Mills Canyon Rim Campground

About

Mills Canyon Rim Campground perches on the edge of one of northeastern New Mexico's hidden treasures: a dramatic canyon carved nearly 1,000 feet deep by the Canadian River through the Kiowa National Grassland. The six-site campground sits at 5,760 feet elevation on the short grass prairie, offering views down into the riparian corridor below. Unlike the canyon-bottom campground, the rim location accommodates RVs and trailers that cannot navigate the steep switchbacks descending to the river. Facilities are basic: vault toilets and picnic tables at each site, but no potable water, trash service, or hookups. Campers should arrive self-sufficient with water, food, and the expectation of packing out all waste. The remote location means no cell service, so come prepared for solitude. The area sees intense summer heat with temperatures exceeding 100°F, though mornings and evenings at this elevation remain pleasant. Rattlesnakes are common during warmer months. The Mills Canyon Complex offers diverse recreation including horseback riding, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The canyon's unique microclimate supports wildflowers from July through September. Historic ruins from Melvin Mills' 1880s orchard operation remain visible near the river.

Directions

From Roy, NM, take NM Highway 39 north approximately 10 miles. Turn west onto Mills Canyon Road (Forest Road 600), a maintained gravel road, and continue about 9 miles to the rim campground. The road is accessible by passenger vehicles, RVs, and trailers.