Chelsea is a full-time RVer who teaches in campgrounds and online as she travels. She shares roadschooling tips and more on her blog, Wonder Wherever We Wander.
RV camping in Albuquerque is a wonderful New Mexico getaway that’s chock-full of awesome things to see and do. We adore the beautiful mountain backdrop seen throughout town. The friendly people who call this place home always make us feel welcome any time we go camping in Albuquerque.
Next time you’re headed across the country on I-40, why not plan a stop in Albuquerque to check it out? We’re guessing you’ll love what you find!
What to Do in Albuquerque
Not sure what to do while camping in Albuquerque? Don’t worry! My family has visited this lovely city many times and we have plenty of suggestions for what to do and see while you’re there. Below are some of our favorite options.
Visit During the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta
Easily the most amazing thing we’ve done in Albuquerque—and one of the most amazing things we’ve done in our travels in general—is attend the annual Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta.
This is an enormous hot air balloon festival that fills the skies over Albuquerque with dozens (if not hundreds!) of colorful balloons over the course of several days. It’s a spectacular sight to see, and the people in attendance—as well as the balloonists themselves—have always been friendly and informative.
If you can only visit Albuquerque one time, plan your visit to be during the Balloon Fiesta!
Grab a Coffee at Trifecta Coffee Roastary
We love coffee, but we’re pretty particular about the coffee we drink. Trifecta Coffee Roastery is one of the few coffee shops in the country that stands out to us, and we make a point of visiting every time we’re in the area, even if it’s out of the way for us. The espresso here is excellent and the signature drinks are unique. This is a must-visit spot if you enjoy a good cup of joe!
Explore the New Mexico Museum of Natural History & Science
The New Mexico Museum of Natural History & Science is an excellent place to learn something new while still having a good time. Our son adored the dinosaur exhibit in this museum and still talks about it six years after our initial visit.
(Note: If you have an ASTC reciprocal museum membership, admission to this museum is free!)
Get Lunch at Dog House Drive-In
If you enjoy drive-in food, Dog House Drive-In is a great stop. This little eatery was featured on Breaking Bad and is a local staple for a good reason: The hot dog chili here is phenomenal.
We recommend ordering a chili dog (or two) with cheese and onions. Don’t forget some tots or onion rings on the side. Your wallet will appreciate the prices and your taste buds will dance with joy. Just be prepared with some Tums if spicy foods upset your stomach.
Kids and Adults Have Fun at Explora Science Center
Yes, we’re listing another science museum, but to be fair, this one is totally different from the last. Explora is a kid-oriented museum that is full of awesome hands-on learning opportunities. We loved the opportunity to play with currents and circuits, and the huge building toys in the pavilion were amazing.
(Note: This museum is also included in the ASTC reciprocal program!)
Check out Petroglyphs National Monument
We always love stopping in at NPS sites, and Petroglyphs National Monument was no exception. At the entrance, we watched a short video about the petroglyphs and the people who made them. Then we went out on a hike to see as much of the art as we could find.
Our son did the Junior Ranger program and earned a Junior Ranger badge to add to his collection. We all learned a lot and enjoyed spending time in the natural beauty of New Mexico.
Wander the ABQ BioPark
Last on my list of things to do while camping in Albuquerque is an attraction that I actually haven’t had the opportunity to check out just yet. ABQ BioPark looks totally amazing! It’s at the top of my list of things to see next time we’re in town.
The park includes a zoo, aquarium, and botanical garden. It’s the perfect place to spend a nice spring or fall day while in Albuquerque. You do have to pay admission at each of the three attractions separately, so be sure to budget for that.
Of course, these are far from the only things to do in Albuquerque. Someday we hope to get back there to check out the aforementioned ABQ BioPark. We also want to explore the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, and National Museum of Nuclear Science and History. The Rio Grande National Center State Park and Cliff’s Amusement Park are also on our list.
Where to Find RV Camping in Albuquerque
Obviously, if you’re going to enjoy all of the amazing things this wonderful New Mexico city has to offer, you will need a comfortable place to do some RV camping in Albuquerque. That’s where the campgrounds below come into play. Whether you’re looking for a snowbird RV camping destination or just visiting with kids and family, you’re sure to be happy with your stay!
Enchanted Trails RV Park & Trading Post
Our very favorite place to stay when in Albuquerque is Enchanted Trails RV Park & Trading Post. The park has both partial-hookup sites and full-hookup sites, and we love the spotless bathrooms with showers. There is a laundry room, and a pool that is open during the summer months. The people who work here are some of the friendliest out there.
One of our favorite things about Enchanted Trails? The prices at this park are some of the best around. We are often given a discount on the nightly rate just for being friendly!
Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta Park
The Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta Park is where we stayed when we visited for the Balloon Fiesta. While it is far from glamorous, we would absolutely stay again.
First, you should know that the whole lot is dirt, the sites are close together, and there are no hookups. That said, the sites are level, and the company you’ll find in the lot is wonderful. Plus, the walk to the event grounds is relatively quick. Finally, the fact that the balloons from the festival pass directly overhead every day is priceless. You might even get the chance to help some balloons land successfully if you time things right. It’s a great way to add even more excitement to the experience.
If you’re headed to Albuquerque for the Balloon Fiesta and you are able to handle dry camping for a few days, stay here!
Albuquerque KOA Journey
To be honest, we’ve never had the pleasure of staying at the Albuquerque KOA Journey. We just like the aforementioned Enchanted Trails campground too much. That said, we’ve stayed at plenty of other KOA locations in the past. We know they are all fantastic for families.
If you’re looking for amenities such as amazing individual bathrooms with showers, an excellent dog park, mini golf, a pool, and a jump pad, this is the place for you. Just know you will pay a premium for all of those awesome things!
There you have it, folks! Everything you need to know to go camping in Albuquerque. Happy trails!
