Rio Chama Campground offers some of the best dispersed camping options near Youngsville, New Mexico, with sites located along the riverbank providing both shade and water access. The area sits at elevations between 7,000-9,000 feet, creating cool summer nights even when daytime temperatures reach the 80s. Camping season typically runs from May through October, with higher elevations closing earlier due to snow.
What to do
River activities: At Rio Chama Campground, the river provides excellent recreation options. "We visited memorial day weekend 2021 with a group of 6. This spot is beautiful with a good amount of tree coverage. It's an easy dirt road drive down the river and you will pass many dispersed site and a couple of defined camping grounds. The sites are all close to the river and at most a quick drive away from a place to put your kayak or tube in the water," reports Megan V.
Clay crafting: The river clay offers a unique craft opportunity. "We even made objects from the clay in the river. Then fired them in the camp fire," shares Carolyn H. from Rio Chama Campground.
Hiking opportunities: The area surrounding Borrego Mesa Campground connects to trails for day hikes. "Close to the Rio Mario Trail trailhead. Campsite is at elevation over 8,000ft so it can get chilly at night," notes Jeff K.
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: Many campgrounds near Youngsville offer secluded sites. "We chose a secluded site and the only people we saw were kayakers. There are hiking spots, the echo amphitheater, and a monastery to visit," writes Carolyn H. about Rio Chama.
River soundscape: At Oak Point Campground, campers enjoy the natural white noise. "Very peaceful location listening to the river all night," mentions Megan E. Another camper elaborates: "Mountains in the distance, a river right next to camp, gravel and dirt roads, lots of woods.. what more can you ask for?"
High elevation cooling: The higher elevation campsites provide relief from summer heat. "Being that you are at 9500 ft voice's do carry so that is one drawback. I will continue to come here as it is so very pretty!!" notes Maggie H. about Hopewell Lake Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal challenges: Weather varies dramatically by elevation and season. "Prepare for cold nights and intermittent rain, hail, and high winds, even during the 'summer' season. We experienced day time temps of 70s - 80s and nighttime drops to the low 40s on both trips," warns Nicole B. about Fenton Lake State Park Campground.
Reservation systems: Some campgrounds require advance booking online. "Despite what the board says on entry don't pay the camping fee! The ranger will kick you out for not reserving online... part of the new process that they've not informed anyone of," cautions Lauren W. about Fenton Lake.
Road conditions: Access roads vary significantly in quality. "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 but I found a nice spot with a small fire circle in a small clearing," reports Jacob W. about dispersed camping off Forest Service Road 578.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly fishing: For families, fishing access makes a big difference. "The trout fishing is fun and always a success at the lake. We've only stayed at the developed camp ground once, and it was nice especially with the toilets," shares Sara S. about Hopewell Lake Campground.
Playground access: Some campgrounds include play areas for children. "There's a playground next to site 14 and this is a GREAT loop for folks with kids. If you're not a kid person, you'd probably prefer a different loop," advises Nicole B. about Fenton Lake.
Crowd consideration: Holiday weekends transform the experience at popular spots. "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," suggests Travis D. about Fenton Lake.
Tips from RVers
Horse-friendly options: Beyond HIPICO Santa Fe, other equestrian camping exists near Youngsville. "Campsite has some horse pens but you would need to make a gate on them. Not good for big LQ horse trailers," explains Jeff K. about Borrego Mesa Campground.
Power considerations: For RVers needing hookups, note specific limitations. "30 amp service only. Decent water pressure. No dump station on site (another drawback). No cell service of any kind," explains Reuben about Fenton Lake State Park.
Cell service awareness: Connectivity varies widely in the region. "Cell service drops completely pretty soon after leaving the highway. I sporadically received some messages at my camp site but not reliably," reports Kala J. about dispersed camping off Forest Service Road 578.
