Mountain Camping in New Mexico
Discover the best mountain camping across New Mexico. Rise above it all in mountain campgrounds. Crisp air, towering peaks, and endless alpine adventure.
Featured Campgrounds
Handpicked destinations that define the region
Rio De Las Vacas Campground
Dramatic Jemez Mountain peaks tower above this creek-side sanctuary, where ponderosa pines frame sweeping alpine vistas and wildflower meadows stretch toward rugged wilderness horizons.
Clear Creek Campground (Nm)
Towering ponderosa pines frame sweeping forest vistas in the Jemez Mountains, where elevation brings cool mountain air and cathedral-like canopies that transform this canyon into a verdant sanctuary.
Juniper Campground (Nm)
Perched on the Pajarito Plateau at 7,000 feet, this campground delivers sweeping views of the Jemez Mountains while juniper-scented trails wind through dramatic canyons carved into volcanic rock.
About Mountain Camping in New Mexico
Mountain camping in New Mexico offers an extraordinary high-elevation escape across some of the Southwest's most diverse and dramatic alpine landscapes. From the volcanic peaks of the Jemez Mountains to the towering Sacramento Range, New Mexico's mountain campgrounds provide access to pristine wilderness, cool summer temperatures, and breathtaking vistas that stretch across desert basins to distant horizons.
Best Time
Late May through September offers the prime window for mountain camping in New Mexico, with peak season running from mid-June through August when all high-elevation campgrounds are accessible and temperatures are most comfortable. Summer brings daytime highs in the 70s and 80s at elevation, with cool nights dipping into the 40s and 50s—perfect for campfire weather.
Scenery Highlights
- Stunning mountain panoramas
- Cool alpine temperatures
- Alpine lakes and meadows
- World-class hiking trails
Explore Mountain Camping in New Mexico
Browse 20 campgrounds on our interactive map. Filter by amenities, price, ratings, and more.
Plan Your Trip
Popular Activities
Tips & Recommendations
- 1Reserve popular mountain campgrounds like Clear Creek and Echo Campground well in advance through Recreation.gov, especially for summer weekends and holiday periods, as these premier sites fill quickly.
- 2Bring layers and cold-weather sleeping gear regardless of season—mountain temperatures can drop 30-40 degrees from day to night, and afternoon thunderstorms arrive suddenly during monsoon season with dramatic temperature drops.
- 3A high-quality rain fly and waterproof gear are essential from July through September.
- 4Pack extra water or bring filtration systems, as not all mountain campgrounds provide potable water, and treat all natural sources before drinking.
Mountain Camping in New Mexico FAQ
We've ranked 20+ mountain campgrounds in New Mexico based on elevation, scenery, and access to trails. Top options offer stunning alpine views and cool summer temperatures.
Mountain camping in New Mexico requires preparation for cooler temperatures and changing weather. Bring layers, be prepared for afternoon storms, and allow time for altitude acclimation at higher elevations.
Mountain camping season in New Mexico typically runs June through September, though lower elevations may be accessible earlier. Snow can linger at higher elevations into July.
Popular New Mexico Campgrounds Book Fast
The best mountain camping in New Mexico book up quickly. Set up free alerts to catch cancellations.
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Rio De Las Vacas Campground
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