Maxwell NWR Campground: Serene Wildlife Refuge Camping in Colfax County, NM

20 reviews

Colfax County, NM 87728, USA

Maxwell NWR Campground Introduce

Welcome to Maxwell NWR Campground, a hidden gem nestled within the Maxwell National Wildlife Refuge in Colfax County, New Mexico. As part of the Campgrounds & RV Parks category, we offer a unique and serene camping experience, perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful getaway.

Environment and Scenery:

Maxwell NWR Campground is situated in the beautiful high desert plains of New Mexico, offering breathtaking views and a tranquil atmosphere. The campground is known for its cleanliness and well-maintained facilities. Being a National Wildlife Refuge, it hosts an abundance of wildlife, including thousands of birds and sandhill cranes, making it a paradise for birdwatching enthusiasts. The proximity to Lake Thirteen adds to the scenic beauty and recreational opportunities.

Services and Features:

Free Camping: Enjoy camping at no charge, making it an affordable option for outdoor enthusiasts.
Clean Facilities: The campground is well-maintained with dedicated campsites, trash containers, and vault toilets.
Wildlife Viewing: Experience abundant wildlife and excellent birdwatching opportunities, particularly sandhill cranes.
Boondocking Friendly: The campground is ideal for boondocking, offering quiet and peaceful surroundings.
Fishing Opportunities: There is a designated fishing location nearby, providing opportunities for anglers.
Grassy Camping Areas: Plenty of grassy areas are available for camping, though they may become muddy.
Quiet and Dark Skies: Enjoy the quiet atmosphere and excellent stargazing opportunities.
Accessible Location: The campground is accessible via a flat gravel road.

Considerations:

Wind: Being in the high desert plains, the area can be quite windy at times.
Muddy Conditions: The grassy areas may become muddy, especially after rain.

Promotional Information:

Experience the beauty and tranquility of Maxwell NWR Campground, a perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful and nature-filled camping experience. Enjoy free camping, abundant wildlife, and excellent birdwatching opportunities in the heart of New Mexico. Whether you're looking to boondock or simply enjoy the serene surroundings, Maxwell NWR Campground offers a unique and memorable experience. Remember to keep the area clean and respect the wildlife.

Address: Colfax County, NM 87728

Details

Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible parking lot

Amenities
Picnic tables
Public restroom
Tent sites

Children
Good for kids

Parking
On-site parking

Location

New Mexico Colfax County

Customer Reviews

4.0

20 reviews

Santiago

Oct 29, 2024

Beautiful little campground on a National Wildlife Refuge near Maxwell NM. Very neat and clean with 5 or 6 dedicated campsites with trash containers. Plenty of grassy areas to camp on also. There is no charge for camping, just keep it clean. Close to Lake Thirteen the area hosts an abundance of wildlife and thousands of birds. Vault toilets are close by. I didn’t try to fish here, but there’s a sign for a fishing location. Being in the high desert plains of New Mexico it can be quite windy at times.

Andrew Erickson

Oct 27, 2024

Great place to boondock, listen to sandhill cranes. The road in is gravel, but flat. Parking is on grass that might get muddy. Very quiet. Good stars.

Cory Gallegos

Jul 14, 2024

Nice free camping, But this is more of a stop to rest for the night place not a destination. Sounds of the birds here in the morning is nice but definitely lots of mosquitoes in the summer. Vault toilets do need a cleaning but they're not bad.

Cassidy

Oct 01, 2024

Very beautiful and easy to access spot. The animal sounds are delightful, some bugs but not too bad (Oct 1), quiet neighbors. Thank you for the trash service and toilets.

Victoria H

Nov 27, 2024

Be prepared for wind (like 40-70mph wind gusts at times) ! But also beautiful sounding birds annndddd - if you come in through maxwell, there's a farm on your last right turn toward the campground dirty road that has a camel !! Highlight of the journey so far ! Garbages & put toilets. Very flat and can handle big rigs. Free ! Came end of Nov 2024

Jared Jackson

May 09, 2025

We have a 43' Grand design toy hauler. The road coming into this area was great considering it is a dirt road. A few washboards and potholes but very easily navigated. Once you get to the campground, there is a loop, so turning around is very easy.

Mark Witte

Apr 24, 2025

We arrived after dark. Was able to find a nice level spot sunrise was awesome. No wind while we were there. On our way from Castle Rock Colorado to Prescott Arizona