U.S. National Forest Campground Guide

Carson National Forest

New Mexico



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UPDATEREVIEW
1 review, Avg. Rating: Excellent
CAMPGROUND NAME: Agua Piedra

VISIT DATE: 06/17/1999

UPDATE DATE: 2/19/24

STATE: New Mexico

REGION: Southwestern

RANGER DISTRICT: Camino Real

NEAREST CITY/TOWN: Penasco

RESERVATIONS: 1-877-444-6777 or make on-line reservation

DIRECTIONS:
From Penasco, NM, take State Rt. 75 east 4.8 miles to "T" 
intersection (State Rt. 518).  Turn right onto Rt. 518 (unmarked) 
and go 6.8 miles to campground sign.  Turn right into campground.

GENERAL COMMENTS:
The elevation is 8,100 ft.

The campground is composed of two sections near the Rio Pueblo. 
One section, at entrance to campground, is a small loop with
sites that can accommodate small groups.  The other section
contains two loops one of which accommodate tents or RVs
(combined) and the other  is for tents only.  Shade is provided
by spruce, fir and a few aspen.  The sound of the river can be
heard throughout the campground.

SEASONS
Open Seasonal: Yes
Open All Year: No

Seasonal Comment:
Open May 20 through September 18 - weather dependent

RATE AND MAXIMUM STAY PERMITTED
Rate: $24 per day - single
$40 per day - double
Maximum Stay Permitted (days): 14

CAMPGROUND SITE CONFIGURATION
No. RV Sites: 0
No. Tent Sites: 19
No. Combined Sites (Tent or RV): 23
   
   Total Sites: 42

Tent Pads: No
Open Sites: Yes
Wooded Sites: Yes

No. Tables on Sites: 42
No. Grilles on Sites: 37
Equestrian Camping:  No

RV INFORMATION
Hookups: None
No. RV Pull Throughs: 3
Waste Station: No
Average Parking Apron Size: 9' X 51'

Comments:
The parking aprons are gravel and paved.

FACILITIES
Vaults: Yes
Flush Toilets: No
Hot Showers: No
Wheelchair Friendly Toilets: Yes

Public Phone: No
Playground: No
No. Water Spigots (non-site): 2

WATER SPORTS - None

HIKING
Agua Piedra #19A (foot, horse, mountain bike & motorcycle) - 6.1
miles

FISHING   
Rainbow trout (stocked) - there is wheelchair friendly fishing
access in the day-use area.

UPDATEREVIEW
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CAMPGROUND NAME: Capulin

VISIT DATE: 06/14/1999

UPDATE DATE: 2/19/2024

STATE: New Mexico

REGION: Southwestern

RANGER DISTRICT: Camino Real

NEAREST CITY/TOWN: Taos

RESERVATIONS: No

DIRECTIONS:
In Taos, NM, at the intersection of State Rts. 68/585 and US Rt. 64,
take Rt. 64/585 east 2.1 miles to stop sign at "T" intersection. 
Turn right at intersection onto Rt. 64 (Enchanted Circle) and go
4.5 miles to campground on right.

GENERAL COMMENTS:
The elevation is 8,000 ft.

The campground stretches along the Rio Fernando with most sites
adjacent to it.  The area is riparian set in mixed conifers and
cottonwoods.  The campground is within sight and sound of US Rt.
64.  With no turn-arounds in the campground, only small RVs are
recommended - no travel trailers.

SEASONS
Open Seasonal: Yes
Open All Year: No

Seasonal Comment:
Open May 1 through October 31 - weather dependent

RATE AND MAXIMUM STAY PERMITTED
Rate: $12 per day
Maximum Stay Permitted (days): 14

CAMPGROUND SITE CONFIGURATION
No. RV Sites: 0
No. Tent Sites: 4
No. Combined Sites (Tent or RV): 7
   
   Total Sites: 11

Tent Pads: No
Open Sites: Yes
Wooded Sites: Yes

No. Tables on Sites: 11
No. Grilles on Sites: 11
Equestrian Camping:  No

RV INFORMATION
Hookups: None
No. RV Pull Throughs: 0
Waste Station: No
Average Parking Apron Size: 14.5' X 36'

Comments:
The parking aprons are dirt.  With no turn-arounds in the
campground, access is limited to small RVs.  Travel trailers are
not recommended.

FACILITIES
Vaults: Yes
Flush Toilets: No
Hot Showers: No
Wheelchair Friendly Toilets: No

Public Phone: No
Playground: No
No. Water Spigots (non-site): 0

WATER SPORTS - None

HIKING - No

FISHING - No

UPDATEREVIEW
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CAMPGROUND NAME: Cimarron

VISIT DATE: 06/25/1999

UPDATE DATE: 2/19/2024

STATE: New Mexico

REGION: Southwestern

RANGER DISTRICT: Questa

NEAREST CITY/TOWN: Costilla

RESERVATIONS: 1-877-444-6777 or make on-line reservation

DIRECTIONS:
In Costilla, NM, at intersection of State Rts. 522 and 196,
take Rt. 196 east 17.3 miles to where Rt. 196 becomes Forest Rt.
1950.  Continue straight on Rt. 1950 and go 1.6 miles to a "Y"
intersection.  Bear right, staying on Rt. 1950, and go 9.3 miles
to Cimarron campground sign.  Turn right at sign and go 0.8 miles
to campground entrance.  Turn right into campground.

NOTE: State Rt. 196 becomes a dirt and gravel roadway after 10
miles and continues that way on Forest Rt. 1950.  Both roads vary
from single-lane to wide two-lane.

GENERAL COMMENTS:
The elevation is 9,400 ft.

The campground permits horses and is located within the Valle
Vidal Unit among spruce.  The 100,000-acre Valle Vidal was
donated by the Pennzoil Co. in 1982.  It is a wild life habitat
which limits vehicles to designated roads and campgrounds.  Elk
calving is a major activity from May 1 through June 30.  Hiking
and horseback riding is permitted throughout the Unit.  The open
range feel provides a unique experience for all with lots of wild
life viewing.  Some sites have feeding bins and hitching rails.

NOTE: Bring a spare tire and changing tools.  Rock and gravel on
the access roads can be sharp.

SEASONS
Open Seasonal: Yes
Open All Year: No

Seasonal Comment:
Open May 26 through September 18 - weather dependent

RATE AND MAXIMUM STAY PERMITTED
Rate: $22 per day - single
$40 per day - double
Maximum Stay Permitted (days): 14

NOTE: Fee may be reduced if no water is available.

CAMPGROUND SITE CONFIGURATION
No. RV Sites: 0
No. Tent Sites: 0
No. Combined Sites (Tent or RV): 35
   
   Total Sites: 35

Tent Pads: No
Open Sites: Yes
Wooded Sites: Yes

No. Tables on Sites: 35
No. Grilles on Sites: 35
Equestrian Camping: Yes

RV INFORMATION
Hookups: None
No. RV Pull Throughs: 4
Waste Station: No
Average Parking Apron Size: 20' X 47'

Comments:
The parking aprons are gravel and the pull-throughs are very
long.

FACILITIES
Vaults: Yes
Flush Toilets: No
Hot Showers: No
Wheelchair Friendly Toilets: Yes

Public Phone: No
Playground: No
No. Water Spigots (non-site): 6
   Threaded: 0

WATER SPORTS - None

HIKING
Shuree Ponds Trail (foot and horse) - 0.5 miles

There are few maintained trails, BUT the whole area is an open
range permitting horseback riding and hiking under a "park and
go" policy.

FISHING - No

Comments:
Shuree Pond, located 0.5 miles from the campground on Forest Rt.
1950, is stocked with Rainbow trout.

UPDATEREVIEW
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CAMPGROUND NAME: Columbine

VISIT DATE: 06/14/1999

UPDATE DATE: 2/19/2024

STATE: New Mexico

REGION: Southwestern

RANGER DISTRICT: Questa

NEAREST CITY/TOWN: Questa

RESERVATIONS: 1-877-444-6777 or make on-line reservation

DIRECTIONS:
From Questa, NM, take State Rt. 38 east 3.9 miles to campground
sign.  Turn right into campground.

GENERAL COMMENTS:
The elevation is 7,900 ft.

The campground, a.k.a Columbine Canyon, is composed of two loops.  
One small loop, at the campground entrance, has all open sites and 
views of the towering mountains.  It would be nice for large 
gatherings.  The other is a large long loop up the canyon along a 
fast flowing Columbine Creek.  The campsites in this loop are 
tucked in among pine, spruce and some aspen so have ample shade 
and good to excellent privacy between campsites rather than the 
poor privacy found in the smaller loop. The Columbine trailhead is 
off this loop.  I think he may have higher expectations than those 
concessionaires he is representing.  The sound of the creek can be 
heard throughout the large loop.  

This is bear country; practice safe food storage techniques.

SEASONS
Open Seasonal: Yes
Open All Year: No

Seasonal Comment:
Open May 26 through September 18 - weather dependent

RATE AND MAXIMUM STAY PERMITTED
Rate: $22 per day
Maximum Stay Permitted (days): 14

CAMPGROUND SITE CONFIGURATION
No. RV Sites: 0
No. Tent Sites: 1
No. Combined Sites (Tent or RV): 26
   
   Total Sites: 27

Tent Pads: No
Open Sites: Yes
Wooded Sites: Yes
Equestrian Camping: No

No. Tables on Sites: 26
No. Grilles on Sites: 26

RV INFORMATION
Hookups: None
No. RV Pull Throughs: 6
Waste Station: No 
Average Parking Apron Size: 11' X 45'

Comments:
The parking aprons are paved.  An RV waste station with potable
water is available for a fee at the private River Ranch
campground on State Rt.38 just west of Red River.

FACILITIES
Vaults: Yes
Flush Toilets: No
Hot Showers: No
Wheelchair Friendly Toilets: Yes

Public Phone: No
Playground: No
No. Water Spigots (non-site): 4
  No. Threaded: 3

Comments:
Hot showers are available, for a fee, at the private River Ranch
campground, located just west of Red River on State Rt. 38.

WATER SPORTS - None

HIKING
Columbine - Twining National Recreation Trail (foot & horse) #71
Provides access to a network of trails including:
     Gold Hill - 9 miles
     Lobo Peak - 10 miles
     Twining - 13 miles

FISHING - No

UPDATEREVIEW
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CAMPGROUND NAME: Comales

VISIT DATE: 06/17/1999

UPDATE DATE: 2/19/2024

STATE: New Mexico

REGION: Southwestern

RANGER DISTRICT: Camino Real

NEAREST CITY/TOWN: Penasco

RESERVATIONS: No

DIRECTIONS:
From Penasco, NM, take State Rt. 75 east 4.8 miles to "T" 
intersection (State Rt. 518).  Turn right onto Rt. 518 (unmarked) 
and go 2.2 miles to campground sign.  Turn left into campground

GENERAL COMMENTS:
The elevation is 7,700 ft.

The campground is located along the Rio Pueblo with some sites
overlooking the river and is one step above dispersed camping. 
Sites 4,5,6, 12 and 13 are located on dead ends with no turn-
arounds.  The road to right of campground entrance is not
trailer-friendly.  Spruce and juniper are the predominate trees. 
The sounds of the Rio Pueblo and traffic noise from Rt. 75 can be
heard throughout the campground.

SEASONS
Open Seasonal: Yes
Open All Year: No

Seasonal Comment:
Open May 1 through October 31 - weather dependent

RATE AND MAXIMUM STAY PERMITTED
Rate: $14 per day
Maximum Stay Permitted (days): 14

CAMPGROUND SITE CONFIGURATION
No. RV Sites: 0
No. Tent Sites: 5
No. Combined Sites (Tent or RV): 5
   
   Total Sites: 10

Tent Pads: No
Open Sites: Yes
Wooded Sites: Yes

No. Tables on Sites: 10
No. Grilles on Sites: 7
Equestrian Camping:  No

RV INFORMATION
Hookups: None
No. RV Pull Throughs: 2
Waste Station: No
Average Parking Apron Size: Open field

Comments:
The parking aprons are grass, dirt and rock.

FACILITIES
Vaults: Yes
Flush Toilets: No
Hot Showers: No
Wheelchair Friendly Toilets: No

Public Phone: No
Playground: No
No. Water Spigots (non-site): 0

WATER SPORTS - None

HIKING - No

FISHING   
Rainbow trout (stocked)

UPDATEREVIEW
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CAMPGROUND NAME: Duran Canyon

VISIT DATE: 06/17/1999

UPDATE DATE: 2/19/2024

STATE: New Mexico

REGION: Southwestern

RANGER DISTRICT: Camino Real

NEAREST CITY/TOWN: Penasco

RESERVATIONS: No

DIRECTIONS:
From Penasco, NM, take State Rt. 75 east 4.8 miles to "T"
intersection (State Rt. 518).  Turn right onto Rt. 518 (unmarked)
and go 8.3 miles to La Junta Canyon (Forest Rt. 76) sign.  Turn 
left at sign onto Rt. 76 (dirt and gravel) and go 2 miles to 
campground sign.  Turn right across low water bridge into campground.

GENERAL COMMENTS:
The elevation is 9,000 ft.

The campground is located on the Duran and Junta Creeks nestled
among mature spruce.  It is basically a tent camp with a couple
RV-friendly sites.

SEASONS
Open Seasonal: Yes
Open All Year: No

Seasonal Comment:
Open May 1 through September 26 - weather dependent

RATE AND MAXIMUM STAY PERMITTED
Rate: $14 per day
Maximum Stay Permitted (days): 14

CAMPGROUND SITE CONFIGURATION
No. RV Sites: 0
No. Tent Sites: 10
No. Combined Sites (Tent or RV): 2
   
   Total Sites: 12

Tent Pads: No
Open Sites: Yes
Wooded Sites: Yes

No. Tables on Sites: 12
No. Grilles on Sites: 12
Equestrian Camping:  No

RV INFORMATION
Hookups: None
No. RV Pull Throughs: 2
Waste Station: No
Average Parking Apron Size: Not applicable

Comments:
The parking aprons are gravel.  The only RV sites are located to
the left of campground entrance.

FACILITIES
Vaults: Yes
Flush Toilets: No
Hot Showers: No
Wheelchair Friendly Toilets: No

Public Phone: No
Playground: No
No. Water Spigots (non-site): 1

WATER SPORTS - None

HIKING
Duran Canyon Trail (foot) - 3 miles

FISHING   
Rainbow trout (stocked)

UPDATEREVIEW
1 review, Avg. Rating: Excellent
CAMPGROUND NAME: Elephant Rock

VISIT DATE: 06/14/1999

UPDATE DATE: 2/19/2024

STATE: New Mexico

REGION: Southwestern

RANGER DISTRICT: Questa

NEAREST CITY/TOWN: Red River

RESERVATIONS: 1-877-444-6777 or make on-line reservation

DIRECTIONS:
From Red River, NM, take State Rt. 38 west 3.0 miles to
campground sign.  Turn right into campground.

GENERAL COMMENTS:
The elevation is 8,500 ft.

This attractive campground is a single loop that meanders up a
hillside with several sites featuring stone terracing.  The
campiste are tucked in among a mixture of Ponderosa pine, aspen,
fir and spruce.    It is convenient to State Rt. 38 and well
situated for day trips on the Enchanted Circle and the town of
Red River.  The Red River is across the road from campground but
is not accessible.  There is some light traffic noise from Rt.
38.  Although little middle-story, campsites are well separated
providing good privacy.  

This is bear country; practice safe food storage techniques.

SEASONS
Open Seasonal: Yes
Open All Year: No

Seasonal Comment:
Open May 26 through September 3 - weather dependent

RATE AND MAXIMUM STAY PERMITTED
Rate: $22 per day
Maximum Stay Permitted (days): 14

CAMPGROUND SITE CONFIGURATION
No. RV Sites: 0
No. Tent Sites: 2
No. Combined Sites (Tent or RV): 18
   
   Total Sites: 20

Tent Pads: No
Open Sites: Yes
Wooded Sites: Yes
Equestrian Camping: 

No. Tables on Sites: 20
No. Grilles on Sites: 20

RV INFORMATION
Hookups: None
No. RV Pull Throughs: 0
Waste Station: No 
Average Parking Apron Size: 14' X 38'

Comments:
The parking aprons are paved.  An RV waste station with potable
water is available for a fee at the private River Ranch
campground on State Rt.38 just west of Red River.

FACILITIES
Vaults: Yes
Flush Toilets: No
Hot Showers: No
Wheelchair Friendly Toilets: Yes

Public Phone: No
Playground: No
No. Water Spigots (non-site): 4
  No. Threaded: 4

Comments:
Hot showers are available, for a fee, at the private River Ranch
campground, located just west of Red River on State Rt. 38.

WATER SPORTS - None

HIKING
Fawn Lakes Trail (foot & wheelchair friendly) - 0.3 miles

FISHING - No

UPDATEREVIEW
1 review, Avg. Rating: Acceptable
CAMPGROUND NAME: Fawn Lakes

VISIT DATE: 06/14/1999

UPDATE DATE: 2/19/2024

STATE: New Mexico

REGION: Southwestern

RANGER DISTRICT: Questa

NEAREST CITY/TOWN: Red River

RESERVATIONS: 1-877-444-6777 or make on-line reservation

DIRECTIONS:
From Red River, NM, take State Rt. 38 west 2.6 miles to
campground sign.  Turn left at sign into campground.

GENERAL COMMENTS:
The elevation is 8,500 ft.

The campground stretches out along Red River with waterfront
sites.  There are two sections.  The first section is a loop for
both tent and RV campers.  The second section, sites 8 through
12, is a spur with sites better suited to tent and slide-in pick-
up campers.  It is convenient to State Rt. 38 and day trips on
the Enchanted Circle and the town of Red River.  The sound of the
river can be heard throughout the campground.  Ponderosa pine
dominate the campground with a mixture of fir and spruce.  The
understory is grass and open which limits privacy between sites
to fair.  The nearby Fawn Lakes (3 little ponds) offer bank
fishing only. 

This is bear country; practice safe food storage techniques.

SEASONS
Open Seasonal: Yes
Open All Year: No

Seasonal Comment:
Open May 26 through September 3 - weather dependent

RATE AND MAXIMUM STAY PERMITTED
Rate: $22 per day
Maximum Stay Permitted (days): 14

CAMPGROUND SITE CONFIGURATION
No. RV Sites: 0
No. Tent Sites: 6
No. Combined Sites (Tent or RV): 11
   
   Total Sites: 17

Tent Pads: No
Open Sites: Yes
Wooded Sites: Yes
Equestrian Camping: 

No. Tables on Sites: 17
No. Grilles on Sites: 17

RV INFORMATION
Hookups: None
No. RV Pull Throughs: 1
Waste Station: No 
Average Parking Apron Size: 14.5' X 48'

Comments:
The parking aprons are gravel.  An RV waste station with potable
water is available for a fee at the private River Ranch
campground on State Rt.38 just west of Red River.

FACILITIES
Vaults: Yes
Flush Toilets: No
Hot Showers: No
Wheelchair Friendly Toilets: Yes

Public Phone: No
Playground: No
No. Water Spigots (non-site): 1
  No. Threaded: 0

Comments:
Hot showers are available, for a fee, at the private River Ranch
campground, located just west of Red River on State Rt. 38.

WATER SPORTS - None

HIKING - No

FISHING   
Rainbow trout (stocked) in the ponds.

UPDATEREVIEW
1 review, Avg. Rating: Good
CAMPGROUND NAME: Hopewell

VISIT DATE: 04/02/2013

UPDATE DATE:  2/19/2024

STATE: New Mexico

REGION: Southwestern

RANGER DISTRICT: Tres Piedras

NEAREST CITY/TOWN: Tres Piedras

RESERVATIONS: 1-877-444-6777 or make on-line reservation

DIRECTIONS:
In Tres Piedras, NM, at the intersection of U.S. Rts. 285 and 64, 
take Rt. 64 west 19.2 miles to mile-marker 204.  Turn left at 
this mile-maker into campground.

GENERAL COMMENTS:
The elevation is 9,800 feet.

NOTE: The authors did not personally research this campground - 
information provided by the Tres Piedras Ranger District office.

This scenic campground is a single loop in a stand of thinning 
conifers and aspen and a short walk from the canoeable Hopewell 
Lake in the shadow of the Tusas Mountains.  The campground is 
named for a nearby turn of the 20th century village that was named 
for rancher and promoter, Willard S. Hopewell.  Campsites 16 and 
17 are designated for equestrian campers.  Each has a small corral.

SEASONS
Open Seasonal: Yes
Open All Year: No

Seasonal Comment:
Open May 26 through September 3 - weather dependent

RATE AND MAXIMUM STAY PERMITTED
Rate: $24 per day
Maximum Stay Permitted (days): 14

CAMPGROUND SITE CONFIGURATION
No. RV Sites: 0
No. Tent Sites: 4
No. Combined Sites (Tent or RV): 27
   
   Total Sites: 31

Tent Pads: No
Open Sites: Yes
Wooded Sites: No

No. Tables on Sites: 31
No. Grilles on Sites: 31
Equestrian Camping: Yes

RV INFORMATION
Hookups: No
No. RV Pull Throughs: 5
Waste Station: No 
Average Parking Apron Size: 14' X 40'

Comments:
The parking aprons are gravel.

FACILITIES
Vaults: Yes
Flush Toilets: No
Hot Showers: No
Wheelchair Friendly Toilets: Yes

Public Phone: No
Playground: No
No. Water Spigots (non-site): 5
  No. Threaded: 0

WATER SPORTS
Lake: Yes
Swimming (provided): No
Sailing: No
Boat Ramp: No
Boat Carry Down Access: No
Power Boating: No
Boating (no power): Yes
Water Skiing: No
Rafting (whitewater): No
Kayaking (whitewater): No

Comments:
Hopewell Lake is a natural lake and is 19 acres.  There is a 
primitive boat ramp for launching a canoe on the lake's southwest 
shore.

HIKING
Continental Divide National Scenic Trail (foot, horse, and 
mountain bike) - total 3,100 miles - 95 miles of it are across 
Carson National Forest

FISHING
Rainbow trout (stocked)

UPDATEREVIEW
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CAMPGROUND NAME: Junebug

VISIT DATE: 06/14/1999

UPDATE DATE: 2/19/2024

STATE: New Mexico

REGION: Southwestern

RANGER DISTRICT: Questa

NEAREST CITY/TOWN: Red River

RESERVATIONS: No

DIRECTIONS:
From Red River, NM, take State Rt. 38 west 0.6 miles to
campground sign.  Turn left at sign into campground.

GENERAL COMMENTS:
The elevation is 8,500 ft.

The campground stretches along the fast-flowing Red River with
several waterfront sites.  It is convenient to State Rt. 38 and
well situated for day trips on the Enchanted Circle and the town
of Red River.  The sound of the Red River can be heard throughout
the campground.  Sites 9 through 12 are very rocky making it a
challenge for tent campers to find a smooth spot.  The campground
is dominated by mature spruce with a mixture of cottonwoods, fir
and conifers. 

This is bear country; practice safe food storage techniques.

SEASONS
Open Seasonal: Yes
Open All Year: No

Seasonal Comment:
Open May 1 through September 30 - weather dependent

RATE AND MAXIMUM STAY PERMITTED
Rate: $22 per day
Maximum Stay Permitted (days): 14

CAMPGROUND SITE CONFIGURATION
No. RV Sites: 0
No. Tent Sites: 1
No. Combined Sites (Tent or RV): 21
   
   Total Sites: 22

Tent Pads: No
Open Sites: Yes
Wooded Sites: Yes
Equestrian Camping: 

No. Tables on Sites: 22
No. Grilles on Sites: 22

RV INFORMATION
Hookups: None
No. RV Pull Throughs: 4
Waste Station: No 
Average Parking Apron Size: 16' X 37'

Comments:
The parking aprons are dirt.  An RV waste station with potable
water is available for a fee at the private River Ranch
campground on State Rt.38 just west of Red River.

FACILITIES
Vaults: Yes
Flush Toilets: No
Hot Showers: No
Wheelchair Friendly Toilets: Yes

Public Phone: No
Playground: No
No. Water Spigots (non-site): 1
  No. Threaded: 0

Comments:
The water spigot is a hand pump.  Hot showers are available, for
a fee, at the private River Ranch campground, located just west
of Red River on State Rt. 38.

WATER SPORTS - None

HIKING - No

FISHING   
Rainbow trout (stocked)

UPDATEREVIEW
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CAMPGROUND NAME: La Junta Canyon

VISIT DATE: 06/17/1999

UPDATE DATE: 2/21/2024

STATE: New Mexico

REGION: Southwestern

RANGER DISTRICT: Camino Real

NEAREST CITY/TOWN: Penasco

RESERVATIONS: No

DIRECTIONS:
From Penasco, NM, take State Rt. 75 east 4.8 miles to "T"
intersection (State Rt. 518).  Turn right onto Rt. 518 (unmarked) 
and go 8.3 miles to La Junta Canyon (Forest Rt. 76) sign.  Turn 
left at sign onto Rt. 76 (dirt and gravel) and go 0.2 miles to 
campground.

GENERAL COMMENTS:
The elevation is 8,200 ft.

The campground stretches 4.5 miles up through the canyon with
sites scattered along Junta Creek in grass fields or under
spruce.  The campground is composed of two sections, one of which
is called Upper La Junta where the sites are more formally
designated.  The other area is along the road (sites numbered 1
through 30) and has a more dispersed camping feel.  This section
may have cattle wandering among the sites.

SEASONS
Open Seasonal: Yes
Open All Year: No

Seasonal Comment:
Open May 15 through September 21 - weather dependent

RATE AND MAXIMUM STAY PERMITTED
Rate: $12 per vehicle per day
Maximum Stay Permitted (days): 14

CAMPGROUND SITE CONFIGURATION
No. RV Sites: 0
No. Tent Sites: 18
No. Combined Sites (Tent or RV): 23
   
   Total Sites: 41

Tent Pads: No
Open Sites: Yes
Wooded Sites: Yes

No. Tables on Sites: 8
No. Grilles on Sites: 6
Equestrian Camping:  No

RV INFORMATION
Hookups: None
No. RV Pull Throughs: 8
Waste Station: No
Average Parking Apron Size: Open field

Comments:
The parking aprons are grass and dirt.  The aprons are poorly
defined and irregular in shape.  Access to some sites is not
trailer-friendly.

FACILITIES
Vaults: Yes
Flush Toilets: No
Hot Showers: No
Wheelchair Friendly Toilets: No

Public Phone: No
Playground: No
No. Water Spigots (non-site): 2
      No. Threaded: 0

WATER SPORTS - None

HIKING
La Cueva Lake #8 (foot, horse, mountain bike & motorcycle) - 4.4
miles

FISHING   
Rainbow trout (stocked)

UPDATEREVIEW
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CAMPGROUND NAME: La Sombra

VISIT DATE: 06/14/1999

UPDATE DATE: 2/21/2024

STATE: New Mexico

REGION: Southwestern

RANGER DISTRICT: Camino Real

NEAREST CITY/TOWN: Taos

RESERVATIONS: No

DIRECTIONS:
In Taos, NM, at the intersection of State Rts. 68/585 and US Rt. 64,
take Rt. 64/585 east 2.1 miles to stop sign at "T" intersection. 
Turn right at intersection onto Rt. 64 (Enchanted Circle) and go
4.8 miles to campground on right.

GENERAL COMMENTS:
The elevation 7,800 ft.

The campground stretches along the Rio Fernando among
cottonwoods, conifers and other riparian plants.  Access to sites
1 through 5 and 9 through 12 require fording a creek.  Trailers
are not recommended - there is no turn-around.

SEASONS
Open Seasonal: Yes
Open All Year: No

Seasonal Comment:
Open May 1 through October 31 - weather dependent

NOTE: 02/21/2024 - Campground temporarily closed due to significant 
maintenance needs.  Contact ranger district office for status.

RATE AND MAXIMUM STAY PERMITTED
Rate: $12 per day
Maximum Stay Permitted (days): 14

CAMPGROUND SITE CONFIGURATION
No. RV Sites: 0
No. Tent Sites: 10
No. Combined Sites (Tent or RV): 2
   
   Total Sites: 12

Tent Pads: No
Open Sites: Yes
Wooded Sites: Yes

No. Tables on Sites: 12
No. Grilles on Sites: 12
Equestrian Camping:  No

RV INFORMATION
Hookups: None
No. RV Pull Throughs: 0
Waste Station: No
Average Parking Apron Size: 13' X 23'

Comments:
The parking aprons are dirt.  With no turn-arounds in the
campground, access is limited to small RVs.  Travel trailers are
not recommended.

FACILITIES
Vaults: Yes
Flush Toilets: No
Hot Showers: No
Wheelchair Friendly Toilets: Yes

Public Phone: No
Playground: No
No. Water Spigots (non-site): 0

WATER SPORTS - None

HIKING - No

FISHING - No

UPDATEREVIEW
Be the first to review this campground
CAMPGROUND NAME: Lower Canjilon Lake

VISIT DATE: 06/11/1999

UPDATE DATE: 02/21/2024

STATE: New Mexico

REGION: Southwestern

RANGER DISTRICT: Canjilon

NEAREST CITY/TOWN: Cebolla

RESERVATIONS: No

DIRECTIONS:
From Cebolla, NM, take US Rt. 84 south 3.5 miles to State Rt. 115
(Canjilon Lakes/Canjilon) signs.  Turn left onto Rt. 115 and go
3.3 miles to Canjilon Lake sign (County Rt. 280).  Turn left onto
Rt. 280 and go 7.6 miles to Canjilon Lake sign (Forest Rt. 129). 
Turn left onto Rt. 129 (paved) and go 3.4 miles to campground on
left.

NOTE: County Rt. 280 becomes dirt after 3.2 miles at which time
it becomes Forest Rt. 559.

GENERAL COMMENTS:
The elevation is 9,900 ft.

The campground is one of two campgrounds in the Canjilon Lakes
Recreation Area.  It is heavily wooded with spruce and aspen and
laid out in a tight single loop.  Two sites have view of Lower
Canjilon Lake.  The campground is full of birds and the Lower
Canjilon Lake is a good beginning lake for canoeists.  Some
interesting day trips are:

1) Monastery of Christ in the Desert - On Forest Rt. 151, off US
Rt. 84.
(2) Ghost Ranch Living Museum - on US Rt. 84 about 12 miles north
of Abiquiu, NM.
(3) Ghost Ranch Conservation Center (Paleontology and
Archaeological museums) - south of the Ghost Ranch Living
Museum on US Rt. 84.
(4) Drive US Rt. 84 between Abiquiu and Cebolla, NM and take in
the magnificent views of the "Red Rocks" canyons.

SEASONS
Open Seasonal: Yes
Open All Year: No

Seasonal Comment:
Open May 1 through September 30 - weather dependent

RATE AND MAXIMUM STAY PERMITTED
Rate: $5 per vehicle per day

CAMPGROUND SITE CONFIGURATION
No. RV Sites: 0
No. Tent Sites: 1
No. Combined Sites (Tent or RV): 10
   
   Total Sites: 11

Tent Pads: No
Open Sites: No
Wooded Sites: Yes

No. Tables on Sites: 11
No. Grilles on Sites: 11
Equestrian Camping:  No

RV INFORMATION
Hookups: None
No. RV Pull Throughs: 5
Waste Station: No
Average Parking Apron Size: 12.5' X 40.5'

Comments:
The parking aprons are paved.  The pull-throughs are not suitable
for large RVs.

FACILITIES
Vaults: Yes
Flush Toilets: No
Hot Showers: No
Wheelchair Friendly Toilets: No

Public Phone: No
Playground: No
No. Water Spigots (non-site): 0

WATER SPORTS
Lake: Yes
Swimming (provided): No
Sailing: No
Boat Ramp: No
Boat Carry Down Access: No
Power Boating: No
Boating (no power): Yes
Water Skiing: No
Rafting (whitewater): No
Kayaking (whitewater): No

Comments:
Lower Canjilon Lake is 4 acres.  The Middle and Upper Canjilon
Lakes are a mile or so further on Forest Rt. 129.

HIKING
Canjilon Mountain Loop Trail (foot & horse) - 12 miles

FISHING   
Rainbow trout (stocked)

UPDATEREVIEW
1 review, Avg. Rating: Poor
CAMPGROUND NAME: McCrystal Creek

VISIT DATE: 06/15/1999

UPDATE DATE: 02/21/2024

STATE: New Mexico

REGION: Southwestern

RANGER DISTRICT: Questa

NEAREST CITY/TOWN: Costilla

RESERVATIONS: No

DIRECTIONS:
In Costilla, NM, at intersection of State Rts. 522 and 196, take
Rt. 196 east 17.3 miles to where Rt. 196 becomes Forest Rt. 1950. 
Continue straight on Rt. 1950 and go 1.6 miles to a "Y"
intersection.  Bear right, staying on Rt. 1950, and go 17.6 miles
to campground sign.  Turn left into campground.

NOTE: State Rt. 196 becomes a dirt and gravel roadway after 10
miles and continues that way on Forest Rt. 1950.  Both roads vary
from single-lane to wide two-lane.

GENERAL COMMENTS:
The elevation is 8,100 ft.

The campground permits horses and is located within the Valle
Vidal Unit in a stand of young Ponderosa pine.  The 100,000-acre
Valle Vidal was donated by the Pennzoil Co. in 1982.  It is a
wild life habitat which limits vehicles to designated roads and
campgrounds.  Elk calving is a major activity from May 1 through
June 30.  Hiking and horseback riding is permitted throughout the
Unit.  The open range feel provides a unique experience for all
with lots of wild life viewing.  There are horse facilities
within the campground.  At the entrance to the campground, take
the 1-mile Ring Ranch Interpretive Trail and walk into the past
of ranching and logging in the area.  This is bear country;
practice safe food storage techniques.

NOTE: Bring a spare tire and changing tools.  Rock and gravel on
the access roads can be sharp.

SEASONS
Open Seasonal: Yes
Open All Year: No

Seasonal Comment:
Open May 1 through November 30 - weather dependent

RATE AND MAXIMUM STAY PERMITTED
Rate: $16 per per day
Maximum Stay Permitted (days): 14

CAMPGROUND SITE CONFIGURATION
No. RV Sites: 0
No. Tent Sites: 0
No. Combined Sites (Tent or RV): 60
   
   Total Sites: 60

Tent Pads: No
Open Sites: Yes
Wooded Sites: Yes

No. Tables on Sites: 60
No. Grilles on Sites: 60
Equestrian Camping: Yes

RV INFORMATION
Hookups: None
No. RV Pull Throughs: 6
Waste Station: No
Average Parking Apron Size: 15' X 53'

Comments:
The parking aprons are gravel and dirt and very long.

FACILITIES
Vaults: Yes
Flush Toilets: No
Hot Showers: No
Wheelchair Friendly Toilets: Yes

Public Phone: No
Playground: No
No. Water Spigots (non-site): 0

Comments:
Water available for livestock only.

WATER SPORTS - None

HIKING
Ring Ranch Interpretive Trail (loop-foot) - 1 mile

There are few maintained trails, BUT the whole area is an open
range permitting horseback riding and hiking under a "park and
go" policy.

FISHING - No

UPDATEREVIEW
Be the first to review this campground
CAMPGROUND NAME: Middle Canjilon Lake

VISIT DATE: 06/11/1999

UPDATE DATE: 02/21/2024

STATE: New Mexico

REGION: Southwestern

RANGER DISTRICT: Canjilon

NEAREST CITY/TOWN: Cebolla

RESERVATIONS: No

DIRECTIONS:
From Cebolla, NM, take US Rt. 84 south 3.5 miles to State Rt. 115
(Canjilon Lakes/Canjilon) signs.  Turn left onto Rt. 115 and go
3.3 miles to Canjilon Lake sign (County Rt. 280).  Turn left onto
Rt. 280 and go 7.6 miles to Canjilon Lake sign (Forest Rt. 129). 
Turn left onto Rt. 129 (paved) and go 4.2 miles to campground on
right.

NOTE: County Rt. 280 becomes dirt after 3.2 miles at which time
it becomes Forest Rt. 559.

GENERAL COMMENTS:
The elevation is 9,900 ft.

The campground is one of two campgrounds in the Canjilon Lakes
Recreation Area.  It is designed in a cloverleaf shape in thick
aspen and some spruce trees, next to Middle Canjilon Lake. 
The campground is a very pretty with lots of birds.  There may be
standing water in some places.  There are a half dozen or so
tables and grilles (without designated parking) that are not
included in the site count.  These sites are ideal for tenters. 
Some interesting day trips are:

1) Monastery of Christ in the Desert - On Forest Rt. 151, off US
Rt. 84.
2) Ghost Ranch Living Museum - on US Rt. 84 about 12 miles north
of Abiquiu, NM.
3) Ghost Ranch Conservation Center (paleontology and
archaeological museums) - south of the Ghost Ranch Living
Museum on US Rt. 84.
4) Drive US Rt. 84 between Abiquiu and Cebolla, NM and take in
the magnificent views of the "Red Rocks" canyons.

SEASONS
Open Seasonal: Yes
Open All Year: No

Seasonal Comment:
Open May 1 through September 30 - weather dependent

RATE AND MAXIMUM STAY PERMITTED
Rate: $5 per day
Maximum Stay Permitted (days): 14

CAMPGROUND SITE CONFIGURATION
No. RV Sites: 0
No. Tent Sites: 3
No. Combined Sites (Tent or RV): 29
   
   Total Sites: 32

Tent Pads: No
Open Sites: No
Wooded Sites: Yes

No. Tables on Sites: 32
No. Grilles on Sites: 32
Equestrian Camping:  No

RV INFORMATION
Hookups: None
No. RV Pull Throughs: 21
Waste Station: No
Average Parking Apron Size: 12' X 53'

Comments:
The parking aprons are paved.

FACILITIES
Vaults: Yes
Flush Toilets: No
Hot Showers: No
Wheelchair Friendly Toilets: No

Public Phone: No
Playground: No
No. Water Spigots (non-site): 0
  No. Threaded: 0

WATER SPORTS
Lake: Yes
Swimming (provided): No
Sailing: No
Boat Ramp: No
Boat Carry Down Access: No
Power Boating: No
Boating (no power): Yes
Water Skiing: No
Rafting (whitewater): No
Kayaking (whitewater): No

Comments:
Middle Canjilon Lake is 3 acres.  The Upper Canjilon Lake is 0.7
miles above the campground and the Lower Canjilon Lake is 0.8
miles below the campground.

HIKING - No

FISHING   
Rainbow trout (stocked)

UPDATEREVIEW
Be the first to review this campground
CAMPGROUND NAME: Santa Barbara

VISIT DATE: 06/17/1999

UPDATE DATE: 02/21/2024

STATE: New Mexico

REGION: Southwestern

RANGER DISTRICT: Camino Real

NEAREST CITY/TOWN: Penasco

RESERVATIONS: 1-877-444-6777 or make on-line reservation

DIRECTIONS:
In Penasco, NM, from intersection of State Rts. 75 and 73, take
Rt. 73 south 1.4 miles to Santa Barbara campground sign.  Turn
left at sign and go 6 miles to campground (just past Lower Santa
Barbara campground sign).

NOTE: The last 3.6 miles are along a dirt roadway.

GENERAL COMMENTS:
The elevation is 8,900 ft.

The campground is adjacent to the South Santa Barbara River and
nearby the Pecos Wilderness.  It is convenient to the Pecos
Wilderness and is comprised of spruce and aspen trees.

SEASONS
Open Seasonal: Yes
Open All Year: No

Seasonal Comment:
Open May 20 through September 18 - weather dependent

RATE AND MAXIMUM STAY PERMITTED
Rate: $22 per day - single
$40 per day - double
$60 per day - triple
Maximum Stay Permitted (days): 14

CAMPGROUND SITE CONFIGURATION
No. RV Sites: 0
No. Tent Sites: 0
No. Combined Sites (Tent or RV): 21
   
   Total Sites: 21

Tent Pads: Yes
Open Sites: Yes
Wooded Sites: Yes

No. Tables on Sites: 21
No. Grilles on Sites: 21
Equestrian Camping:  No

RV INFORMATION
Hookups: None
No. RV Pull Throughs: 2
Waste Station: No
Average Parking Apron Size: 18' X 45'

Comments:
The parking aprons are gravel.

FACILITIES
Vaults: Yes
Flush Toilets: No
Hot Showers: No
Wheelchair Friendly Toilets: Yes

Public Phone: No
Playground: No
No. Water Spigots (non-site): 6
  No. Threaded: 6

WATER SPORTS - None

HIKING
Middle Fork Trail #24 (horse & foot) - 11.7 miles
Indian Creek Trail #27 (horse & foot) - 4.6 miles

Both trails access the northern section of the Pecos Wilderness
and its network of trails.

FISHING   
Rainbow trout (stocked)




Fred and Suzi Dow