Winter Camping in New Mexico
Discover the best winter camping across New Mexico. Experience the serene beauty of winter camping. From snow-covered forests to mild desert escapes.
Featured Campgrounds
Handpicked destinations that define the region
Juniper Campground (Nm)
Snow-dusted ancient pueblo ruins and canyon trails await just steps from your campsite, while heated bathrooms provide warmth between winter explorations of Bandelier's archaeological wonders.
Rio De Las Vacas Campground
Snow blankets the towering ponderosa pines while the frozen Rio de las Vacas creek creates a stunning winter backdrop just steps from your heated RV. Paved sites stay accessible even after heavy snowfall, and the vault toilets remain functional through frigid temperatures when many...
Clear Creek Campground (Nm)
Ponderosa pines dusted with snow frame this high-elevation Jemez Mountains retreat, where paved RV pads remain accessible through winter months and vault toilets stay functional in freezing temperatures.
About Winter Camping in New Mexico
Winter camping New Mexico offers an extraordinary high-desert experience where snow-dusted mesas meet crystalline skies and temperatures remain surprisingly mild compared to northern states. The Land of Enchantment transforms into a winter wonderland with unique advantages: sunny days often reaching the 40s and 50s, minimal crowds at premier campgrounds, and exceptional stargazing through crisp, dry air.
Best Time
December through February offers the quintessential New Mexico winter camping experience, with January providing the most reliable snow conditions at higher elevations while maintaining comfortable daytime temperatures at lower sites. Mid-December through early January sees minimal visitation as most campers stay home for holidays, creating exceptional solitude at normally popular campgrounds.
Season Highlights
- Year-round open campgrounds
- Snow and winter activities
- Mild climate destinations
- Ultimate solitude and peace
Explore Winter 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
- 1Winter camping in New Mexico requires specific preparation despite the state's reputation for mild conditions.
- 2Bring a four-season tent rated to at least 0°F for mountain campgrounds, as overnight temperatures regularly drop into the teens and single digits at higher elevations, though lower sites like Datil Well rarely see temperatures below 20°F.
- 3Pack 20-30 gallons of water per group as spigots are winterized—the dry climate means you'll consume more than expected.
- 4Invest in a quality sleeping pad with R-value above 5, as cold radiates up from frozen ground more than air temperature suggests.
Winter Camping in New Mexico FAQ
We've ranked 20+ winter campgrounds in New Mexico based on year-round accessibility, winter activities, and weather conditions. Options range from snowy retreats to mild-weather escapes.
Winter camping in New Mexico can be safe with proper preparation. Check campground winter hours, bring appropriate cold-weather gear, and monitor weather forecasts closely.
For winter camping in New Mexico, bring a cold-rated sleeping bag, insulated pad, layered clothing, emergency supplies, and extra food and water. Four-season tents are recommended for cold conditions.
Popular New Mexico Campgrounds Book Fast
The best winter camping in New Mexico book up quickly. Set up free alerts to catch cancellations.
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Juniper Campground (Nm)
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