Mills Canyon Campground

This is a remote area and I would listen to the recommendations, don’t try to take a trailer or long rv down into the canyon. There is a campground on the rim that will handle bigger rigs and the road down is nearby. The road down is rough and rocky and gets muddy in places following precipitation. In most cases, higher clearance (Subaru/small suv and up) 2wd vehicles could pass without issue. No cell signal or water here (ATT and other providers have service on the rim), pit toilets at both campgrounds, pack out your trash. Nearest fuel/food is Springer, NM. Mosquero has a nice country store and public restrooms (saved us on a field trip!). The canyon is great for tent or open camping. Keep your coolers and food locked away when appropriate, we found fresh bear tracks during our visit. Let’s keep the bears wild, please don’t allow them to associate food with humans.

This place is amazing, but it is not for the casual camper. First it is 9 miles on a good dirt road to get to the edge of the canyon. Then you have 4 miles drive down a narrow and steep at times dirt/rock road to the valley floor. The campsites are great. They are clean and have a table, fire pit and grill. There are also very nice, clean toilets. However, there is no water available of any kind. There is also no power if you need it and shade is sparce. A pop up canopy is a great addition especially in the summer months. It can get very hot during the day in the canyon. Bring a couple of gallons of water per person per day. There isn't any good river access and in the summer the river is not flowing or inviting. The ruins are interesting and the canyon is spectacular. There are old roads you can use to hike on but there is not a formal trial system. Don't expect to see people either so you need to be ok being alone in the wilderness with no cell signal. Labor Day weekend there was only one other party in the entire park.

This canyon is a true hidden gem. Yes, the reviews are true. It's a bit of a trek getting down into the canyon. Has a sign that says RVs and Trailers are not recommended. From pavement to the campsites is over 5 miles at least. There are a few hiking trails, old settlement buildings, and information panels for the canyon. Very well maintained area with very clean vault toilets. This is primitive camping, meaning no water or electricity, so be sure to plan accordingly to enjoy this beautiful place.

First trip here. Road is definitely a little nerve racking but well worth it. No campfires 🔥 were allowed but still had a great time. Ended up being pretty full but was Easter weekend. Toilets were clean and well stocked.

Upper campground is very dry and windswept. Several sites have covered corrals. The road down is an adventure, but no real problems. But it is quite a bit further down and further along, to the bottomland campground. Several miles, the first two being real doozies. The campsites at the bottom are nowhere near the river. A scramble through snake infested underbrush for about 40 yards will get you to the river bank.