1. White Sands National Park
There may not be any ocean beaches in New Mexico but there are the white sands of the largest gypsum dune field in the world. You can take the 16 mile round trip drive, stopping along the way to get out and hike through the dunes. At White Sands there is also a visitor center with access to the trails. Be sure to plan ahead and bring plenty of water when hiking in the desert dunes. Another unique activity is sand sledding, taking a plastic sled down the sand dunes, like snow sledding. There are 10 primitive backcountry campsites at White Sands but they are CLOSED due to rehabilitation of the sites. Nearby is the Alamogordo/White Sands KOA Journey which is only about 20 minutes from White Sands National Park. They offer RV campsites with full hookups as well as tent sites and cabins. Enjoy the swimming pool, camp store and indoor rec room. Then head back to your campsite for a campfire and s’mores!
2. Organ Mountains, Desert Peaks National Monument/Aguirre Spring Campground
Not far from White Sands is the Organ Mountains and Desert Peaks National Monument. The pointed rock formation jut out of the ground to form tall, almost tree-like structures. There are two trails in the Aguirre Spring Recreation area, both are worth the trek. Try the Baylor Canyon Trail is a 6 mile trail where you can see the Baylor Peak on one side and the Organ Mountains on the other. Keep your eye open for mule deer, the Colorado chipmunk and hopefully not a mountain lion. The Pine Tree Trail is to the east of the campground and is a 4.6 mile loop trail that takes an average of 2 ½ hours, some recommend taking the loop counter clockwise for the best views! After a 2 ½ hour hike head back to your campsite for some dinner and a nice camp fire. The Aguirre Springs Campground has 55 sites including some that can accommodate RV’s less than 23’. Definitely one of the best places to camp in New Mexico this summer!
3. Last Chance Canyon, Carlsbad
Calling all rock climbers, Last Chance Canyon is the place to climb! With 15 distinct crags there is a comfort level for all climbers. In the summer expert climbers recommend Mad Cow Wall and Hueco Cave for epic climbs. Keep you eye open for bighorn sheep, red-tailed hawks and cooper hawks. If you want to stay for a while and try multiple climbing areas, get this, there is free camping on Lincoln National Forest right near the parking area. Remember that the altitude is pretty high, around 6,000 feet, so plan ahead for some cooler weather! Use this camping area as a home base for exploring the other parks near Carlsbad like the famous Carlsbad Caverns!
4. Rancheros De Santa Fe RV Park and Campground
If you want to stay right in Santa Fe, one of the best places to camp in New Mexico is the Rancheros De Santa Fe RV Park and Campground. It is located on historic Route 66 it is just minutes from Old Town Santa Fe. The campground has RV site, tent sites and several camper cabins. Cool off in the swimming pool or take your dog to the “Okay Doggie Corral”. There is a fun playground and nightly movies during the summer. A really comfortable place to stay as a home base while visiting Santa Fe.
5. Columbine Campground, Carson National Forest
Do you want to camp right along the Red River? Then the Columbine Campground in Carson National Forest is the place to stay, with only 27 sites you are ensured to have a peaceful camping experience getting close to nature. For a challenging, yet awarding, experience try backpacking along the Columbine-Twinning Trail. This 8.5 mile trail is an “out and back” trail that takes around 4 ½ hours to complete. Pack a lunch to enjoy at the half-way point and sit back and enjoy the beautiful National Forest. Look for mule deer, elk, antelope and bighorn sheep. Be aware that you are in bear country, but encounters with humans are rare. After a day hike head back to your campsite for a relaxing evening with amazing views.
