Glamping close to Carson, New Mexico offers visitors diverse camping experiences in the high desert landscape of northern New Mexico. Most camping options in this area sit at elevations between 6,500-8,000 feet, with significant temperature swings between day and night even in summer months. Dispersed and established camping areas provide access to the Rio Grande Gorge, which cuts through the landscape with walls dropping 800 feet to the river below.
What to do
Hiking down to the river: At Cebolla Mesa Campground, campers can access a 1.5-mile trail down to the Rio Grande. "It is a tough switch back trail all the way down but not too long so you should be fine. Take your time if you need. It is rough terrain," notes one visitor. The trail leads to the confluence where the Red River meets the Rio Grande.
Hot springs soaking: Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa offers early morning soaking privileges for campground guests. "The best part is that you get early access to the pools, you'll have them nearly to yourselves 7:30-10am and 20% off admission. Also there is free yoga at 9 or 10:40 for guests," reports one camper. The variety of mineral pools contain different temperatures and mineral contents.
Fishing opportunities: The local waterways provide excellent trout fishing spots. "There's a nice little trail to walk dogs," mentions a visitor to Taos Valley RV Park & Campground, which offers convenient access to fishing locations. Many campgrounds in the area have rivers or creeks running directly through or adjacent to the sites.
What campers like
Stargazing conditions: The lack of light pollution makes this area ideal for night sky viewing. "Our view is spectacular and the showers are the cleanest I've ever seen. The hotel staff is super friendly and our starlink really works super fast here," notes one visitor about Hotel Luna Mystica. The open mesa location provides unobstructed views of the night sky.
Creekside camping: Several campgrounds feature water features directly accessible from campsites. "Sites were far enough from everyone else, but where right on the only road in and out. This is a popular spot between angel fire and taos. Not too primitive," a camper shares about Capulin Campground, where a small stream runs through the sites.
Proximity to breweries: "Across the road from the campground is the Taos Mesa Brewery where you can get amazing craft beers and some great food," explains a camper about the popular gathering spot near Hotel Luna Mystica. The brewery often features live music and serves as a social hub for campers in the area.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many dispersed camping areas require driving on unpaved roads. "It is a pleasant drive in off of the main road. 4 x 4 and high clearance vehicles were not necessary. Very light traffic," reports a visitor to Cebolla Mesa. However, conditions change quickly with weather: "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."
Hookup considerations: Many campgrounds offer limited or no hookups. "I believe all spots have electricity and water. There is a communal bathroom with individual and stall shower. Good Verizon service and free WIFI out to the car," explains a visitor about their experience at Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa.
Cell service variability: Connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. "There is no cell service. Not a bar to be found. And the wifi (free) is REALLY spotty," notes a camper about Sierra Village Lodge & RV Park. However, at Luna Mystica, visitors report "we had no problem connecting with Starlink and had LTE in the campground."
Tips for camping with families
Age restrictions: Families with young children should check hot springs policies. "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," notes a visitor to Ojo Caliente, highlighting an important consideration for family planning.
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated facilities for children. "They have a dump station, a dishwashing area, bathrooms with very hot showers, a playground, and office," reports a camper at Taos Valley RV Park, making it suitable for families with children.
School proximity awareness: When selecting specific sites, consider nearby facilities. "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," advises one RVer about Taos Valley RV Park & Campground.
Tips from RVers
Unlevel sites: Many campgrounds have challenging terrain for leveling. "We stayed 3 nights on our first trip with our new rig. The spot was mostly level making set up easy," reports a camper at Columbine Campground, but cautions, "Some sites are short, very few are level, some have a steep slope."
Utility placement: Hookups at some campgrounds are positioned inconveniently. "Hook up were on passenger side and towards front of TT we had enough hose and cords to reach. It says they have loaners if needed," notes a camper at Ojo Caliente, highlighting a common challenge for RV positioning.
Size restrictions: Many campgrounds cannot accommodate larger rigs. "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," advises a visitor to Columbine Campground. Advance research on site dimensions is recommended for RVs over 25 feet.
