Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is about 170 miles north of Santa Fe in Colorado. In addition to having North America's tallest dunes, this national park includes acres of forests, grasslands, tundra, and wetlands. Its pristine setting means it was designated as an International Dark Sky Park, making it perfect for stargazing. During the day, go sand sledding, horseback riding, or hiking. There are campgrounds both within and outside the park.
To get to White Sands National Park, you'll head south for about 230 miles. It's worth the trek. You'll find 275 square miles of glittering white gypsum dunes - the largest dune field on Earth. You can drive to the heart of the dune field on Dunes Drive, which begins at the park's visitor center. There are five trails for hiking or biking. If camping is your thing, the park offers backcountry camping opportunities. Check the park for information before planning your trip, though; at times, the campgrounds are closed.
Mesa Verde National Park is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site about 250 miles from Santa Fe. This Southwest Colorado park features hundreds of preserved cliff dwellings to explore. On 52,000 acres, it includes thousands of ancient Pueblo archaeological sites. There's a primitive campground in the park if you'd like to stay on the premises. You'll also find more RV parks and campgrounds within a few miles of Mesa Verde.
Eagle Nest Lake State Park is unmatched for its scenery and wildlife. It sits at 8,000 feet in elevation with year-round fishing and boating, miles of trails to hike, and on-site camping. It's a bird watcher's paradise just 100 miles north of Santa Fe.
Nestled in the mountains near Santa Fe, Hyde Memorial State Park lets you hike on well-maintained trails with spectacular wilderness views. There are multiple campsites, some with electric hookups, and a dump station. During the winter, the park offers cross-country skiing, sledding, and snowshoeing.
At Villanueva State Park, you can camp, fish, and hike in a canyon between distinctive sandstone bluffs. Take your kayak, raft, or canoe out on the Pecos River, but be careful. The river's icy, clear water is anything but placid. It can challenge even experienced boaters. This park sits about 50 miles from Santa Fe.
The Palace of the Governors is one of the iconic landmarks in Santa Fe. Built in the 1600s by Spanish colonizers, this adobe structure in the Santa Fe Historic District is a National Historic Landmark. It's now connected to the New Mexico History Museum. When visiting, check out the local vendors who sell their crafts in the plaza.
Bandelier National Monument sits on 33,000 acres near the Jemez Mountains. At 50 miles from Santa Fe, it's an easy day trip to explore ancient ruins, cave dwellings, pictographs, and petroglyphs. In addition to the historical and cultural sites, Bandelier is home to more than 50 types of mammals.
Georgia O'Keeffe's Home and Studio is a National Historic Landmark located about 50 miles north of Santa Fe. The traditional adobe structure was where the legendary artist Georgia O'Keeffe created some of her most famous works. In Santa Fe proper, you can visit the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum to see a comprehensive collection of her art.
The Rancheros De Santa Fe Campground provides RV renters with 125 RV-friendly sites, some with full hookups. The free internet, dog run, and gift store make it a good choice for those who want a full-service campground.
Taos Valley RV Park and Campground is about 60 miles north of Santa Fe. However, it has more than 60 sites that will accommodate RVs of all sizes, including big rigs.
Santa Fe Skies RV Park offers mail and package pickup for RVers who intend to stay awhile. All 98 sites have power and water hookups. There's free Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and a dump station.
Are there any additional fees or charges associated with renting a pet-friendly RV in Santa Fe, NM, and what kind of pet policies do I need to be aware of it?
The fees and charges associated with renting a pet-friendly RV vary by individual listings and are determined by the RV owner. Be sure to check the specific listing for details on any additional fees or deposits required for pets. Additionally, the pet policies for each rental will also vary and are at the discretion of the RV owner. Be sure to review the listing description or ask the owner for more information on their pet policies before booking.
How do I properly prepare my pet for traveling in an RV rental, and what kind of equipment or supplies do I need to bring for them?
To properly prepare your pet for RV travel, bring along their favorite bed, food and water bowls, food, and any medications they may need. Additionally, bring your pet's leash, waste bags, and any toys or treats they may enjoy. It's also a good idea to acclimate your pet to the RV before your trip by introducing them to the space gradually if possible.
Can I bring multiple pets in a pet-friendly RV rental, and are there any size or weight restrictions for my pets?
The number and type of pets allowed will vary depending on the RV owner's policies. Be sure to check the listing details for any restrictions on pet size or weight, as well as the number of pets allowed per rental.
Are any specific RV parks or campgrounds in Santa Fe, NM particularly well-suited for pets, and what amenities do they offer?
Some RV parks and campgrounds are more pet-friendly than others, so be sure to research your destination beforehand. Look for parks that offer amenities such as pet-friendly trails or dog parks. Additionally, some parks may have specific pet policies or restrictions, so be sure to check before making a reservation.
How do I properly clean and sanitize a pet-friendly RV rental before and after my rental period, particularly regarding pet hair and odors?
Renters should vacuum and sweep thoroughly and wipe down all surfaces with pet-safe cleaning products. Additionally, be sure to dispose of any pet waste in designated trash areas.
What safety considerations must I be aware of when traveling with pets in an RV rental, particularly regarding hot or cold weather conditions?
Pet owners should be aware of hot and cold weather conditions when traveling in an RV with pets. Keep pets hydrated and ensure the RV is properly ventilated and climate-controlled. Additionally, never leave pets alone in a hot or cold RV and be sure to monitor their behavior for signs of distress.
Can I bring my pet supplies and equipment to use with a pet-friendly RV rental, such as a portable pet fence or outdoor playpen?
Yes, renters can bring their own pet supplies and equipment to use with a pet-friendly RV rental, such as a portable pet fence or outdoor playpen. However, be sure to check with the RV owner before bringing any large or bulky items to ensure they can be accommodated.
How do I properly secure and restrain my pet during travel in a pet-friendly RV rental, and what kind of safety equipment or devices do I need to use?
Pets should always be properly secured and restrained during travel in an RV rental. This can include using a pet carrier, seat belt harness, or pet barrier. Ensure that all safety equipment or devices are properly installed and used according to manufacturer instructions.
Can I leave my pet unattended in a pet-friendly RV rental, and if so, are there any specific guidelines or restrictions I need to follow?
Pets should not be left unattended in an RV rental, as it can be dangerous for them and may result in damage to the rental. If it is necessary to leave your pet briefly, ensure that they are properly secured and that the RV is climate-controlled and ventilated.
Can I bring my pet to any activities or attractions in Santa Fe, NM during my RV rental trip, and what kind of pet policies or restrictions may be in place for these locations?
Pet policies and restrictions for activities and attractions in Santa Fe, NM will vary by location, so be sure to research beforehand. Some locations may not allow pets at all, while others may have specific areas or guidelines for pet access. Always check with the location beforehand to ensure pets are allowed and to understand any restrictions or guidelines in place.
