Mountainous camping near Roswell with campfires

Have an out-of-this-world experience among towering sand dunes and the UFO Museum in Roswell.

100% (12 reviews)

United States
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New Mexico
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Roswell

100% (12 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Roswell

2 top mountainous campgrounds near Roswell with campfires

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 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 .

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Mountainous camping near Roswell with campfires 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.