Tent campers visiting Blanco, New Mexico have access to primitive campsites at elevations ranging from 5,800 to 7,500 feet across various terrain types. The region experiences distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping months while spring and fall bring cooler conditions requiring additional preparation. Winter camping is limited due to access road closures from November through April in higher elevation areas.
What to do
Fish the San Juan River: Anglers camp at Forest Road 316 Roadside Camp for easy access to fishing spots. "This was an easy spot and any kind of vehicle can get here. Lots of room, not much to look at in the fall, as far as, right around, but the views are amazing king distance and at night the stars are amazing," notes one camper.
Hike nearby trails: Tent campers can access trails from several primitive camping locations. "We camped in early May. There are 3 (maybe 4) spots and it's beautiful! The CG is about a half mile from the end of the pavement," reports a visitor to Bay City Campground.
Stargazing opportunities: Clear skies make for excellent night viewing. "At night the stars are amazing. I didn't hear any cows, it was quiet at night," explains a camper who visited in October when temperatures drop into the 40s at night.
What campers like
Riverside camping access: Multiple tent sites offer creek or river proximity. "The creek adds lovely background noise. Service is good enough you can text your family you made it without issue, but photos will be slow to send (Verizon)," mentions a visitor at Bay City Campground.
Uncrowded camping options: Even during peak season, many dispersed sites remain available. "Great camping area, stayed here for just one night. There was plenty of camping areas along the river. About 8 spots. Some were large enough to handle RVs," notes a camper at Lower Piedra River Camp.
Diverse landscapes: The region offers varied terrain for different preferences. "Towards the top the landscape changes from piñon pine to an aspen grove so you really get a few different options to fit what you're looking for," describes a camper at Forest Road 316 Roadside Camp.
What you should know
Road access limitations: Many access roads to the best tent camping near Blanco, New Mexico close seasonally. "Road is closed as of today, think it opens in May," reports a camper attempting to reach Bay City Campground in April.
Limited facilities: Most sites lack amenities. "We found Capote on the fly, while leaving West Fork Campground. Turned out to be a beautiful site, spacious, needled sites, surrounded by lodge pole pines," notes a visitor to Capote Campground.
Vehicle considerations: Access roads vary significantly in quality. "Getting up there was not possible in my Travato (in my opinion). I've got some Falken Wildpeaks so traction was not so much the issue as the uneven path up," warns a camper about Cherry Creek Gravel Lot.
Tips for camping with families
Group site options: Families traveling together can utilize designated group camping areas. "Jake from the Dyrt here! Navajo Lake Group Camp offers the perfect setup for groups with 4 separate sites so each tent has their own space. They provide the tents so don't worry about packing them!" explains a visitor to Navajo Lake Relax Wild-u-can.
River noise considerations: Running water provides natural white noise but can require extra supervision. "We are back in October. The river is more shallow and the air more crisp, yet still gives the feel of such a natural feel and sound," mentions a return visitor to Bay City Campground.
Site selection timing: Arriving mid-week improves family camping opportunities. "I was surprised that I was able to roll up at dusk and get a spot no problem. There seem to have a handful of pullouts here with fire rings. Maybe because it was mid week after elk season closed," notes a camper at Bay City Campground.
Tips from RVers
Size-appropriate sites: Larger RVs need careful site selection. "This road can accommodate all kinds of camping. We didn't have to drive very far to find a good spot. Where we camped could fit all size rigs," reports an RV camper at Forest Road 316 Roadside Camp.
Generator considerations: Noise restrictions vary by location. "There was one night an inconsiderate person parked his company truck and camper as close to me as was possible with wide open space all over and ran his generator. Luckily he was gone the next day," mentions a tent camper at Cherry Creek Gravel Lot.
Dumping facilities: Most dispersed camping lacks facilities. "There's also a shower house with a dump and fill station nearby for getting back on the road again!" notes a camper at Capote Campground, one of few sites offering such amenities.
