Best Tent Camping near Canjilon, NM

Carson National Forest surrounding Canjilon, New Mexico offers several primitive tent camping options at varying elevations. Canjilon Creek Campground, located at approximately 9,000 feet, provides tent-only camping near three trout-filled lakes with beautiful mountain vistas. For backcountry tent camping experiences, dispersed sites along Forest Service Road 578 offer secluded options with views of the Sangre de Cristo mountain range. Upper and Lower Lagunitas Campgrounds, located north of Canjilon near Tierra Amarilla, provide additional tent campsites in a forested setting.

Most tent campgrounds in this region require self-sufficiency and preparation. Canjilon Creek Campground features very primitive conditions with no running water, toilets, or other amenities, requiring campers to pack in all supplies. Four-wheel drive vehicles are recommended for accessing many sites due to rough, rutted roads with washouts and potholes. Vault toilets are available at some established campgrounds like Los Pinos and Lagunitas, but most dispersed camping areas lack facilities entirely. Fire rings are common at established sites, though seasonal fire restrictions may apply. The 14-day stay limit is standard throughout the national forest.

Tent campers frequently note the solitude and natural beauty of the area. According to one visitor at Canjilon Creek, "Hardly met anyone while there... plenty of wood to forage for" and "beautiful vistas" compensate for the lack of amenities. Another camper at Carson National Forest's dispersed sites observed "a nice mix of sage, juniper, and pine trees" and wildlife including elk. The higher elevation means temperatures can drop significantly at night, with one camper reporting overnight lows of 27°F even in April. Walk-in tent sites often provide the best access to creeks and small lakes, making them popular with anglers despite the primitive conditions.

Best Tent Sites Near Canjilon, New Mexico (30)

    1. Canjilon Creek Campground

    1 Review
    Canjilon, NM
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 758-6200

    "This park is very primitive. It has no running water, toilets, or amenities. What it has a lot of, is charm. Hardly met anyone while there. It has three lakes filled with trout."

    2. Star Dance

    1 Review
    Youngsville, NM
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (505) 901-2936

    3. Carson NF - Forest Service Road 578 - Dispersed Camping

    5 Reviews
    Carson National Forest, NM
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 758-8678

    "There are a bunch of different roads you can turn off to camp on if you’re driving from Taos to Durango."

    "I tent-camped off of Carson NF Forest Service Road 578 in mid April 2022. FS 578 is south of Tres Piedras about 5 miles on the west side of Hwy 285."

    4. Lower Lagunitas Campground

    3 Reviews
    Chama, NM
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 758-6200

    "The trek across northern New Mexico was truly breathtaking. We were fortunate enough to see tons of big Rams as well as an abundance of wildlife and plentiful bird watching."

    5. Resumidero Camping Area

    2 Reviews
    Gallina, NM
    31 miles

    "We expected a campground that was spread out, fire rings and vault toilets. It was perfect. The camp sites were far apart and you could chose between open meadows or in the trees."

    6. Upper Lagunitas Campground

    1 Review
    Chama, NM
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 758-6200

    7. Taos Junction Campground

    6 Reviews
    Carson, NM
    40 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 758-8851

    "They have nice grills at the tent sites along 28th tables. Bathrooms were nice and clean and a close walk. With lots to do including fish and hiking trails. We look forward to going back."

    "The shelter provides nice shade. Bugs & dust were only real drawback. Oh, and it was hot!"

    8. Dispersed Camping Near Taos

    4 Reviews
    Arroyo Hondo, NM
    40 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 758-8851

    "Make sure you go all the way to the coordinates as there are a ton of great spots off to the left of the road, plenty of room to spread out and some solidly flat spots."

    "Don’t drive to the John dun bridge from Taos use the longer route instead. The switch back road is blocked off now."

    9. Arroyo Seco Dispersed NF Camping

    8 Reviews
    Valdez, NM
    48 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 758-6200

    "Right off the road, literally. it hidden behind some trees so the barrier between the site and road makes for a little privacy. Great spot for a day or two right next to a creek so you fall asleep to"

    "First coms first served with mostly tenting spaces."

    10. Los Pinos

    2 Reviews
    Antonito, NM
    36 miles
    Website
    +1 (505) 758-8678
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Showing results 1-10 of 30 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Canjilon, NM

451 Reviews of 30 Canjilon Campgrounds



Guide to Canjilon

Nestled in the scenic Carson National Forest, Canjilon, New Mexico, offers a variety of tent camping options for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and tranquility.

Tent campers like these nearby activities

  • Enjoy fishing for trout at the picturesque Canjilon Creek Campground, where you can explore three serene lakes surrounded by stunning vistas.
  • Experience the enchanting atmosphere of Star Dance, a magical spot perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation, complete with reservable sites and showers.
  • Discover the peaceful surroundings of Cruces Basin Campground, ideal for hiking and immersing yourself in nature's beauty.

Explore these local attractions

  • Venture to the scenic Carson NF - Forest Service Road 578, where you can find secluded spots for primitive camping and enjoy breathtaking mountain views.
  • Visit the charming Lower Lagunitas Campground, which features small ponds and a tranquil environment, perfect for a quiet getaway.
  • Experience the remote beauty of Upper Lagunitas Campground, known for its spacious sites and peaceful atmosphere, making it a great choice for tent campers.

Amenities that enhance your camping experience

  • At Star Dance, enjoy modern amenities like showers and reservable sites, making your stay comfortable and convenient.
  • Los Pinos offers essential facilities such as picnic tables and toilets, ensuring a more enjoyable camping experience in the wilderness.
  • For those seeking a more rustic experience, Carson NF - Forest Service Road 578 provides a no-frills environment where you can truly connect with nature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Canjilon, NM?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Canjilon, NM is Canjilon Creek Campground with a 4-star rating from 1 review.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Canjilon, NM?

TheDyrt.com has all 30 tent camping locations near Canjilon, NM, with real photos and reviews from campers.