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Camping options around Cimarron, New Mexico range from established state park campgrounds to RV parks with full hookups. Cimarron Canyon State Park forms the backbone of the area's camping infrastructure with four distinct campgrounds—Tolby, Maverick, Ponderosa, and Blackjack Tent Area—spread along Highway 64 between Cimarron and Eagle Nest. These sites accommodate both tent and RV campers at elevations around 7,500-8,000 feet. Additional camping can be found at nearby Eagle Nest Lake State Park, while the town of Cimarron itself hosts several RV parks with varying amenities. Primitive camping areas and tent-specific zones complement the region's developed sites.
Most campgrounds in the area operate seasonally, with some closing during winter months due to high elevation weather conditions. Cimarron Campground specifically notes a May to October season. Reservations are required at many locations, particularly during summer months when fishing along the Cimarron River draws significant crowds. The canyon's terrain creates a mix of wooded and exposed sites, with campers reporting varied experiences depending on location. Cell coverage can be limited throughout the canyon. As one visitor noted, "Tolby campground is on the creek and the majority of sites have trees and space. There are some exposed sites in the middle."
The Cimarron River runs through the canyon providing fishing opportunities that represent a major draw for many campers. Reviews consistently mention trout fishing as a highlight, with several campgrounds offering direct river access or proximity to stocked fishing ponds. Sites along the water tend to be most popular and fill quickly during peak seasons. Facilities vary considerably across the region's campgrounds—from basic tent sites with vault toilets to full-service RV parks with hookups and showers. Many campers appreciate the natural setting despite proximity to the highway. A camper described Blackjack Tent Area as having "the biggest and spacious site" and being "right on the river for fishing," noting that weekday camping offers better site selection opportunities. Hiking trails originating from several campgrounds provide additional recreational opportunities for visitors staying in the area.
"Easy access and camping adjacent to a dam overlooking a lake."
"Camping is right next to the lake in an open field with picnic tables and trash. We arrived and there was a schoolie and a van. "
"Cimarron Canton State Park is a wonderful place to stay, right on the Cimarron River. Bring your fishing gear and license for some relaxing fishing."
"This campsite sits on the edge of a road next to two little ponds that are great for trout fishing. The river runs next to the ponds and you can find a few fish there too."
from $15 / night
Check Availability"Beautiful spot next to a stream and within short walk of maverick trail. Fire ban right now."
"The campground itself is nothing to write Mother about, but the short walks in and around it are beautiful!"
from $15 / night
Check Availability"We needed a spot to stay and found a happy location at Hikers Cimarron Inn & RV Park. Their reservation system on their website was easy to use and navigate."
from $25 - $50 / night
Check Availability"Eagles Nest is about 19 miles west of Taos near the Carson National Forest. The campground is on the west side of a beautiful lake I the town of Eagles Nest."
"Eagles Nest Lake State park campsites are pretty wide open like the valley it is in. There is a nice cement pad with an awning and fire pit."
from $25 / night
Check Availability"Our first time in New Mexico and obviously Angel Fire! Stayed here with friends that have been coming since it opened! Highly recommend!!"
"Walking distance to coffee, shops, and restaurants but still tucked away in quiet enough location."
from $60 - $96 / night
Check Availability"We stayed here on the way to Taos New Mexico. The canyon is along highway 64 in between Cimarron and Taos. The Cimarron Canyon State Park runs for about 8 miles along the base of the canyon."
from $15 / night
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TravelerOur spot was close to the road. We didn't have much shade by the table and fire-ring. But it does have access to more shade behind the site where you can pitch a tent and sit by the creek.
There's a nice hiking trail at the back on the campground you can drive to with parking.
The camp-hosts were very friendly and helpful.
GuideThis was our first trip to Coyote Creek State Park. We heard about the new loop and that appeared to have some great new sites. We were surprised on how great the new sites are. The shelters over the nice picnic table is huge! We walked the park and it was clear that the entire park was meticulously maintained. The only down side was a slip and fall on the drainage concrete in the road. Luckily, it was only a minor wrist sprain. The local ranger saw the fall and asked if I was ok. Apparently, the concrete has been an issue for some trailers and people. The toilets in the campground are clean and well maintained. We routinely visit NM state parks and this one has to be the best maintained. The side by side electrical sites isn't for us and there are other options. We plan to be back.
TravelerGot to see the cows, they were chilling. Great vibes on the way to the campsite, a little noisy in the early mornings but overall great spot.
GuideWe tried to find a few spots that weren’t super packed, which led us to here. This was great for one night, in our opinion
Coming from the bridge, the switchbacks can be pretty tight and steep. Our F250 had no problems, but any larger vehicle might be cautious.
The campsites were flat, open, and all dirt, desert landscape with sage brush and cacti all over.
It wasn’t very busy, there were 2 other campers around us when we woke up. There’s a short walk to the edge of the gorge that makes for a great view!
GuideWe’ve tried other campsites in the area, but this one is always “old reliable.” We enjoy it every single time. It’s so quiet and peaceful.
The chipmunks are always so active and fun to watch.
GuideNice individual sites. Some reservable and some first come first served. Vault toilets were very well maintained. Friendly hosts
ScoutSites are well separated. Stream running behind ours. Pit toilets very clean. Great campground host.
ScoutThe view is great. But nothing is level. Lots of trash. OHV's driving everywhere. This is a big OHV area. We were in a campervan. Never could get it level. Not real private. 2 Stars for the view only. We won't be back.
GuideSo the coordinates bring you to the end of the town but then bridges you to the start of the national forest area, you’ll pass the paid camping then the dispersed camping starts, the spots are beautifully tucked by the river! You get to be lulled to sleep by running water. You do hear a bit of car traffic but it’s free so no complaints here! We didn’t go too far and found a spot so not sure how many spots there are. Definitely do not have cell service in this area.
Camping spots near Cimarron, New Mexico range from primitive sites along rivers to well-developed RV resorts at elevations between 7,000-8,000 feet. The region experiences wide daily temperature fluctuations, with afternoon thunderstorms common during summer months and crisp nighttime temperatures even in July. Water levels at nearby lakes fluctuate seasonally, with some campgrounds reporting dry lake beds during drought periods.
Fishing at stocked ponds: A 30-minute hike from Cimarron Campground leads to Shuree Ponds where specialized fishing regulations apply. "Both are classified as 'Green Chile' waters so only flies or artificial lures with a single, barbless hook are allowed. 2 fish limit," explains one visitor. The smaller pond is reserved for children's fishing.
Wildlife viewing: The Carson National Forest areas offer chances to spot deer, elk, and smaller mammals. "We had deer roam through our campsite, they could care less that we were even there," reports a Cimarron Campground visitor. Another camper at Lake 13-Maxwell National Wildlife Refuge noted "deer, a couple of deer, lots of coyotes off in the distance."
Stargazing: Many campgrounds offer excellent night sky viewing opportunities due to minimal light pollution. A camper at Lake 13 reported, "The Milky Way was to die for." The high elevation and clear mountain air contribute to exceptional astronomical viewing conditions.
Riverside sites: Campsites along the Cimarron River provide ambient sounds and fishing access. At Blackjack Tent Area, a visitor praised "campsite #27, which was the biggest and spacesious site, 10/10... and right on the river for fishing." They added that "site #30 was probably the other best one as it was in the back and last camp site and right next to the water."
Temperature relief: The elevation provides cooler temperatures during summer months. "Cool weather even in July," noted a visitor to Eagle Nest Lake State Park Campground. Another camper mentioned, "It's cool at night and just right during day."
Wildlife encounters: Many campers appreciate the abundant wildlife around Cimarron. One camper at Lake 13-Maxwell noted, "The view is breathtaking, the sounds of nature are all around you," while another mentioned, "With spring coming in, the birds were a great natural alarm."
Road conditions: Access to some camping areas requires driving on unpaved roads. A visitor to Ponderosa Campground described it as "a parking lot with some views," highlighting that site selection impacts experience. For Cimarron Campground, a visitor warned, "The road to get here from Amalia becomes very wash boarded."
Weather preparedness: Rapid weather changes and afternoon storms are common. "We had a short shower just about every evening but nothing bad," reported one camper at Cimarron Campground. Another noted, "It rained only in the afternoons but everyday."
Services availability: Most campgrounds have limited amenities and are distant from supplies. "It is a long way down a dirt road but well worth the drive to be remote. No cell service at the camp site but a short 5 min drive back to the first cattle guard allowed for service," shared a Cimarron Campground visitor.
Kid-friendly fishing: Designated fishing areas for children exist at several locations. Cimarron Campground visitor noted, "The smaller [pond] was reserved for kids's fishing" with special regulations making it accessible for younger anglers.
Wildlife education opportunities: Multiple campgrounds offer chances to observe prairie dogs and other wildlife. "Prairie dogs, deer, and birds abound," noted a visitor to Eagle Nest Lake State Park Campground, providing natural educational experiences for children.
Hiking difficulty assessment: Consider trail difficulty when planning with children. A Maverick Campground visitor mentioned "great fishing as well" while another camper described a trail as "of medium difficulty as there is a precarious creek crossing, and it is uphill the whole way back to camp."
Level site availability: RVers report varied experiences with site leveling. "Level and a pull through," described one RVer about their Lake 13 site, while another mentioned "The sites are paved and level with an abundance of flowers and plants throughout the park" at Angel Fire RV Resort.
Seasonal access considerations: Heavy rain or snow can limit accessibility. "We were looking forward to boondocking at Maxwell National Wildlife Refuge today... But north eastern and north central New Mexico have had days of heavy rain and flooding alerts. Today was dry until shortly after we arrived... We deemed the ground too damp, figuring we would get stuck sinking into the soft earth," reported one RVer.
Weather-related hookup issues: Winter camping requires special precautions for water systems. A visitor noted, "If winter camping - heated water hose is highly recommended! During especially chilly nights be prepared to fill up your fresh water tank and turn off and disconnect the hose from the external water supply!"
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find camping in Cimarron Canyon State Park?
Cimarron Canyon State Park offers several excellent camping options along Highway 64 between Cimarron and Taos. The park spans approximately 8 miles along the canyon base, featuring four roadside campgrounds with good facilities and camp hosts. Maverick Campground — Cimarron Canyon State Park is popular and well-maintained. For those seeking riverside camping, Tolby Campground — Cimarron Canyon State Park is the westernmost campground in the park and features sites immediately adjacent to the Cimarron River, perfect for fishing enthusiasts. The park also includes Ponderosa Campground and Blackjack Tent Area for additional camping options. Most sites include fire rings, picnic tables, and access to hiking trails in the surrounding area.
What amenities are available at campgrounds near Cimarron, NM?
Campgrounds near Cimarron offer varying levels of amenities to suit different camping preferences. For those seeking basic facilities in natural settings, Comales Campground in Carson National Forest provides sites along a mountain stream with fire rings and picnic tables. For more developed options, Angel Nest RV Retreat offers full hookups (FHU) for RVs at reasonable rates, minutes from state parks and lake access. Other campgrounds in the region typically provide vault toilets, potable water (seasonally), trash service, and level sites with fire rings. Some locations have on-site hosts, information stations, and access to fishing in the Cimarron River. For RV travelers seeking more amenities, several RV parks in the area offer electric/water hookups, though quality and cleanliness vary significantly.
What is the best time of year to camp in Cimarron, New Mexico?
The best time to camp in Cimarron is late spring through early fall (May-September), when temperatures are most pleasant and campgrounds are fully operational. Summer brings comfortable daytime temperatures in the 70s-80s°F with cool evenings, making it ideal for outdoor activities. La Sombra Campground along Highway 64 southeast of Taos offers excellent trout fishing and hiking during these peak months. Fall camping can be spectacular with changing foliage, while Santa Barbara Campground showcases beautiful trails and well-maintained roads through northern New Mexico's stunning autumn landscape. Be prepared for afternoon thunderstorms in summer and chilly nights even in peak season. Many campgrounds in the area operate seasonally, closing during winter months due to snow and freezing conditions, though some remain open for hardy winter campers.
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