Mills Canyon Rim Campground

4.15

48 reviews

Scenic ViewsStargazing

Quick Facts

5,760 ft

Price

$10/night

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

6 campsites

Season

Open season starts o...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Opens booking site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

February 2026

Quick Facts

5,760 ft

Price

$10/night

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

6 campsites

Season

Open season starts o...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Opens booking site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

February 2026

Mills Canyon Rim Campground

$10.00 - $10.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Campground is first-come-first-serve and costs $10 nightly for RVs without electricity.

Standard Site Fee$10.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

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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What Campers Say

4.15

Satisfactory

Based on 48 reviews

48 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewscleansites

Some mention

noise

"Overall, user reviews for Mills Canyon Rim Campground reflect a mix of positive experiences and some concerns about noise, seasonal camping trends, and wildlife considerations. The average sentiment rating for the campground-specific experience is 4.083, suggesting general satisfaction."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Mills Canyon Rim Campground

36.0718, -104.3494

Best Time to Camp at Mills Canyon Rim Campground

Mills Canyon Rim rewards visitors with some of New Mexico's most pleasant camping weather year-round. Winter brings surprisingly mild days, with temperatures often reaching a comfortable 65°F even in December—perfect for those seeking to escape harsh winter conditions elsewhere. Summer transforms the campground into a high-altitude haven, where consistently dry conditions and crystal-clear skies create ideal camping conditions. Low precipitation throughout the warm months means you can count on starlit nights and sun-drenched days, making this an excellent choice for fair-weather adventurers and astronomy enthusiasts alike.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

3.5 / 5

Pleasant weather but higher visitor numbers bring noise, partying and generator complaints.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Open through Oct 14; likely quieter with pleasant weather and continued scenic appeal.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.5 / 5

Late spring (after May 15) offers pleasant conditions; early spring is outside the open season.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Campground closed outside season (open May 15–Oct 14); winter camping not generally available.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 15, 2025 - October 14, 2025.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open season starts on May 15, 2025, and closes on October 14, 2025.

About Mills Canyon Rim Campground

Perched high above the dramatic Mills Canyon at 5,760 feet, this intimate rim-top campground in the Cibola National Forest and Grasslands offers a true escape into nature's solitude. With just six thoughtfully spaced camping units, Mills Canyon Rim provides an authentic wilderness experience where the modern world fades away. Here, rustic charm meets breathtaking canyon views, drawing adventurers who seek the raw beauty of New Mexico's high country and the thrill of camping on the edge of a geological wonder.

Mills Canyon Rim Campground caters to tent and RV camping, with six individual camping units available.

Historical SignificanceWhile the specific human history of this campground remains untold, the surrounding landscape whispers ancient stories waiting to be discovered by curious visitors.

Weather and SeasonsMills Canyon Rim rewards visitors with some of New Mexico's most pleasant camping weather year-round. Winter brings surprisingly mild days, with temperatures often reaching a comfortable 65°F even in December—perfect for those seeking to escape harsh winter conditions elsewhere. Summer transforms the campground into a high-altitude haven, where consistently dry conditions and crystal-clear skies create ideal camping conditions. Low precipitation throughout the warm months means you can count on starlit nights and sun-drenched days, making this an excellent choice for fair-weather adventurers and astronomy enthusiasts alike.

ElevationAt 5,760 feet above sea level, Mills Canyon Rim Campground offers a refreshing mountain climate that provides natural air conditioning during summer months and surprisingly mild conditions in winter. This elevation places you in the sweet spot—high enough to escape the desert heat, yet low enough to avoid the harsh conditions of alpine environments. The thin, crisp air at this altitude enhances visibility, making distant vistas appear closer and stars shine brighter in the night sky.

Natural Features and SceneryTowering ponderosa pines and sturdy oak trees create a natural cathedral around each campsite, their branches filtering sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. The campground's gentle slopes make for easy walking while still providing varied perspectives of the surrounding wilderness. But the true star is the canyon rim itself—just steps from your tent, the earth dramatically falls away, revealing the sculptured depths of Mills Canyon below. This perfect blend of forest shelter and edge-of-the-world views creates an unforgettable backdrop for your outdoor adventure.

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Stay Limit

Stay limit is a maximum of 14 consecutive nights

Groups

No group camping site details are provided for this campground.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutThe campground consists of six distinct sites, spaced widely apart for privacy. Parking spurs accommodate RVs and campers.

Walk-in AvailabilityCampground does not take reservations; sites are only available on a walk-up basis.

Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee, additional fees apply for late cancellations (e.g., forfeiture of first night's fee). Changes also incur a $10 fee.

AccessibilityVault toilets are accessible, and horse corrals are available in good condition.

Site SizeParking spots are described as mostly large and/or long, potentially accommodating RVs or campers well.

PrivacySome reviews highlight that campsites are far apart, providing a sense of seclusion.

Total Campsites6 campsites

Recommended SitesIf tent camping, avoid sites with visible red ant nests. Those with 4WD vehicles can explore canyon camping options.

Amenities available

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

The campground offers opportunities for hiking and camping in a scenic canyon rim setting surrounded by stunning natural landscapes. Activities like wildlife viewing and scenic drives can also be enjoyed nearby.

HikingHiking opportunities are mentioned, including trails extending from the rim to the canyon, estimated to be around 7 miles roundtrip. The area provides breathtaking views, as highlighted by user reviews.

ClimbingClimbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.

Wildlife viewingVisitors mention enjoying wildlife viewing as part of their camping experience, though specific species are not detailed.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPresence of red ants mentioned in user reviews, posing a concern for tent campers. Bring own water as none is available on-site.

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Fire PolicyCampfires are permitted; fire rings are available at each site.

Trash & RecyclingNo specific mention of trash or recycling facilities, except user instructions advising campers to bring their own drinking water and be cautious of red ants near campsites.

Water FeaturesCampground provides access to Mills Canyon below, popular for hiking and exploration.

Camp HostHost information unavailable.

Weather at Mills Canyon Rim Campground

Reviews

4.2

48 reviews

Satisfactory

Mills Canyon Rim Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

Overall, user reviews for Mills Canyon Rim Campground reflect a mix of positive experiences and some concerns about noise, seasonal camping trends, and wildlife considerations. The average sentiment rating for the campground-specific experience is 4.083, suggesting general satisfaction.

Review Summaries

Based on 48 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive aspects include clean vault toilets, large and secluded campsites, breathtaking views, and proximity to Mills Canyon. Clean horse corrals and serviced bathrooms during the off-season are...

Based on 48 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints include loud partying and music during peak seasons, RV generators running at night, and red ant nests near campsites. Some users also note the site's need for maintenance and reduction of...

Based on 48 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Tips include bringing your own water, avoiding tent placement near red ant nests, and ensuring vehicles are lifted or have 4-wheel drive for better access. During rainy weather, consider staying at...

Based on 48 reviews

Seasonal Insights

During the off-season, camping is free, and bathrooms are still serviced. Summer months tend to have more visitors and noise complaints due to partying and RV generator use. Winter temperatures are...

Based on 48 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Wonderful spot to call home while visiting Mills Canyon & Roy, NM.' - Meredith Bury 2. 'Clean vault toilets and large campsites.' - Brandi Oldaker 3. 'Lovely campground in an absolutely stunning...

Based on 48 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Specific site reviews highlight the top rim as the preferable camping area during rainy conditions. Horse corrals are also noted as being in great shape, making these areas suitable for equestrian...

Based on 48 reviews

Accessibility Features

Vault toilets are accessible, and parking spots are described as large enough to accommodate campers and RVs. No additional details on accessibility for disabled visitors are provided.

Based on 48 reviews

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