North of Raton, near the Colorado-New Mexico border, the Capulin area sits at elevations between 6,500 and 9,000 feet with volcanic terrain forming much of the landscape. The region transitions from high plains to mountains, creating distinct microclimates that affect camping experiences. During winter months, temperatures frequently drop below freezing with snowfall closing some access routes from November through March.
What to do
Dinosaur track viewing: 45 minutes from Capulin at Clayton Lake State Park features preserved dinosaur tracks uncovered when the spillway was constructed. "The dinosaur tracks (uncovered at the spillway around 1982 after a flood) at the spillway are of particular interest. Informational signage lines the spillway and the small pavilion atop the levy," notes one visitor to Clayton Lake State Park Campground.
Historical coal mining trails: 30 miles from Capulin through Sugarite Canyon. "The visitor center is small but with a lot of good exhibits, and adjacent to the hiking trails of the abandoned coal camp and mine. The coal camp trails have lots of informative stands explaining what everything was, how the people lived, etc," reports a camper at Soda Pocket Campground.
Little Horse Mesa Trail: 3-mile round trip hike with significant elevation gain. "It meanders a bit but at some point the trail builder said 'I've given you all the switchbacks I can, you'll just have to go straight up' and the last 50 yards are pretty much straight uphill. When you get to the top though it's like another world," describes a visitor who hiked from Soda Pocket Campground.
Sunset viewing: Best spots on western-facing sites with unobstructed views. "We pitched tent at Chicano Beach site #2, far away from any crowds upon a knoll overlooking a western 'dog-leg' of the 170 acre reservoir," explains a visitor to Clayton Lake State Park, noting the prime sunset viewing location.
What campers like
Clean bathrooms and shower facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained facilities. At Capulin RV Park, one camper states, "First and foremost, the lady that helped us with the site was incredibly kind and helpful. Also it should be noted as in the other reviews the campsites are very close together. Finally, I must stay unequivocally this campground has the nicest bathrooms I've seen in a very long time. Very clean very modern and very well maintained!"
Free stargazing with minimal light pollution: The area's dark skies make it ideal for astronomy. "We got to see Jupiter and its 4 largest moons at dusk. This whole area of New Mexico has really dark skies at night with so many stars visible," reports a visitor to Clayton Lake State Park Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Multiple species can be observed from campsites. "Coyotes barked in the distance, strutting turkey's gobbled, jackrabbit's darted, fish jumped and mule deer grazed the shoreline grasses and taking in late night and early morning drinks," describes a visitor at Clayton Lake State Park.
Rock formations for exploration: Unique geological features provide natural playgrounds. "The rock garden is worth a scramble...very cool columns...(R4 campsite is nestled deep within them and the most highly coveted tent site)," mentions a camper at Clayton Lake State Park.
What you should know
Limited water availability at higher elevation sites: Bring extra containers. "Soda Pocket has no water, so bring plenty for a stay!" warns a visitor to Soda Pocket Campground, emphasizing the need for preparation.
Road conditions vary after rainfall: Some access roads become challenging. "The 2-3 miles of dirt washboard road was not a problem when dry, but would be a problem after rain," explains a visitor to Lake 13-Maxwell National Wildlife Refuge.
Bear activity precautions required: Many campgrounds provide storage boxes. "Sites have a shelter over the picnic table. Site also has a bear box & fire ring," notes a camper at Soda Pocket Campground. Another visitor adds, "There was a report of bears on the road up to Soda Pocket Campground but we did not see any."
Limited or no cell service in canyon areas: Prepare for disconnection. "No cell service for either of our carriers, and I don't think for any, until about a mile beyond the shower house, prior to the entrance of the park," reports a visitor to Lake Alice Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Raised tent platforms: Available at several campgrounds for more comfortable sleeping. "The tent sites had raised platforms to put your tent on and the ground underneath was softer, so it wasn't that uncomfortable to sleep on," shares a visitor to Lake Alice Campground.
Interactive historical exhibits: Engage children with the area's mining past. "The visitor center and every other aspect of this park is spotlessly clean and meticulously maintained. The visitor center, though small, utilized every inch to bring you desired information of the park's history," reports a camper at Clayton Lake State Park.
Wildlife tracking activities: Turn animal sightings into educational opportunities. "I did see bear tracks while hiking but host said they've never been a human issue," notes a visitor to Lake Alice Campground, highlighting a potential learning activity.
Sheltered picnic areas: Protection from sudden weather changes. "Sites 20-23 have spectacular views of the canyon, but you trade that for some serious wind and neighbors as there is no natural shade. Sites 1, 3, 14 and 16 have shade and a little more distance," advises a visitor to Soda Pocket Campground.
Tips from RVers
Tight spacing at some RV parks: Reserve carefully based on rig size. At Raton Pass Camp & Cafe, a visitor notes, "The sites are close, but who cares when you have this view out your back window? The bathhouse is very clean and opens with a code."
Electric hookup variations: Check specific site details before booking. "It isn't true 50 amp service. Uses a converter that plugs into two 30 amp sockets. They provide this for you," explains a visitor to Summerlan RV Park in Raton.
RV site selection strategy: Choose sites based on view priority versus shade. "Sites 15 and 16 are great. Site 13 and 14 are ON THE ROAD and the accessible site near the bathroom is literally a couple of feet away so beware!" warns a camper at Lake Alice Campground.
Dump station availability limited: Plan ahead for tank management. "There is also no dump station or fill station, so plan on making a stop at the loves truck stop," advises a visitor to Clayton Lake State Park.
