenities.


• 20) Elephant Butte Lake RV Resort: This lovely RV park is less than a mile from the famous Elephant Butte Lake State Park, home to the largest lake in NM. Amenities here include an indoor pool and hot tub, on-site RV repairs, and even a pickleball court.


• 21) Enchanted Trails RV Park & Trading Post: Enchanted Trails RV Park & Trading Post has quite a unique location: it's situated near three extinct volcanoes! This campground has 135 RV sites to choose from, plus unique amenities such as the trading post, where you'll find delicious regional food.

Best Primitive Tent Camping in New Mexico

If you prefer to go a bit off the grid, we’ve got you covered. Primitive camping in New Mexico can be a perfect way to get in touch with nature. Plus, New Mexico’s primitive tent camping sites are often especially secluded, allowing you nothing but peace and quiet as you enjoy a night under the stars.

Cosmic Campground, 33.4792463100206, -108.92268895185092, Glenwood, NM 88039, USA

John Rummel / Google Reviews

• Location: Catron County, New Mexico
• Popularity: Hidden gem
• Park Info: This park can accommodate both RVs and traditional tents.
• Price: Free

Cosmic Campground is undoubtedly one of the most unique places to camp in New Mexico. It's located within an International Dark Sky Sanctuary. This means that opportunities for stargazing are absolutely incredible here.

Angel Peak Campground, Bloomfield, NM 87413, USA

Chase Ghannam / Google Reviews

• Location: Bloomfield, New Mexico
• Popularity: Busy on weekends
• Park Info: There are nine sites available at the Angel Peak Campground for tent camping.
• Price: Free

The Angel Peak Wilderness Area features over 10,000 acres of stunning landscape. Given that these are primitive sites, you'll need to bring your own drinking water. What the park may lack in amenities, it more than makes up for in breathtaking beauty!

Fenton Lake State Park, New Mexico 87025, USA

jesus silva / Google Reviews

• Location: Jemez Springs, New Mexico
• Popularity: Very popular
• Park Info: The campground at Fenton Lake State Park features 37 campsites, 5 of which are electric hookups.
• Price: $10 - $15

Located nearly 8,000 feet above sea level, the campground at Fenton Lake State Park is perched within the beautiful Jemez Mountains. Amenities include fishing, horseback riding, and even a playground for the little ones in your camping crew. Learn more about planning a camping trip to Fenton Lake State Park.

BahHumBang Audio / Google Reviews

• 25) James Canyon Campground: Just west of Mayhill, this breathtaking campground offers just five sites. If you're looking for a truly secluded camping experience, this is it!


• 26) Maverick Campground: With 44 campsites to choose from, there's a fair amount of room at Maverick Campground near Cimarron. Amenities include picnic tables and grills, and campers will be close to a couple of fishing ponds.

What are some of your favorite places to go camping in New Mexico? Did any of your go-to spots miss the list? If so, feel free to share them with us in the comments below — we would love to hear from you!