Dispersed camping options abound near Carson National Forest, covering 1.5 million acres across northern New Mexico with elevations ranging from 6,000 to 13,000 feet. Temperatures vary significantly based on elevation, with summer highs averaging 70-80°F while winter temperatures routinely drop below freezing. Several primitive campsites offer direct access to the Rio Grande Gorge's rim with opportunities for hiking to the river below.
What to do
Fishing at nearby lakes: Cabresto Lake provides clear water fishing opportunities in a mountain setting, though access requires appropriate vehicles. "The water was so clear, you could see to the bottom in most parts of the tiny lake. The marsh on the east end provided plenty of bugs and worms for bait. The lake provided enough trout for a dinner," notes one visitor to Cabresto Lake Campground.
Hiking trail access: Multiple campgrounds offer direct access to hiking trails without needing to drive elsewhere. At Columbine Campground, "There are a few trailheads towards the back of the campground with awesome trails. Plus this campground is in between the amazing Red River ski resort and Questa."
Soak in mineral springs: For recovery after hiking, consider visiting Ojo Caliente. "Access to the hot springs spa was NOT included in the price for camping, and not inexpensive, but the variety of pools and the beauty of the place was worth it. They offer steam rooms, a multitude of pools of varying temperature and mineral content, in addition to a mud bath."
Rio Grande hiking: Camping along the gorge rim provides dramatic landscapes and trail access to the river. At Cebolla Mesa, "There is a 1.25 mile hike down to the river to cool down. Plenty of shade and lots of off road trails for driving/running/biking."
What campers like
Riverside camping spots: Several campgrounds offer sites directly adjacent to water. At Red River RV, "Our camp is right next to the river, there is a shuttle that takes you into town, the facilities are clean and close by, and the fishing is great."
Dispersed camping with amenities access: Glamping close to Carson National Forest often means finding the right balance of primitive locations with reasonable access to facilities. Near Hotel Luna Mystica, "We stayed one night out in the dispersed camping area and pretty much had the huge area all to ourselves. I wouldn't say it was the greatest site in the world but the sunrise in the morning was pretty spectacular. And it was nice to have a clean bathroom and shower to use if we wanted to."
Quiet, uncrowded weekday camping: Many campgrounds near Carson National Forest experience different crowd levels based on day of week. At Cebolla Mesa Campground, visitors report: "Came on a weekday, only 1 or 2 other campers... not too tough to get to in a 22ft TT" and "We came on a Tuesday and there were only 2 other cars here. Drive further down the campground road for more isolated locations."
Clean facilities: Many campers praise the well-maintained bathrooms at campgrounds in the area. "The vault bathrooms were extremely clean and even pleasant smelling" at Columbine Campground, while another visitor to Taos Valley RV Park notes, "Grounds and bathrooms were very clean. The staff was friendly and helpful."
What you should know
Weather preparedness: Mountain conditions can change quickly in this region regardless of season. At Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa, one visitor reports: "Surprise! The weather went from day-time highs in the 60's to blizzard conditions with overnight lows in the teens."
Road conditions: Many campsites require driving on unpaved roads of varying quality. For Cebolla Mesa, "Long and slightly rough dirt road entry. If it rains or storms you'll have a tough time getting out with a camper if you don't have a 4x4." Similarly, at Cabresto Lake: "So... luckily we have Jeep. The road up to the lake is pretty rocky so we had to air down our tires so that we don't get back aches after our day 4x4 goose lake trail getaway."
Connectivity challenges: Cell service and WiFi vary significantly by location. "There is NO cell service. Not a bar to be found. And the wifi (free) is REALLY spotty. I had very minimal luck just checking email. Forget about streaming anything," reports one camper at Sierra Village Lodge & RV Park.
Reservation needs: During peak seasons, securing camping spots can be challenging without advance planning, particularly at established campgrounds. "In late Sep it was still busy and full, but it was quiet within the RV Park."
Tips for camping with families
Consider noise levels: Some campgrounds have noise sources that may affect light sleepers or young children. At Taos Valley RV Park & Campground, "Our site row backed up to an elementary school, so if you are there during the week and don't want to listen to children enjoying their recess, you should request another site."
Select sites thoughtfully: Not all campground sites are created equal. At Columbine Campground, one camper warns: "In my mind there are two sites worth the drive and they are (drumroll please) 13 and 15. If you are a very social person, this is your place. If you don't want to watch your neighbors every move, skip this one."
Water-adjacent sites: For families with children, proximity to small waterways provides natural entertainment. At Columbine Campground, a visitor notes, "All sites sit on a beautifully shaded Creek (Columbine Creek) that feeds the Red River... Each site has more than expected space and offset to adjacent sites."
Check age restrictions: Some facilities have age limitations, particularly at hot springs locations. One visitor to Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs notes, "I would have given this property 5 stars but they've become unfriendly to families. Children under 13 are not allowed in the hot springs."
Tips from RVers
Site layout challenges: At some campgrounds, hookup placement can create setup difficulties. "The hookups are on the opposite side but they will lend you extensions if you need," mentions a visitor to Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa.
Leveling requirements: Terrain at many campgrounds near Carson National Forest isn't always RV-friendly. At Columbine Campground, "Some sites are short, very few are level, some have a steep slope...The loop to the left side near the host is more level and can handle bigger RVs but overall this is not a big rig campground."
Seasonal considerations: Weather affects road access differently throughout the year. For glamping near Carson National Forest in winter months, road conditions become paramount. One camper at Red River RV notes: "We stayed here for 10 days during the 'off season' at the end of April. It was beautiful and quiet. The snow was melting and the river was beautiful."
Space considerations: Some RV parks feature tighter spacing than others. "This park is very nice and well maintained... I like how their sites are arranged so that you are not looking and eating with your neighbors sewer. I guess technically, they are 'buddy sites,' but they have cleverly added angled dividers to maintain your privacy if you don't know your neighbors."
