Carson National Forest provides dispersed camping options in high-elevation terrain near Arroyo Hondo. The surrounding landscape combines juniper and pine forest with sagebrush clearings at elevations ranging from 7,500 to 9,500 feet. Temperature fluctuations can be extreme, with summer daytime highs reaching 80°F but nighttime lows dipping into the 40s.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The Rio Costilla Park area north of Arroyo Hondo contains numerous fishing spots that attract anglers. "Fishing is great and quality waters. It is fisherman's fly fishing dream. Camping is great too as you can park next to the river," notes one visitor to Rio Costilla Park.
Hiking trails: Multiple trailheads provide access to wilderness hiking paths with varying difficulty levels. At Iron Gate Campground, one camper reports, "Great hiking trails are near by taking you up to some great scenic outlooks over the mountain sides." Many trails connect directly to campsites.
Wildlife viewing: The region supports diverse wildlife, particularly during early morning and evening hours. "I saw two elk across a swath of sage. I could see the snow capped peaks of the Sangre de Cristo range on the eastern horizon when I walked farther up the road," writes a camper who stayed at Carson NF Forest Service Road 578.
What campers like
High elevation cool temperatures: Even during summer months, the elevation provides relief from heat. A camper at Agua Piedra Campground shared, "It is just what WE want when we go camping. You can drive 10 minutes away to Sipapu ski resort to use free wifi at the cafe."
Solitude and privacy: Many sites provide ample separation between campsites, particularly in dispersed areas. "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," reports a visitor to Carson NF Forest Service Road 578.
Mountain scenery: The surrounding Sangre de Cristo mountains create dramatic landscapes throughout the area. One camper at Mallette Creek North described it as "a beautiful view! A couple of neighbors but never heard them. Not the easiest piece of ground to get the trailer leveled but we made it work."
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Access roads to many sites can be challenging, particularly after rain. "The road isn't terrible going up, saw many 2WD vehicles. Good amount of spots but many have no shade/not level," notes a camper at Iron Gate Campground.
Limited or no services: Most dispersed sites have no facilities whatsoever. Even established campgrounds have basic amenities. "Vault toilets were well stocked and clean. Trails nearby for hiking and biking," writes a visitor to Hopewell Lake Campground.
Cell service limitations: Signal is spotty or non-existent in many camping areas. "Cell service drops completely pretty soon after leaving the highway. I sporadically received some messages at my camp site but not reliably," reports a camper at Carson NF Forest Service Road 578.
Tips for camping with families
Stream access: Camping near water features provides natural entertainment for children. At Rio Costilla Park, one camper shared, "Took inner tubes and rode them down the stream! Stayed two nights and loved every minute."
Wildlife awareness: Teaching children about local wildlife enhances the experience while promoting safety. At Santa Barbara Campground, a visitor noted, "There were a few cows that got into the camping area. There can also be horses on the trails so be vigilant."
Temperature preparation: Significant day-to-night temperature swings require appropriate clothing and sleeping gear. "It got cold at night, like 27 F. It was a nice waypoint on my trip between Gunnison CO and El Paso TX," shares a camper from Carson NF Forest Service Road 578.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for equestrian camping: When bringing horses to dispersed sites, look for areas with adequate clearing. "Good road all the way in. About a 15min drive from the highway. Only 5 or 6 sites. Sites have a small horse pen but you would need to make a gate on them. Not good for big LQ horse trailers," advises a visitor to Borrego Mesa Campground.
Vehicle clearance requirements: Many forest roads require higher clearance vehicles, especially for equestrian camping near Arroyo Hondo. "The site isn't easy to get to for low clearance vehicles. During rainy seasons, ruts form with deep mud on some spots driving up," warns a camper at Iron Gate Campground.
Camping duration planning: The remote nature of many sites affects how long you can comfortably stay. "Even with a couple and a new born up the hill I never heard them from our campervan! Serene surroundings and beautiful place to camp during a thunderstorm!" shares a visitor to Mallette Creek North.
