Pancho Villa

4.13

93 reviews

P.O. BOX 450, Columbus, New Mexico, 88029, United States

Quick Facts

4,055 ft

Price

$4 - $225/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

62 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectric

Opens New Mexico State Parks site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

4,055 ft

Price

$4 - $225/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

62 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectric

Opens New Mexico State Parks site

Official Website

Get Directions

Pancho Villa

$4.00 - $225.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Non-residents can purchase a park pass for $225 annually, allowing free camping or $4 per night for sites with water and electricity. Individual...

Standard Site Fee$8.00

Hookup Site Fee$14.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Reserve America

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5755312711

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What Campers Say

4.13

Satisfactory

Based on 93 reviews

355 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanspaciousstafffriendly

"Pancho Villa State Park receives mixed reviews, with many praising its historical significance, cleanliness, and friendly staff. However, ongoing issues with the septic system and closures of showers and restrooms have caused dissatisfaction among some visitors."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

P.O. BOX 450, Columbus, New Mexico, 88029, United States

Pancho Villa

P.O. BOX 450, Columbus, New Mexico, 88029, United States

Driving directionsAT THE INTERSECTION OF HIGHWAY 9 AND HIGHWAY 11, TURN RIGHT, HEAD WEST 100 YARDS, TURN LEFT, FOLLOW SIGNS INTO CAMPGROUND. NORTH CAMPGROUND RESERVATION CAMPSITES ARE ON THE LEFT HAND SIDE, 1/8 MILE FROM THE PARK ENTRANCE GATES.

Roads leading to the campground are accessible year-round. The campground is located at the intersection of Highway 9 and Highway 11, with clear signage directing visitors into the park. Roads are paved and well-maintained; no seasonal closures are mentioned.

Nearby places

70 miles east of El Paso, TX (approximately 1 hour, 15 minutes drive)

32 miles south of Deming, NM (approximately 40 minutes drive)

within Columbus, NM village limits.

Nearby supplies

Groceries and supplies appear limited in Columbus, NM. Visitors are advised to shop in Deming, NM, which is 32 miles away and offers more comprehensive options.

Best Time to Camp at Pancho Villa

Desert breezes whisper through the campground year-round, carrying the warmth of mild winters and the promise of spectacular stargazing on clear nights. The Chihuahuan Desert's moderate climate creates an ideal escape for winter wanderers seeking refuge from northern snows, though wise travelers pack an extra layer for those crisp desert evenings when temperatures can dip unexpectedly. Days often bring gentle winds that rustle through the yucca and mesquite, while nights transform the landscape into a tranquil realm where the desert's ancient rhythms lull campers to sleep.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

2.5 / 5

Desert heat in summer noted; visitors warn to prepare for high temperatures.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Positive fall reviews (Oct mentioned); pleasant weather and visits planned.

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Positive spring reviews; desert blooms and pleasant temperatures referenced.

Best

Winter(Dec-Feb)

4.0 / 5

Top 5% in NM

Mild winters make it popular during colder months; good stargazing at night.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: No specific peak season dates mentioned.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open year-round. Current closures due to septic failures affecting showers, restrooms, and dump stations.
Current Alerts: Septic system failure has led to the closure of showers, restrooms, dump stations, and the playground. Temporary porta-potties are available.

About Pancho Villa

Where the dusty trails of history meet the serene beauty of the Chihuahuan Desert, Pancho Villa State Park stands as a testament to one of the most dramatic chapters in American-Mexican border history. Just a stone's throw from Mexico, this peaceful desert sanctuary invites modern travelers to camp where revolutionary raiders once thundered through in 1916. Today's visitors discover spacious campsites with partial hookups nestled among ancient desert landscapes, where the only invasions are stunning sunsets and star-filled skies. The park seamlessly blends outdoor recreation with living history, offering both restful camping and fascinating glimpses into the tumultuous past of Columbus, New Mexico.

The campground caters to a variety of camping preferences, including tent camping, RV camping, and a historical experience.

Historical Significance

Latino/Hispanic Heritage

Step into the pages of history at this National Historic Landmark, where the echoes of Pancho Villa's daring 1916 raid on Columbus still resonate across the desert landscape. Here, among the remnants of Camp Furlong and America's first military airbase, visitors walk the same ground where General John J. Pershing launched his legendary Punitive Expedition. The park's exceptional museum brings this border drama to life through captivating displays and artifacts, while weathered foundations and historic structures scattered throughout the grounds serve as silent witnesses to the only foreign military incursion on American soil since the War of 1812.

Weather and SeasonsDesert breezes whisper through the campground year-round, carrying the warmth of mild winters and the promise of spectacular stargazing on clear nights. The Chihuahuan Desert's moderate climate creates an ideal escape for winter wanderers seeking refuge from northern snows, though wise travelers pack an extra layer for those crisp desert evenings when temperatures can dip unexpectedly. Days often bring gentle winds that rustle through the yucca and mesquite, while nights transform the landscape into a tranquil realm where the desert's ancient rhythms lull campers to sleep.

ElevationNot provided.

Natural Features and SceneryThe raw beauty of the Chihuahuan Desert unfolds in every direction, where hardy cacti stand sentinel and graceful yucca plants bloom against endless blue skies. Visitors are enchanted by the meticulously maintained cactus garden adjacent to the museum, showcasing the desert's remarkable botanical diversity. Scenic trails wind up Coote's Hill, revealing panoramic vistas where Mexico stretches to the southern horizon and the desert's subtle palette of browns, greens, and golds creates an ever-changing canvas. This living desert landscape offers both intimate encounters with native flora and sweeping views that capture the essence of the American Southwest.

Geological RegionNestled within the vast expanse of the Chihuahuan Desert, the park showcases the distinctive geology of North America's largest desert ecosystem. This ancient landscape tells a story written in stone and sand, where volcanic remnants meet sedimentary plains, creating a diverse terrain that supports an impressive array of desert-adapted plants. Cacti of various species dot the landscape alongside towering yucca, while the arid climate has sculpted a terrain that shifts from subtle browns to vibrant desert blooms following rare rains. This geological wonderland serves as both a natural classroom and a photographer's paradise, where every sunrise and sunset paints the desert in new hues.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check-in time not explicitly stated.

Check-out

Check-out time not explicitly stated.

Stay Limit

Maximum stay duration not specified in provided materials.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Exact number of guests per site not specified.

Groups

There is no information specifically detailing group camping accommodations.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground features large, spacious pull-through sites, some with shared shade structures. Reviews mention maneuvering challenges for hookups.

Reservation PlatformsReservations available via Reserve America.

Walk-in AvailabilitySeveral reviews indicate walk-up availability. However, some discrepancies exist between 'first-come-first-serve' and reservation requirements mentioned online and at the park.

Cancellation PolicyReservations appear to be managed online via Reserve America, and refunds are possible (e.g., a user reported receiving a full refund due to closures).

AccessibilityNot explicitly mentioned, but the campground layout is described as spacious and well-maintained, which may suggest some level of accessibility.

Site SizeThe campsites are described as large, spacious, and accommodating for various sizes of RVs and tents.

PrivacySites offer a moderate level of privacy, with space between them and desert vegetation providing some separation.

Total Campsites62 campsites

Recommended SitesSites along the side (e.g., #31, #32, and #5) are less favorable due to the placement of electrical hookups, which may require long extension cords.

Amenities available

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Water hookups

Activities you can enjoy

Pancho Villa State Park offers a mix of historical exploration and outdoor recreation. Activities include visiting the on-site museum, taking walking tours, and enjoying desert landscapes. However, the park primarily appeals to history enthusiasts rather than adventure seekers.

HikingHiking opportunities are limited, with the only notable trail being a short walk up Coote's Hill.

BikingBiking is mentioned as an optional recreational activity, appealing to those who enjoy leisurely rides in a quiet setting.

Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing opportunities include Gambel's Quail and other birds. The botanical garden enhances the experience for nature enthusiasts.

Cultural and Educational ProgramsThe museum and historical displays offer cultural and educational insights into the 1916 Pancho Villa raid and subsequent U.S. military response.

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsVisitors are warned about burs on trails, which pose risks to pets. No other specific hazards mentioned.

Active AlertsSeptic system failure has led to the closure of showers, restrooms, dump stations, and the playground. Temporary porta-potties are available.

Fire PolicyFire rings are provided at campsites.

Emergency ServicesEmergency services are likely available within Columbus, NM village limits, which has a police station and medical services. Specific facilities and distances not explicitly provided.

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not specifically mentioned in the authoritative or user-provided content.

Water FeaturesNo significant natural water features are mentioned.

Camp HostTwo camp hosts reported. One couple actively maintains the grounds, while another host received negative feedback for unprofessional behavior.

Weather at Pancho Villa

Reviews

4.1

93 reviews

Satisfactory

Pancho Villa is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

Pancho Villa State Park receives mixed reviews, with many praising its historical significance, cleanliness, and friendly staff. However, ongoing issues with the septic system and closures of showers and restrooms have caused dissatisfaction among some visitors.

Review Summaries

Based on 93 reviews

What Campers Love

Clean and spacious campsites, friendly and helpful staff, excellent on-site museum, and beautiful desert landscapes are frequently highlighted as positives.

Based on 93 reviews

Common Concerns

The most common complaints involve the long-term closure of bathrooms, showers, and the dump station due to septic system issues. Some visitors also noted limited hiking options and inconveniently...

Based on 93 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors recommend bringing extra extension cords and hoses due to the utility placement, planning ahead for the lack of functional restrooms, and exploring nearby attractions such as the Pink Store...

Based on 93 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The park is noted for its mild winter conditions, making it a popular destination during colder months. Summer reviews highlight the desert's heat and the need for proper preparation.

Based on 93 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Quiet, simple state park a couple of miles from the Mexican border." "The sunsets are spectacular." "The park rangers were super helpful and very knowledgeable." "Clean modern restrooms and...

Based on 93 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Some reviews highlight specific site issues, such as poorly placed electric hookups at sites 5, 32, and 31, requiring long extension cords.

Based on 93 reviews

Accessibility Features

There are no specific reviews addressing accessibility features, though the park is noted for its spacious layout.

Based on 93 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed but must be leashed. Some users praised the ample walking areas for dogs.

Based on 93 reviews

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Last updated February 17, 2026

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