Maybe when you think about Mexico, what comes to your mind is Cancun or its Caribbean beaches. But have you ever heard about Mexico’s natural parks?
Mexico is known for being one of the world’s 17 megadiverse countries, ranking fifth in natural biodiversity makes it a major tourist destination.
So, If you are ever planning on visiting new wonders while in Mexico, and the idea of camping excites you, you don’t even have to go that far!
When was the last time you slept under a dome of stars? Do you remember waking up to the smell of fresh pine and birds singing around you? No? Then you should seriously start planning the best roadtrip ever.
Don’t know where to go? Don’t worry, we got you! Here are five places to camp near Mexico City.
1. Las Estacas
The natural resort of Las Estacas, in Morelos, is ideal for spending the whole day swimming in the river and the park’s spring, with its characteristic crystal-clear water that even allows snorkeling.
In the park, you can also find activities such as zip-lining, mini-golf, horseback riding, and fishing. And to stay overnight, there is the camping area, which is quite extensive. If you prefer, you can stay in the hotel for more comfort.
Location: Yautepec-Jojutla Road. Km 17. Tlaltizapan, Morelos.
Entrance: The park entrance fee is 495 pesos, children under one meter tall pay 315 pesos, and children under 90 centimeters tall enter for free. The park is open from 8:00 to 18:00 hours.
2. El Chico National Park
Located in the mining area of Pachuca, the park covers an area of 2,739 hectares, enough to accommodate its forests of oyamel, pine, and oak for a relaxing stroll. Thanks to its ample space, it has four camping areas, cliffs for rappelling with a height of 3,090 meters, rock climbing, and mountaineering.
Location: From Mexico City, take the Mexico-Pachuca highway. On the latter, take highway number 105 from Pachuca to Tampico, where you will find a diversion that leads to the route known as the Mountain Corridor and where you take the diversion to El Chico.
Entrance: On the website’s and latest update, it says that general access costs $47.00, refuge access $468.00, camping $156.00, and Cyclists: $47.00. (MXN)
3.San Nicolás Totolapan
It is perhaps the closest option to Mexico City as it is located in the Ajusco and is one of the largest and most important ecotourism centers near Mexico City. Among the activities you can practice are fishing and mountain biking. Campfires are allowed, and it has bathrooms and surveillance.
Location: Take the Picacho-Ajusco highway to kilometer 11.6 where on the right side you will see the entrance to the park.
Entrance: $100 MXN
4. Nevado de Toluca
It seems to be the trendy place. People have flocked to take photos on the volcano’s slope, taking advantage of the snow that has fallen in recent weeks and even the frozen lake. However, few know that you can also camp in Nevado at the last access point, although for this, you must bring the necessary equipment and clothing to withstand sub-zero climates.
Location: In Toluca, you must take highway No. 134 towards Temascaltepec. 18 km ahead, you must take the deviation towards the town “Las Raíces”. The road to the crater is 21 km away.
5.Iztaccihuatl – Popocatepetl National Park
The National Park is ideal for those who enjoy mountaineering activities, but it also serves as a camping spot surrounded by fascinating high-mountain landscapes and wonderful scenery. The park has toilet facilities and 24-hour surveillance at the so-called “Paso de Cortés”.
Location: Take the road towards the city of Puebla, where you will take the exit towards Cuautla and Chalco until you reach the federal highway to Amecameca. Once there, take the road towards Cuautla; upon leaving the town, there is a deviation to the left to Tlamacas, pass through the town of San Pedro Nexapa, and continue until you reach Paso de Cortés.
What to bring to a campsite?
Finally, don’t forget to bring the following items, essential for a successful camping trip:
- Flashlight with batteries
- Mosquito repellent
- Sunscreen
- Water bottles
- Basic first aid kit
- Comfortable and terrain-appropriate shoes
- Hand sanitizer gel
- Sunglasses
- Toilet paper
- Comfortable and warm sleepwear.