The best camping near Bandelier National Monument

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Bandelier National Monument adventure.

100% (8 reviews)

Discover ancient Native American history in these sublime Southwestern lands.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Bandelier National Monument

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Bandelier National Monument

Fire after the junior ranger experience... fresh paved road in background.

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(7)

Juniper Campground

3 sites · RVs, Tents In Bandelier National Monument

Juniper Group Campground

2 sites · RVs, Tents In Bandelier National Monument

Ponderosa Campground

2 sites · RVs, Tents In Bandelier National Monument

Top-rated campgrounds near Bandelier National Monument

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(245)

Agua de Vida

10 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · NM

This charming land has been in the family since my husband was a young boy. The Indian ruins and artifacts fascinated him then and he is still happy to share this history with whoever shows an interest. With all the improvements made by his father and family through the years, you will also learn to have a love for the history and beauty here on this unique 30-acre treasure. You can explore Native American ruins that were inhabited by some 2,000 people between 700-1100 AD. The grounds are wonderful to walk with a little lake which draws elk, deer, hawks, blue herons, etc. Easy to access just 3 minutes off I-25. We are 5 minutes away from the Pecos Natl Monument and 15 minutes away from the Pecos River with plenty of great fishing spots…Visit Santa Fe (20-minute drive) or Las Vegas (30-minute drive) with dozens of restaurants, museums, art galleries, etc. We look forward to your stay!

95%

(247)

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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(89)

Tierra del RavenTree

1 site · RV, Tent18 acres · Placitas, NM

Ultimate peace and privacy. Nestled in juniper-wooded hills with sweeping views. Close to Albuquerque (20 minutes) and Santa Fe (40 minutes) but feels like a secluded retreat. Most people have no problem finding my place by entering my address in their GPS. However, I have had 2 HipCampers report their GPS directed them to a road called Camino de las Brisas or Las Brisas Loop. Turning here will lead you to a steep, dangerous road where it will be very difficult to turn around if you're in an RV and impossible with a trailer. Continue on Camino de Las Huertas to Senda Osa Vieja. It's marked with a street sign, a stone monument with brass plate. There's also a blue "private road" sign with a dragon. This land was purchased in 1956 by my archeologist parents because of the ancient pueblo site (dating from 1000 A.D.) and pit house sites (dating from 800 A.D.) Until the mega drought seriously impacted the land, a stream ran through it year round. Now it is only intermittent. Across the valley from this property, and within view of the campsite, is the site of a Spanish Colonial village, San Jose de las Huertas. It dates from the 1700s and is now owned by the Archeological Conservancy. This area is rich in history both Native American and Spanish. Learn more about this land: Located in the high desert 20 minutes from Albuquerque and 40 minutes from Santa Fe. Views of Sandia mountains, and near historic archeological sites. Within a 10 minute drive are popular mountain biking trails. Petroglyphs are a 20 minute, moderately strenuous hike from property. Very peaceful, quiet and safe. Read all the Rules and Safety info before booking so you understand exactly what facilities are and are not available, particularly if you in an RV or trailer.

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(32)

Modesto Gardens

3 sites · Lodging, RVs1 acre · Albuquerque, NM

This quiet and tranquil setting is specifically designed for the RV traveler seeking a safe and peaceful city location for their Albuquerque stay. This site offers a respite from the congestion found in other parts of the city. The large fenced and gated one acre lot and unobstructed views provide a peaceful semi-rural setting that is difficult to find so close to town. You won't hear the constant buzz of passing cars in this area, just a bit of nature and plenty of peace and quiet. You'll also find less light pollution in this part of the city so after the sun goes down you can enjoy a great view of the stars and city lights. This is also a great location to watch the early morning hot air balloons take flight, or if you are looking for that perfect spot to take your daily run/bike ride without dodging cars or worrying about your safety. My wife and I are long-time Albuquerque residents and know the area well. We truly love it here and will provide whatever recommendations you require to ensure you have an authentic local experience. Ask about our extended stay discounts for stays over 3 weeks. Learn more about this land: We set out to create the finest RV site in the city by offering a private shaded patio with hot tub, gas grill and fire bowl, along a bistro table for outdoor dining. You'll love the 360° views from your patio, including our mountains and renowned sunsets. The location is just 2 miles from the Sandia Peak Tramway and the Sandia Mountain Wilderness (a hiker and biker paradise with 150 miles of trails). The property is fenced and gated. I-25 is 4 miles due west and I-40 is 8 miles to the south. All grocery and food service apps offer fast delivery, plus there are several supermarkets and restaurants just a few miles away. You'll be staying in a high desert climate at 6000 feet so the nights cool off quickly in the dry air. The sun can be intense at this elevation so shade is provided on the patio plus shade fabric is available to cover your rig if desired. We have some of the best tasting water in the city coming from our well to top off your tank and plenty of space in our trash cans for garbage. PROPERTY AMENITIES & FEATURES• Private Hot Tub & Shaded Patio • Gas Grill • Fire Bowl • Fountain • Fast Wi-Fi • Spectacular 360° Views • Onsite Spa Services • Level 2 EV Charger • Chlorine-Free Well Water • Scenic bike paths 1/2 mile away • Tennis courts, parks, ice rink all within walking distance • 15 minutes to downtown • 10 minutes to the NM Rail Runner train station which will transport you to the Santa Fe plaza in 1 hour • Trader Joe's and numerous restaurants 2 miles away • Sandia Resort & Casino 6 miles down the road • Over 25 local restaurants will deliver to your door Other Nearby Attractions: Historic Old Town, National Museum of Nuclear Science and History, NM Museum of Natural History and Science, Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, Hispanic Cultural Center, Bio Park & Zoo For Balloon Fiesta Guests: The site is 5 miles due east of the Balloon Fiesta Park and offers unobstructed mountain and valley views. Bikes are available to avoid the notorious Fiesta traffic and 4am alarm. You can bike to the Park just ahead of the 7am mass ascension. Or see an unobstructed view of all 500+ balloons from the property.

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(794)

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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(74)

Dancing Trees High Desert Hideaway

5 sites · RVs, Tents14 acres · Eldorado At Santa Fe, NM

Star gazers and solitude seekers rejoice. Your peaceful hideaway with rolling hills, blooming cactus, mountain views, and all the tranquility the high desert is known for awaits. Located just 4 miles off the Turquoise Trail, enjoy 14 acres of private camping and hiking. Convenient and easy driving to both Santa Fe and Madrid, and only 45 minutes to Albuquerque. Wifi near house. You can chill on the casita patio if you need to check email. Otherwise, be prepared to enjoy being off grid for a minute. (Pretty good cell signal throughout property except at bottom of hill and Arroyo.) We offer 3 sites currently as well as a small guest suite.

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(193)

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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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). IMPORTANT: 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. We generally close for the season due to cold weather around Halloween and reopen just before Memorial Day.

94%

(16)

Rio Grande Camp

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Embudo, NM

Enjoy river side camping with amenities. This is a great swimming and fishing spot with gorgeous views. Catch and release fishing only please. Our local coop market, restaurants, four local wineries, and a pizza brewery all within 5 miles of your campsite. 110v & 50amp 240v plugin are available and a level 2 ccs EV charger is also available upon request. There is a drinking water spigot as well as a trash receptacle on site. There are no bathroom facilities here. The parking area can accommodate camper vans and medium size trailers. Large RV’s aren’t able to turn around in our small parking area.

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(92)

Abiquiu Tiny House

1 site · Lodging10 acres · Abiquiu , NM

Situated at 6300 ft. above sea level the Chama River Valley is surrounded by forested mountains. There is white water rafting on the Rio Chama and Rio Grande Rivers nearby during spring and summer. Within an hour there are ski areas at Taos and Santa Fe during the winter. Ojo Caliente Hot Springs is 17 miles away and has a full spa and restaurant. There are beautiful hiking trails throughout the area and Abiquiu Lake is less than 20 minutes away. The location of the Tiny House is in a quiet, private and beautiful setting. Abiquiu Lake is only 15 minutes away for fun swimming, Ghost Ranch is 20 minutes away and has 3 beautiful hikes. Santa Fe and Taos are 60 minutes away. The tiny house is a healthy house built on the golden mean and has no electrical radiation inside except wi-fi. All material used are nontoxic.Notable aspect. There are no pets allowed on the property.

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(12)

Rancheros De Santa Fe Resort

94 sites · Lodging, RVs10 acres · Santa Fe, NM

Located just minutes away from the heart of historic Santa Fe, Rancheros de Santa Fe Campground is nestled in a serene and tranquil environment surrounded by lush trees and natural beauty. Our RV park offers a range of amenities to make your stay enjoyable and comfortable, including a swimming pool, picnic area, dog park, hiking trail, and more.

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(158)

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.

The best camping near Bandelier National Monument guide

Overview

About

Hipcampers interested in Native American history should definitely schedule a trip through this expansive park. Ancient caves and cliff dwellings abound in this one-time home of the Ancestral Pueblo people. The Ancestral Pueblo ruins date back to 1150, but they weren't the first people here. There's evidence humans lived here as many as 11,000 years ago!

As such, there are multiple trails that take you directly past or through archeological sites. The fairly flat, short Tyuonyi Overlook Trail is a good choice for beginning hikers. Looking for more of a physical challenge? Try the Frijolito Loop Trail. This demanding hike takes you close to the unexcavated Frijolito Pueblo site.

If you're looking to bag a peak, set your sights on the Cerro Grande Route. This one isn't for the faint of foot, though. Cerro Grande Peak's the park's highest point at 10,200 feet, and the terrain can be unforgiving. Bring water and good gear if you want to conquer this one!

Tips for snagging a campsite

Book your campsite well in advance to secure your spot amid the park's popular seasons.
Check the park's official website for updates on campground availability and reservation windows.
Consider visiting during off-peak times for a better chance at snagging a reservation.
Explore nearby camping options if Bandelier's campgrounds are fully booked.

When to go

The best time to visit Bandelier National Monument is during the spring and fall when temperatures are mild and the park's full splendor can be enjoyed. Summer brings heat and crowds, while winter may present challenging conditions with snow and ice.

Know before you go

Check current conditions and alerts before your visit for any closures or safety information.
Pets are not allowed on trails or in buildings, but are welcome in parking areas and the campground.
Accessibility varies across the park; inquire ahead for specific needs.
Remember to bring water and sun protection, as the high desert climate can be intense.
Respect the cultural significance of the area and stay on designated paths.