Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa

## Overview

Ponderosa Group Campground is located 6 miles from the park's main entrance and is an ideal place to stay for large groups visiting Bandelier National Monument. The campground is adjacent to Ponderosa Trail Head providing access to more than 70 miles of hiking trails and is just a short drive from the Visitor Center, the Frijoles Canyon Shuttle System (mid-May to mid-October), and the town of Los Alamos, Valles Caldera National Preserve, Manhattan Project National Historic Site, and the Santa Fe National Forest.  
  
Ponderosa Group Campground is open year-round (Water is only available from mid-May to mid-October). Frijoles Canyon and the park Visitor Center are accessible only by shuttle bus from mid-May to mid-October. The shuttle bus system stops at the Bandelier Visitor Center, Juniper Campground, and the White Rock Visitor Center in the town of White Rock. All park areas can be accessed by private vehicle outside of the designated shuttle bus period. 

## Recreation

Accessible from Ponderosa Group Campground, the Ponderosa Trail descends into the park through ponderosa pine forest and connects to many other trails including the Middle Frijoles Trails which leads 8 miles through Frijoles Canyon to the Visitor Center and Main Loop Trail. The Visitor Center houses museum exhibits, park film, information and ranger programs, Western National Parks Association sales outlet, and more. Entrance to Frijoles Canyon and the Visitor Center is by shuttle bus only from mid-May to mid-October. These areas are accesibile by private vehicle outside the shuttle bus period.  
  
Although rock climbing is prohibited within Bandelier National Monument, many popular climbs are within a short drive up Route 4 into the Jemez Mountains.

## Facilities

This campground is located at 7600 feet and is usually free of snow from mid-April through mid October. **Water is not available during any months with freezing temperatures (potentially mid-October to mid-May).**

Vault toilets (with no running water), drinking water, a picnic shelter, picnic tables, food storage lockers, and campfire rings are provided at this facility. No hookup campsites are available. These sites are tent-only, but one RV per site can be accommodated in the parking area. Each site can accommodate between 10 and 50 people. 

Check-in time for campground is 4:00 pm. 

Check-out time for the campround is 11:30 a.m. 

Sites can be reserved for large group picnics, however the fee and process is the same as reserving the site for an overnight stay. 

## Natural Features

Bandelier National Monument protects over 33,000 acres of rugged, beautiful canyon and mesa country which features evidence of human presence going back over 11,000 years. Petroglyphs, dwellings carved into the soft rock cliffs, and standing masonry walls pay tribute to the early days of a culture that still survives in the surrounding communities. 

Bandelier National Monument sits at the southern end of the Pajarito (Spanish for little bird) Plateau. The plateau was formed by two eruptions 1.6 and 1.4 million years ago. Home to the Bandelier Wilderness, Bandelier ranges from 5340 ft at the Rio Grande River to the south and 10,199 ft at the summit of Cerro Grande to the north, almost a mile of elevation change in just under 12 miles. This elevation gradient creates a unique diversity of habitats specific to Northern New Mexico. The diversity of habitats and quick access to water supported a relatively large population of Ancestral Pueblo people. Currently, Piñon-Juniper woodlands dominate in the southern parts of the park transitioning through ponderosa pine savannahs and forests, finally reaching mixed conifer forests at the highest elevation. Scattered throughout the park are desert grasslands, montane meadows, and riparian areas in the canyon bottoms. Over 70 miles of trails at Bandelier climb in and out of deep canyons and cross large flat mesas, showcasing the entire spectrum of volcanic geology and ecosystems found within the park.  
  
The park is home to over 55 species of mammals including mule deer, Abert's squirrels, mountain lions, black bears, and 16 species of bats. Replitles and amphibians of all shapes and sizes can be seen. Birds such as Steller's jays, canyon towhees and mountain chickadees stay year-round, whereas turkey vultures, western tanagers, and black-headed grosbeaks are summer residents.

## Nearby Attractions

The town of Los Alamos has shopping, museums, amenities, a movie theater, ice rink, ski hill, and is home to Manhattan Project National Historic Site. 

Nearby Department of Energy and US Forest Service lands provide trails which accommodate pets.

Valles Caldera National Preserve is 16 miles west of Bandelier. 

Jemez Historic Site is 37 miles west.

Pecos National Historical Park is 70 miles southeast. 

Santa Fe, 40 miles south of the park, is home to the New Mexico state capitol, museums, historic districts, art galleries, food, accomodations, and more.

Bandelier National Monument Ponderosa Group Campground

## Overview

For large groups visiting Bandelier National Monument, the group campsites at Juniper Family Campground are the ideal place to stay. Juniper Family Campground has two group sites that can hold 10-20 campers. Located just inside the main park entrance, the campground is a short drive from the Visitor Center, the Frijoles Canyon Shuttle bus system, and the adjacent town of Los Alamos. The campground has indoor restrooms with running water but no showers, picnic tables, grills, firerings, and food lockers. A trailhead is accessible from the campground as well.   
  
From mid-May to mid-October, the Shuttle bus system is in service, running between the Visitor Center in Frijoles Canyon, the amphitheater parking area in Juniper Family Campground, and the White Rock Visitor Center in White Rock, NM. Access into Frijoles Canyon and the Visitor Center is by shuttle bus only and private vehicle traffic is prohibited. Campers at Juniper Family Campground are permitted to drive into the campground.

## Recreation

Bandelier is home to over 70 miles of hiking trails most of which are located within federally designated wilderness. Two trails are accessible directly from Juniper Family Campground. The Frey Trail follows the historic route into Frijoles Canyon and descends down the canyon wall to the Visitor Center and the Main Loop Trail. The Tyuonyi Overlook Trail leaves the amphitheater parking area for a 3/4-mile hike across the open mesa top to an overlook providing breathtaking views of Frijoles Canyon and of Tyounyi, an ancestral Pueblo village.  
  
The Visitor Center houses museum exhibits, park film, information and ranger programs, Western National Parks Association sales outlet, and more. Entrance to Frijoles Canyon and the Visitor Center is by shuttle bus only (or by hiking) from mid-May to mid-October. These areas are accesibile by private vehicle outside the shuttle bus period. 

Although rock climbing is prohibited within Bandelier National Monument, many popular climbs are within a short drive up Route 4 into the Jemez Mountains.

## Facilities

Restrooms with running water and water spigots with potable water are centrally located in the Juniper Family Campground loops. Picnic tables, firerings, grills, and food lockers are provided at both group campsites. No hookup campsites are available. Shade is limited. There is an RV dump station on the road into the campground, however water at the dump station is turned off during winter months (no filling water tanks or dumping: mid-October to mid-April). During the summer months a camp host is present in the campground. Each group campsite is for tent camping only and has ample space for mulitple tents. Only one (1) RV or trailer is permitted per site. Each site can accommodate 10-20 campers. 

The Frijoles Canyon shuttle system (mid-May to mid-October) includes a stop at the Amphitheater parking area located in the Juniper Family Campground. The shuttle can be ridden free of charge and offers service into Frijoles Canyon, stopping at the Visitor Center. Private vehicle traffic into Frijoles Canyon is prohibited while the shuttle is in service.

During the summer months, interpretive programs may be offered during the day at the Visitor Center and in the evening at the Amphitheater located in the campground. Check the Visitor Center for program schedule.   
  
Check-in time for campground is 4:00 pm. 

Check-out time for the campround is 11:30 a.m. 

## Natural Features

Bandelier National Monument protects over 33,000 acres of rugged, beautiful canyon and mesa country which features evidence of human presence going back over 11,000 years. Petroglyphs, dwellings carved into the soft rock cliffs, and standing masonry walls pay tribute to the early days of a culture that still survives in the surrounding communities. 

Bandelier National Monument sits at the southern end of the Pajarito (Spanish for little bird) Plateau. The plateau was formed by two eruptions 1.6 and 1.4 million years ago. Home to the Bandelier Wilderness, Bandelier ranges from 5340 ft at the Rio Grande River to the south and 10,199 ft at the summit of Cerro Grande to the north, almost a mile of elevation change in just under 12 miles. This elevation gradient creates a unique diversity of habitats specific to Northern New Mexico. The diversity of habitats and quick access to water supported a relatively large population of Ancestral Pueblo people. Currently, Piñon-Juniper woodlands dominate in the southern parts of the park transitioning through ponderosa pine savannahs and forests, finally reaching mixed conifer forests at the highest elevation. Scattered throughout the park are desert grasslands, montane meadows, and riparian areas in the canyon bottoms. Over 70 miles of trails at Bandelier climb in and out of deep canyons and cross large flat mesas, showcasing the entire spectrum of volcanic geology and ecosystems found within the park.

The park is home to over 55 species of mammals including mule deer, Abert's squirrels, mountain lions, black bears, and 16 species of bats. Replitles and amphibians of all shapes and sizes can be seen. Birds such as Steller's jays, canyon towhees and mountain chickadees stay year-round, whereas turkey vultures, western tanagers, and black-headed grosbeaks are summer residents.

## Nearby Attractions

The town of Los Alamos has shopping, museums, amenities, a movie theater, ice rink, ski hill, and is home to Manhattan Project National Historic Site. 

Nearby Department of Energy and US Forest Service lands provide trails which accommodate pets.

Valles Caldera National Preserve is 16 miles west of Bandelier. 

Jemez Historic Site is 37 miles west.

Pecos National Historical Park is 70 miles southeast. 

Santa Fe, 40 miles south of the park, is home to the New Mexico state capitol, museums, historic districts, art galleries, food, accomodations, and more.

Juniper Family Campground

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Are you planning a walk-in camping trip to New Mexico? We've got you covered. When you go to a walk-in campsite, you can set up your tent wherever you want, experiencing the limitless expanse of nature. Find the best information on walk-in camping in New Mexico, including sites, reviews, and tips for getting the most out of your camping experience.

New Mexico

The Best Walk-In Camping in New Mexico

Looking for the best walk-in campgrounds near Alcalde? You'll be sleeping under the stars in your own private paradise when you stay at these campsites. Check out some of the best walk-in campsites near Alcalde.

Alcalde

The Best Walk-In Camping Near Alcalde, New Mexico

The Orilla Verde Recreation Area is located within the Rio Grande Del Norte National Monument and along the Rio Grande Wild and Scenic River. Nestled along the banks of the Rio Grande and within the steep-walled Rio Grande Gorge, the campgrounds in this area offer nearby access to the river. The elevation along the river is 6,100 feet and the steep canyon rises 800 feet from the river to the Gorge rim.

Because of the dramatic changes in elevation and the diversity of plant life, Orilla Verde draws many species of animals, including raptors (such as eagles and hawks), songbirds, waterfowl, beaver, cougar, ringtail, mule deer, and more. The Rio Grande also has attracted humans since prehistoric times. Evidence of ancient peoples is found throughout the Recreation Area in the form of petroglyphs on the rocks and many other types of archaeological sites.

The climate at Orilla Verde is semi-arid, with summer thunderstorms common in July and August, and snow possible from October through March. Summer temperatures range from 45 to 90 degrees, and winter temperatures range from -15 to 45 degrees

BLM Orilla Verde Recreation Area

The Borrego Mesa Campground is located close to several trailheads leading into the north half of the Pecos Wilderness. Amenitites include picnic tables, firepits and small corrals at each site suitable for one or two horses. The Vaulted toilet is currently not in service. Adjacent to and south of the campground is the Rio Medio Trailhead, one of the major trailheads into the Pecos Wilderness. The campground is rather primitive and little used, and is much less developed than most. It is primarily used for picnicking by locals from nearby communities, and also serves those who use it for an overnight stay before embarking on a horsepack or backpack into the Pecos. There is ample space for trailer/RV camping, but no dump station is available. There is no potable water and no Campground Host.

Borrego Mesa Campground

Just 8 miles north of Santa Fe, this small campground in the Santa Fe National Forest is situated near the boundary of the Pecos Wilderness. Popular with both tent and RV campers, this rustic campground is just minutes away from Santa Fe’s food and local attractions, while providing easy access to an abundance of hiking, mountain biking and equestrian trails. For a quick and easy outing, the 1.5-mile, family-friendly Black Canyon Trail starts at the back of the campground loop and explores fir and aspen woods brimming with summer wildflowers. Those looking for a bigger endeavor can hike the nearby West Circle Trail. This 3.2-mile loop climbs 1,200 feet to the summit of Peak 9400, and offers plenty of views and wildlife watching. The campground at Black Canyon offers 36 tent and RV sites situated among shady Douglas-fir and Ponderosa pine forest. There are also six walk-in tent sites and a few ADA accessible sites. Each site is equipped with picnic tables and grills; water faucets and vault toilets are available in several locations. RV sites can accommodate vehicles/trailers up to 60 feet, but hookups are not available; there is a fee dump station located at nearby Hyde Memorial State Park. Dogs are permitted at this location. The campground is open from May to mid-October. Reservations are accepted, however some sites are saved for first-come, first-serve campers; rates are $10/night.

Black Canyon Campground

Camp May

The Aspen Basin Campground is located adjacent to the very large parking area at Santa Fe Ski Basin. There are 10 units, Picnic tables, and fire rings. There is a vaulted toilet at the far west end of the parking lot. This campground is less developed than most, and primarily serves those who use it for an overnight stay before embarking on a backpack into the Pecos. There is ample space for trailer/RV camping, but no dump station is available. There is no potable water and no Campground Host. The entire area is very scenic, and NM 475 is also designated as the Santa Fe Scenic Byway. Because of the scenic quality and the easy access from Santa Fe, the area is very busy, especially in the summer and in the fall aspen viewing season.

Aspen Basin Campground

Big Tesuque is a walk in campground not conducive to trailer or RV campoing. There are 10 units, Picnic tables and grills, and Vaulted toilets in the parking lot. There is no potable water and no Campground Host. The entire area is very scenic, and NM 475 is also designated as the Santa Fe Scenic Byway. Because of the large stands of aspen, the area is very busy, especially in the fall aspen viewing season. There are additional recreation opportunities along NM 475, both above and below Big Tesuque Campground, including hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, and in the winter. both nordic and alpine skiing. Tesuque is pronounced "Tess-U-key"

Big Tesuque Campground

Agua Piedra, located in the Carson National Forest, is nestled near the Rio Pueblo and Agua Piedra Creek. The campground contains many shaded areas to camp, relax, and enjoy the outdoors. Recreation Visitors to the Agua Piedra campground and group shelters can also enjoy fishing in the Rio Pueblo River, which is a tributary of the mighty Rio Grande. The river is stocked with rainbow trout and has an accessible fishing dock. Hiking to Serpent Lake and Cordova Canyon, which are both within seven miles of the campground and group shelters, are also favorite activities for visitors. Also popular is further exploration of points of interest in the Pecos Wilderness, as well as within the Sangre De Cristos Mountains, the southernmost Rocky Mountain range. Facilities The campground includes 40 single sites each with a table and fire ring, two double sites each with two tables and a fire ring, and two group shelters located west of the campground. Vault toilets, drinking water from faucets, and trash removal are provided. Firewood is available to purchase from the host. First-come, first-served sites are available. The group shelters (A and B), which are accessible, are located west of the campground and are equipped with tables and campfire rings with grills. Accessible vault toilets and drinking water are provided. Trash service is provided in the campground. The accessible group shelter "A" can accommodate up to 50 people for overnight camping. Group shelter "B" can accommodate up to 100 people for overnight camping. Both group shelters are available by reservation. Natural Features Agua Piedra campground and group shelters are located in a mixed forest of spruce, fir and aspen trees, which provide some shade throughout the day. At an altitude of 8,100 feet, temperatures can cool off during the summer nights. Nearby Attractions Sipapu Ski Resort, the town of Vadito, and the town of Penasco is within 3 - 17 miles from the campground and group shelter. Most services are available in Taos, NM, 25 miles north of the campground or Espanola, NM, 45 miles southwest. ADA Access: N

Agua Piedra Campground

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Malaga

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Probably the Land of Enchantment’s most well-known city, Albuquerque, New Mexico deserves a spot in your next travel itinerary. In the city itself, you’ll find a handful of KOAs and private campgrounds to accommodate tents and RV camping.

You don’t have to go far to find the best camping near Albuquerque. The Sandia Mountain Wilderness is US Forest Service land just east of the city, between Albuquerque and Tijeras, NM. It’s a great place to spend a night or two! On the city’s west side, you’ll find Petroglyph National Monument. Though there are no campsites there, it’s worth a day trip to enjoy the area and learn about the history.

Albuquerque

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The Sangre de Cristo foothills offer some of the best camping opportunities near Santa Fe, NM. Get supplies in the city before venturing out to campsites. Surrounded by national forests and natural areas, Santa Fe has plenty of campgrounds to offer. Camping in the national forest by the badlands gives outdoor enthusiasts plenty of opportunities for adventure from hiking the trails to riding ATVs. Campers looking for stunning views of these New Mexico foothills and valley will want to make the drive up to Santa Fe Skies Park. It’s RV-friendly and campers won’t complain about the views no matter where their site is located.

Santa Fe

The Best Camping in Santa Fe | New Mexico Campgrounds

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The Best Camping in Alcalde, New Mexico

Top Alcalde Campgrounds

Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa

Bandelier National Monument Ponderosa Group Campground

Juniper Family Campground

BLM Orilla Verde Recreation Area

Borrego Mesa Campground

Black Canyon Campground

Camp May

Aspen Basin Campground

Big Tesuque Campground

Agua Piedra Campground

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