Private sites desert camping in New Mexico

Explore ancient pueblos, soak in restorative springs, and see Mission-style architecture in this southwestern state.

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100% (399 reviews)

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12 top desert campgrounds in New Mexico

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(46)

NO. 10 RANCH

5 sites · Lodging40 acres · Estancia, NM
This cabin sits on a ranch that's been in this breathtaking valley for generations. There are six other amazing cabins spread throughout the 40 acres. We are only 14 miles from Manzano Mountains and about 31 miles from Salinas Pueblo Missions National Park. This particular cabin was once a pig barn and this ranch was once a fully operational ranch that served its owners and community so well. Wide open fields with grass that sways in the gentle breeze, pinon a cedar trees that provide cover to the deer that graze and bed down across the property and some of the most stunning views come together to create an experience that will stick with you an entire lifetime. 4WD is recommended to reach the cabin safely. We purchased this ranch in the winter of 2021 and are just so grateful for the chance to love and care for it...and share it with YOU! Provided there are not fire bans, enjoy snugging up to a warm campfire.
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$37
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96%
(193)

River Sanctuary by Ojo Hot Springs

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents3 acres · La Madera, NM
Learn more about this land: Lush high desert river oasis nestled in a fertile valley in the Carson National Forest right between the fiery expanse of Taos and the rolling colorful formations of Abiquiu. Peaceful and private 3 acres right by the river at the edge of a little quaint town called La Madera (145 people, no shops)- just 6 miles to the healing mineral Hot Springs of Ojo Caliente, a place of emergence or rebirth as known to the local Natives. Right by the river, held by a ridge (that makes for amazing sunset hikes), I have a 16ft Yurt Canvas set up with furnishings (desk, couch, wash stand) and a wooden Queen Bed with down bedding. This site can only be reached by foot across the river via stumps- a car can be parked near by.. approx. 50ft.  I also have a Vintage Camper that can be heated, has a kitchen, electricity and plenty of outdoor furniture with a fire pit and serene mountain views. As well as a monastic and very grounding Ensuite Bedroom, or a simple campsite if you want to bring your own camper or tent. All facilities have access to a guest bathroom inside the main house. I offer dog sitting while you soak at Ojo, healing modalities that you'll find in the Extras section, and my dear neighbor Jackie takes appointments for massages with homemade essential oils. +++ 6 miles to Ojo Caliente Hot Springs. There you will find the best restaurant in the area, with locally/organically farmed produce. The land is naturally and beautifully wild- it is not a manicured campsite. The dirt rd down to the property is best suited for higher clearance vehicles, but is manageable for city cars.  With land by the river comes the mosquitos- June to August only. They are predominantly active during sunrise and sunset; long loose fitting clothes and a repellent work great. Waterhole, Waterfall and climbing sites near by, as well as Plaza Blanca, Abiquiu, Ghost Ranch and the Taos Gorge are 30 mins drive away.  *No cell service in the greater area. WiFi reaches around the house/deck and allows for WiFi Calling: that’s a setting in your phone that enables phone calls & texts beside usual internet access.
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$60
 / night
95%
(29)

El Mistico

7 sites · Lodging30 acres · Nogal, NM
Unplug from the city to soak up in nature and experience El Mistico Ranch. El Mistico Ranch consist of 30 acres of natural high desert land with natural spring waters, nearby Lincoln National Forest as our next door neighbor, you are actually just a short drive to Capitan for basic services and shopping; Ruidoso for arts, golf, dining, skiing, and more. The climate is mild here and the property is vegetated with pinon pine, juniper, and a variety of cacti. We're delighted to introduce you to Chester, our friendly Saint Bernard. At just a year old, Chester is a gentle giant with a heart of gold, spreading joy to all who visit. Chester not only brings warmth and joy to our guests but also plays an important role in taking care of the property. He roams around the ranch, ensuring that everything is in order and providing a sense of security to our guests. Sometimes, he even accompanies guests to their units to ensure they arrive safely.
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$148.50
 / night
98%
(57)

Nakation Group Booking

11 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · La Plata, NM
Step out of your tent in the morning, and the sun kisses your cheeks... All of them. Private adult only (18+) Clothing Optional dry tent camping set on 20 rural acres. Book the entire campground for your Group Stay, for those who are looking for a private Getaway. Re-use, Re-purpose, Up-cycle... We are committed to making great treasures from one man's trash! Our sites have tables and chairs created from old tires. We are re-using old pallets to create tent platforms, benches and signs. Our little campground is primitive, but we are a work in progress, with amenities coming in the future. Property butts up against a large BLM area, with plenty of room to take a walk in the buff. We have an above ground pool if you would prefer to relax and skinny dip. Or if you're preferring to sight see, there are numerous places to go around our area. In New Mexico, in 45 minutes or less you can be at one of the following: Navajo Lake State Park, Aztec Ruins, Glade Run Recreational area, Jackson Lake Wildlife Refuge, Farmington Lake Recreational area. San Juan Quality Waters in the San Juan River offers world class fishing. The Animas River offers fun river floats. Chaco Canyon National Park is only 2 hours away. In Colorado, we are about an hour from these attractions: Mesa Verde National Park, McPhee Reservoir, Canyon of the Ancients, Lake Nighthorse Day Use Recreation area, Chimney Rock and Purgatory Ski Resort. La Plata Canyon has great mountain hiking and is only 30 minutes away. We look forward to assisting you in a memorable Getaway!
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$15
 / night
99%
(794)

Star Dance High Desert Retreat

9 sites · Tents50 acres · Youngsville, NM
Visit the startling beauty of the plateaus above Lake Abiquiu in northern New Mexico. Star Dance provides a secluded experience for travelers, artists, fishermen, birdwatchers, stargazers, and more. Star Dance sits above the upper Rio Chama canyons on 30 acres of trails and undisturbed natural terrain. **ATTENTION POTENTIAL GUESTS** Recently we've had a rash of guests who, either through the difficulties with using the mobile app or just not reading our provided information, have been arriving passed our check in time. We require guests to arrive no later than an hour before sundown (summer 7:30pm - winter 5:00pm) We require this because we are very rural and our sites are not lit to keep our property natural and prevent light pollution for ourselves and our neighbors. In the past we've issued refunds for people who have neglected this rule. We will no longer be doing so in the future.
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$30
 / night
100%
(4)

Creekside Kush Kamp elev. 8100

6 sites · Lodging, Tents5 acres · Questa, NM
Enjoy the peaceful, powerful and serene energy of the forest, with the background music of the magical waters flowing from the snow-capped peaks of the Sangre de Cristo mountains. Forest-bathe at 8100 feet elevation under the cedars, pines, pinons, oaks, aspens and cottonwoods. Dip in the icy cold mountain waters, Wim Hoff-style! Stargaze the magnificent night skies; you can often observe the Milky Way. This is a quiet and breathtaking in northern New Mexico's San Luis Valley area near Ute Mountain, with Mount Blanca visible in neighboring Colorado. It is on a 5 acre private property Wildlife abounds: deer, elk, and the occasional bear. World class hiking in the nearby Latir Wilderness Area and within a few miles of Wild and Scenic Rivers National Monument. Kagyu Mila Guru Stupa, Meditation Temple and labyrinth are one mile away. Ceremonial sweat lodge and vision quest (Lakota tradition} may be available (please inquire). Guided interpretive hikes, laundry and meals can be reserved for an extra charge at our Mountain River Kush Kamp. We offer many amenities and as our campground grows, more will be added. We are the stewards of this land and we practice regenerative farming, gardening and forest health ancient technology. Our Camp Host will give a brief welcome & safety talk upon arrival, and can show you how to find your campsite, the outhouse and shared areas in the Kush Kamp. Many available extras make this an easier and comfy camp experience. There is a common kitchen/cooking area. We limit the number of campsites and campers for sustainability, serenity and privacy, however, guests may encounter other campers at this property. A host is on-site for security and convenience. Other activities in Taos County: horseback riding, skiing, fly fishing, whitewater rafting, frisbee golf, golfing, mountain bike trails, hiking trails, hot springs, atv tours, museums, concerts, farmers markets, trade days, Taos Pueblo and casino. Much more, depending on the season. Bring your own drinking water or be prepared to boil available water. Fire pit will be lit by Camp Host due to fire safety concerns. Propane grill available when fire ban is in effect. Camp catering available, with advance notice. Please inquire. Camp host lives on property.
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$38.40
 / night
100%
(32)

Modesto Gardens

3 sites · Lodging, RVs1 acre · Albuquerque, NM
This quiet and tranquil setting is specifically designed for the RV traveler seeking a safe and peaceful city location for their Albuquerque stay. This site offers a respite from the congestion found in other parts of the city. The large fenced and gated one acre lot and unobstructed views provide a peaceful semi-rural setting that is difficult to find so close to town. You won't hear the constant buzz of passing cars in this area, just a bit of nature and plenty of peace and quiet. You'll also find less light pollution in this part of the city so after the sun goes down you can enjoy a great view of the stars and city lights. This is also a great location to watch the early morning hot air balloons take flight, or if you are looking for that perfect spot to take your daily run/bike ride without dodging cars or worrying about your safety. My wife and I are long-time Albuquerque residents and know the area well. We truly love it here and will provide whatever recommendations you require to ensure you have an authentic local experience. Ask about our extended stay discounts for stays over 3 weeks. Learn more about this land: We set out to create the finest RV site in the city by offering a private shaded patio with hot tub, gas grill and fire bowl, along a bistro table for outdoor dining. You'll love the 360° views from your patio, including our mountains and renowned sunsets. The location is just 2 miles from the Sandia Peak Tramway and the Sandia Mountain Wilderness (a hiker and biker paradise with 150 miles of trails). The property is fenced and gated. I-25 is 4 miles due west and I-40 is 8 miles to the south. All grocery and food service apps offer fast delivery, plus there are several supermarkets and restaurants just a few miles away.  You'll be staying in a high desert climate at 6000 feet so the nights cool off quickly in the dry air. The sun can be intense at this elevation so shade is provided on the patio plus shade fabric is available to cover your rig if desired.  We have some of the best tasting water in the city coming from our well to top off your tank and plenty of space in our trash cans for garbage.  PROPERTY AMENITIES & FEATURES• Private Hot Tub & Shaded Patio • Gas Grill • Fire Bowl • Fountain • Fast Wi-Fi • Spectacular 360° Views • Onsite Spa Services • Level 2 EV Charger • Chlorine-Free Well Water • Scenic bike paths 1/2 mile away • Tennis courts, parks, ice rink all within walking distance • 15 minutes to downtown • 10 minutes to the NM Rail Runner train station which will transport you to the Santa Fe plaza in 1 hour • Trader Joe's and numerous restaurants 2 miles away • Sandia Resort & Casino 6 miles down the road • Over 25 local restaurants will deliver to your door Other Nearby Attractions: Historic Old Town, National Museum of Nuclear Science and History, NM Museum of Natural History and Science, Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, Hispanic Cultural Center, Bio Park & Zoo   For Balloon Fiesta Guests: The site is 5 miles due east of the Balloon Fiesta Park and offers unobstructed mountain and valley views. Bikes are available to avoid the notorious Fiesta traffic and 4am alarm. You can bike to the Park just ahead of the 7am mass ascension. Or see an unobstructed view of all 500+ balloons from the property.
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$47
 / night
94%
(68)

Bakers Akers

3 sites · RVs, Tents80 acres · Lordsburg, NM
Bakers Akers is located in what used to be Nebblett New Mexico but is now Virden New Mexico. The one room Nebblett school house was located on this property. Virden was settled by the Mormons when they were ran out of old Mexico by Poncho Villa. Kit Carson took this route guiding General Kearney and the Army of the west to California during the Mexican American war. It is now being discussed that Coronado may have come through this area also. The farm was used for breeding and training race horses. It is now a cow/calf operation. Learn more about this land: Camp on the Gila River amongst the century old Cottonwoods and Mulberry trees, with Bermuda grass carpeting. Plenty of shade to pitch a tent or park under. Wildlife abounds with deer, beaver, turkeys, javelina, and a large variety of birds. Located on a eighty acre cattle ranch. Quiet with great views of stars at night and majestic mountains in the day. The camp grounds are located beyond the cattle pastures and next to the Gila River. Fire pits available and plenty of wood to gather for burning. Eleven miles from the historic town of a Duncan Arizona, filled with little markets, craft store, antique shop, rock shop, and home town restaurants, if any needs arise or an itch needs scratching. With prior notice and extra fees a New Mexican dutch-oven dinner and hayride can be included.
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$35.15
 / night
99%
(308)

Sunny Mellow Eco Villa

4 sites · Lodging8 acres · Tijeras, NM
Sunny Mellow Eco Villa is the land with a great history. The QUIET, secret Shangra-La Valley just over the ridge from Route 66 (and I-40) was the camping place for Billy the Kid and his gang! They could quickly saddle up when the posted lookout on the ridge above signaled the passing of the stagecoach! Even more stunning, it was the Tijeras Indian Pueblo Tribe's place of roaming and rest. The land now sports an Organic Vineyard, Orchard and Vegetable Garden that guests my forage from when in bloom. A Large, Clean, Secluded Redwood Yoga Deck, Ping-Pong, Horseshoes, and a Giant Swing Set, along with patios and lounges that are found over the 8 acre land, and all joined by a network of Scenic Pathways and Bridges that connect The Vineyard, The Orchard, The Garden, The Solar Array, The Swing, The Yoga Deck, Ping Pong Terrace, Horse shoe Pit... Perfect Place and Feel The Akashic Records of Where Billy the Kid and his gang camped and the Tijeras Indians Lived! 8 Minutes to Albuquerque. 7 minutes to Cedar Crest, 20 minutes to The Infinite View off the Sandia Crest, 10 minutes to Edgewood. 50 minutes to Santa Fe. Located in THE CENTER of The ZIA of NEW MEXICO! Views of meadows, mountains and the Enchanting New Mexico sky from the Every stopping point on the Eco Villa Trail System. Ride a bike, take a sauna, Read a book... Take a nap. Enjoy the Unique Feel and Romance of the Yoga Yurt, The Awesome Modern Outdoor Kitchen, The delicious KING Bed. Watch 4K TV with 900 download and 35 upload! Enjoy Dining at your Private HipCamp Site! Hike into the Cedro National forest a short walk to the end of the road. If you feel sociable, join in a campfire with the guests at The Chi-Treehouse or Invite guests to the Fire-pit at your own Yoga Yurta! Sit in the Secluded "Starchamber" by day for a sun tan, or by night for moon glow and infinite star gazing. Drive to Sandia Peak, Hike, Ski, Mountain Bike (Even out your back door if you do not want to drive). Albuquerque and The East Mountains has more trails in proximity to a metropolis than an city in the country. Pick sandy, rocky, or meadow, or a forest ascent. Grove at top notch restaurants in ABQ and some local ones just down the street.
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$85.55
 / night
99%
(51)

Mountain View RV/Horse Motels Sites

2 sites · RVs2 acres · Edgewood, NM
Sweet Melody Farm combines our love of music, horses and beautiful spacious landscape of New Mexico. We traveled from Oregon to Pennsylvania and then to New Mexico traveling with our horses and cats. Along the way we stayed at many horse hotels, and wanted to offer weary travelers a place to stop over with their ponies and even without horses. We have 2 Airbnb listings for those needing or wanting to stay with more comfort and space. See our Airbnb links below! Learn more about this land:Sweet Melody Farm has a spectacular view of South Mountain and the stars. Rural residential RV park with full hookups, picnic table and horse shelter. The horse hotel is great for those folks traveling east/west on I-40 that need a safe and secure site to camp in their LQ trailer and rest their horses. The shelter is matted and paddock fenced for safety with 2" x 4" woven wire 4 ft high.100 ft by 100 ft outdoor arena too!We are suited for those that are looking for a base camp to explore the local national forests and eclectic destinations along the Turquoise Trail, Hwy 14. Santa Fe and Albuquerque are easy day trips from here.The map on this site is very old and does not reflect the many improvements and landscaping we have completed since this Google map location. 
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$40
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Dog-friendly getaways

Under $50

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Private sites desert camping in New Mexico guide

Overview

In the southwestern US, New Mexico offers a distinct vibe not found elsewhere in the country, or even in the region. Here you’ll find Old West mining towns, restorative hot springs, and all sorts of historic sites, including ancient pueblos and protected national monuments, not to mention a distinct cuisine that borrows elements from Tex-Mex and Indigenous culinary traditions. You won’t be disappointed with the camping—the state offers a variety of terrains, from quiet forests to vast expanses of desert, and with five national forests, 30 state parks, and lots of untouched private land, there's no shortage of spots to set up a tent.

Where to go

Central and North Central New Mexico

New Mexico's Central and North-Central regions are home to many of the state's most popular cultural attractions, and both Albuquerque and Santa Fe are here. Area highlights include Bandelier National Monument and Petroglyph National Monument, as well as numerous pueblos. The most famous of these—the Taos Pueblo—is a UNESCO World Heritage site that has been continuously inhabited for over 1,000 years.

Northwest New Mexico

Cultural attractions abound in Northwestern New Mexico. Highlights include the Zuni Pueblo and the Acoma Pueblo—both the Jicarilla Apache Nation and the Navajo Nation call this region home. Other points of interest include the Chaco Culture National Historical Park, Aztec Ruins National Monument, and El Mapais National Monument.

Northeast New Mexico

Situated where the Rocky Mountains give way to the Southwestern plains, this area is characterized by prairies, ranches, and Western charm. Popular historic and natural attractions include the Fort Union National Monument and the Capulin Volcano National Monument. Conchas Lake State Park and Ute Lake State Park offer ample opportunities for fishing, boating, and lakeside camping.

Southwest New Mexico

For a Wild West experience, head to the southwestern corner of the state. Here you'll find plenty of old ghost towns, historic mission communities, and pristine natural areas. The area is also rich with hot springs, particularly in the low-key spa town of Truth or Consequences.

Southeast New Mexico

Culture, history, and the great outdoors converge in southeastern New Mexico, home to both of the state's national parks (White Sands and Carlsbad Caverns) as well as a host of museums, from the New Mexico Museum of Space History to the Billy the Kid Museum in Fort Sumner. Fans of the paranormal won't want to miss Roswell, the site of the famous Area 51 UFO sightings and a de facto pilgrimage site for all things alien.

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