Valley of Fires Recreation

Imagine camping alongside one of the youngest lava flows in the continental United States, where an otherworldly blackened landscape meets the wide-open New Mexico sky. The Valley of Fires Recreation Area, located just four miles west of Carrizozo along U.S. Highway 380, is a truly unique destination offering extraordinary views, peaceful settings, and incredible geological history.

The campground features 19 well-maintained sites, accommodating both tent and RV campers with the option of electric and water hookups. Each site is equipped with covered picnic shelters, fire rings, and grills, ensuring comfort amidst the rugged beauty of the Chihuahuan Desert. Amenities include restrooms, hot showers, and a convenient RV dump station. The highlight of the area is the fully accessible Malpais Nature Trail, a three-quarters-mile paved path that winds through the lava flow, showcasing desert plants and wildlife against a dramatic volcanic backdrop. Stargazing and photography are exceptional here, especially at the hilltop vista.

With its proximity to Carrizozo—a charming town known for its rich history and artist community—and its location adjacent to the vast Malpais Lava Flow, this campground is ideal for day trips, rugged getaways, or quiet weekend retreats.