Camping in Roswell, NM, US: 12 Best Campgrounds 2025

United States
—
New Mexico
—
Roswell

93% (291 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Roswell

Available this weekend

Top camping destinations

Jal

1 campground

Good morning, Oliver Lee. Dog Canyon at its finest.

Oliver Lee Memorial State Park

145 campgrounds

Guadalupe Mountains National Park

98 campgrounds

Lincoln National Forest

145 campgrounds

Bottomless Lakes State Park

85 campgrounds

North Hobbs

1 campground

Dog-friendly getaways

Sleepy Tipi on the Ruidoso River

1 site · Lodging2 acres · Ruidoso Downs, NM

This is truly a sacred Tipi site as it is beautifully situated right on the picturesque Ruidoso River in rural New Mexico . This lovely , spacios ,private location offers spectacular mountain views and is shaded with numerous large native trees while also offering a well maintained grassy area for relaxation and your enjoyment. The Sleepy tipi has a brand new eco- friendly outdoor shower and rustic toilet . It also offers electricity , solar lighting , covered seating area, outdoor sink with small fridge and cold running water , picnic tables , barbecue grill ,fire pit, and hammock. We are 420 friendly . You are welcome to bring your well behaved pets . Please keep them on a leash to protect them and the wildlife . Accommodations for horses may be made upon request as there are numerous riding trails in the area . We have lots of wildlife including small bears, raccoons and mountain lions. Countless wild birds also inhabit this land as it is on the migratory flight path to Mexico. New Mexico is famous for its fabulous night skies and star gazing is a must ! We are also 50 easy highway miles to Roswell and the famous Alien museum . You will be a believer ! The Sleepy Tipi is also situated near the historical town of Lincoln -home to Billy the kid and the small town of Capitan - museum and home of Smokey the Bear . We also offer our guests access to our petting zoo located 2 miles from the Sleepy Tipi . Rescue and farm annimals include goats ; chickens, dogs, cats , a pot belly pig ,a horse and a giant Sulcata tortoise named Isabelle . This is a working learning , farmette where there’s always plenty to do and animals to enjoy. Meals and baked goods may also be provided upon request . Our farm to table homestead meals include the freshest ingredients available grown right here on the property . Enjoy our award winning peaches , apples , pears , pecans and fresh farm eggs .

99%

(211)

Dusty Rabbit Van Life

5 sites · RVs, Tents2000 acres · Roswell, NM

Learn more about this land:Dusty Rabbit Van Life @ Schrimsher Ranch is an alternative camping & Star Gazing location just outside of town, yet close to the open road. A great place to relax under the stars, have a camp fire, and kick back next to your travel rig after a long day. You are welcome to explore the 600+ acres of rolling hills and high desert of our ranch. If you cross a fence you've gone too far, so that makes it easy for you to know where you're at. You might just want to crash for the night in a safe location out on the rangeland or stay a day or two to enjoy the land to walk, mountain bike antelope trails, and maybe even Sniffers the pronghorn antelope will find ya before you head out. This is a primitive site, so leave no trace practice is appreciated and pack in/out is how we do it here. If you come in the summer prepare the morning coffee early and enjoy the desert sun's rays hit the Capitan, but by 9am it will be hot, so be ready! Best star gazing and satellite watching in the world! I have several sites to choose from. But remember to keep an eye on the wind and weather as it can get crazy out here sometimes…..!!! I try to keep the sites stocked with firewood, but fill free to bring your own. Lonely Bull Camp 1 is my most popular site. It is very private and is easily accessible by most vehicles and campers. Ask about Lonely Bull Camp 4x4 if you have a capable vehicle. Amazing stars!! Old Highway Camp is a great alternative if you want something closer to the highway and have a safe private place to pull over, camp, kickback, make a fire and get back to your life on the on the road in the morning. It is closer to the highway, but is quite at night and has great star gazing. Enjoy being greeted by The Mountain in the morning. Let me know where you would like to stay and I will do my best to accommodate you! Safe travels!

99%

(85)

Desert Rose Stopover

2 sites · RVs5 acres · Roswell, NM

5 acres bordered by pecan trees. Level area, cement slab, large trees on site. We have recently added gravel to the parking area. Water, septic, electricity provided. NO BATHROOM FACILITIES available, please bring your own if car camping. No human waste allowed in site trash bin. I do have septic you can connect to your RV. Quiet rural area NW of Roswell, 6 miles from downtown where you can explore alien museums and attractions. Bottomless lakes state park and Bitter Lake National Wildlife Refuge nearby. 70 miles from Ruidoso with hiking, bike and equestrian trails, skiing, shopping, fishing. Haystack mountain recreation area, Pecos river, rockhounding sites in vicinity. White Sands, Carlsbad Caverns, Valley of Fires a short drive away.

Cienega Arroyo Ranch

2 sites · RVs, Tents740 acres · Ruidoso Downs, NM

On a working ranch, this campsite is located up a secluded arroyo off of the Hondo Valley and Rio Ruidoso in San Patricio, NM. This ranch is nearly 1400 acres total that is available for exploring and wildlife watching. During wildlife watching, it is possible that you could see roadrunners, squirrels, coyotes, rabbits, hawks, deer, elk, lizards, foxes, and many different types of song birds. A road south of the campsite is available for hiking down.Ruidoso and Ruidoso Downs are just over a 20 minute drive from this campsite. Historic Lincoln and Fort Stanton are a quick drive from this area as well. The Hurd Gallery can be visited by driving down the highway a couple miles. A fishing spot open to the public on the Rio Ruidoso is available for fishing just a few miles down the highway as well. It has been reported that this arroyo contained a cienega many years ago which was a marshy area fed by a spring, before groundwater wells ran it dry. Most cienegas are now extinct in the southwest. Sheep and Firewood were the main commodities produced off of this ranch before cattle became dominant. NM State Land is 640 of these acres which requires an annual permit for recreational use.

A True Cold War Relic..Missile Silo

6 sites · RVs, Tents12 acres · Roswell, NM

Learn more about this land: ALL camping stays include an extensive 1.5 to 2 hour Missile Site Tour, with an underground Silo portion. The Missile Base property with it's underground Launch Control Center and a Utility Tunnel that leads to the 186 ft deep Missile Silo, with much of it's original floors still intact. Learn what it took to operate one of these amazing sites. The major construction/refurbishment areas, have been renovated into an unbelievable underground home and office. Prepare for one of the most awesome tours included with the cost of your stay. This is the site of a decommissioned Atlas F Missile Silo which was deactivated by the United States Air Force in 1965, located in Southeastern New Mexico, close to Roswell, NM. Explore the property that once housed our Country's first InterContinental Ballistic Missile ICBM Site and pick out your own camp spot. Everyone is invited on the top of the Missile Silo Cap for great stargazing and campfires in the evening. Just 20 short minutes from downtown Roswell, New Mexico, USA with many local stores and restaurants. The Missile Site is very near many activities such as hiking, biking and 4 wheel drive trails to include nearby Bottomless Lake State Park and the World famous International UFO Museum in downtown Roswell.

8 top campgrounds near Roswell

99%

(211)

Dusty Rabbit Van Life

5 sites · RVs, Tents2000 acres · Roswell, NM

Learn more about this land:Dusty Rabbit Van Life @ Schrimsher Ranch is an alternative camping & Star Gazing location just outside of town, yet close to the open road. A great place to relax under the stars, have a camp fire, and kick back next to your travel rig after a long day. You are welcome to explore the 600+ acres of rolling hills and high desert of our ranch. If you cross a fence you've gone too far, so that makes it easy for you to know where you're at. You might just want to crash for the night in a safe location out on the rangeland or stay a day or two to enjoy the land to walk, mountain bike antelope trails, and maybe even Sniffers the pronghorn antelope will find ya before you head out. This is a primitive site, so leave no trace practice is appreciated and pack in/out is how we do it here. If you come in the summer prepare the morning coffee early and enjoy the desert sun's rays hit the Capitan, but by 9am it will be hot, so be ready! Best star gazing and satellite watching in the world! I have several sites to choose from. But remember to keep an eye on the wind and weather as it can get crazy out here sometimes…..!!! I try to keep the sites stocked with firewood, but fill free to bring your own. Lonely Bull Camp 1 is my most popular site. It is very private and is easily accessible by most vehicles and campers. Ask about Lonely Bull Camp 4x4 if you have a capable vehicle. Amazing stars!! Old Highway Camp is a great alternative if you want something closer to the highway and have a safe private place to pull over, camp, kickback, make a fire and get back to your life on the on the road in the morning. It is closer to the highway, but is quite at night and has great star gazing. Enjoy being greeted by The Mountain in the morning. Let me know where you would like to stay and I will do my best to accommodate you! Safe travels!

A True Cold War Relic..Missile Silo

6 sites · RVs, Tents12 acres · Roswell, NM

Learn more about this land: ALL camping stays include an extensive 1.5 to 2 hour Missile Site Tour, with an underground Silo portion. The Missile Base property with it's underground Launch Control Center and a Utility Tunnel that leads to the 186 ft deep Missile Silo, with much of it's original floors still intact. Learn what it took to operate one of these amazing sites. The major construction/refurbishment areas, have been renovated into an unbelievable underground home and office. Prepare for one of the most awesome tours included with the cost of your stay. This is the site of a decommissioned Atlas F Missile Silo which was deactivated by the United States Air Force in 1965, located in Southeastern New Mexico, close to Roswell, NM. Explore the property that once housed our Country's first InterContinental Ballistic Missile ICBM Site and pick out your own camp spot. Everyone is invited on the top of the Missile Silo Cap for great stargazing and campfires in the evening. Just 20 short minutes from downtown Roswell, New Mexico, USA with many local stores and restaurants. The Missile Site is very near many activities such as hiking, biking and 4 wheel drive trails to include nearby Bottomless Lake State Park and the World famous International UFO Museum in downtown Roswell.

Desert Rose Stopover

2 sites · RVs5 acres · Roswell, NM

5 acres bordered by pecan trees. Level area, cement slab, large trees on site. We have recently added gravel to the parking area. Water, septic, electricity provided. NO BATHROOM FACILITIES available, please bring your own if car camping. No human waste allowed in site trash bin. I do have septic you can connect to your RV. Quiet rural area NW of Roswell, 6 miles from downtown where you can explore alien museums and attractions. Bottomless lakes state park and Bitter Lake National Wildlife Refuge nearby. 70 miles from Ruidoso with hiking, bike and equestrian trails, skiing, shopping, fishing. Haystack mountain recreation area, Pecos river, rockhounding sites in vicinity. White Sands, Carlsbad Caverns, Valley of Fires a short drive away.

Cienega Arroyo Ranch

2 sites · RVs, Tents740 acres · Ruidoso Downs, NM

On a working ranch, this campsite is located up a secluded arroyo off of the Hondo Valley and Rio Ruidoso in San Patricio, NM. This ranch is nearly 1400 acres total that is available for exploring and wildlife watching. During wildlife watching, it is possible that you could see roadrunners, squirrels, coyotes, rabbits, hawks, deer, elk, lizards, foxes, and many different types of song birds. A road south of the campsite is available for hiking down.Ruidoso and Ruidoso Downs are just over a 20 minute drive from this campsite. Historic Lincoln and Fort Stanton are a quick drive from this area as well. The Hurd Gallery can be visited by driving down the highway a couple miles. A fishing spot open to the public on the Rio Ruidoso is available for fishing just a few miles down the highway as well. It has been reported that this arroyo contained a cienega many years ago which was a marshy area fed by a spring, before groundwater wells ran it dry. Most cienegas are now extinct in the southwest. Sheep and Firewood were the main commodities produced off of this ranch before cattle became dominant. NM State Land is 640 of these acres which requires an annual permit for recreational use.

Sleepy Valley Farm

5 sites · Tents2000 acres · Roswell, NM

Embark on an unforgettable journey to the blissful Pecos Valley! Here, you'll discover exquisite stargazing, serene silent nights, breathtaking sunsets, and stunning views that will leave you in awe. You’ll quickly see why this paradise was a favorite camping grounds of the Nʉmʉnʉʉ Sookobitʉ (Comanche) tribe. Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature as you play in the river, hunt for a new rock for your collection, bask in the uninterrupted sunshine, or splash in the river. With the closest neighbor miles away, you'll be enveloped in darkness free of light pollution, allowing for unparalleled stargazing experiences. The vast open skies provide the perfect canvas for spotting constellations or even hunting for UFOs – a phenomenon with a history dating back to the 1950s, with many sightings reported in the area. Accessing our farm is a scenic drive along 16 miles of well-maintained gravel roads. While four-wheel drive is not necessary, if you prefer to avoid dust, we're happy to meet you in town and escort you to the property.

Sleepy Tipi on the Ruidoso River

1 site · Lodging2 acres · Ruidoso Downs, NM

This is truly a sacred Tipi site as it is beautifully situated right on the picturesque Ruidoso River in rural New Mexico . This lovely , spacios ,private location offers spectacular mountain views and is shaded with numerous large native trees while also offering a well maintained grassy area for relaxation and your enjoyment. The Sleepy tipi has a brand new eco- friendly outdoor shower and rustic toilet . It also offers electricity , solar lighting , covered seating area, outdoor sink with small fridge and cold running water , picnic tables , barbecue grill ,fire pit, and hammock. We are 420 friendly . You are welcome to bring your well behaved pets . Please keep them on a leash to protect them and the wildlife . Accommodations for horses may be made upon request as there are numerous riding trails in the area . We have lots of wildlife including small bears, raccoons and mountain lions. Countless wild birds also inhabit this land as it is on the migratory flight path to Mexico. New Mexico is famous for its fabulous night skies and star gazing is a must ! We are also 50 easy highway miles to Roswell and the famous Alien museum . You will be a believer ! The Sleepy Tipi is also situated near the historical town of Lincoln -home to Billy the kid and the small town of Capitan - museum and home of Smokey the Bear . We also offer our guests access to our petting zoo located 2 miles from the Sleepy Tipi . Rescue and farm annimals include goats ; chickens, dogs, cats , a pot belly pig ,a horse and a giant Sulcata tortoise named Isabelle . This is a working learning , farmette where there’s always plenty to do and animals to enjoy. Meals and baked goods may also be provided upon request . Our farm to table homestead meals include the freshest ingredients available grown right here on the property . Enjoy our award winning peaches , apples , pears , pecans and fresh farm eggs .

90%

(5)

Casa Linda Campgrounds

4 sites · RVs, Tents35 acres · Picacho, NM

Casa Linda is a Vineyard with Ambiance. It originally settled in 1860-70’s by sheriff Kimbrell(sheriff before Brady-killed by Billy the Kid) Set on 30 plus acres of vineyards, orchards, greenhouses & terraced fields leading down to the river. Main house built in 1930-40’s by legendary Actress Linda Darnell who had many famous guests including John Wayne. Come relax, enjoy the views, stargazing, fishing, hiking. As well as this areas’ wineries, breweries, casino, ski Apache +!

Desert no shade

4 sites · RVs5 acres · Roswell, NM

Learn more about this land: Live in a high plains desert no shade very hot cold Winters. Leaving a farm community have lots of water for irrigation. Sure would like to buy a garden have enough water need help. Have a fenced area 4 acres. Horses, Cows, Dogs good fence. With water. Can provide water and electricity for a little more Money $$$.

Under $50

100%

(16)

Cienega Arroyo Ranch

2 sites · RVs, Tents740 acres · Ruidoso Downs, NM

On a working ranch, this campsite is located up a secluded arroyo off of the Hondo Valley and Rio Ruidoso in San Patricio, NM. This ranch is nearly 1400 acres total that is available for exploring and wildlife watching. During wildlife watching, it is possible that you could see roadrunners, squirrels, coyotes, rabbits, hawks, deer, elk, lizards, foxes, and many different types of song birds. A road south of the campsite is available for hiking down.Ruidoso and Ruidoso Downs are just over a 20 minute drive from this campsite. Historic Lincoln and Fort Stanton are a quick drive from this area as well. The Hurd Gallery can be visited by driving down the highway a couple miles. A fishing spot open to the public on the Rio Ruidoso is available for fishing just a few miles down the highway as well. It has been reported that this arroyo contained a cienega many years ago which was a marshy area fed by a spring, before groundwater wells ran it dry. Most cienegas are now extinct in the southwest. Sheep and Firewood were the main commodities produced off of this ranch before cattle became dominant. NM State Land is 640 of these acres which requires an annual permit for recreational use.

Sleepy Valley Farm

5 sites · Tents2000 acres · Roswell, NM

Embark on an unforgettable journey to the blissful Pecos Valley! Here, you'll discover exquisite stargazing, serene silent nights, breathtaking sunsets, and stunning views that will leave you in awe. You’ll quickly see why this paradise was a favorite camping grounds of the Nʉmʉnʉʉ Sookobitʉ (Comanche) tribe. Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature as you play in the river, hunt for a new rock for your collection, bask in the uninterrupted sunshine, or splash in the river. With the closest neighbor miles away, you'll be enveloped in darkness free of light pollution, allowing for unparalleled stargazing experiences. The vast open skies provide the perfect canvas for spotting constellations or even hunting for UFOs – a phenomenon with a history dating back to the 1950s, with many sightings reported in the area. Accessing our farm is a scenic drive along 16 miles of well-maintained gravel roads. While four-wheel drive is not necessary, if you prefer to avoid dust, we're happy to meet you in town and escort you to the property.

Casa Linda Campgrounds

4 sites · RVs, Tents35 acres · Picacho, NM

Casa Linda is a Vineyard with Ambiance. It originally settled in 1860-70’s by sheriff Kimbrell(sheriff before Brady-killed by Billy the Kid) Set on 30 plus acres of vineyards, orchards, greenhouses & terraced fields leading down to the river. Main house built in 1930-40’s by legendary Actress Linda Darnell who had many famous guests including John Wayne. Come relax, enjoy the views, stargazing, fishing, hiking. As well as this areas’ wineries, breweries, casino, ski Apache +!

Dusty Rabbit Van Life

5 sites · RVs, Tents2000 acres · Roswell, NM

Learn more about this land:Dusty Rabbit Van Life @ Schrimsher Ranch is an alternative camping & Star Gazing location just outside of town, yet close to the open road. A great place to relax under the stars, have a camp fire, and kick back next to your travel rig after a long day. You are welcome to explore the 600+ acres of rolling hills and high desert of our ranch. If you cross a fence you've gone too far, so that makes it easy for you to know where you're at. You might just want to crash for the night in a safe location out on the rangeland or stay a day or two to enjoy the land to walk, mountain bike antelope trails, and maybe even Sniffers the pronghorn antelope will find ya before you head out. This is a primitive site, so leave no trace practice is appreciated and pack in/out is how we do it here. If you come in the summer prepare the morning coffee early and enjoy the desert sun's rays hit the Capitan, but by 9am it will be hot, so be ready! Best star gazing and satellite watching in the world! I have several sites to choose from. But remember to keep an eye on the wind and weather as it can get crazy out here sometimes…..!!! I try to keep the sites stocked with firewood, but fill free to bring your own. Lonely Bull Camp 1 is my most popular site. It is very private and is easily accessible by most vehicles and campers. Ask about Lonely Bull Camp 4x4 if you have a capable vehicle. Amazing stars!! Old Highway Camp is a great alternative if you want something closer to the highway and have a safe private place to pull over, camp, kickback, make a fire and get back to your life on the on the road in the morning. It is closer to the highway, but is quite at night and has great star gazing. Enjoy being greeted by The Mountain in the morning. Let me know where you would like to stay and I will do my best to accommodate you! Safe travels!

Desert Rose Stopover

2 sites · RVs5 acres · Roswell, NM

5 acres bordered by pecan trees. Level area, cement slab, large trees on site. We have recently added gravel to the parking area. Water, septic, electricity provided. NO BATHROOM FACILITIES available, please bring your own if car camping. No human waste allowed in site trash bin. I do have septic you can connect to your RV. Quiet rural area NW of Roswell, 6 miles from downtown where you can explore alien museums and attractions. Bottomless lakes state park and Bitter Lake National Wildlife Refuge nearby. 70 miles from Ruidoso with hiking, bike and equestrian trails, skiing, shopping, fishing. Haystack mountain recreation area, Pecos river, rockhounding sites in vicinity. White Sands, Carlsbad Caverns, Valley of Fires a short drive away.

Star Hosts in Roswell

99%

(85)

Desert Rose Stopover

2 sites · RVs5 acres · Roswell, NM

5 acres bordered by pecan trees. Level area, cement slab, large trees on site. We have recently added gravel to the parking area. Water, septic, electricity provided. NO BATHROOM FACILITIES available, please bring your own if car camping. No human waste allowed in site trash bin. I do have septic you can connect to your RV. Quiet rural area NW of Roswell, 6 miles from downtown where you can explore alien museums and attractions. Bottomless lakes state park and Bitter Lake National Wildlife Refuge nearby. 70 miles from Ruidoso with hiking, bike and equestrian trails, skiing, shopping, fishing. Haystack mountain recreation area, Pecos river, rockhounding sites in vicinity. White Sands, Carlsbad Caverns, Valley of Fires a short drive away.

Dusty Rabbit Van Life

5 sites · RVs, Tents2000 acres · Roswell, NM

Learn more about this land:Dusty Rabbit Van Life @ Schrimsher Ranch is an alternative camping & Star Gazing location just outside of town, yet close to the open road. A great place to relax under the stars, have a camp fire, and kick back next to your travel rig after a long day. You are welcome to explore the 600+ acres of rolling hills and high desert of our ranch. If you cross a fence you've gone too far, so that makes it easy for you to know where you're at. You might just want to crash for the night in a safe location out on the rangeland or stay a day or two to enjoy the land to walk, mountain bike antelope trails, and maybe even Sniffers the pronghorn antelope will find ya before you head out. This is a primitive site, so leave no trace practice is appreciated and pack in/out is how we do it here. If you come in the summer prepare the morning coffee early and enjoy the desert sun's rays hit the Capitan, but by 9am it will be hot, so be ready! Best star gazing and satellite watching in the world! I have several sites to choose from. But remember to keep an eye on the wind and weather as it can get crazy out here sometimes…..!!! I try to keep the sites stocked with firewood, but fill free to bring your own. Lonely Bull Camp 1 is my most popular site. It is very private and is easily accessible by most vehicles and campers. Ask about Lonely Bull Camp 4x4 if you have a capable vehicle. Amazing stars!! Old Highway Camp is a great alternative if you want something closer to the highway and have a safe private place to pull over, camp, kickback, make a fire and get back to your life on the on the road in the morning. It is closer to the highway, but is quite at night and has great star gazing. Enjoy being greeted by The Mountain in the morning. Let me know where you would like to stay and I will do my best to accommodate you! Safe travels!

A True Cold War Relic..Missile Silo

6 sites · RVs, Tents12 acres · Roswell, NM

Learn more about this land: ALL camping stays include an extensive 1.5 to 2 hour Missile Site Tour, with an underground Silo portion. The Missile Base property with it's underground Launch Control Center and a Utility Tunnel that leads to the 186 ft deep Missile Silo, with much of it's original floors still intact. Learn what it took to operate one of these amazing sites. The major construction/refurbishment areas, have been renovated into an unbelievable underground home and office. Prepare for one of the most awesome tours included with the cost of your stay. This is the site of a decommissioned Atlas F Missile Silo which was deactivated by the United States Air Force in 1965, located in Southeastern New Mexico, close to Roswell, NM. Explore the property that once housed our Country's first InterContinental Ballistic Missile ICBM Site and pick out your own camp spot. Everyone is invited on the top of the Missile Silo Cap for great stargazing and campfires in the evening. Just 20 short minutes from downtown Roswell, New Mexico, USA with many local stores and restaurants. The Missile Site is very near many activities such as hiking, biking and 4 wheel drive trails to include nearby Bottomless Lake State Park and the World famous International UFO Museum in downtown Roswell.

Cienega Arroyo Ranch

2 sites · RVs, Tents740 acres · Ruidoso Downs, NM

On a working ranch, this campsite is located up a secluded arroyo off of the Hondo Valley and Rio Ruidoso in San Patricio, NM. This ranch is nearly 1400 acres total that is available for exploring and wildlife watching. During wildlife watching, it is possible that you could see roadrunners, squirrels, coyotes, rabbits, hawks, deer, elk, lizards, foxes, and many different types of song birds. A road south of the campsite is available for hiking down.Ruidoso and Ruidoso Downs are just over a 20 minute drive from this campsite. Historic Lincoln and Fort Stanton are a quick drive from this area as well. The Hurd Gallery can be visited by driving down the highway a couple miles. A fishing spot open to the public on the Rio Ruidoso is available for fishing just a few miles down the highway as well. It has been reported that this arroyo contained a cienega many years ago which was a marshy area fed by a spring, before groundwater wells ran it dry. Most cienegas are now extinct in the southwest. Sheep and Firewood were the main commodities produced off of this ranch before cattle became dominant. NM State Land is 640 of these acres which requires an annual permit for recreational use.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

100%

(9)

Bottomless Lakes State Park

Midway, New Mexico

87%

(28)

Lincoln National Forest

Twin Forks, New Mexico

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Camping near Roswell guide

Overview

In southeastern New Mexico (part of Chaves County), Roswell is internationally-known as the site of an alleged 1947 UFO crash. A semi-arid environment dotted with underground-fed lakes, sky-high sand dunes, and a thriving UFO community, Roswell embraces their iconic alien legacy by hosting an annual UFO festival in June. Camping in Roswell is the best way to connect with the geography and abundant wildlife. RV parks and glamping campsites offer easy access to the adventures around this unique locale.

Where to go

Bitter Lake National Wildlife Refuge

Only a 20-minute drive from Roswell, NM, Bitter Lake National Wildlife Refuge spans 24,563 acres. This wetland paradise for over 350 bird species, 100 types of dragonflies, and numerous reptile varieties is split into two sections with roads running through—perfect for viewing local geography and wildlife without getting sore legs. However, three walking trails and two hiking trails are also options. Leashed dogs are welcome in certain areas.

Bottomless Lakes State Park

Bottomless Lakes State Park is only 15 miles southeast of Roswell and features nine deep lakes, but Lea Lake is the only one that allows swimming. Its sandy shoreline is ideal for soaking up the sun, fishing, launching kayaks, or starting a scuba dive. Pedal boats and paddle boards are available for rent from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. The campground area offers restrooms, showers, full hook-up sites, and an RV dump station. Purchase a day pass ahead of time to get organized before leaving.

International UFO Museum and Research Center

The International UFO Museum and Research Center is a great way to spend the day learning about the secrets of our skies. It opened 1992 and continuously draws UFO enthusiasts and tourists from around the world, but it does close early on holidays. Although it focuses on the iconic Roswell UFO crash, there’s plenty of alien-related information about abductions, crop circles, and unsolved mysteries with guided tours available. Hipcampers can land nearby for the night in tent campsites, RV sites, and glamping sites.

Mescalero Sand Dunes

The Mescalero Sand Dunes offer 610 acres for off-roading vehicles to traverse 45 miles east of Roswell (there is a small entrance fee). The dunes are made of quartz particles that shift in the wind (sometimes up to a foot a year). Campsites among the dunes are only accessible by ATVs and sand-friendly vehicles (regular cars and buses will sink, so don’t risk getting stuck). There is RV camping in some parking lots, so Hipcampers can stay nearby and enjoy effortless access.

When to go

Roswell averages 281 sunny days a year, but the best months to visit are during the off season in spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) thanks to smaller crowds and cooler temps. June is the hottest month with average temps around 94°F, so be prepared with sun gear and plenty of drinking water. The average temperature throughout winter (December to February) is 55°F, and although snowfall can occur, it’s a rare experience.