We all have our favorite ways of unwinding after a long week: popping open a new bottle of wine, sleeping in, or even embarking on a day trip on the open road. If treating yourself to a relaxing soak sounds more like your style of relaxation, then you'll want to check out one of these open-air hot springs in New Mexico. Ever been to the Silver City New Mexico hot springs? Do you want to? Go ahead - we'll be here when you get back.
You'll find a quiet campground, unique rock formations, and several hot springs pools at Gilah Hot Spring Campground about 40 miles north of Silver City. The pools here have temperatures that vary between 101 and 104 degrees, so you can soothe both your body and mind in the beautiful natural setting.
Want to combine a short hike in the mountains with a restful soak? Tucked away in the Santa Fe National Forest, the trek to McCauley Hot Springs is a 3.4-mile hike that will lead you through a beautiful woodsy landscape and right up to the springs. The thermal pools here are a toasty 99 degrees, making it perfect even for a warm day.
3. Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs & Spa, Ojo Caliente
Located an hour north of Santa Fe, Ojo Caliente is the epitome of a relaxing getaway any time of year. Choose from several open-air mineral pools for a long soak against a gorgeous landscape. The pools here have a wide temperature span, ranging between 80 and 106 degrees.
This fun, short video is an excellent introduction to all the delights contained within Ojo Caliente:
How does an idyllic sunset soak right along the Rio Grande sound to you? Relaxing in the unique setting at the Riverbend Hot Springs in Truth or Consequences is the perfect remedy for a long week. The pools here are hot—ranging from 103 to 108 degrees—and you will enjoy the peaceful rooms for a weekend getaway.
All it takes to reach Spence Hot Springs is a brief hike from a parking area, measuring just over a half-mile one way. The pool here stays a consistent 95 degrees, making it a tepid but relaxing soak.
Are you already planning a trip to one of these exciting hot springs in New Mexico? If you're looking for another opportunity to escape for a relaxing weekend, you will fall in love with the pastoral southern New Mexico setting at the Hurd La Rinconada Gallery & Guest Homes in San Patricio.
Spending time in nature away from civilization is almost a necessity at times. It allows our minds and bodies to rest and recharge as we enjoy some peace and quiet, breathe in fresh air, and devoid ourselves of any and all distractions. One of the best ways to get away from it all is to spend time at a remote campground in New Mexico, and I found one you're going to like.
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Located between the Questa River and the Red River in the depths of Carson National Forest, Columbine Campground sits at an elevation of 7,900 feet and offers a serene camping experience.
Peak season is between Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends and reservations must be made if you plan on camping within this timeframe. Otherwise, sites are first-come, first-served in the off-season.
Running right by Columbine Campground is the Red River. Just imagine going to sleep with the sound of flowing water — no sound machine needed! Falling asleep to the sounds of nature is the kind of peace we all need from time to time.
The campground is also conveniently located by a trailhead you can take into the Columbine-Hondo Wilderness area for a day hike. It's such a beautiful area to explore!
Are you ready to pitch a tent at this remote campground in New Mexico? Where is your favorite place to camp? Let us know! To learn more about Columbine Campground, visit the U.S. Forest Service website. To reserve a campsite, visit Recreation.gov.
If you're looking for new camping gear, check out REI for high-quality tents, sleeping bags, and other gear. I can't recommend them enough!——
New Mexico was made for camping. Whether you prefer to use a tent or an RV, camping is one of the best ways to appreciate our state’s natural beauty - especially the clear night skies. In fact, there are lots of amazing Dark Sky locations in New Mexico. If you’re searching for inspiration for your next overnight outdoor adventure, look no further. Add any of the best camping in New Mexico locales to your to-do list ASAP:
This cluster of volcanic rocks known as City of Rocks State Park are clumped in the middle of the Chihuahuan Desert, near Deming. Some of these boulders are 50 feet tall, providing appreciated shade during hot weather. There are 52 developed campsites here and even a botanical garden!
The main draw of this campground is that you sleep below the needles of the Organ Mountains. In fact, the campground is where the Pine Tree Trail begins. It's a four-mile loop that takes you to the base of the needles. This campsite, which is located on Aguirre Springs Road, overlooks White Sands as well. It's on the basic side, but water is available at the host site. There are 57 family sites plus 2 group sites (no RVs over 23 feet) at Aguirre Spring Campground.
Fishing fans should check out this campground for its proximity to Snow Lake, which is well-stocked with trout. There are 40 sites available at the campground. Amenities include potable water, fire rings, picnic tables, and toilets. Dipping Vat Campground is about 50 miles from Reserve.
You don't come to Gallo Campground for the amenities: water, bathrooms, picnic table, and fire grate. You're here to literally immerse yourself in history. Since there's nothing around Chaco, camping gives you time to explore the park fully. Chaco is the 12th park in the world to be certified as a Dark Sky Park, meaning that it's ideal for stargazing. Gallo Campground offers 49 sites, plus 2 group sites and it can accommodate RVs under 35 feet. Reservations needed.
There are five developed campgrounds with a total of 40 campsites within Wild Rivers Recreation Area. Most spots have good views of the river but, if you're seeking more solitude, try La Junta campground.
Although there are eight lakes at Bottomless Lakes State Park, close to Roswell, Lea Lake is the biggest. It has 32 campsites with hookups; showers are available as well.
Located near Deming, Rockhound State Park is unusual because you can collect and remove up to 15 pounds of gems and minerals - assuming you can find them! If you're traveling along I-10, break up your journey at one of the 29 developed campsites here, which offer the basics, along with showers.
Staying at El Vado Lake State Park gives you access to two lakes: El Vado and Heron. There are 80 developed camping spots, along with some primitive beach camping in New Mexico. Recreational opportunities are plentiful - from birding to boating and swimming.
You'd never guess that Santa Fe is only a few miles away when you're relaxing in one of these 35 camping spots. Black Canyon Campground is more basic than some of the other campgrounds nearby, but it has such a secluded feel that it's worth giving up a few amenities. Hiking opportunities abound in the Santa Fe National Forest. You can also access the Pecos Wilderness from here.
People have inhabited the area around Bandelier National Monument for more than 11,000 years! Follow in their footsteps with a stay at one of the three campgrounds. If your group consists of fewer than 10 people, head to the Juniper Family Campground – reservations not taken — for some family camping in New Mexico. Sites come with a picnic table and grill and most can accommodate a tent or RV.
Take a look at this video of spots around Los Alamos, including Bandelier National Monument, by @OnlyInYourState:
It's unusual to be able to explore a lava flow, never mind camp near one. This section of the Tularosa Basin was filled with lava when Little Black Peak erupted approximately 5,000 years ago. This camping spot boasts sites with RV hookups, two wheelchair-accessible sites, and there are showers. Both as a recreation area and as a campground, Valley of Fires Recreation Area flies under the radar, which keeps crowds at bay and lets you enjoy the breathtaking sunsets in peace.
Elephant Butte Lake State Park is popular with water sports enthusiasts. Although there is a campground, you can camp pretty much anywhere along the shore, if you're fine roughing it. This is one park that offers some of the best tent camping in New Mexico.
McCrystal Campground is pretty rustic but, if you're looking for a true escape, this 60-site campground in the Valle Vidal section of Carson National Forest may be a good fit. It's horse-friendly, but you will need to bring your own water.
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There are endless places to camp in New Mexico. In your opinion, what places have the best camping in New Mexico? Tell us your thoughts in the comments!
Need new camping equipment? Take a look at the selection of camping gear from our friends at REI.
Ready to explore more of New Mexico's enchanting outdoors? Take a look at this video from OnlyInYourState:
