How much does camping cost at Valley Of Fires Recreation Area?

Camping fees at Valley Of Fires Recreation Area range from $15-$35/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Valley Of Fires Recreation Area first-come first-served or reservation?

Valley Of Fires Recreation Area accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Valley Of Fires Recreation Area before I book?

Yes! Valley Of Fires Recreation Area has 16 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Valley Of Fires Recreation Area?

Valley Of Fires Recreation Area is open January 01 to December 31. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Valley Of Fires Recreation Area?

Yes, Valley Of Fires Recreation Area has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

Is there cell service at Valley Of Fires Recreation Area?

Cell phone service at Valley Of Fires Recreation Area is generally available. Cell service is available. Coverage may vary by carrier and exact location within the campground.

How many campsites does Valley Of Fires Recreation Area have?

Valley Of Fires Recreation Area has 20 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Valley Of Fires Recreation Area?

Yes, pets are allowed at Valley Of Fires Recreation Area. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Valley Of Fires Recreation Area?

Valley Of Fires Recreation Area offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Dump Station, Electrical Hookups, Water Hookups, Pets Allowed, Camp Store. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

Valley Of Fires Recreation Area

Q: Can I have a campfire at Valley Of Fires Recreation Area?

Fire policies at Valley Of Fires Recreation Area: To check campsite availability or for Valley of Fires specific information please call Valley of Fires Visitor Center 575-648-2241 or the camp host 575-973-3094 . BLM staff CANNOT make or change Reservations. This must be done through Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777 .. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.60

488 reviews

6158 U.S. Highway 380

Top 2% in NMWinter

Scenic ViewsStargazing

Featured in:Desert Camping New Mexico#1 RV Camping New Mexico Group Camping New Mexico +2 more

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

5,000 ft

Price

$15 - $35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

20 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Partial HookupsShowers

Book on Bureau of Land Management Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

5,000 ft

Price

$15 - $35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

20 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Partial HookupsShowers

Book on Bureau of Land Management Official Website

Get Directions

Valley Of Fires Recreation Area

$15.00 - $35.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Group Shelter: $35.00; RV Dump Station: $30.00; RV Nonelectric - No water: $15.00; RV Nonelectric -Site Water: $15.00; RV Site Electric and water:...

Group Site Fee$25.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

575-648-2241N/A

I manage this campground

Plan a trip to Valley Of Fires Recreation Area

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Campground Map

6158 U.S. Highway 380

Valley Of Fires Recreation Area

6158 U.S. Highway 380

Nearby places

Carrizozo (4 miles, approximately 5 minutes)

Capitan (24 miles, approximately 25 minutes)

Lincoln (37 miles, approximately 40 minutes)

Ruidoso (50 miles, approximately 1 hour)

White Sands National Park (65 miles, approximately 1 hour 15 minutes).

Weather at Valley Of Fires Recreation Area

Current alerts(12)

Changing from a reserved campsite is not allowed. Other campsites may already be reserved. Please stay in the campsite you have selected.
Dump Station: The on-site dump station charge is included in camping fees * or can be utilized by non-campers for a $30 fee. Dump Station open from 7 AM to 7PM. To dump at other times please make arrangements with Camp Host. * One dump allowed per visit.
Fireworks are prohibited at all times.
For more information on Pecos District BLM-Roswell Field Office, click here

Best Time to Camp at Valley Of Fires Recreation Area

Best season: fall. Fall offers the most comfortable weather for exploring the black Malpais lava and surrounding Chihuahuan Desert — daytime highs are usually in the 60s–80s°F (15–27°C) with cool nights dropping into the 30s–50s°F (0–10°C). Hiking the interpretive trail, photographing the contrast between dark lava and golden desert grasses, and wildlife viewing are all at their best without the summer heat or monsoon storms; clear nights also make for exceptional stargazing. Crowd levels are generally low tomoder Peak months: October, November, September, April Avoid: July, August

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Fall called best: daytime 60s–80s, comfortable hiking, great sunsets and views.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: January 01 to December 31. Book 2-3 months ahead.

About Valley Of Fires Recreation Area

Valley of Fires Recreation Area sits on the edge of a 5,000-year-old Malpais lava flow in the Chihuahuan Desert near Carrizozo. Managed by the Bureau of Land Management, this mid-elevation campground offers tent and RV sites with electric and water hookups, showers, and an interpretive trail through the black basalt landscape. Visitors hike the lava field, watch for desert wildlife, and photograph the stark contrast between dark rock and golden grasses.

Valley of Fires Recreation Area accommodates a wide range of camping preferences, including RV camping with hookups, tent sites, and group camping.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: fall. Fall offers the most comfortable weather for exploring the black Malpais lava and surrounding Chihuahuan Desert — daytime highs are usually in the 60s–80s°F (15–27°C) with cool nights dropping into the 30s–50s°F (0–10°C). Hiking the interpretive trail, photographing the contrast between dark lava and golden desert grasses, and wildlife viewing are all at their best without the summer heat or monsoon storms; clear nights also make for exceptional stargazing. Crowd levels are generally low tomoder Peak months: October, November, September, April Avoid: July, August

Elevation5000 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe Malpais Lava Flow spreads out in jagged black waves, a frozen record of the area's last volcanic eruption. Desert plants have colonized the porous rock: prickly pear, juniper, and desert grasses grow from cracks in the basalt. The contrast between dark lava and golden grassland is especially striking in morning and evening light. Mule deer cross the flow at dawn. Roadrunners and golden eagles are common. Great horned owls hunt after dark. The campground sits at 5,000 feet in the Chihuahuan Desert, where the lava's dark surface creates microclimates that support more life than the barren appearance suggests. Views extend across the flow to distant mountains.

Lodging & AccommodationsThe campground does not provide hotel-style lodging, only campsites for RVs, tents, and group camping.

Programs & ActivitiesInterpretive signs and educational materials are available along trails and at the visitor center. The bookstore offers additional resources about the area's geology and wildlife.

Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Reservations are limited to a stay of up to 14 days.

Groups

Two group shelters are available for rental, each equipped with picnic tables and shelters. The capacity or specific guidelines were not detailed.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777. Some sites also utilize the Scan and Pay system, which requires the Recreation.gov mobile app for payment on-site.

AccessibilityThe campground is highly accessible, featuring paved pathways, accessible campsites, showers, vault toilets, and group shelters. The 3/4 mile Malpais Nature Trail is also accessible.

Site SizeCampsites vary in size, accommodating both small and large RVs. Tent camping sites are also available with designated tent pads.

PrivacyThe level of privacy varies by site. Many RV sites are described as open, while tent sites are more secluded and nestled within trees.

Total Campsites20 campsites

Recommended SitesSome sites require significant leveling, especially for RVs. Tent sites are more protected from wind. Users recommend booking in advance during peak seasons.

Best CampsitesSites 15, 19, 3, and 7 get mentioned in reviews for better views and spacing. Tent sites are more sheltered and tucked among trees. RV sites tend to be open with less privacy.

Need help booking Valley Of Fires Recreation Area?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

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Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

Valley of Fires Recreation Area is well-equipped with amenities aimed to provide a comfortable camping experience for both RV and tent campers. The campground features picnic shelters, tables, and trash containers at all campsites. Tent pads, pedestal grills, and campfire rings are available at most sites. There is a shower house with flush toilets centrally located, accessible vault toilets, and water spigots scattered throughout the area. Other amenities include a dump station and a gift shop/bookstore. The campground also has two group shelters that are accessible and rentable.

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Water hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Valley of Fires offers a variety of recreational activities. The highlight is the Malpais Nature Trail, a paved, accessible trail that provides stunning views of the lava flow. Other activities include wildlife viewing, hiking on unmarked trails, and photography. The campground's remote location also makes it an excellent spot for stargazing.

Hiking

Wildlife viewing

Cultural and Educational Programs

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Fire PolicyTo check campsite availability or for Valley of Fires specific information please call Valley of Fires Visitor Center 575-648-2241 or the camp host 575-973-3094 . BLM staff CANNOT make or change Reservations. This must be done through Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777 .

Trash & RecyclingTrash cans are provided at all campsites. Recycling facilities were not explicitly mentioned in the available information.

Cell CoverageCell phone reception is generally good, as noted in several user reviews. However, weather and location within the campground may cause variability in signal strength.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.6

488 reviews

Top-Rated

Valley Of Fires Recreation Area is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

The campground is overwhelmingly praised for its cleanliness, stunning views, and well-maintained facilities. However, some reviewers noted issues with gnats, uneven campsite surfaces, and occasional confusion with reservations.

Review Summaries

Based on 488 reviews

What Campers Love

Clean and spacious restrooms and showers, breathtaking views of the lava field, well-maintained trails, and a peaceful atmosphere are frequently mentioned. The helpfulness of camp hosts Daniel and Ed...

Based on 488 reviews

Common Concerns

Frequent wind and gnats are mentioned as challenges. Some RV sites are uneven, making leveling difficult. Users also expressed dissatisfaction with the reservation system and off-season closures of...

Based on 488 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

- Site 6: Popular but uneven; amazing views. - Site 15: Challenging to level but offers incredible vistas. - Site 22: Private and well-equipped for tent camping.

Based on 488 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring leveling equipment if you're in an RV. Visit during windy conditions to avoid gnats, and plan for early mornings or evenings for hiking due to the lack of shade on trails. Carry your own...

Based on 488 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Winter months are colder with fewer gnats, making it a popular season. Spring and early summer see more visitors but also higher winds. Late summer and fall reviews highlight the beauty of sunsets...

Based on 488 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'You could eat lunch in there it's so clean.' 2. 'The lava field is a fascinating place to explore.' 3. 'Hosts Daniel and Ed were cordial and helpful.' 4. 'The night sky was so brilliant. We saw...

Based on 488 reviews

Accessibility Features

Many reviewers praised the accessible restrooms, showers, and the paved Malpais Nature Trail. One noted, 'The trail and facilities made it easy for my elderly parent to enjoy.'

Based on 488 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

The campground is pet-friendly, but pets must be leashed. Some users complained about off-leash dogs ruining their experience. 'Saw many bats emerging at dusk,' one reviewer stated while walking dogs.

Based on 488 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

You want to explore a dramatic lava field with the convenience of hookups and clean facilities in a quiet desert setting.

Skip if

You need level sites without extensive leveling or want to avoid high desert winds and seasonal gnats.

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Campgrounds

Valley of Fires

Valley Of Fires Recreation Area

About Valley of Fires

Context for the broader area surrounding Valley Of Fires Recreation Area, sourced from the federal Recreation.gov rec-area record.

<p>Valley of Fires recreation area is located immediately adjacent to the Malpais Lava Flow. Approximately 5,000 years ago, Little Black Peak erupted and flowed 44 miles into the Tularosa Basin, filling the basin with molten rock. The resulting lava flow is four to six miles wide, 160 feet thick and covers 125 square miles. The lava flow is considered to be one of the youngest lava flows in the continental United States. </p> <p>From a distance, Valley of Fires appears as barren rock but when you walk through the nature trail there are many varieties of flowers, cactus, trees and bushes typical of the Chihuahuan desert. Animals include bats, roadrunners, quail, cottontails, mule deer, barberry sheep, and lizards. It's also a virtual birdwatcher's paradise with great horned owls, burrowing owls, turkey vultures, hawks, gnat catchers, cactus wrens, sparrows and golden eagles.</p>

Directions

Four miles west of the Town of Carrizozo on US 380.