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Established Camping

El Rito Campground Group Shelter — Carson National Forest

El Rito Campground Group Shelter, near Carson National Forest, is a fantastic spot for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. With sites that sit right by a beautiful rocky creek, it offers a serene backdrop for camping, making it a favorite for both tent and RV campers.

The campground is known for its spacious, grassy sites that provide plenty of room to spread out. Visitors have mentioned the peacefulness of the area, with many sites being secluded from neighbors, allowing for a more private experience. One camper noted, “We camped at one of the large, grassy sites right off of the road,” highlighting the ample space available.

While there are no electric hookups or showers, the charm of the natural surroundings more than makes up for it. Campers can enjoy campfires under the stars, and pets are welcome, making it a great choice for families and furry friends alike. Just be prepared for some dust from passing cars, which is a common mention among visitors.

For those eager to explore, the campground is conveniently located near rock climbing areas and hiking trails, perfect for a day of adventure. Whether you're looking to relax by the creek or tackle some outdoor activities, El Rito Campground has a little something for everyone.

Description

USDA Forest Service

Carson National Forest

Overview

The El Rito Campground Group Shelter is situated along El Rito Creek and is part of a larger campground, El Rito Campground. The group shelter and campground are located approximately 5 miles from the small village of El Rito. Elevation of the group shelter is 7,600 feet with the predominant vegetation being pinon, cottonwood, spruce, juniper and gambel oak.____ This is a great place to host your family and friends, graduation parties, organization meetings, and school events. Stay for the day or make it an overnight! Visitors can enjoy hiking and fishing, plus there are also nearby opportunities for sport and traditional climbing . Wildlife (depending on the season) may include mule deer, squirrels, chipmunks, and racoons plus the rare sighting of a bear or mountain lion. The campground is situated along the banks of the El Rito Creek.__ Typical season of use is May 1 to October 1.____Check-in at the site is 1:00 PM on the start date of your reservation. Check-out is 11:00 AM on the last day of your reservation.

Recreation

The nearby creek is great for fishing and enjoying nature. Look for birds flitting around the water in search of their next aquatic meal and splash around in the creek on hot days when the water is lower and you need to cool off. The water from this creek begins in the mountains as snow and rain runoff and travels along the corridor shared with the picnic shelter/camping area. Cross the creek and you will find adventures at the base of the red cliffs. Can you spot the hawk flying overhead and was that a chipmunk that just ran past you?!____ Please do not climb the cliffs unless you are an experienced rope/harness climber. There are specific climbing areas designed for such adventures in the nearby vicinity.

Facilities

The nearby creek is great for fishing and enjoying nature. Look for birds flitting around the water in search of their next aquatic meal and splash around in the creek on hot days when the water is lower and you need to cool off. The water from this creek begins in the mountains as snow and rain runoff and travels along the corridor shared with the picnic shelter/camping area. Cross the creek and you will find adventures at the base of the red cliffs. Can you spot the hawk flying overhead and was that a chipmunk that just ran past you?!____ Please do not climb the cliffs unless you are an experienced rope/harness climber. There are specific climbing areas designed for such adventures in the nearby vicinity.

Natural Features

This group shelter/camping area is tucked up in the forest and located next a babbling creek that is popular for fishing and lounging next to when the moment strikes you. The view of the nearby cliffs tops off this great experience in nature.____

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Location

El Rito Campground Group Shelter — Carson National Forest is located in New Mexico

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

36.4017 N
106.2536 W

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4 Reviews

Reviewed Sep. 11, 2022

Beautiful

We had no clue that this gem was close to us we went for a quick weekend camp we were right next to the creek with amazing views of the mountains.

Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of El Rito Campground Group Shelter — Carson National Forest by Naythin H., September 11, 2022
  • Review photo of El Rito Campground Group Shelter — Carson National Forest by Naythin H., September 11, 2022
  • Review photo of El Rito Campground Group Shelter — Carson National Forest by Naythin H., September 11, 2022
  • (7) View All
Reviewed Sep. 24, 2020

Closed, but with options

Campsites are closed due to mistreatment-- signs indicate too much partying, ATVs, and trash. Campsites are closed for wilderness restoration but parking/camping off the main road is possible. No services.

Reviewed Jul. 3, 2018

Creekside, remote

Some sites sit right on the creek. Sites are spread out along a dirt road, so many sites are secluded from neighbors. Both times we have visited we have cleaned up sites after previous visitors left trash everywhere. Seems to be a common problem, which is too bad because it is a pretty place and convenient to the large rock climbing area nearby.

Month of VisitJuly
Reviewed Jun. 14, 2018

Creek side camping, plenty of space

We camped at one of the large, grassy sites right off of the road. All sites had a beautiful rocky creek running nearby, picnic tables and lots of flat ground perfect for Campers or rvs. The only downside was the fine sand/dust that was constantly kicked up from cars passing by. I’m sure that will improve once we get some much needed rain.

well definitely be back.

Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of El Rito Campground Group Shelter — Carson National Forest by Jessica O., June 14, 2018
  • Review photo of El Rito Campground Group Shelter — Carson National Forest by Jessica O., June 14, 2018

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Are fires allowed at El Rito Campground Group Shelter — Carson National Forest?

    Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at El Rito Campground Group Shelter — Carson National Forest, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.

  • How hard is it to get a campsite at El Rito Campground Group Shelter — Carson National Forest?

    Some campers book as far as 6 months in advance, so on high-demand weekends it can be very difficult to get a campsite at El Rito Campground Group Shelter — Carson National Forest. If you want to get a last-minute campsite at El Rito Campground Group Shelter — Carson National Forest, try setting up a text message Alert atTheDyrt.com/alerts

  • Why is it so hard to get a campsite at El Rito Campground Group Shelter — Carson National Forest?

    There are 1 campsites at El Rito Campground Group Shelter — Carson National Forest and over 80 million Americans who camp! Try snagging a cancellation by setting up a text message Alert atTheDyrt.com/alerts