Camping in New Mexico

Whether you’re a first-time camper or an experienced outdoors enthusiast, camping in New Mexico is an experience you won’t want to miss. With more than 180 state parks and thousands of acres of public land, there are plenty of places to set up camp.

Before planning your trip, check out this list of things to know about camping in New Mexico. From reserving a campsite to what to pack, we’ll help you get ready for the adventure of a lifetime.

Find the Perfect Campsite

New Mexico is home to dozens of beautiful state parks, each with its own unique character. Whether you’re looking for a lakeside camping spot or a place to pitch your tent under the stars, you’ll find what you’re looking for in the Land of Enchantment.

If you’re not sure where to start your search, take a look at some of our favorite state parks for camping in New Mexico:

• Cimarron Canyon State Park: This park is located in northeastern New Mexico and features miles of hiking and biking trails, as well as fishing spots along the Cimarron River.

• Elephant Butte Lake State Park: Elephant Butte is the largest lake in New Mexico and offers plenty of opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming.

• Leasylake State Park & Wildlife Area: This park is perfect for bird watching and wildlife watching, with more than 200 species of birds that have been spotted here.

• Navajo Lake State Park: Navajo Lake is one of the most popular camping destinations in New Mexico, offering ample opportunities for fishing, boating, and hiking.

In addition to state parks, there are also many national forests and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands open to camping in New Mexico.