Equestrian camping near Abiquiu Lake offers opportunities for riders in northern New Mexico's high desert landscape. At 6,400 feet elevation, the area experiences dramatic temperature shifts with summer days reaching 90°F and nights dropping to 50°F. Winter camping requires preparation for below-freezing temperatures, with snow possible from November through March.
What to do
**Fishing access: Numerous campgrounds provide river and lake fishing opportunities. At Rio Chama Campground, campers can find "many options for camping. We chose a secluded site and the only people we saw were kayakers" according to Carolyn H. The campground connects to fishing spots along the Rio Chama.
**Hiking trails: The area offers trail systems ranging from riverside walks to steep canyon climbs. Near Ghost Ranch, "there are some great hiking trails heading out of the campground as well as from other parts of the ranch. Stop in the visitors center to get a map of trails and some advice about what to hike and when," recommends Annie C.
**Horseback riding: Riders can access trails through national forest land around Abiquiu Lake. At Ghost Ranch, visitors mentioned, "we enjoyed the views and the museum and the swimming pool and horseback riding. Completely unplanned," according to Scott I., highlighting the ranch's equestrian offerings beyond camping.
What campers like
**River camping: Sites along the Rio Chama provide water access. At Oak Point Campground, Hannah L. notes, "Mountains in the distance, a river right next to camp, gravel and dirt roads, lots of woods... what more can you ask for?" Many sites feature direct river access for both recreation and ambiance.
**Secluded spots: Dispersed camping options offer privacy throughout the region. Along Forest Service Road 578, campers find solitude, as Kala J. reports: "A nice secluded little forest road. RVs will not make it, so it's nice and quiet. Stayed one night and saw no one else."
**High elevation relief: Summer campers appreciate cooler temperatures at higher elevations. At Hopewell Lake Campground, campers note the area is "gorgeous! The views are spectacular. It's nice and cool even in summer," according to Sara S., making it a good option during hot months.
What you should know
**Seasonal considerations: Winter access becomes difficult at many sites. At Hopewell Lake Campground, the season runs "June to October" according to listings, with Michelle B. advising visitors to "bring water cause sometimes their isn't any."
**Reservation requirements: Some campgrounds require advance booking while others remain first-come, first-served. Lauren W. warns about Santa Barbara Campground: "The ranger will kick you out for not reserving online... part of the new process that they've not informed anyone of."
**Road conditions: Many dispersed camping areas require high-clearance vehicles. Jacob W. describes Forest Service Road 578: "My Tacoma had no problem on the dirt road, which has ruts and might be tough for an RV. There were few clearings suitable for dispersed camping."
Tips for camping with families
**Look for shaded sites: Summer heat requires shade protection. At Fenton Lake State Park Campground, Katriza L. notes, "Plenty of tent sites; only a few have some good privacy. Love the trail that runs along the side of the camp and the stream that runs adjacent to the campsites."
**Consider age-appropriate activities: Different campgrounds offer varying amenities for children. Mike B. shares that Ghost Ranch has family-friendly options: "Kids eat for free! All in all we got three meals for our family of 4 and a nights stay while we hiked around trails on the property for less than $100 all in."
**Weekend crowds: Plan for busier conditions Friday through Sunday. Travis D. warns about Fenton Lake: "Crowded - granted it was Memorial Day, but it doesn't take much to overwhelm this small lake! It is certainly gorgeous and I'll definitely go back, I'll just make sure it's on a random Tuesday."
Tips from RVers
**Limited hookup options: Most campgrounds near Abiquiu Lake offer minimal facilities. At Borrego Mesa Campground, Jeff K. advises, "Good road all the way in. About a 15min drive from the highway. Only 5 or 6 sites. Not good for big LQ horse trailers."
**Road access restrictions: Many forest service roads limit larger vehicles. Jill notes about Borrego Mesa: "It would be difficult to get a fullsize RV up there at all. The road is rather arduous especially because of the fairly recent fire damage."
**Alternative corral options: Equestrian campers need specific sites for their horses. While HIPICO Santa Fe provides dedicated corrals, other options exist. At Santa Barbara Campground, Robin T. mentions that "this campground is the entry point to the NORTHERN end of Pecos wilderness with access to amazing backpacking," with some riders using this as a base for horse packing trips.
