Hiking Campgrounds in New Mexico
Discover the best hiking campgrounds across New Mexico. Experience the best of both worlds with camping that puts you right at the heart of incredible hiking opportunities. Direct trail access and stunning mountain vistas.
Featured Campgrounds
Handpicked destinations that define the region
About Hiking Campgrounds in New Mexico
New Mexico offers some of the most diverse and dramatic hiking landscapes in the American Southwest, from ancient volcanic lava fields to high alpine wilderness. Hikers can explore trails through the Gila Wilderness—the nation's first designated wilderness area—traverse ancestral Puebloan sites at Bandelier National Monument, and climb peaks in the Organ Mountains with sweeping views of the Tularosa Basin.
Best Time
The optimal hiking season in New Mexico varies by elevation. Higher mountain campgrounds in the Santa Fe and Carson national forests are typically accessible from late May through October, with July and August offering the most reliable trail access after snowmelt.
Activity Highlights
- Direct trail access
- Mountain and forest settings
- Backpacking base camps
- Scenic wilderness views
Plan Your Trip
Popular Activities
Tips & Recommendations
- 1**Altitude awareness**: Most campgrounds sit above 6,000 feet. Arrive a day early to acclimate if you're coming from sea level, and carry extra water—the dry air increases dehydration risk
- 2**Afternoon thunderstorms**: During monsoon season (July-August), start hikes early and descend from peaks by noon to avoid lightning danger
- 3**Permits and regulations**: Bandelier National Monument requires a park entrance fee. Wilderness areas like Gila and Pecos need no permits for day hiking, but practice Leave No Trace principles
- 4**Road conditions**: Many forest roads are unpaved and require high-clearance vehicles. Check current conditions with ranger stations before heading to remote sites
Hiking Campgrounds in New Mexico FAQ
We've ranked 106+ hiking campgrounds in New Mexico based on trail access, hiking variety, scenery, and user reviews. Top options are near national forests, state parks, and wilderness areas.
Permit requirements vary by location in New Mexico. Many wilderness areas and popular trails require day-use or backcountry permits. Check with the managing agency (National Forest, National Park, or State Park) before your trip.
Late Spring through Fall (May-October) is generally best for hiking camping in New Mexico. High-elevation trails may have shorter seasons due to snow. Always check current trail conditions before heading out.
Popular New Mexico Campgrounds Book Fast
The best hiking campgrounds in New Mexico book up quickly, especially during peak season. Set up free alerts to catch cancellations.
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