Abiquiu Lake campgrounds range from 6,000 to 7,500 feet in elevation, creating significant temperature variations between day and night even in summer months. The camping season typically extends from mid-April through mid-October at most developed sites, though some dispersed camping opportunities remain available year-round. Most campgrounds enforce strict quiet hours from 10 pm to 6 am regardless of season.
What to do
Hiking at Ghost Ranch: Explore the trails where Georgia O'Keeffe found inspiration for her paintings. Ghost Ranch offers several hiking paths through colorful rock formations. "The campground includes a bath house with laundry room and electric hookups if needed. $30 to tent camp (no electric)," notes camper Megan E.
Rock climbing: El Rito Canyon provides climbing opportunities on 40-60 foot cliffs about 20 miles from Abiquiu Lake. "We camped at one of the large, grassy sites right off of the road. All sites had a beautiful rocky creek running nearby," writes Jessica O. about El Rito Campground.
Water activities: Kayaking, rafting and swimming options abound in the area. "We actually stayed down the road about a mile and half from Rio Chama Campground, however we were still in the park and off of Forest Road 151. We camped off-the-grid on a spot right by Rio Chama," shares Ellie S. who found a perfect water access point for launching watercraft.
What campers like
Scenic views: The dramatic landscapes provide constantly changing vistas. "Great views of the lake in which you can swim (and boat). Not a lot of shade, unless you snuggle in with a Piñon tree, but we spend our days on the lake or hiking Ghost Ranch, which is a few minutes away," writes Warren K. about Riana - Abiquiu Lake.
Riverside camping: Many campers appreciate falling asleep to the sound of moving water. "Chama canyon is our weekend go-to place. Only 2 hrs from Albuquerque. Many campsites available (some are dispersed) along the river. Almost every single site here offers a nice shade and shelter for strong sunlight during the day and strong wind at dusk," explains Lila L. about Oak Point Campground.
Stargazing opportunities: Clear night skies with minimal light pollution offer excellent stargazing conditions. "Mountains in the distance, a river right next to camp, gravel and dirt roads, lots of woods.. what more can you ask for?" notes Hannah L. who discovered the night skies to be exceptional at Oak Point Campground.
What you should know
Alcohol policies vary: Not all campgrounds permit alcohol consumption. "There is NO alcohol allowed in the park so don't get caught with any they will pour it out. 2 Older men were having a beer in their site & they made them pour out 2 cases of beer," warns B M. about their stay at Riana - Abiquiu Lake.
Limited amenities at dispersed sites: Bring all necessary supplies when camping at primitive sites. "This spot was really beautiful. Went on a weekend, and there were plenty of other people around but there was enough space where it didn't feel too crowded," shares Andrea P. about Whirlpool Dispersed Camping Area, noting the basic facilities.
Weather and road conditions: Summer thunderstorms can create challenging road conditions. "Make sure the dirt road is dry enough in monsoon season so you don't get stuck," advises Clara B. about Whirlpool Dispersed Camping Area. Afternoon storms are common in summer months, particularly July through September.
Tips for camping with families
Hot springs access: Consider staying at a campground with mineral springs for family relaxation. "Great place to soak your cares away. We've stayed here about 6 times. They've definitely upgraded the campground over the years," writes Debi R. about Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa, though note their policy restricts children under 13 from hot springs.
Sheltered sites: Look for campsites with natural windbreaks and shade. "River is very soothing and birds are always chirping. You can find a sandy beach access to the river from some campsites," shares Lila L. about Rio Chama camping areas, which provide natural barriers against afternoon winds.
Educational opportunities: Incorporate learning with camping through local museums. "The ghost ranch is not far & worth checking out it's got a great museum of paleontology, Dinosaurs and Indians," suggests B M., who appreciated these educational activities while camping in the area.
Tips from RVers
Road and site accessibility: Many dispersed areas require careful navigation. "We checked out some possible boondocking campsites down river from the lake. We only found a couple of possible sites to get my 34ft 5th wheel into. Very peaceful area, beautiful views and decent Verizon cell service," reports Joseph W. about the downstream areas.
Hookup considerations: When available, hookups may require extra equipment. "My wife and I just spend two days at this RV resort. The spaces only had electric and water. The electric and water outlets where placed in an odd location for the site and a dump station is available for extra $20," notes another Joseph W. about Ojo Caliente, mentioning that extension cords may be necessary.
Level sites: Echo Campground provides some of the more level spots for larger rigs. "9 spots. Electric available. 1st come 1st serve $20 night for single campsite. Very well maintained. Metal fire ring and concrete Picnic table at each site. Most sites are pretty level. We had a 25 ft travel trailer," reports Debbie W., who appreciated the well-maintained facilities.
