Mills Canyon Rim Campground
4.4712 reviewsMills Canyon Rim Campground
$10.00 - $10.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$10.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Campground is first-come-first-serve and costs $10 nightly for RVs without electricity.
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About this campground
Perched high above the dramatic Mills Canyon at 5,760 feet, this intimate rim-top campground in the Cibola National Forest and Grasslands offers a true escape into nature's solitude. With just six thoughtfully spaced camping units, Mills Canyon Rim provides an authentic wilderness experience where the modern world fades away. Here, rustic charm meets breathtaking canyon views, drawing adventurers who seek the raw beauty of New Mexico's high country and the thrill of camping on the edge of a geological wonder.
Mills Canyon Rim Campground caters to tent and RV camping, with six individual camping units available.
Historical SignificanceWhile the specific human history of this campground remains untold, the surrounding landscape whispers ancient stories waiting to be discovered by curious visitors.
Weather and SeasonsMills Canyon Rim rewards visitors with some of New Mexico's most pleasant camping weather year-round. Winter brings surprisingly mild days, with temperatures often reaching a comfortable 65°F even in December—perfect for those seeking to escape harsh winter conditions elsewhere. Summer transforms the campground into a high-altitude haven, where consistently dry conditions and crystal-clear skies create ideal camping conditions. Low precipitation throughout the warm months means you can count on starlit nights and sun-drenched days, making this an excellent choice for fair-weather adventurers and astronomy enthusiasts alike.
ElevationAt 5,760 feet above sea level, Mills Canyon Rim Campground offers a refreshing mountain climate that provides natural air conditioning during summer months and surprisingly mild conditions in winter. This elevation places you in the sweet spot—high enough to escape the desert heat, yet low enough to avoid the harsh conditions of alpine environments. The thin, crisp air at this altitude enhances visibility, making distant vistas appear closer and stars shine brighter in the night sky.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering ponderosa pines and sturdy oak trees create a natural cathedral around each campsite, their branches filtering sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. The campground's gentle slopes make for easy walking while still providing varied perspectives of the surrounding wilderness. But the true star is the canyon rim itself—just steps from your tent, the earth dramatically falls away, revealing the sculptured depths of Mills Canyon below. This perfect blend of forest shelter and edge-of-the-world views creates an unforgettable backdrop for your outdoor adventure.
Campsite details
AccessibilityVault toilets are accessible, and horse corrals are available in good condition.
Sites SizeParking spots are described as mostly large and/or long, potentially accommodating RVs or campers well.
Sites PrivacySome reviews highlight that campsites are far apart, providing a sense of seclusion.
Total Campsites6 campsites
Recommended CampsitesIf tent camping, avoid sites with visible red ant nests. Those with 4WD vehicles can explore canyon camping options.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Stay limit is a maximum of 14 consecutive nights
Groups
No group camping site details are provided for this campground.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of six distinct sites, spaced widely apart for privacy. Parking spurs accommodate RVs and campers.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season starts on May 15, 2025, and closes on October 14, 2025.
Walk-in AvailabilityCampground does not take reservations; sites are only available on a walk-up basis.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee, additional fees apply for late cancellations (e.g., forfeiture of first night's fee). Changes also incur a $10 fee.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers opportunities for hiking and camping in a scenic canyon rim setting surrounded by stunning natural landscapes. Activities like wildlife viewing and scenic drives can also be enjoyed nearby.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are mentioned, including trails extending from the rim to the canyon, estimated to be around 7 miles roundtrip. The area provides breathtaking views, as highlighted by user reviews.Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Wildlife viewing
Visitors mention enjoying wildlife viewing as part of their camping experience, though specific species are not detailed.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted; fire rings are available at each site.
Hazards
General hazardsPresence of red ants mentioned in user reviews, posing a concern for tent campers. Bring own water as none is available on-site.
Weather forecast
66
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Moderate rain showers
Precipitation: 5.8999999999999995%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 67%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 16.3 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Very Light Rain - (5.90% chance)
Slight drizzle possible
Moderate rain showers
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 15, 2025 - October 14, 2025.
Trash and recyclingNo specific mention of trash or recycling facilities, except user instructions advising campers to bring their own drinking water and be cautious of red ants near campsites.
Proximity to water featuresCampground provides access to Mills Canyon below, popular for hiking and exploration.
Common complaintsNoise complaints are common due to partying and RV generators running late into the night. Reviewers have noted red ant infestations in certain campsites.
HostHost information unavailable.
Campground Map
Camper Reviews
4.5
12 reviews
Mills Canyon Rim Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, user reviews for Mills Canyon Rim Campground reflect a mix of positive experiences and some concerns about noise, seasonal camping trends, and wildlife considerations. The average sentiment rating for the campground-specific experience is 4.083, suggesting general satisfaction.
Review Summaries
Based on 12 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include clean vault toilets, large and secluded campsites, breathtaking views, and proximity to Mills Canyon. Clean horse corrals and serviced bathrooms during the off-season are...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include loud partying and music during peak seasons, RV generators running at night, and red ant nests near campsites. Some users also note the site's need for maintenance and reduction of...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Tips include bringing your own water, avoiding tent placement near red ant nests, and ensuring vehicles are lifted or have 4-wheel drive for better access. During rainy weather, consider staying at...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
During the off-season, camping is free, and bathrooms are still serviced. Summer months tend to have more visitors and noise complaints due to partying and RV generator use. Winter temperatures are...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Wonderful spot to call home while visiting Mills Canyon & Roy, NM.' - Meredith Bury
2. 'Clean vault toilets and large campsites.' - Brandi Oldaker
3. 'Lovely campground in an absolutely stunning...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific site reviews highlight the top rim as the preferable camping area during rainy conditions. Horse corrals are also noted as being in great shape, making these areas suitable for equestrian...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Vault toilets are accessible, and parking spots are described as large enough to accommodate campers and RVs. No additional details on accessibility for disabled visitors are provided.
Based on 12 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025