Carson National Forest manages this group shelter campground along a rocky creek in the high terrain outside El Rito, New Mexico, where sites are distributed along a dirt road through a mix of forested and open ground. The access road is rough, so vehicles with higher clearance will have an easier time reaching the area. At $225, the reservation-based group shelter is priced for parties sharing the cost, and the layout gives most sites some separation from neighbors.
Creek proximity is the defining feature here. Some sites sit directly on the water, while others are set back slightly along the road. "Sites are spread out along a dirt road, so many sites are secluded from neighbors," notes Nicky A. Campfires are permitted, and pets are welcome. Dust from passing vehicles on dry days has been flagged by visitors as a minor nuisance, particularly in summer before seasonal rain settles the road surface.
Trash left by previous campers has come up in multiple reviews, which is worth noting when planning a stay. Cell service is limited. Rock climbers may find the location convenient, as a large climbing area sits nearby. Campers who want to explore additional options in the region can browse campgrounds near Carson National Forest or look into dog-friendly camping near Carson National Forest for comparable sites that allow pets. This campground suits groups comfortable with rustic conditions and self-sufficient enough to pack out what they bring in.
Description
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 beautiful, majestic timber shelter was constructed on a concrete foundation in 2018 and is situated in a big grassy meadow 200 feet from the river. Amenities included with your reservation of the group site include 1) a large grill with pedestal at the shelter, 2) seven picnic tables, four of which are located at the shelter, 3) three additional campfire rings situated throughout the site, 4) a vault toilet, 5) one trash receptacle, 6) and space for three large RV trailers and ample tent camping. This is a fenced and gated area reserved exclusively through recreation.gov so you'll not have to stress about whether the site will be available for your special event.
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.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsEl Rito Campground Group Shelter is located in New Mexico near El Rito
Public CampgroundCoordinates
36.4017 N
106.2536 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Reservable
- Pets
- Fires
Drive Time
- 1 hr 19 min from Santa Fe, NM
- 2 hrs 9 min from Albuquerque, NM
- 3 hrs 2 min from Farmington, NM
- 3 hrs 52 min from Pueblo, CO
