Motel 6 Socorro (807 South U S 85.)

Accommodations for birders in the Bosque del Apache area include (1) a couple of B&Bs in San Antonio, which I haven't tried because the prices seemed rather steep; (2) the Birdwatchers' RV park (the closest place to stay near the refuge, if you have a camper or RV), and (3) the usual selection of motels in Socorro. I've tried several over the years -- the EconoLodge has nice double rooms, but most of the singles are funky (and sometimes noisy from the car wash next door); there are a couple of new but somewhat high-priced chain motels; but all in all, I've had the best luck at the Motel 6, which is generic but clean, well-kept, and quiet.

Unique Quality: The Motel 6 is conveniently located near the south Socorro freeway exit, and the staff is very reliable about wake-up calls -- both very helpful if you want to zip down to the Bosque at dawn to watch the birds wake up.

Directions: On the main drag at the south end of town (just off I-25 near Exit 147).