The Sierra Hermosa RV Park is located on Highway 522, across from the Questa Lumber strip mall. Questa native Bobby Ortega is the owner and operator of the business. “The land we built this RV park on originally belonged to my grandfather, J.P. Rael. I purchased it from my uncle and aunt, who had inherited the land, so that makes running a business on this property pretty special,” Bobby says.
Bobby worked for Centinel Bank for 37 years, but says he had always wanted to open an R.V. park. “In 2013, I heard from the mine that they were going to be expanding but unfortunately, they stopped operations so there was some uncertainty, but I decided in a post-mining economy, an RV park was exactly what our community needed, so I proceeded with my plan,” he says.
When Bobby envisioned his business, he knew he wanted to carry on with the same philosophy he learned in banking, which placed a strong emphasis on customer service. For this reason, guest experience is a big priority for Bobby and his team. “We aim to ensure people enjoy their time staying at the park, because we want them to enjoy Questa and return year after year. I always want to ensure their experience is a good and memorable one,” Bobby notes.
Bobby says running his business on the land that once belonged to his grandfather is more than just business as usual. “As someone who grew up working the land, there is no better way to understand the land than to work it. You gain a deep respect and appreciation for the land you care for, you water, and you cultivate. I have done that for most of my life, ranching and caring for my cows so my respect for the land we now run this business on is a personal one.”
Currently, the RV park has 45 spaces with full amenities including full hookups, water, sewer, and electrical. One special draw of the park is the free Wi-Fi that comes with your stay. “I have had people come from across the country and work right here in Questa, New Mexico. Quality, high-speed internet provided by Kit Carson has changed everything and it allows me to offer my guests what they need to continue to stay connected,” Bobby continues.
In addition to the amenities, the park sits on 4-1/2 acres of land, which is surrounded by 45 acres of open space belonging to Bobby. This provides the opportunity for people to explore and find serenity they’re seeking when they stay at his park. There is a pavilion toward the back of the park, for people who want to have get-togethers or gatherings. There is also a spring-fed lake on the property for guests to enjoy.
The park sits in close proximity to the main stores on Questa’s main street, Highway 522, and the laundromat is just down the road. Additionally, Bobby adds, “people are able to get to any tourist destination anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour including the Rio Grande del Norte Monument and three wilderness areas.”
Speaking of his time growing up in northern New Mexico, Bobby says “I can recall going to the Otra Vanda (other side of the Rio Grande), taking the cows across the river for the seasonal grazing changes. I know the hiking trails across this area like the back of my hand. I use maps to guide people to places they might enjoy and I am always pointing to local businesses for residents to have coffee, get groceries, or grab a bite to eat. I encourage our guests to support our local businesses every chance I get.”
Nestled in the valley of the Sangre de Cristos, Bobby says he knew he wanted his park to perfectly represent what people will see. “One day, I was looking at Flag Mountain in its glory and thought, that’s it. Sierra Hermosa is a beautiful mountain. That is why we chose its name. It fits perfectly for what people see when they look out at the spectacular view.”
For more information about the Sierra Hermosa RV Park, visit the website at www.sierrahermosarvpark.com
