Camp Under the Stars at Sunset Reef Campground in Carlsbad, New Mexico
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Sunset Reef Campground
Sunset Reef Campground is an amazing pristine smaller campground located in Carlsbad, New Mexico on BLM land (Bureau of Land Management) and is located about 5 minutes from the entrance of Carlsbad Caverns National Park and about 25 minutes to the visitor center. This campground is the perfect location to stay for a night or two where you have a view of the surrounding Gudalupe Mountains. Located off a highway for easy access, you will find peace and solitude at this location as you sit by the campfire at night listening to the sounds of nature while the sky is lit up by stars.
GPS Location: 32.119673, -104.424038
Address: Washington Ranch Road, Carlsbad, New Mexico
Cost: FREE
There are no signs directing you to the campground from the main roads. Below you will see the sign “Washington Ranch” which is where you will turn off of National Parks Highway 62/180 onto Washington Ranch Road. Quickly after turning onto Washington Ranch Road, you will turn right and head over the cattle guard. You will follow this road for about 0.7 miles until you reach the campground.
Sunset Reef Campground amenities
This campground has 11 camping spots, five for RV’s and five for tents. You will also find the following amenities:
covered pavilion
picnic table
grill
firepit
vault toilets
trash cans
Campground limitations
There is no electricity or water at this location, and you are limited to a maximum of 5 nights at a time. This campground is also FREE to camp at and is on a first come, first served basis. No reservations and this campground is open year-round.
Guadalupe Mountains
Sunset Reef Campground is surrounded by mountains and allows the opportunity for exploration. Take time to visit the surrounding mountains as you spend time in nature. As you hike the area you will go over a hill and a compass will come in handy, so you know where the campground is, and you don’t get lost. If you walk this area in the summer, it is extremely hot so remember to bring sunscreen and plenty of water.
Other places to visit nearby
Sunset Reef Campground provides the perfect place to relax against the rugged landscape. The breathtaking vistas provide ample opportunity for adventure among this hidden gem of a campground. Whether you are visiting Carlsbad Caverns National Park or Gudalupe National Park, there will be plenty to do in the area to keep you busy. This will be an unforgettable experience that will leave you longing for more days under the sun or next to the campfire at night roasting marshmallows.
Enjoy the journey,
Meet the author: Jennifer
I am a girl who loves to travel and enjoys sharing expert family travel advice. I am a content creator and influencer on Instagram with years of travel experience and provide readers with advice, tips, and details on adventurous family travel and tips on saving money while boondocking or traveling across the US.
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