Grants KOA Journey Blog
Celebrate 100 years of Route 66 With Us!
KOA Journey campgrounds offer the perfect oasis after a day on the road. Whether it’s along the way or a quick getaway, they’ve got you covered. Located near the highways and byways of North America with long Pull-thru RV Sites, they deliver convenience to the traveling camper. Pull in, ease back and take a load off.
KOA Journey campgrounds offer the perfect oasis after a day on the road. Whether it’s along the way or a quick getaway, they’ve got you covered. Located near the highways and byways of North America with long Pull-thru RV Sites, they deliver convenience to the traveling camper. Pull in, ease back and take a load off.
We are easy to find. If you are driving I-40 West from Albuquerque, take Exit 81, or I-40 East from Arizona, take Exit 81A, then turn south on NM 53 at the top of the exit ramp. Look for KOA signs on the left and within 1/2 mile of the interstate.
GPS: N35.14512, W107.874178
If arriving after hours , text us at 505-287-4376 and we can help you.
.
Get Google Directions
?? Lava Trails & Local Legends: Why Grants, New Mexico Should Be Your Next Camping Stop
If you’re anything like me—someone who loves a good hike, gets excited about history, and thinks nothing beats a night under the stars—then you MUST put Grants, New Mexico on your bucket list. This little gem on Route 66 is packed with natural beauty, fascinating history, & some seriously cool volcanic landscapes. And the best part? You can camp in comfort at the Grants KOA while exploring it all.
Just a short drive from the campground, El Malpais National Monument is a total dream for nature nerds and hikers. The name means “The Badlands,” but don’t let that fool you—this place is stunning in a rugged, wild kind of way.
You’ll find everything from massive lava flows to hidden caves and dramatic sandstone cliffs. I walked the El Calderon Trail, and let me tell you, there’s something magical about walking over ancient lava fields with nothing but blue sky above and the crunch of volcanic rock beneath your feet.
Want to hike the rim of a 10,000-year-old volcano and check out a natural ice cave in the same afternoon? Yup, you can do that here too.
The Bandera Volcano & Ice Cave is a must-see. Not only is it cool (literally), but it’s packed with cool info about geology and the region’s volcanic history. It’s the kind of off-the-beaten-path spot that makes a road trip feel special. They even have a cute gift shop that boasts a museum inside.
Grants has a rich mining history as well, especially from its uranium boom days. If you're curious about what life was like underground, swing by the New Mexico Mining Museum. They’ve got a replica mine that makes you feel like you’re walking through the real deal, and the stories? Super inspiring.
After a full day of hiking, exploring, and geeking out over volcanoes, I was more than ready to kick back. The Grants KOA Journey had me covered. Make sure to explore their Lava Bubble. Whether you’re in an RV, a tent, or just want a cozy cabin, this spot hits the sweet spot between rustic and comfy.
They’ve got a Kitchen that freshly Bakes Pies each day, clean showers, a wonderful Gift Shop (with the BEST prices in the area, and even those classic KOA pancakes in the morning. And the staff? Friendly, helpful, and full of local tips.
Grants might not be the first place you think of when you’re mapping out a New Mexico adventure—but trust me, it’s worth the stop. With lava trails, ancient ice caves, mining history, and wide-open desert skies, this town has serious charm.
If you're road-tripping down Route 66 or just looking for a nature escape with a little extra soul, stay at the Grants KOA and make some memories. This place surprised me—in all the best ways. They have a gorgeous Walking Trail and Terrific Dinners that are delivered to your camp spot.
?? Ready to explore? Book your stay at the Grants KOA Journey and let the adventures begin!
That doesn't mean this area has to always be empty. When you start reviewing camping options, your history will display here to help compare sites and find the best stay. You will be able to share your stay information with friends or family and save it for a later time if you have a KOA Account.
Make checkout easy by booking all your reservations at once. Add your sites from different campgrounds into your shopping cart* and then choose checkout.
