Cimarron, New Mexico camping options sit between 6,400 and 8,000 feet elevation in Carson National Forest's high mountain terrain. The area experiences distinct seasons with summer daytime temperatures averaging 75-85°F and winter lows frequently dropping below freezing. Many campgrounds near Cimarron remain open May through October, with limited facilities available during shoulder seasons when water systems are winterized.
What to do
Fishing access points: Columbine Campground offers excellent fishing opportunities at the junction of two rivers. According to a visitor, "One of the most beautiful campsites I seen. Two nights tent camping in the valley where two rivers meet." The campsite provides multiple fishing spots within walking distance.
Hiking trail options: Cebolla Mesa Campground features a 1.5-mile trail down to the Rio Grande. One camper notes, "There's a 1.25 mile hike down to the river to cool down. Plenty of shade and lots of off road trails for driving/running/biking." The switchback trail requires careful footing but rewards hikers with river access.
Winter activities: Red River RV provides convenient access to winter recreation. A reviewer shared, "We stayed here for 10 days during the 'off season' at the end of April. It was beautiful and quiet. The snow was melting and the river was beautiful." Many campers use this location as a winter base camp for skiing.
What campers like
Mountain views: Trinidad Lake State Park offers panoramic mountain vistas just north of Cimarron. A camper reported, "At night there is zero light pollution and you can see so many stars." The campground's elevated position provides expansive views of surrounding peaks.
Riverside camping: Campers appreciate the natural water features at Columbine Campground. One reviewer mentioned, "Great shaded site with water flowing behind it, which made for great sleeping." The sound of flowing water creates a natural white noise effect for campers.
Yurt camping options: Taos Valley RV Park & Campground provides yurt accommodations for those seeking alternatives to tent or RV camping near Cimarron, New Mexico. A visitor noted the "distant mountain views on 3 sides" visible from the property, making this a popular yurt camping destination in northern New Mexico.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Sierra Village Lodge experiences significant seasonal changes. A camper reported, "We had great rain both evenings and sat under the awning and just relaxed after a long day on the trails." Spring and summer thunderstorms are common in afternoon hours.
Road conditions: Mills Canyon Campground requires careful driving to access. A visitor advised, "The road down into the canyon was fine with a few legit ruts but easy to navigate." High clearance vehicles are recommended after rainfall.
Service limitations: Cell reception varies greatly between campgrounds. One camper at Sierra Village noted, "There is NO cell service. Not a bar to be found. And the wifi (free) is REALLY spotty." Most remote campgrounds have limited to no connectivity.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds offer dedicated children's areas. At Taos Valley RV Park, facilities include "bathrooms with very hot showers, a playground, and office." These amenities provide activities when not exploring the surrounding area.
Educational opportunities: NRA Whittington Center Campground includes historical exhibits. A visitor mentioned, "There is a free museum and a small laundry - 2 washers, 2 dryers." The educational displays cover regional history and outdoor skills.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings offer the best wildlife spotting opportunities. One camper at Cebolla Mesa observed, "We came on a weekday, only 1 or 2 other campers." Weekday visits typically mean fewer people and more wildlife sightings, particularly during dawn hours.
Tips from RVers
Site selection guidance: When visiting campgrounds near Cimarron, inspect site length and levelness. At Columbine Campground, a camper noted, "Some sites are short, very few are level, some have a steep slope. Good shade and sun mix, mature trees, nice creek flows through the campground."
Hookup availability: Hotel Luna Mystica provides primitive camping with bathroom access. A reviewer explained, "Parking my vintage Shasta on the mesa of Luna Mystica is like no other place I've ever parked. Rustic site with a nearly 360 view to die for, I just picked a place and parked. A very short walk to the best private bathrooms I've ever used at a campground."
Water supply planning: Many campgrounds have limited water availability. At Mills Canyon, a camper advised, "No water or cell service. Not every site has picnic tables and fire pits. No gas in the general area so fuel up before you get there." Bring sufficient water for your entire stay at primitive sites.
