Tent camping near Chama, New Mexico offers access to the southern Rocky Mountains with elevations ranging from 7,000 to 9,000 feet, creating significant temperature variations between day and night even in summer months. The surrounding Carson National Forest contains over 86,000 acres of wilderness areas accessible via forest service roads that often require high-clearance vehicles. Most dispersed camping locations maintain a 14-day stay limit within any 30-day period.
What to do
Fishing at multiple lakes: Kenny Flats Dispersed Camping provides convenient access to nearby fishing spots. "This spot is right off the hwy, the road has deep ruts but was manageable in my little van, just had to take it slow," notes camper Heather H., who appreciated the "beautiful open field and pine trees" setting close to fishing locations.
Hiking to alpine views: Turkey Creek Road offers excellent access to hiking trails with panoramic vistas. "Lovely secluded sites. Road is in great condition. There are prob 4-6 great sites and a few more 'turn out' type sites that could work in a pinch. Great views of the valley and mountains from several of the sites," reports Aliza N.
Hot springs excursions: Many campers use these sites as base camps for day trips to nearby hot springs. "Easy drive up 160 from Pagosa. Pitched the tent in the afternoon and headed to town for a soak," explains Ryan T., who used Turkey Creek Road as a convenient overnight spot for accessing thermal springs in Pagosa Springs.
What campers like
Isolation from crowds: The primitive nature of many sites ensures relative solitude. "We stayed from Thursday to Tuesday in the big camping spot. It was plenty big for 2 cars, 2 tents, and a common area for us to sit around the campfire. Extremely quiet campsite, not a lot of traffic," reports Misty B. from Turkey Creek Road.
Fall colors: Elk Creek Trail offers excellent viewing of seasonal foliage. "Parked on edge of flat in trees close to creek. Nice ambient noise. Fire rings, metal and stone. Plenty of room. Two vault toilets were clean plenty of TP. Lots of trails, bridge over creek, lakes are near by foot," notes Jason R., describing the ideal setting for fall color observation.
Riverside camping: Several sites feature creek or river access that campers particularly value. "Room for a couple cars and several tents. Not PERFECTLY flat for the tent-folk. View is killer - we hit it at about peak color," states Ryan T., highlighting the water features at Turkey Creek Road.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many access roads require careful navigation and appropriate vehicles. "The road has lots of holes, but worth the trip," notes Ricky B. about Canjilon Creek Campground, emphasizing that "you will have to have four wheel drive" to reach this 9,000-foot elevation site with its "three lakes filled with trout."
Site availability: The limited number of established sites means planning ahead. "Stayed here over 4th of July weekend and managed to grab this spot, which felt very lucky. There is really only one other spot on this road and then the end of the road has a wide turn around," explains Cait F. about Turkey Creek Road.
Wildlife encounters: Cattle and wildlife frequently move through camping areas. "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," warns Brandon F. about early morning disturbances at Turkey Creek Road.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible sites with amenities: Los Pinos offers facilities that work well for families with children. "Access is easy. There are 4-5 improved campsites with vault toilets. Most sites were on or very near the river," reports Chris T., though noting "it's a long way back there and if it's full you don't have many other options."
Protected camping spots: Look for sites with natural wind protection and shade. "Dirt road off the highway into the San Juan National First. 4 designated campsites along the road with fire pits. Road dead ends after about 3 miles. Great views across the river gorge," describes Brandon F., highlighting sites suitable for family camping.
Safety considerations: When camping with children, choose sites with established boundaries. "Great spot right off the road! This spot had plenty of space to park our car. Great views and some shade," notes Ashley M. about Turkey Creek Road, mentioning the contained nature of the site that keeps children from wandering.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Upper Lagunitas Campground has important size restrictions. "Very quiet, remote campground with space between sites. Best for tents," advises Megan E., indicating the challenges larger vehicles might face.
Maneuvering space: Consider turning radius when selecting sites for larger vehicles. "Nice free spot to pull off of the road. Climb a gravel hill (doable in my 23ft class b) to get to 5 or so dispersed spots," explains Tara I., providing specific vehicle size context for Turkey Creek Road.
Seasonal access: Many forest roads become impassable for RVs after rain or snow. "We stayed on the river. Large camp sites. Beautiful sights to see. Very close to atv trails at east fork if it is full. But will have drive there. 10min drive," reports camper Gretchen, noting the need to consider seasonal conditions when planning access with larger vehicles.
