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Mills Canyon Rim Campground
Public Campground

Mills Canyon Rim Campground

Cimarron, New Mexico
4.7 (54 reviews)

Photos shown are stock images and may not represent the actual campground.

About Mills Canyon Rim Campground

Campground in New Mexico.

Mills Canyon Rim Campground offers a authentic high desert camping experience in the heart of northeastern New Mexico, where rugged landscapes and peaceful solitude combine to create an unforgettable getaway. Situated along the scenic Mills Canyon area, this public campground provides an ideal base for exploring some of New Mexico's most dramatic and less-crowded natural terrain. The campground sits at elevation where cooler temperatures provide relief during summer months, making it a comfortable destination even when lower elevations swelter in the heat.

The surrounding region showcases the raw beauty of the American West, with expansive vistas of canyon walls, pinyon and juniper woodlands, and wide-open skies that seem to stretch forever. The area is perfect for travelers seeking a genuine connection with nature without the crowds found at more developed destinations. Whether you're an avid hiker, photographer, or simply someone who craves the peace and quiet of the backcountry, this location delivers an authentic experience that captures the essence of New Mexico's wild character.

Mills Canyon itself is a geological wonder, carved by seasonal water flows over millennia and revealing layers of colorful rock formations. The canyon provides excellent opportunities for exploration, with scenic hiking trails ranging from easy walks to more challenging treks. Visitors can spend days discovering hidden alcoves, photographing stunning geological formations, and experiencing the incredible silence that only remote desert landscapes can offer.

The campground serves as a gateway to exploring the rich cultural and historical heritage of northeastern New Mexico. The region has deep roots in Native American history, Spanish colonial settlement, and Old West ranching traditions. Nearby communities offer authentic local experiences, regional cuisine, and opportunities to learn about the area's fascinating past.

This destination appeals to travelers who value authentic experiences over amenities, those seeking adventure in a less-traveled corner of New Mexico, and anyone yearning to disconnect from the bustle of modern life. The high desert setting provides stunning stargazing opportunities away from light pollution, making it special for night sky enthusiasts. With its highly-rated reputation and strong visitor reviews, Mills Canyon Rim Campground stands out as a must-visit destination for serious RV campers and outdoor adventurers.
4.7

Rating

54

Reviews

Park Details

Tips & Tricks

Book Early

Cimarron is popular during peak season. Reserve 2-4 weeks in advance for weekends and holidays.

Check-in Time

Most parks have check-in after 1:00 PM and check-out by 11:00 AM. Call ahead if you'll arrive late.

Local Weather

New Mexico weather can change quickly. Pack layers and check the forecast for Cimarron.

Explore the Area

Don't miss local attractions near Cimarron. Ask the camp host for hidden gems and trails.

Mills Canyon Rim Campground Reviews

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Gary Galles

Mar 18, 2026

4.0

Google Review by Gary Galles

This place is beautiful! There are several hikes you can do along either rim of the canyon or you can hike down the lower canyon campground road. Watch for snakes. Don't let the mosquitoes carry you into the bushes, they are literally the thickest mosquitoes that I have ever seen, and I live near the swamps in East Texas.

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James Michael Wilkinson

Mar 18, 2026

4.0

Google Review by James Michael Wilkinson

Great place for a 14-day stay. It is bear and cougar and rattlesnake country, so beware. There are two vault toilets in one building, NO water, NO trash, and NO electrics. If you use a generator, quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM. It can be busy in hunting season. The major thing is pay attention to the roads. As others have said, once you are off Hwy 39, the gravel road can be rough in rain. The las... Great place for a 14-day stay. It is bear and cougar and rattlesnake country, so beware. There are two vault toilets in one building, NO water, NO trash, and NO electrics. If you use a generator, quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM. It can be busy in hunting season. The major thing is pay attention to the roads. As others have said, once you are off Hwy 39, the gravel road can be rough in rain. The last four miles are Forest Service road that is not well maintained; in rain, it can be as slippery and challenging as driving on ice! Do not even TRY to go down to the bottom campground without an appropriate vehicle!

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Angel Bermudez

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Angel Bermudez

If you want to camp off the beaten path, this is the perfect campground. But it is not as RV friendly as the gov website claims. The road is gravel and dirt with plenty of rocky areas and a few pot holes. Our travel trailer did fine, but it is high clearance. Watch out if using Google Maps, though, because leaving I was taken on a bunch of poorly maintained backroads and popped a tire on an old ca... If you want to camp off the beaten path, this is the perfect campground. But it is not as RV friendly as the gov website claims. The road is gravel and dirt with plenty of rocky areas and a few pot holes. Our travel trailer did fine, but it is high clearance. Watch out if using Google Maps, though, because leaving I was taken on a bunch of poorly maintained backroads and popped a tire on an old cattle guard. But the camping is worth it. There's nothing else around except ranches, and the sites are beautiful and well taken care of. There is tons of wildlife, an amazing landscape, and beautiful stargazing. Each site has a concrete picnic table, a grill, and a fire ring (though we were under a fire ban). The toilets were even fully stocked with paper, so it is all well maintained.

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Meredith Bury

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Meredith Bury

Wonderful spot to call home while visiting Mills Canyon & Roy, NM. We have a 4 window Thomas built short bus and we felt more comfortable staying up on the rim. If we were lifted or had 4 wheel drive we would have camped in the canyon. 10 out of 10 👏🏽

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Meredith Bury

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Meredith Bury

Wonderful spot to call home while visiting Mills Canyon & Roy, NM. We have a 4 window Thomas built short bus and we felt more comfortable staying up on the rim. If we were lifted or had 4 wheel drive we would have camped in the canyon. 10 out of 10 👏🏽

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Valar morghulis

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Valar morghulis

Good camp , clean toilets .. tried to camp at the bottom camp , it started raining had to skin out back to the top camp.. stayed in the horse pins ,awesome rainy night !

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Valar morghulis

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Valar morghulis

Good camp , clean toilets .. tried to camp at the bottom camp , it started raining had to skin out back to the top camp.. stayed in the horse pins ,awesome rainy night !

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