Dispersed horse camping areas can be found throughout Carson National Forest, offering many sites suitable for equestrian camping. Horse-friendly camping options exist beyond Forest Service Road 578, with alternatives in the surrounding mountains and valleys. At 8,000-10,000 feet elevation, temperatures frequently drop below 40°F at night even in summer. Weather patterns in this high desert region can change rapidly with afternoon thunderstorms common from July through September.
What to do
Trout fishing access points: The rivers and lakes throughout Carson National Forest provide excellent fishing opportunities. At Agua Piedra Campground, "There is a trail head with 2 trails, one atv accessible and one hiking/horse that goes up to Indian Lake. Beautiful views and about 1200' elevation change," notes Tammy V. The campground sits alongside a river where "they were catching fish."
High-elevation hiking options: Several campgrounds connect to trail systems with significant elevation gain. Near Iron Gate Campground, "Great hiking trails are near by taking you up to some great scenic outlooks over the mountain sides," according to Cory M. The campground serves as "a base camp to start over night backpacking trips in the Pecos," says Dean K.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Early mornings and evenings offer the best wildlife sightings. At Cimarron Campground, "We had deer roam through our campsite, they could care less that we were even there," reports Terry R. The area has "an abundance of wildlife, we watched several herds of Elk down in the valley on one of our hikes."
What campers like
Natural water features: Many campers appreciate the streams and creeks that run through camping areas. At Rio Costilla Park, "Most of the sites were close to running streams of water," observes Terry, who adds that some visitors "took inner tubes and rode them down the stream!" according to another reviewer.
Excellent stargazing conditions: The remote locations offer minimal light pollution. Jen M. notes that Cimarron Campground provides "amazing stargazing at night." Similarly, at Mallette Creek North, campers enjoy "unobstructed views" in a location with minimal artificial light.
Secluded camping spots: Many areas provide significant distance between campsites. At Carson NF - Forest Service Road 578, Kala J. found the experience "Private and beautiful" and "Stayed one night and saw no one else." The dispersed camping area features "Multiple pulloffs for unmarked campsites" that provide seclusion.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Most camping areas have no reliable connectivity. At Santa Barbara Campground, Jacqueline D. reports there is "no cell service" despite other amenities being available. Plan communications accordingly and download maps offline before traveling.
Water availability varies: Not all campgrounds provide potable water, especially early or late in the season. At Agua Piedra Campground, Julie F. found that "Water was not available" during her stay. Rebecca A. warns that even when available, "water onsite is listed as potable but smells and tastes so strongly of sulphur that it cannot be tolerated for drinking or cooking. Make sure to haul in water."
Road conditions can be challenging: Many forest roads require appropriate vehicles. For Iron Gate Campground, Lisa C. cautions that "a low-profile vehicle will have a tough time making it up the hill to the campground, especially in rainy/snowy weather." At Mallette Creek North, andrew H. notes "the drive up is laborious and on a rickety road," although "there were a dozen large RV's waiting at the site which had no trouble getting in."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly fishing spots: Several locations offer dedicated fishing for younger anglers. At Hopewell Lake Campground, Stephen K. mentions "the smaller [pond] was reserved for kids's fishing," noting specific regulations: "only flies or artificial lures with a single, barbless hook are allowed. 2 fish limit."
Stream safety precautions: Fast-moving water requires supervision. Barbara H. warns about Santa Barbara Campground: "Santa Barbara river runs right by and can really flow fast in the spring (watch your kids!)."
Wildlife education opportunities: The abundant wildlife provides learning experiences. Terry R. describes Cimarron Campground: "We had deer roam through our campsite" and "The kids had a few streams to keep them busy."
Tips for RVers
Site limitations for larger rigs: Many campgrounds have restrictions on vehicle size. At Little Arsenic Springs Campground, sites are primarily designed for tent camping, making it unsuitable for most RVs. Similarly, Cory M. notes that at Iron Gate, "Tent camping and popups/small campers are fine. No room for RV's and larger travel trailers."
Generator restrictions: Policies on generator use vary by location. Carson Forest Service Road 578 has no generators allowed according to campground information. Be prepared with alternative power sources.
Limited hookup availability: Most campgrounds in the area lack services. James F. observes that at Santa Barbara Campground, "None of the sites have hook ups so you will be boon docking" and "Sign on the water spigot said not to connect a hose though so filling your rv or trailer is not what they were intended for."
