Albuquerque Elks Refuge

Welcome to the Albuquerque Elks Refuge, a unique and highly valued campground located in the scenic foothills of Tijeras, New Mexico. For many New Mexicans who are part of the esteemed Elks Lodge, finding a peaceful, well-equipped, and community-focused camping destination is a true privilege. The Elks Refuge stands apart as an exclusive, member-only park, offering a distinct retreat from typical public RV campgrounds. It provides a serene environment where members and their guests can enjoy the beauty of the New Mexico landscape while benefiting from convenient amenities and a welcoming atmosphere fostered by fellow Elks.

Our objective with this detailed overview is to provide clear, engaging, and factual information about the Albuquerque Elks Refuge, helping local users in New Mexico, particularly Elks Lodge members, learn more about this exceptional place. We understand that prospective campers within the Elks community are looking for reliable insights into its amenities, accessibility, and the overall experience before planning their trips. This article will delve into its picturesque location, the specific services and features that make it a standout, and offer essential contact information. From its full hookup sites to its inviting communal spaces, the Albuquerque Elks Refuge promises a comfortable and friendly retreat for its cherished members.

New Mexico's diverse terrain, from vast deserts to majestic mountains, offers a wide array of outdoor experiences. The Albuquerque Elks Refuge contributes to this rich tapestry by providing a specialized and intimate setting. Reviews consistently highlight its status as an "excellent retreat" and praise the "friendly and welcoming" camp host. While its exclusivity means it's not open to the general public, for Elks Lodge members, it represents a valuable amenity and a cherished "home away from home" in the Land of Enchantment. It embodies a sense of camaraderie and shared appreciation for outdoor living within a supportive community.

The Albuquerque Elks Refuge is conveniently located at 30 Buckboard Rd, Tijeras, NM 87059, USA. This address places it within the picturesque foothills of Tijeras, a charming town situated east of Albuquerque in the Manzano Mountains. This strategic location offers a perfect balance: a peaceful, natural setting away from urban bustle, yet within easy reach of the amenities and attractions of New Mexico's largest city.

Tijeras itself is known as the "Gateway to the Cibola National Forest," providing a direct connection to extensive outdoor recreational opportunities. Access to the campground from Albuquerque is straightforward, typically involving a scenic drive eastward on Historic Route 66 (NM-333) or Interstate 40, before turning onto local roads. The campground's address on Buckboard Road indicates it's likely nestled slightly off the main thoroughfares, contributing to its "retreat" feel.

For members and their guests traveling with RVs, the approach to 30 Buckboard Rd should be manageable, as it is designed to accommodate such vehicles. While exact road conditions are not specified, the nature of a dedicated RV park suggests suitable access. The proximity to Albuquerque means that campers are never far from essential services such as grocery stores, gas stations, repair shops, and medical facilities, ensuring convenience during their stay. Furthermore, the surrounding Manzano Mountains and Cibola National Forest offer endless possibilities for hiking, mountain biking, and exploring the unique high-desert ecosystem of central New Mexico, making the Elks Refuge an excellent base for local adventures.

The Albuquerque Elks Refuge, as a member-only campground, provides a range of services designed to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for Elks Lodge members and their guests. Based on the provided review, these services include:

• Full Hookup (FHU) RV Sites: A key offering is the availability of Full Hookup sites, meaning each site provides connections for water, sewer, and electrical power. This is a highly convenient amenity for RV campers, allowing for a fully self-contained and comfortable experience without needing to relocate for dumping or refilling.

• Restroom Facilities: The campground offers a dedicated "restroom." While the extent of facilities (e.g., showers) is not explicitly detailed, the presence of a clean restroom is essential for campers, particularly those in smaller RVs or tent camping (if allowed for guests).

• Individual Site Amenities: Each site is equipped with a "grill and fire ring," providing convenient facilities for outdoor cooking and enjoying traditional campfires, enhancing the camping atmosphere.

• On-Site Camp Host: A significant service highlighted is the presence of a "camp host," who is an "Albuquerque Elks Lodge member who lives at the campground during the season." This host is described as "very friendly and welcoming," providing on-site assistance, ensuring rules are followed, and fostering a positive community environment.

• Community Gathering Space: The campground features a "large pavilion with a fireplace at one end for small gatherings." This communal space is ideal for social events, group meals, or simply relaxing, promoting camaraderie among members.

• Recreational Grounds: There is a "grassed area with a ball field" and "shoe horse pits," offering dedicated spaces for light recreational activities and games, encouraging active leisure for campers of all ages.

The Albuquerque Elks Refuge distinguishes itself with several key features and highlights that make it an attractive retreat for its members in New Mexico.

• Exclusive Member-Only Access: This is a defining feature. Being a "member only park" means a more controlled and often more secure environment. This exclusivity contributes to a strong sense of community and provides a private retreat away from the general public, which many members value highly.

• Full Hookup RV Sites: The provision of FHU (Full Hookup) sites is a significant convenience for RVers. This means campers have direct access to water, sewer, and electricity at their individual sites, ensuring maximum comfort and minimal logistical hassle during their stay.

• Friendly and Welcoming Camp Host: A major highlight is the presence of a camp host who is "very friendly and welcoming to members and their guests." This personal touch helps create a warm and inviting atmosphere, providing on-site support and reinforcing the community feel.

• Relaxing Retreat Environment: Reviewers describe it as an "excellent retreat from the typical RV campground." This suggests a quieter, more serene ambiance, making it ideal for those seeking relaxation and a break from more crowded or commercial camping settings.

• Communal Recreational Amenities: The "grassed area with a ball field, shoe horse pits and a large pavilion with a fireplace" offers excellent communal spaces for light recreation and social gatherings. These amenities foster interaction among members and provide options for leisurely activities within the campground.

• Scenic Foothills Location: Nestled in the "foothills of the town of Tijeras," the campground benefits from beautiful natural surroundings. This location offers picturesque views and a pleasant climate, characteristic of New Mexico's high desert and mountain interface.

• Proximity to Albuquerque and Outdoor Recreation: While feeling like a retreat, its location in Tijeras means it’s a short drive to Albuquerque for city amenities and entertainment. It also serves as a gateway to the vast outdoor recreation opportunities within the nearby Cibola National Forest, appealing to hikers, bikers, and nature enthusiasts.

For inquiries about the Albuquerque Elks Refuge, including membership requirements for the Elks Lodge, availability, or specific details about the campground, please use the following contact information.

• Address: 30 Buckboard Rd, Tijeras, NM 87059, USA

• Phone: While a direct phone number for the campground was not explicitly provided in the prompt, the primary contact would typically be through the managing body, the Albuquerque Elks Lodge #461. Their general contact number or information for the campground host would usually be available to members.

• For the Albuquerque Elks Lodge #461, general contact information can be found online. Members should consult their lodge directory or official communications for specific campground contact details and seasonal operating information.

For residents of New Mexico who are members of the Elks Lodge, the Albuquerque Elks Refuge in Tijeras represents an exceptionally suitable and desirable camping destination. It perfectly aligns with the local appreciation for serene outdoor spaces, community connection, and convenient amenities, all within the beautiful landscape of the Land of Enchantment.

The primary reason for its suitability is its exclusivity. Being a "member only park" fosters a strong sense of community and provides a secure, private retreat. For Elks Lodge members in New Mexico, this offers a unique "home away from home" where they can comfortably interact with fellow members, free from the crowds often found in public campgrounds. This shared bond creates a truly welcoming and friendly atmosphere, enhanced by the presence of a "very friendly and welcoming" camp host who is also a member.

Furthermore, the practical amenities are highly appealing. The availability of Full Hookup (FHU) RV sites with water, sewer, and electrical connections means maximum comfort and convenience for RV owners, allowing for extended stays without hassle. The inclusion of individual grills and fire rings encourages traditional camping enjoyment, while communal spaces like the "large pavilion with a fireplace" and recreational areas like the "ball field" and "shoe horse pits" provide excellent opportunities for social gatherings and light activity within the campground.

Finally, the campground's picturesque location in the Tijeras foothills offers the perfect balance of natural beauty and accessibility. It provides a peaceful escape with pleasant views and clean air, while still being a short drive from the urban amenities and diverse attractions of Albuquerque. For New Mexico Elks Lodge members seeking a comfortable, community-focused, and conveniently located outdoor retreat to relax, socialize, and enjoy the state's natural charm, the Albuquerque Elks Refuge is an ideal choice, offering a true sense of belonging and a consistently enjoyable experience.

Albuquerque Elks Refuge

30 Buckboard Rd, Tijeras, NM 87059, USA