Glamping options near Chama, New Mexico provide access to the southern Rocky Mountains at elevations between 7,800-10,000 feet, with warm summer days reaching 80°F and cool nights dropping to 40°F. The area sits at the crossroads of alpine forests and high desert, creating distinct seasonal camping conditions with frequent afternoon thunderstorms in summer months. Fall brings aspen color changes that peak in late September through early October.
What to do
Ride the historic railroad: Take a trip on the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad near Twin Rivers RV Park & Campground, which offers full hookups just minutes from the train station. "Not much in town to do but there is the Cumbres & Toltec train to ride. Lots of hunting and fishing in the area," notes Thomas S.
Soak in hot springs: The mineral pools at Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa offer early morning soaking options. "You get early access to the pools, you'll have them nearly to yourselves 7:30-10am and 20% off admission," reports Jolene C. The resort offers free yoga sessions at 9:00 am and 10:40 am with instructors that campers describe as "fantastic."
Hiking trails: Access multiple trails directly from your campsite at several locations. At Turkey Creek Road, campers can enjoy "great views across the river gorge to a meadow on the opposite side of the valley," according to Brandon F. The area features several dispersed sites with established fire pits and enough room for multiple tents.
What campers like
Riverside camping spots: Campers praise the waterfront locations at several sites. At Pagosa Riverside Campground, "We had a nice large tent site right by the river. No trees on this site but the view and the river made up for that," shares Bret D., who paid $27 for one night.
Views of mountain landscapes: Many campsites feature panoramic mountain views. Ryan T. notes that at Turkey Creek Road, the "View is killer - we hit it at about peak color" during fall foliage season. Sites typically accommodate several vehicles and tents.
Well-maintained facilities: Clean bathrooms and showers receive consistent praise. "Very clean facilities!" notes Katie H. about Pagosa Riverside Campground. Another camper shares, "The bathhouse at the camping area was well heated with wonderfully hot showers, flush toilets, and plenty of space," regarding facilities at Ojo Caliente.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds in the area have limited operating seasons. Riana - Abiquiu Lake is "open April 15-Oct 15," notes Lila L., with temperatures varying significantly between seasons.
Cell service: Connectivity varies widely between glamping locations close to Chama, New Mexico. At Ponderosa Campground, visitors report "The wifi throughout park and I have two bars of cell service with Verizon," while other remote sites have limited or no connectivity.
Alcohol policies: Some campgrounds strictly prohibit alcohol. B M. warns about Riana - Abiquiu Lake: "There is NO alcohol allowed in the park so don't get caught with any they will pour it out. 2 Older men were having a beer in their site & they made them pour out 2 cases of beer."
Wildlife encounters: Cattle and wildlife frequently visit camping areas. At Turkey Creek Road, Brandon F. mentions, "Site was made unique by the herd of cattle that roamed the road and surrounding meadows. Kind of cool until they started mooing incessantly at 6am."
Tips for camping with families
Verify age restrictions: Some hot springs facilities limit access for children. Colorado C. notes about Ojo Caliente: "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."
Look for water activities: Properties with lakes or ponds provide family entertainment options. At The Chicken Ranch, Jennifer T. mentions staying "right on the water" with "views are amazing" and recommends the "Red Lake hike was awesome and easy" for families.
Seek out spacious sites: For family groups, larger sites offer needed room. At Twin Rivers RV Park, Thomas S. notes "The spaces are Huge lots of room to roam" with "Full hookups 50/30amp" available for convenience.
Check bathroom proximity: When camping with children, bathroom locations matter. Melody M. from Twin Rivers RV Park shares "We were close to the shower facilities and there were lots of small campers using those giving us very little privacy."
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: At some campgrounds, utilities are positioned unconventionally. At Ojo Caliente, shannon C. notes "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."
Dump station availability: Not all sites with hookups include dump stations. Joseph W. reports about Ojo Caliente that "The spaces only had electric and water. The electric and water outlets where placed in an odd location for the site and a dump station is available for extra $20."
Site privacy: RV sites vary in spacing and privacy. Paula S. describes Pagosa Riverside Campground as "Somewhat rustic, but hosts helpful and friendly. Full hook-ups and tent camping available. We had a lovely spot by the pond very enjoyable stay."
Generator noise: In dispersed camping areas, generator noise can be an issue. Kelly M. reports disappointment when "the only other vehicle to roll into the campground that night parked at the site right next to mine - shining headlights into my tent and running a generator all hours."
