Mills Canyon

Open — Open year-round, first-come, first-served. No reservations accepted. High clearance vehicle recommended for access via Mills Canyon Road.

About

Mills Canyon Campground is a remote, first-come, first-served campground nestled within the scenic Canadian River Canyon in the Kiowa National Grassland. At an elevation of 5,160 feet, this free campground offers 12 camping units, each equipped with a picnic table and fire ring. The campground features pit toilets but no potable water or trash service, requiring visitors to bring their own water and pack out all waste. Access to the campground requires careful planning, as the 9-mile Mills Canyon Road #600 is a gravel road not suitable for cars or vehicles pulling trailers. High clearance vehicles are strongly suggested for this route, which descends into the canyon via narrow switchbacks. The remote location and challenging access contribute to a peaceful camping experience with minimal crowds. The area offers opportunities for hiking, hunting, picnicking, and wildlife viewing within the short grass prairie ecosystem of the southern Great Plains. The Canadian River Canyon provides a dramatic contrast to the surrounding grasslands, with rugged canyon walls and diverse plant life. This campground is ideal for experienced campers seeking solitude and a true backcountry experience in northeastern New Mexico.

Directions

From Abbott, NM at the intersection of US Highway 56 and NM Highway 39, drive south on NM Highway 39 for approximately 16 miles. Turn west onto Mills Canyon Road #600 and continue west approximately 9 miles to the campground. From Roy, NM on NM Highway 39, drive north approximately 10 miles and turn west onto Mills Canyon Road #600, then continue west approximately 9 miles to the campground.

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