Private sites desert camping in New Mexico

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

100% (373 reviews)
100% (373 reviews)

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12 top desert campgrounds in New Mexico

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
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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$50
 / night
95%
(31)

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
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
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
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
94%
(69)

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%
(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
 / night
98%
(31)

CAMP WITH

5 sites · Lodging15 acres · Cerrillos, NM
Joachim and Patience are two artists living in Santa Fe with an extreme admiration and passion for the outdoors, sustainability, off grid living and experimental architecture from reclaimed materials. Joachim and Patience both come from deeply rooted- generations of families with a shared love affair with all things historical. Camp With is an endeavor to connect more people with the distinct features the high desert landscape has to offer and ultimately foster growth with ones relationship to nature. Learn more about this land:  ✨ Enjoy off grid curated camping at Camp With in the pristine foothills of the Ortiz Mountains, 30 miles south of Santa Fe. Camp with has expansive views of the Sangre de Cristos, The Cerrillos Hills, and the Jemez mountains. Camp With is 8 miles away from the artistic and historical coal town of Madrid and mining town Cerrillos. Our 210sq ft foot canvas bell tents Includes a super comfortable queen (Juniper) and full (Yucca) size bed, fresh cotton bed linens, towels, two headlamps, battery-powered lantern, games and a mix of eclectic, modern, and antique decor. Enjoy the sun, stars, and views, connect with nature, immerse yourself in rural off-grid living and unwind in the Ortiz mountains. Juniper Camp is set up for a couple in the queen-sized bed. Yucca camp has a full sized bed. We are happy to accommodate up to 2 extra guests inside each tent. Additional guests are responsible for their own sleeping bag, pad, and pillow. You will see this as an option while finalizing the booking. The campsites offers an open off grid private outdoor kitchen where we provide you a shade structure with cooking utensils (pots, cast iron pan, spatula, tongs), cutlery, 3 gallons of filtered water, propane bbq, propane two burner stove, plates, dinner linens, glassware, foil, paper towel, french press, bowls, and a platter. There is a table under the kitchen roof to enjoy your meals. There is no electricity, so bring your ice and coolers.  We are doing several small permaculture projects sprinkled throughout the land. There is a chance you could run into us building or planting something on the far side of the 15-acre property, but we like to give our guests privacy, peace, and quiet (how we would want to be treated ☺️). The unpaved road to the campsite is 3 miles and filled with stones, hence our street name, Stoney Road. We highly recommend a vehicle with clearance as there are some rocks on the road that are "oil pan busters." There are no street lights on the dirt road; we recommend arriving at the site during the day. After rainfall and during the monsoon season (May-September), the road can be very muddy. We don’t want you getting stuck. Let’s be honest here: high clearance and or 4x4 on your vehicle is recommended. There is a communal composting outhouse as your bathroom during your stay. We have an open air seasonal hot outdoor shower. (May-mid October) Please be mindful and use the Castile soap we provide. The greywater from your bathing feeds the plants. We remind you that this is a rural off-grid campsite: there is no electricity.  We have created this space for you to connect with your loved ones, play games, and enjoy being outside. The closest restaurants are in Cerrillos and Madrid, 8 miles away. You are responsible for your safety, food, ice, and relaxation. We have items for sale in a cool, old,  Kelvinator fridge (acts as a vending machine) if you forgot things like batteries, an extra pair of socks, a beanie, sunscreen, eye drops, canned goods, tums, ibuprofen, flashlight, etc. You will receive the key code upon your booking to access items for sale. Come enjoy the impeccable views, INSANELY spectacular stars, and a genuinely unique, curated, off-grid camping experience. Message us if you have any questions, concerns, or inquiries!✨ Please, no mean humans. We appreciate kind people only.
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$125
 / night

Star Hosts in New Mexico

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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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