Equestrian camping near Canjilon, New Mexico offers access to the Carson National Forest at elevations ranging from 8,000 to 10,000 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 70-85°F during the day but can drop below 45°F at night. The region's diverse terrain includes meadows, pine forests, and numerous fishing lakes that freeze over during winter months.
What to do
Fishing at local lakes: Seven fishing lakes are located within 5 miles of Canjilon. "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," notes a camper from Hopewell Lake Campground.
Riverside activities: Many camping sites provide direct access to waterways. "We were able to find a very private spot with easy access to the river! We will be visiting again. Great for our dog too," shares a camper at Oak Point Campground about their experience along the Rio Chama.
Hiking mountain trails: Explore hiking trails that connect throughout the national forest. "We took several easy but longish hikes and it's just beautiful. Lots of birds, wildflowers and we even saw a beaver on the lake!" reports a visitor to Fenton Lake State Park.
What campers like
Stargazing opportunities: The remote location provides exceptional night sky views. "It got cold at night, like 27 F. It was a nice waypoint on my trip between Gunnison CO and El Paso TX but it didn't look like many people camped there," notes a visitor to Carson NF Forest Service Road 578.
River camping: The sound of flowing water enhances the camping experience. "Very peaceful location listening to the river all night," explains a reviewer about Oak Point Campground.
Privacy and seclusion: Many sites offer separation from other campers. "A cozy private campsite! Chama canyon is our weekend go-to place. Only 2 hrs from Albuquerque. Many campsites available (some are dispersed) along the river," describes a camper at Rio Chama Campground.
What you should know
Weather conditions: Mountain weather can change quickly. "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," warns a camper from Fenton Lake State Park.
Cell service limitations: Most camping areas have limited or no connectivity. "Cell service drops completely pretty soon after leaving the highway. I sporadically received some messages at my camp site but not reliably," explains a camper at Carson NF Forest Service Road 578.
Road conditions: Access to some sites requires appropriate vehicles. "The dirt road is easy for all cars/trailers," shares a review about Little Arsenic Springs Campground, while others note rougher terrain.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly campground loops: Some campgrounds have areas specifically suited 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 a camper at Fenton Lake State Park.
Water activities: Floating opportunities delight children and adults alike. "We had a great time camping by the river over Memorial Day weekend. Definitely have some sort of raft or kayak or SUP to put in the river upstream and float down to the boat ramp or to your campground," suggests a visitor to Oak Point Campground.
Educational activities: The area offers hands-on learning experiences. "We even made objects from the clay in the river. Then fired them in the camp fire," shares a camper from Ghost Ranch.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup locations: Only certain campgrounds offer RV amenities. "Pull through sites have great shade and full hookups with 30 or 50 amp electrical service. Spacious tent sites with full service restrooms nearby," notes a visitor to Ponderosa Campground.
Check-in procedures: Some campgrounds have specific registration requirements. "If you aren't familiar with the park and campground, it could be easy to take a wrong turn if you're trying to find your own way. And that would be no fun in an RV," cautions a camper at Fenton Lake State Park.
Space considerations: Not all sites accommodate larger vehicles. "RVs will not make it, so it's nice and quiet. AWD/4WD needed on the rutted rocky road," explains a reviewer about Carson NF Forest Service Road 578.
