Best Campgrounds near Chamisal, NM

Camping areas around Chamisal, New Mexico span across the Carson National Forest with several established campgrounds like Santa Barbara Campground and Agua Piedra Campground within 15-20 miles. The region includes a variety of accommodation options from basic tent sites to RV-friendly locations with hookups, as well as cabins and glamping opportunities. Santa Barbara Campground offers both tent and RV camping in a mountain setting, while Taos Valley RV Park provides full hookups closer to town. The surrounding forest landscape creates a diverse range of camping environments across varying elevations.

Road conditions and seasonal availability significantly impact camping access throughout the area. Many campgrounds operate seasonally, with Santa Barbara Campground open May to October and Agua Piedra Campground available from May 25 to September 3. "Pecos national forest is by far one of the best places to camp in northern New Mexico. Great fishing, amazing hiking and views for days," noted one camper. Winter conditions close many mountain roads and campgrounds, while summer brings warmer temperatures ideal for higher elevation camping. Cell service is limited or non-existent in many areas, particularly in remote forest locations. Visitors should prepare for variable weather conditions, as mountain elevations can experience significant temperature drops at night even during summer months.

Campers consistently highlight the natural beauty and recreational opportunities available near Chamisal. Fishing access receives particular attention, with several campsites positioned along mountain streams and rivers. A recent review noted, "They have a nice trout stream for fishing and access to good hikes up out of the canyon." The proximity to hiking trails serves as another key attraction, with many campgrounds offering direct trail access. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound throughout the region. Public lands near Taos provide more primitive camping options for those seeking solitude, while campgrounds closer to towns offer more amenities but less privacy. Road noise affects some campgrounds located directly off highways, while sites deeper in the forest provide quieter experiences.

Best Camping Sites Near Chamisal, New Mexico (188)

    1. Taos Valley RV Park & Campground

    28 Reviews
    Ranchos de Taos, NM
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 758-4469

    "Much more vegetation than you would expect from a campground close to town. The staff are friendly. The facilities were clean. The park is older but in an charming New Mexico way."

    "If your wanting to get out and play in the snow or explore more in depth the beautiful culture of New Mexico, Taos has a little for everyone"

    2. BLM Orilla Verde Recreation Area

    8 Reviews
    Carson, NM
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 758-8851

    $5 - $15 / night

    "The RV sites are more private Than at Rio Bravo, but Rio Bravo is next to the river. We liked our location. The restrooms were immaculate and the camp host was very helpful."

    "Showers still aren't working but otherwise it's a quiet spot next to the river with plenty of hiking nearby. Shout out to the friendly and helpful camp host"

    3. Santa Barbara Campground

    8 Reviews
    Llano, NM
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 245-6521

    $22 - $70 / night

    "Stay at Santa Barbara Campground in Northern New Mexico. Was a beautiful spot. Road to Campground was well taken care of Beautiful trails throughout area"

    "This campground has a PERFECT location, right on the border of the Pecos wilderness with fabulous hiking.  There is also fantastic fishing there, which many guests took advantage of all weekend. "

    4. Agua Piedra Campground

    10 Reviews
    Llano, NM
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 245-6521

    $40 / night

    "Tent camped at this location in the middle of September (a week before closing). Very beautiful place to watch the leaves change, trailheads close by and picnic tables at each site."

    "just went hiking in the surrounding area. But drove around and looked at the campsite looks like a nice place to go camping definitely willing to try it."

    5. Taos Junction Campground

    6 Reviews
    Carson, NM
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 758-8851

    "Bathrooms were nice and clean and a close walk. With lots to do including fish and hiking trails. We look forward to going back."

    "They offer easy access to the river and gorge, running water with showers and a community kiva. Nice campground of the car camper."

    6. Black Canyon Campground

    29 Reviews
    Tesuque, NM
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (505) 753-7331

    $20 / night

    "Driving into the camp, you have three options: Walk-In Camping, Camping With Parking Access & Limited Access."

    "To begin, the lots are far enough away from fellow campers that you're seldom disturbed by noise or movement."

    7. Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa

    15 Reviews
    Ojo Caliente, NM
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (505) 583-2233

    $40 - $60 / night

    "The camping area is more of a campground than an RV park, in a positive way. Many of the sites are shaded with mature trees."

    "The spots further from sitting have most privacy and are still only a 5 minute walk to entrance (I timed it from our site)."

    8. LUXX - Taos RV Park

    7 Reviews
    Ranchos de Taos, NM
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 201-3339

    $40 - $60 / night

    "It's located south of Taos on the main drag, hence NOISY. I say, watch this space for more improvements."

    9. Borrego Mesa Campground

    6 Reviews
    Truchas, NM
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (505) 753-7331

    "Campground is a little off the beaten path, about 30m from the High Drive highway. Dirt roads were nothing to worry about, should be fine for any SUV or sedan."

    "About a 15min drive from the highway. Only 5 or 6 sites. Close to the Rio Mario Trail trailhead. Campsite is at elevation over 8,000ft so it can get chilly at night. Worked great for tent camping."

    10. Hotel Luna Mystica

    14 Reviews
    Arroyo Hondo, NM
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 613-1411

    $25 / night

    "Hamlet went to visit his fun cousins for the weekend -- Diego, Thelma, Louise, Frida, Ralphie, Sunnie, and others– all vintage campers available for rent at this amazingly cool space just outside of Taos"

    "$10 tent camping in desert behind groovy glamper park. Fantastic people. In walking distance to Taos brewery Oasis. On the road to the gorge. Cool summer nights"

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Recent Reviews near Chamisal, NM

941 Reviews of 188 Chamisal Campgrounds


  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 11, 2025

    Sierra Bonita Cabins & RV Park

    It's very run down

    We stayed in the cabins. They are very ran down. The sink plumbing leaks. Utility closet has a hole in the door about 7 in in diameter and there is an animal that lives in there and scratches on the wall at night. The furniture is old and decrepid. The people that run it are as sweet as can be. The place is terribly ran down.

  • B
    Sep. 7, 2025

    Cochiti Recreation Area

    Beautiful area

    We stayed at Cochiti to be close to Santa Fe and Albuquerque. The area is beautiful and the campground is great. Sites are spacious with paved pads and a parking spot next to your RV sites it has a concrete area with a covered picnic table. We stayed in the Buffalo loop and had 50 amp electric as well as water. The bathhouse was near and was clean and nice

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2025

    Forest Service Rd 268 Dispersed Site

    Beating the Heat at 8800 ft.

    Great place to get away for the week. Cattle will walk thru your camp and people were far enough away to enjoy the cool.

  • Kara C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Carson national forest

    Great Views, Right on the Rio

    We drove around Forest Trail 9 (FT9) until we found a great spot on the edge overlooking the Rio. Nestled in some trees, it was flat for our tent, awesome views, fires were allowed and already had an established rock ring.

  • Colbey M.
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Morphy Lake State Park Campground

    Awesome campground

    Great camp sites with beautiful views! Had such a wonderful Labor Day weekend. Game warden was nice and respectful. Shout out to Debra who works for the campground. She was super helpful. Unable to follow hiking trail completely- I believe it's grown up.

    3G phone service with Verizon, was able to make phone calls only.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 29, 2025

    Cuchilla Campground

    Busy and spots are too close

    Area is beautiful but it’s right off the main road and all the spots are too close. Good for a one night

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 25, 2025

    Angel Fire RV Resort

    Great Location

    This RV resort has beautiful views of the mountains. Angel Fire RV Resort has beautiful grounds, the bath houses and very nice and modern, very nice hot tub, beautiful clubhouse. The resort has fire pits, pickleball courts, large dog park, putting range, walking path, laundry facilities. It is also close to several towns. One that you can ride your bike too. This is a A+ resort for TV camping.

  • shannon C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 25, 2025

    Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa

    Weekend hot springs with wife !

    Nice little campground next to hot springs . Nice level site . 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 . 20% discount if you camp and visit hot springs. Hot springs were very relaxing. No fire or outside smoking . On site bathroom and shower however we didn’t use or check them out . Had a great week end with wife

  • Adria L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 24, 2025

    Santa Fe Skies RV Park

    Fenton lake

    Everything is online now did realize that the fishing was bad but still a great place to go and relax


Guide to Chamisal

Camping near Chamisal, New Mexico, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, this area has something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails around Holy Ghost Campground. One reviewer mentioned, "The hikes are the best especially if you have time to go to the lake." The area is known for its stunning views and access to nature.
  • Fishing: Head to Eagle Nest Lake State Park Campground for some fishing. A visitor shared, "There is a boat launch for aquatic activities," making it a great spot for anglers.
  • Hot Springs: Visit Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa for a relaxing soak. One camper noted, "The hot springs are amazing and you can leave and come back," perfect for a day of pampering.

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. A review for Columbine Campground states, "Beautiful area with tall trees, big tables, fresh water, lots of shade," making it a favorite for nature lovers.
  • Well-Maintained Facilities: Many appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. A visitor at Taos Valley RV Park & Campground mentioned, "The park was clean with much attention paid to the aesthetic."
  • Friendly Hosts: Campers often mention the helpfulness of the camp hosts. One reviewer at Black Canyon Campground said, "Friendly host, well-maintained, vault toilets available."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Black Canyon Campground, do not offer drinking water or electric hookups. A camper noted, "No electric, water, sewer or dumpstation," so be prepared to bring your own supplies.
  • Cell Service: Expect limited cell service in many areas. One camper at Holy Ghost Campground mentioned, "No cell service or wifi in the campground," which can be a nice break from technology.
  • Crowded During Peak Season: Popular spots can fill up quickly. A visitor at Coyote Creek State Park Campground said, "The electric hookup RV sites are right on top of each other," so plan ahead.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Taos Valley RV Park & Campground, which has a "walking trail around the park" and is convenient for families.
  • Bring Entertainment: Since some campgrounds lack amenities, pack games or outdoor activities. One camper at Eagle Nest Lake State Park Campground enjoyed the "great hiking trail" nearby, which can keep kids engaged.
  • Plan for Meals: With limited markets, it's wise to bring food. A visitor at Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa mentioned, "The onsite restaurant/pub is a class act and delicious," but having your own meals can save time.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Hookup Availability: Not all campgrounds have electric hookups. A reviewer at Angel Fire RV Resort noted, "All RVs must be self-contained," so ensure your RV is equipped.
  • Be Prepared for Narrow Roads: Some campgrounds, like Holy Ghost Campground, have narrow access roads. One camper advised, "Take it slow and don’t tailgate," to avoid any mishaps.
  • Reserve Early: Popular spots fill up fast, especially during weekends. A visitor at Coyote Creek State Park Campground mentioned, "The electric area on Sat and Sun was noisy," indicating the need for early reservations to secure a quieter spot.

Camping near Chamisal, New Mexico, offers a unique blend of outdoor fun and relaxation. With a little planning, you can enjoy everything this beautiful area has to offer!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Chamisal, NM?

According to TheDyrt.com, Chamisal, NM offers a wide range of camping options, with 188 campgrounds and RV parks near Chamisal, NM and 43 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Chamisal, NM?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Chamisal, NM is Taos Valley RV Park & Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 28 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Chamisal, NM?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 43 free dispersed camping spots near Chamisal, NM.

What parks are near Chamisal, NM?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 8 parks near Chamisal, NM that allow camping, notably Carson National Forest and Santa Fe National Forest.