Desert camping in New Mexico with a private bathroom
Explore ancient pueblos, soak in restorative springs, and see Mission-style architecture in this southwestern state.
96% (3610 reviews)
- New Mexico
96% (3610 reviews)
Popular camping styles for New Mexico
Under $50
Star Hosts in New Mexico
12 top desert campgrounds in New Mexico with a private bathroom
98%
(1387)
Santa Fe Treehouse Camp
61 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents156 acres · Santa Fe, NM
This is a non-smoking, no candle facility.
The camp was founded 40 years ago as a summer camp for kids. Now we welcome adults, and other groups to enjoy the vast and wild high desert nature up on this ridge.
There are beautiful views and access to Shaggy Peak, the southernmost tip of the Rocky Mountains and the Sangre de Cristo Mountain Range. Wander our land to enjoy various level hiking trails including a 20 minute hike to a creek and waterfall in the forest (some steep spots and creek is intermittent) or climb up Shaggy Peak (seasoned hikers only please).
NOTE: We are up 1.3 miles of dirt road (with 5-7+% grade in a few short stretches) and are not near public transportation so you will need your own vehicle! Be aware that the roads can be snowy, icy or muddy and rutted ( 4-wheel or All-trak recommended in certain times of year). We don’t guarantee the road will be plowed.
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$25
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99%
(69)
Art City Tucumcari
50 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Tucumcari, NM
Nestled along the historic Route 66 in Tucumcari, NM, our unique Big Art sculpture park and glamping destination offers an immersive art experience in the heart of nature. Our site features twelve large-scale sculptures crafted by internationally renowned artists, making it an ideal backdrop for photography and a source of creative inspiration.
Guests can indulge in luxury with our on-site amenities including outdoor showers, flush toilets, and hammocks perfect for relaxation after a day of exploration. Our outdoor kitchen is fully equipped for your culinary adventures, allowing you to dine al fresco surrounded by breathtaking art installations when available.
For convenience and comfort, the site includes bathrooms complete with sinks, all seamlessly integrated with a modern septic system to ensure environmental sustainability.
Experience the perfect blend of art, nature, and comfort at our exclusive glamping getaway.
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$33
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100%
(24)
Camp Darkmoon
3 sites · Lodging, Tents2 acres · Madrone, NM
Two acres of sage flatlands. Close to town but even closer to the mountains. Monte Largo Cañon is a short rocky drive away. Perfectly clean air, peaceful atmosphere, and flawless stars at night.
Camp Darkmoon is a school of alternative architecture. On site are a handful of earthen structures. Lodging and tent site are available to book.
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$15
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94%
(24)
Mars Research Base (MRB)
8 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Boles Acres, NM
Nestled amid the breathtaking mountains near Alamogordo, New Mexico, our off-grid camping haven is a gateway to the untamed beauty of the desert. Campers can enjoy the serenity of nature while being just a stone's throw away from the Oliver Lee Memorial State Park, offering fantastic hiking opportunities. Whether you choose to pitch a tent or park your RV, our property is the perfect base for outdoor adventures, complemented by wildlife, mesmerizing sunsets, and the warmth of a campfire shared with friends.
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$22.50
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99%
(793)
Star Dance High Desert Retreat
9 sites · Tents50 acres · Youngsville, NM
Visit the startling beauty of the plateaus above Lake Abiquiu in northern New Mexico.
Star Dance provides a secluded experience for travelers, artists, fishermen, birdwatchers, stargazers, and more.
Star Dance sits above the upper Rio Chama canyons on 30 acres of trails and undisturbed natural terrain.
**ATTENTION POTENTIAL GUESTS**
Recently we've had a rash of guests who, either through the difficulties with using the mobile app or just not reading our provided information, have been arriving passed our check in time. We require guests to arrive no later than an hour before sundown (summer 7:30pm - winter 5:00pm) We require this because we are very rural and our sites are not lit to keep our property natural and prevent light pollution for ourselves and our neighbors. In the past we've issued refunds for people who have neglected this rule. We will no longer be doing so in the future.
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$30
/ night
96%
(186)
River Sanctuary by Ojo Hot Springs
4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents3 acres · La Madera, NM
Learn more about this land:
Lush high desert river oasis nestled in a fertile valley in the Carson National Forest right between the fiery expanse of Taos and the rolling colorful formations of Abiquiu. Peaceful and private 3 acres right by the river at the edge of a little quaint town called La Madera (145 people, no shops)- just 6 miles to the healing mineral Hot Springs of Ojo Caliente, a place of emergence or rebirth as known to the local Natives.
Right by the river, held by a ridge (that makes for amazing sunset hikes), I have a 16ft Yurt Canvas set up with furnishings (desk, couch, wash stand) and a wooden Queen Bed with down bedding. This site can only be reached by foot across the river via stumps- a car can be parked near by.. approx. 50ft.
I also have a Vintage Camper that can be heated, has a kitchen, electricity and plenty of outdoor furniture with a fire pit and serene mountain views. As well as a monastic and very grounding Ensuite Bedroom, or a simple campsite if you want to bring your own camper or tent. All facilities have access to a guest bathroom inside the main house.
I offer dog sitting while you soak at Ojo, healing modalities that you'll find in the Extras section, and my dear neighbor Jackie takes appointments for massages with homemade essential oils.
+++ 6 miles to Ojo Caliente Hot Springs. There you will find the best restaurant in the area, with locally/organically farmed produce.
The land is naturally and beautifully wild- it is not a manicured campsite. The dirt rd down to the property is best suited for higher clearance vehicles, but is manageable for city cars.
With land by the river comes the mosquitos- June to August only. They are predominantly active during sunrise and sunset; long loose fitting clothes and a repellent work great.
Waterhole, Waterfall and climbing sites near by, as well as Plaza Blanca, Abiquiu, Ghost Ranch and the Taos Gorge are 30 mins drive away.
*No cell service in the greater area. WiFi reaches around the house/deck and allows for WiFi Calling: that’s a setting in your phone that enables phone calls & texts beside usual internet access.
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$60
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99%
(138)
HarmonyTaos Regenerative Farm
5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents4 acres · Taos, NM
This fall we still have plums, apples and a few peaches. Just stroll around and help yourself.
The glamping site is open til October 31. (Then back open again April 1.) Come stay in the bell tent with or without linens. (extra fee for linens).
Harmony Taos is a regenerative farm located on approximately 4 acres, just minutes from the town of Taos. We specialize in Permaculture and teaching. Come enjoy the butterflies, raptors, magpies and hummingbirds fluttering throughout the orchards, ponderosas, vegetable gardens, and flowers on our organic community farm. Join us for camping, weekly yoga classes, monthly soup nights, ceremonies, and cultural events throughout the warmer months.
Latest Offerings: I hav decided to open up my intuitive practice to visitors. DM Anastasia if you would like an intuitive reading and clearing. 90 minutes long. We will focus on getting to the underlying beliefs that are holding you back, then clearing them together.
RENT THE ENTIRE PROPERTY: DM the host for availability and rates.
Pitch your tent at one of our 2 drive-in mountain view campsites, located on the lush grounds of our regenerative agriculture farm and gardens. Or book the overflow site for larger vehicles and or large parties. Rest and rejuvenate in this quiet haven, nestled below the canyon yet just minutes from town. Sites Uno and Dos has access to a beautifully equipped bathhouse, picnic tables, chairs and an outdoor cold water washing area . Overflow Tres has access to the stunning bathhouse as well. Overflow Tres is more primitive with a dirt base and can accommodate larger vehicles.
Campsite UNO: Uno fits a small trailer and/ or a RV. If you are pulling 20 plus feet or a large RV, book the overflow site Tres to be safe.. You will need to be proficient at backing it into Campsite Uno. This site can accommodate two vehicles.
Campsite DOS: It is large enough for a sprinter or smaller camper van. You can pull right in. You will need to back out to depart.
Overflow TRES: can accommodate almost any fifth wheel and you can turn around. It is a dirt area and primitive. The walk to the bathhouse is about 200 feet.. If you are traveling with another RV or trailer, you can both fit in. FYI: last .25 mi is level but potholed dirt road.
Glampiing Site : Deluxe bamboo encased memory foam king bed (breaks down to two twin beds). Stellar views of the mountains . BYO bedding or DM host for full sheets and towels set up.
There is power in the bathhouse for charging phones. but there are no dedicated electrical hook ups for RVs. However, you can text the owner if you want to use a converter and access a nearby ( For Sites Uno and Dos) outlet with your extension cord for additional fee of $20.00 per day.
IF you have more than a small sack of garbage, TAKE IT WITH YOU. We are a small farm and cannot accommodate everyones accumulated garbage from their travels.
EVENTS: Harmony Taos Farm is open in 2024 for day long or weekend events. Weddings, family gatherings, teachers. Yoga. There are a number of options including large 12 person tent with heater. The indoor Living room of the main building holds 25-30 for gatherings. There are numerous areas around the farm that lend themselves to ceremony, gathering, etc. Harmony Farm is an excellent wedding venue. There are 4 types of accommodations (hotels, lodges, Inns, rental homes) within 1 mile of the property should you wish to use the site for your wedding and invite guests who require a hotel etc. And of course there are plenty of tent sites available at Harmony. If you rent the entire property, more tent sites can be accommodated than listed here. Harmony host Anastasia can also arrange for catering, flowers, music, party rentals, etc. DM the host with any requests and day use rates.
Things to know: This is the hosts homesite and farm. You will be camping near the host's actual home.
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$48
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96%
(24)
Heaven or Taos 🪐
7 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · San Cristobal, NM
***military, local, and teacher/educator discounts***
It is an incredible little gem right off the highway in San Cristobal, 8 miles north of Taos. It is right next to the national forest and endless trails to explore, steps. NOW WITH RESTROOMS. RV/tent spots have running water and electricity/hook-ups. We do not allow the dumping of sewage tanks due to New Mexico's regulations on septics and private land. Vast, breathtaking views of the Sangre de Cristos mountains and Taos Mountain are right to the south. Easy access to the midtown market, where you can pick up breakfast burritos, beer, drinks, and limited supplies for camping. Wake up to mountains, hiking, and breakfast burritos that will make you ask yourself, “Is this heaven or Taos?”
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$18
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(40)
NO. 10 RANCH
5 sites · Lodging40 acres · Estancia, NM
This cabin sits on a ranch that's been in this breathtaking valley for generations.
There are six other amazing cabins spread throughout the 40 acres.
We are only 14 miles from Manzano Mountains and about 31 miles from Salinas Pueblo Missions National Park.
This particular cabin was once a pig barn and this ranch was once a fully operational ranch that served its owners and community so well.
Wide open fields with grass that sways in the gentle breeze, pinon a cedar trees that provide cover to the deer that graze and bed down across the property and some of the most stunning views come together to create an experience that will stick with you an entire lifetime.
4WD is recommended to reach the cabin safely.
We purchased this ranch in the winter of 2021 and are just so grateful for the chance to love and care for it...and share it with YOU!
Provided there are not fire bans, enjoy snugging up to a warm campfire.
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$37
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91%
(69)
Horse-Thief Campground
12 sites · RVs, Tents15 acres · NM
From U.S. Highway 550 (north of Nageezi), follow the signs that say Chaco Canyon National Monument Park (County Road 7900). From County Road 7900 and County Road 7950 (turn right on 7950). After 3 miles, at the end of pavement, you will see a sign that says "Dry Camp", with a long dirt driveway. Our campground is 13 miles before the hazardous road to Chaco Canyon. We like to say the we are "The Gateway to Chaco Canyon". Save the wear and tear on your trailers, camp with us! Horse-Thief Campground is an upcoming camp; located on 5 acres of land and more, for campers to enjoy. In a quiet; serene, beautiful landscape area of the Dine Nation. With beautiful sunrise; sunsets and night sky is out of this world. There are trails in which visitors may walk or bike, as well as a Look Out Point. Horse-Thief is currently a Dry Camp with no Electricity or running water however generators are welcome. There is one portable restroom. We look forward to Meeting and Greeting you! We think you will enjoy your stay with us, and hope you give us a great review!
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$35
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95%
(236)
Healing on the Rio Grande !
19 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents1 acre · Albuquerque, NM
Come to New Mexico ! The Land of Enchantment.
Sing Chants to the Moon, The Sun, The Rain, The Stars ,
The Beautiful Land and the Ancestors !
HAPPY 2024, The Year of the Dragon.
We won , an award with Hipcamp, Best of 2023 !!!!
- out of a list of many great places in NM .
2024 will be yet another great year ! We love hosting, this will be out 7th year .
We are so happy to Host . Come enjoy organic . Urban Permaculture .
Awesome, thanks for loving on our peaceful garden.
It is an honor to serve the traveler, the camper, sweet tourist , wild vacationer , folks visiting friends and family , the many folks who explore and folks on grand adventures.
We love to camp as well. BE OUTSIDE ! Heal from Nature .
We have a lot to offer. Our place is good for folks who work on the road,
Great WIFI ! Easy to manage a job while on the road .
Eat flowers and herbs. There is a great herb store , herbal clinic and more .
Just down the road, called, RED ROOT , next to the Food Co-op on Rio Grande Blvd.
Our Space is in the heart of the Griegos Neighborhood ,
A very old style , old world area. Safe area.
Same Hispanic families have lived here since 1712, no joke, that is real.
Rural feel for an urban / suburban setting , space space, off street parking.
We are NOT an RV park nor are we a " camp ground " .
We Are an Organic Garden ( Urban Permaculture ) that you can stay inside a magical, growing goodness space .
This place is very, very private .
The parking area is not private . Our road is dead end , very low traffic .
The garden wall around the whole tent area has a 6 foot tall , very thick wall , and trees , surrounding every thing.
There is a forest and pond for ducks behind the garden .
Our place is for Wildlife, to be fed, and given water and safe space to raise young. We are located in an area where the birds of the world fly from the north to the south and then change direction each season. Many lizards . Many wild mammals . There are many farms in the area. With Horses , goats , chickens , ducks , mules, donkeys , other livestock .
We have no pets and no livestock.
At night this is dark ( we do have solar lights on walk ways ) and it is peaceful. A safe zone for travelers . Serene , gentle and lovely . You get your privacy .
New Mexico is so amazing, all year . We have inside space in Fall / Winter .
Welcome to Mother Bosque Garden . Started in Corrales NM in 2010 .
We are in the North valley of Albuquerque New Mexico 87107.
The same families have lived here for 100, 200, 300 plus years . 1000s of years .
Native people have lived in this valley for close to 20,000 years more .
The Rio Grande is very close by ( 2 miles west of us ) bike or by car .
We are close to route 40 and route 25, just 7 mins. away .
There is a Food Co-op with in a 5 mins. drive . And a regular store and gas within one mile of our place.
Come eat Traditional New Mexican Foods and Heal with Very Living Traditional New Mexican Herbal Medicines .
Relax, rest, find repose. Happy travels, happy hiking, happy sleeping under the stars, happy home made food, happy resting.
Old Town is close by, so is the Rio Grande River and Nature Center
( 2 miles up the street ) .
So many things in our area to see, to do, learn history .
Awesome food, music and arts/ crafts, everywhere. So much activity all over.
SO MANY CULTURES and Languages , so much diversity !
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$45
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97%
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Mesa top camping
1 site · RV, Tent20 acres · Madrid, NM
Set above the historic town of Madrid N.M. is Waldo Mesa. The location of past mining operations and stunning Vista's.
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$35
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Available this weekend
Dog-friendly getaways
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Explore the area’s public lands.
Desert camping in New Mexico with a private bathroom guide
Overview
In the southwestern US, New Mexico offers a distinct vibe not found elsewhere in the country, or even in the region. Here you’ll find Old West mining towns, restorative hot springs, and all sorts of historic sites, including ancient pueblos and protected national monuments, not to mention a distinct cuisine that borrows elements from Tex-Mex and Indigenous culinary traditions. You won’t be disappointed with the camping—the state offers a variety of terrains, from quiet forests to vast expanses of desert, and with five national forests, 30 state parks, and lots of untouched private land, there's no shortage of spots to set up a tent.
Where to go
Central and North Central New Mexico
New Mexico's Central and North-Central regions are home to many of the state's most popular cultural attractions, and both Albuquerque and Santa Fe are here. Area highlights include Bandelier National Monument and Petroglyph National Monument, as well as numerous pueblos. The most famous of these—the Taos Pueblo—is a UNESCO World Heritage site that has been continuously inhabited for over 1,000 years.
Northwest New Mexico
Cultural attractions abound in Northwestern New Mexico. Highlights include the Zuni Pueblo and the Acoma Pueblo—both the Jicarilla Apache Nation and the Navajo Nation call this region home. Other points of interest include the Chaco Culture National Historical Park, Aztec Ruins National Monument, and El Mapais National Monument.
Northeast New Mexico
Situated where the Rocky Mountains give way to the Southwestern plains, this area is characterized by prairies, ranches, and Western charm. Popular historic and natural attractions include the Fort Union National Monument and the Capulin Volcano National Monument. Conchas Lake State Park and Ute Lake State Park offer ample opportunities for fishing, boating, and lakeside camping.
Southwest New Mexico
For a Wild West experience, head to the southwestern corner of the state. Here you'll find plenty of old ghost towns, historic mission communities, and pristine natural areas. The area is also rich with hot springs, particularly in the low-key spa town of Truth or Consequences.
Southeast New Mexico
Culture, history, and the great outdoors converge in southeastern New Mexico, home to both of the state's national parks (White Sands and Carlsbad Caverns) as well as a host of museums, from the New Mexico Museum of Space History to the Billy the Kid Museum in Fort Sumner. Fans of the paranormal won't want to miss Roswell, the site of the famous Area 51 UFO sightings and a de facto pilgrimage site for all things alien.
Popular New Mexico trips
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