Our Story

Welcome to Rainbow Lake

More Than an RV Park. A Destination.

Rainbow Lake Cabin & RV has been a beloved Ruidoso institution since 1951. What began as a simple fishing and camping destination has grown into one of New Mexico's most cherished mountain retreats — a place where families return summer after summer, friendships are forged around firepits, and the outside world feels just a little bit farther away.

Tucked into the pines of Carrizo Canyon along the banks of Carrizo Creek, the park sits on the edge of Lincoln National Forest, giving guests immediate access to some of the most stunning natural landscape the Southwest has to offer. We have 49 full hookup RV sites shaded by towering Ponderosa Pines and Douglas firs, and 27 fully furnished cabins ranging from cozy efficiency cottages to spacious family retreats. Long term and seasonal stays are welcome too, and many of our extended guests will tell you once you find Rainbow Lake, it's hard to leave.
What makes Rainbow Lake special isn't just the scenery, though there's plenty of that. It's the community. Our onsite staff genuinely care about every guest's experience, the neighbors wave hello, the deer wander through in the evenings, and the pace of life slows down in the best possible way.
We're proud of what Rainbow Lake has been for over 70 years, and even more excited about what it continues to become. Come see it for yourself — we think you'll feel right at home.

4.3

Google Rating

47

Accommodations

rainbow lake cabin and rv ruidoso​

ways to stay

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Google Reviews

What Our Guests Are Saying

4.3
Based on 417 reviews
Aide
5 days ago

This is such a beautiful place. Miss Brandy always meets our needs. She makes sure we have a comfortable stay. Very nice person.

Guadalupe Tarango
2 weeks ago

Rainbow lake cabin & rv is amazing. The rv spots, the cabins, bathrooms and showers are always clean, the grounds are level and accommodating. The staff is and has always been friendly and going above and beyond to help. I have used them for both business and vacation. They are amazing!!!!

Katie Evans
3 weeks ago

My husband and I called to make reservations last-minute, and Rainbow Lake was very helpful and accommodating! Beautiful grounds (I love the huge rainbow trout in the pond), great location, and very friendly staff. We’ve really enjoyed our stay!

Renee Diaz
3 weeks ago

Brandi was very helpful when we made our reservations for a spot for our travel trailer. On our way up to Ruidoso we had an issue with our truck and couldn’t come up with the trailer. I called Brandi to let her know of the situation and asked if they had any cabins available. Brandi helped us with that and let us know the cabin would be ready and available when we arrived at whatever time that may be. We arrived around 12:30 AM. Thank you Brandi and Rainbow Lake and Campground for all your help and hospitality. We will definitely be back and pass on the recommendations to stay at Rainbow Lake.❤️

Vanessa Hernandez
1 month ago

My family and I had a great time here! Everything is close by minutes from Grindstone Lake and Ruidoso. Brandi and her husband were great host. Brandi was always quick to answer any questions or concerns I had. We hope to come back soon 🙂

Paul Jungman
1 month ago

Beautiful campground, very friendly campers, great place for a family vacation, downtown Ruidoso right down the hill, Inn of the Mountain Gods right up the hill, Great spot

Traeger Combs
2 months ago

We had a great time at Rainbow Lake! Sites were clean and well maintained. Check in process was very efficient. One surprise was how quite and peaceful the park was. Our kids loved seeing the deer passing through. Where they really shined though was the customer service. Brandi was amazing! We had vehicle problems, and Brandi went above and beyond helping us. We will definitely be returning!

Paige Kirk
2 months ago

Brandi and Eric were great camp hosts. They were available to answer any questions and help us out when needed. Our cabin was situated next to the stream and had the most calming sound. Somehow, Rainbow lake is perfectly situated away from town for peace and quiet, but within a 5 minute drive to midtown. Loved it, and will be back again.

Anthony DiNapoli
2 months ago

If I could give this place 10 stars, I absolutely would. It’s perfectly located—just a mile away from everything you need, yet still secluded enough for the kids to run around, explore, and enjoy the outdoors. Brandi and Eric are amazing hosts—always attentive, friendly, and clearly take great pride in maintaining the property. Everything is kept very clean, including the laundry room, which is a huge plus. This has become our go-to spot for weekend getaways and even longer stays. At this point, we consider ourselves lifetime regulars!

Julie Downs
2 months ago

Was driving thru saw the deer 🦌 on the side of the road…came right up to the car…sorry didn't had any food for them!?!? 😔

Ready to Experience Rainbow Lake?

Whether you are booking a weekend getaway or settling in for longer, we would love to have you.

Book Now (575) 630-2267