Rough dirt roads wind 13 miles off Highway 54 to reach Three Rivers Campground, where conifer trees provide shade at the western edge of the Sierra Blanca range. The Forest Service facility sits within the Lincoln National Forest and serves as a trailhead for three separate hiking routes into the White Mountain Wilderness. Each site includes a picnic table, fire pit, and gazebo structure.
Water flows over one section of the access road, creating a concrete-padded crossing that typically runs about an inch deep. Several reviewers mention the road becomes more challenging after heavy storms or flash floods. The campground accommodates RVs up to 25 feet, though only a couple sites can handle larger rigs. Camp hosts maintain the facility year-round and actively engage with visitors.
Three Rivers runs near the camping area, offering fresh water and swimming holes for those willing to explore. Jorge G. notes the campground "is one of the few places you can camp on the Western edge of Sierra Blanca." The remote location keeps noise levels low despite steady use from tent campers and smaller RVs. Bear activity occurs in the area, requiring proper food storage.
Sites cost $6 per night and fill regularly during peak seasons. The Three Rivers Petroglyph Site lies eight miles southwest for those interested in ancient rock art. Reservations help secure spots during busy periods.
Description
This rustic style campground has 12 sites set at the base of southern New Mexico's tallest mountain. A portion of the site is designed for Group Camping. Three Rivers is a great place to go to get away from the crowds and is located at a much lower elevation than our other campgrounds (around 5000'). From here you can access the Three Rivers trailhead (T44) into the White Mountain Wilderness is located. Access to the site and the roads throughout the site are all well maintained dirt roads. Don't miss the Three Rivers Petroglyph Site on the way in or out. ACTIVITIES Camping Hiking Horseback Riding Picnicking: Smokey Bear Ranger District picnic area.
Fee Info
$6 per night. $6 per night for each additional vehicle, 2 vehicles max.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundThree Rivers Campground is located in New Mexico
Directions
From US 54, 24 miles south of Carrizozo or 18 miles north of Tularosa, turn east onto Forest Road 579 at the sign that says Three Rivers Petroglyph Site and Campground for 13 miles (the last 7 miles are unpaved). The road is well marked to the campground.
Coordinates
33.40121048 N
105.88712275 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 5 users
VerizonLTEGood CoverageVerified by 12 usersLast on 4/3/26
AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 7 usersLast on 4/3/26
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 5 users
- VerizonLTEGood CoverageVerified by 12 usersLast on 4/3/26
- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 7 usersLast on 4/3/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Tent Cabin
- Equestrian
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 2 hrs 7 min from Las Cruces, NM
- 2 hrs 14 min from El Paso, TX
- 3 hrs 1 min from Albuquerque, NM
- 3 hrs 24 min from Santa Fe, NM
