Best Equestrian Camping near Carson, NM
Carson National Forest offers dispersed camping options for horse enthusiasts along Forest Service Road 578, approximately 5 miles south of Tres Piedras on the west side of Highway 285. The dirt road features several pulloffs with unmarked campsites suitable for primitive camping with horses. Access requires four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive vehicles due to rutted, rocky terrain that makes RV access difficult or impossible. The camping areas provide seclusion and privacy with multiple forest clearings suitable for setting up horse containment. Most campers report seeing few or no other visitors during their stays, creating a quiet environment for horses and riders.
The surrounding Carson National Forest provides extensive trail access for horseback riding through pine, juniper, and sage terrain. Forest Service Road 578 is clearly marked with a brown NFS sign and has a cattle guard at the entrance. The location offers views of the snow-capped Sangre de Cristo mountain range on clear days. Cell service drops completely shortly after leaving the highway, with only sporadic connectivity at some campsites. Temperatures can drop significantly at night due to the elevation. Campers should bring all necessary supplies including water for themselves and their horses as no facilities or amenities are available at these primitive sites. The area features occasional wildlife sightings including elk in the sage clearings.
