Albuquerque During Balloon Fest

Staying on the festival grounds is the very best way to experience it. They have hookups and dry camping. We dry camped for the whole festival time - two weekends and all days inbetween plus an extra day tacked on to each end. The balloons fly according to the weather and many times they're unable to go up. We also volunteered (got an free balloon ride for doing so). The balloonists are always looking for help in setting up and retrieving their balloons. Staying in the huge dry camping area is either an easy walk to the field or there are constant shuttle buses going up and down the rows from early morning until after the night festivities. Many times the balloons will land or fly right at the dry camping area. Staying off-site is a big hassle when it could be a lot more pleasant for you.

We stayed at Enchanted Trails some years ago. They had a shuttle that ran to and from the festival a few times a day. We loved that we didn't have to drive in the traffic, find a parking place, etc. Did they mention that to you? Of course, I wouldn't know if they still do that.

You will have a great time if the weather cooperates. We just walk out our back door since we live in Albuquerque. I won't get into that traffic.

Went there a few years back, as others have said stay on the grounds if possible, or there is a KOA somewhat close, Make reservations for that Now as well. Good Luck and Happy Camping !!

Matt_Colie wrote:
I am going to be very brief.
If you want to stay on the Balloon Fiesta grounds and want more than dry camping (10yo 30$/n*3min), try to make reservations today. Other than that, make what every reservations you can. Yes, the local traffic is a killer. That is what makes staying on the grounds good.

The mass accentions are weekends, do not miss that.

This is on my list as a get there at all cost......

Matt

I just made a reservation for the first weekend at Enchanted Trails. I called several parks and they are either charging 3 arms and 2 legs or are full. Not the best dates for us, we will have to adjust the front end to accommodate arriving two days early. We'll probably take it off of our Dallas week. We were planning to stay for a week, but are now limited to just 5 nights (with a lot change in the middle) and have no desire to dry camp for that length of time.

Future reference, yes this is like Harley week on steroids, more like the Masters in Augusta. If you plan to go, make your reservation in October the year before.

I will keep checking, but grabbed this one just to have a place.

I am going to be very brief.
If you want to stay on the Balloon Fiesta grounds and want more than dry camping (10yo 30$/n*3min), try to make reservations today. Other than that, make what every reservations you can. Yes, the local traffic is a killer. That is what makes staying on the grounds good.

The mass accentions are weekends, do not miss that.

This is on my list as a get there at all cost......

Matt

Given what I saw of traffic- I wouldn't want to stay anywhere but the Ballon Fiesta fairgrounds.

Their cancellation policy seemed pretty decent, if I recall correctly.

We have been in New Mexico during the Balloon Fiesta the past 4 years. RV parks as far away as Santa Fe are booked well in advance and many charge premium prices. If you want at least electric, you best make reservations for Corps of Engineers or State Park campgrounds. Dry camping sites at Corps or State Parks have usually been available. Even without special events like the Balloon Fiesta, it has been our experience that popular destinations are becoming more difficult to find full service facilities without making reservations.

It's a great experience! We made reservations for three nights in the VIP West dry camping area on the fiesta grounds. Were there starting Thursday of the second week of the fiesta. Were about 50 yards from the entrance to the balloon grounds. Daily passes for two came with the campsite. Could run the generator as needed during the day. Could get tanks pumped and water for a reasonable price.