Guadalupe Mountains National Park includes 86,416 acres in west Texas, just south of the New Mexico state line and north of the U.S. Highway. This protects the world's most extensive Permian fossil reef, the four highest peaks in Texas, an environmentally diverse collection of flora and fauna, and the stories of lives shaped through conflict, cooperation, and survival. Carlsbad Caverns National Park is a popular destination for tourists, but it's only about an hour and a half away from Portales. This national park features caves with formations that have been named "the big room," the "caverns of lava" and the "enchanted palace." White Sands National Park is another nearby attraction. The glistening white sands of New Mexico create great wave-like dunes of gypsum sand that have engulfed 275 square miles of desert, creating the world's largest gypsum dune field. White Sands National Park preserves a major portion of this unique dune field, along with the plants and animals that live here.
Oasis State Park is located in the New Mexico desert near Portales, a city of 10,000 people. The park has RV parking with 30-amp and 50-amp electric hookups. There are also tent camping spaces available. Bottomless Lakes State Park features the largest natural freshwater spring in New Mexico. It’s a must-see for any nature lovers. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, elk, and wild turkeys. As you hike through the park, you can enjoy views of the colorful Chihuahuan Desert landscape that surrounds you. The Sumner Lake State Park is located in the middle of the desert. There are no trees and it gets very hot there. The park has a lot of wildlife, such as deer, foxes, skunks, and raccoons. It also has a lot of birds including geese, ducks, swans and many others. There is a lake there with a beach that many people swim at all year round.
The Lincoln, Santa Fe, and Carson National Forests are all located within a few hours' drive of Portales, New Mexico. These forests offer a variety of recreational opportunities, including camping, hiking, fishing, and more. The Lincoln National Forest has three major mountain ranges: Sacramento, Guadalupe, and Capitan which cover 1.1 million acres in southeastern New Mexico. It is also home to Smokey Bear who was found in the Lincoln National Forest in 1950. The Santa Fe National Forest is 1.6 million acres of mountains, valleys, and mesas ranging from 5,000 to 13,000 feet in elevation. Thousands of cultural and archaeological sites reflect the Santa Fe National Forest's rich historical heritage and the many cultures that value this landscape. At-risk species like the Mexican spotted owl and New Mexican jumping mouse are found here. The Carson National Forest offers unlimited recreational opportunities in any season. The magnificent mountain scenery and cool summer temperatures lure vacationers to enjoy the peace, for fishing, hunting, camping, and hiking.
The Fort Union National Monument is a great place to see the history of the American West. This monument preserves an old fort that was once an important trading post on the Santa Fe Trail. Fort Union National Monument is the site of three successive forts built (1851, 1861, 1863–68) by the U.S. Army near Watrous in northern New Mexico. The 720-acre (291-hectare) site was designated a national monument in 1954. There is a self-guided trail through the ruins, and the visitors’ center displays historical exhibits. Wagon wheel ruts on the Santa Fe trail are still visible. The Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument is also worth a visit. This monument preserves an ancient Native American flint quarry, which was once a major source of flint for tools and weapons. The monument contains some 250 shallow quarry pits ranging in width from 4 to 8 feet (1.2 to 2.5 meters).
- You'll find many RV parks and campgrounds near Portales, New Mexico. - If you're looking for a public campground, check out Wagon Wheel RV Park, Oasis State Park and Travelers World Campground. - West Grand RV Park has more of a resort feel to it with a pool, spa, and game room available. - Many of these campgrounds have amenities like electric hookups, Wi-Fi, and a free dump station. Pack Creek campground offers Wi-Fi and free WiFi at their recreation hall.
- There are three RV dump stations in Portales, New Mexico. - Three of the most convenient dump stations include Bison RV Center, Love's Travel Stop, and the City of Carlsbad Lift Station. - All of the sites have access to showers, laundry facilities, and WiFi.
Do I maintain or service the motorhome rental during my rental period?
No, it is the responsibility of the RVshare owner to ensure the motorhome is properly maintained and serviced before your rental period. Just take good care of your rental and keep it clean.
Are there any special driving considerations or techniques I should know when operating a motorhome rental in Portales, NM?
Yes, motorhomes are larger and heavier than most passenger vehicles, so it is important to allow for more time and space when turning, merging, or stopping. Additionally, it is recommended to drive slower than the posted speed limit and to use caution when driving in windy or wet conditions.
How do I properly level and stabilize a motorhome at my campsite or RV park?
Motorhomes typically have built-in leveling jacks or blocks that can be adjusted to ensure the RV is level and stable. Some RV parks may also provide leveling pads or blocks if needed. Discuss your campsite with the RV owner ahead of time and they can provide you guidance on stabilizing.
What kind of maintenance or upkeep do I need to perform on the interior and exterior during my rental period?
You should keep the interior clean and tidy, empty waste tanks as needed, and report any damages or malfunctions to the RVshare owner. Exterior maintenance such as checking tire pressure is also recommended.
Does my motorhome rental come with bedding, linens, or other items I would consider to be personal?
This varies by RVshare owner. Some owners may include bedding and linens, while others may require renters to bring their own. It is best to check with the owner prior to renting.
Should I bring entertainment equipment or appliances for the motorhome rental?
While some motorhomes may come equipped with entertainment options or appliances, it is always a good idea to bring your own if desired. However, be mindful of any limitations on power usage or space restrictions. Check the RV listing or ask the RV owner what kind of entertainment is included.
Are there any limitations on where I can park or store a motorhome rental in Portales, NM, such as zoning laws or homeowners' association regulations?
There may be restrictions on where motorhomes can be parked or stored in certain areas. It is best to research local laws and regulations or to ask the RVshare owner for guidance.
What fuel efficiency considerations do I need to consider when operating a motorhome rental?
Motorhomes are not typically known for their fuel efficiency, but there are steps you can take to improve gas mileage such as driving at a lower speed, avoiding excessive idling, and keeping tires properly inflated.
How do I properly operate and maintain the various systems in a motorhome rental?
The RVshare owner should provide you with detailed instructions and manuals for operating and maintaining the various systems in the motorhome. It is important to follow these instructions carefully to ensure proper use and prevent damage.
Are any unique features or amenities available in motorhome rentals that may not be found in other RVs in Portales, NM?
This varies by RV owner and motorhome class, but some motorhomes may have unique features such as slide-outs, outdoor kitchens, or luxury finishes that may not be found in other types of RVs.
