Equestrian campgrounds near Cimarron, New Mexico provide designated areas for riders and their horses at elevations between 7,000-9,000 feet. Located within the Carson National Forest, these sites offer access to extensive trail networks through diverse mountain terrain. Summer temperatures typically range from 45°F nights to 80°F days, with afternoon thunderstorms common in July and August.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Herds of elk can often be spotted in the early morning hours around McCrystal Campground, especially in meadow areas. "Early one morning we saw a herd of elk down in a valley near a turn out off the road," notes Ken M., who also mentions that "bears frequent the area trying to raid the garbage bins during the night."
Fishing in mountain waters: The cold mountain streams and lakes offer excellent trout fishing throughout the summer months. At Rio Costilla Park, visitors can enjoy quality fly fishing waters. Michelle B. confirms this is a "fisherman's fly fishing dream. Camping is great too as you can park next to the river."
Hiking diverse terrain: Trail systems connect to the Valle Vidal wilderness and provide routes for various skill levels. The Little Horse Mesa Trail at Sugarite Canyon State Park offers panoramic views. Matt B. describes it as "a pasture like setting with trees, and beautiful views from a trail that follows the cliffs. You'll have to make your own way over to the Lake Maloya overlook but it's well worth it."
What campers like
Peaceful evenings: The remote locations offer exceptional stargazing and quiet nights. At Soda Pocket Campground, Mary C. notes it's "Very dark at night so great for star viewing." Sites in this area typically have minimal light pollution and clear mountain air.
Stream-side camping: Many equestrian-friendly sites are positioned along streams or creeks, providing natural white noise and fishing access. Joel H. describes Rio Costilla Park: "The campsites are nearly all along a babbling brook, stream, or river. The roads to the entrance, to the campsites, and definitely up to the lakes are best suited if not exclusively suited for trucks and 4WD vehicles."
Well-spaced sites: Campsites at McCrystal Campground offer good separation between camping areas. Ken M. reports, "Level spots with good separation. Nice hiking across some flat lands and a small creek runs near by." This spacing allows for privacy while still maintaining the communal campground feel.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to equestrian campgrounds can become rough, especially after rain. The road to Cimarron Campground presents challenges in wet weather. Ricky B. notes, "The road can be tough if it is raining a bunch, but worth the trip if you have time. Campgrounds are secluded, definitely bring everything you need because you are over an hour from a good store."
Service availability: Cell phone reception is limited or non-existent at most equestrian campgrounds. Jen M. describes Cimarron Campground as "quiet and peaceful with amazing stargazing at night," but warns about road conditions: "the road to get here from Amalia becomes very wash boarded. It is a long road to get here and is wash boarded the whole way."
Weather preparedness: Mountain weather can change rapidly, particularly during summer monsoon season. Drew advises about Cimarron Campground: "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 to multiple cell providers."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly fishing spots: Some areas offer designated youth fishing ponds with special regulations. Stephen K. notes that at Cimarron Campground, "The smaller [pond] was reserved for kids's fishing. Both are classified as 'Green Chile' waters so only flies or artificial lures with a single, barbless hook are allowed. 2 fish limit."
Stream exploration: Children can enjoy exploring shallow creek areas near many campgrounds. Marcela R. says of Agua Piedra Campground, "The creek is very close and accessible, which is probably the highlight. There are plenty of hammock and shade trees."
Wildlife education: Ranger programs may be available at some locations, offering learning opportunities. Terry R. describes how at Cimarron Campground, "We watched several herds of Elk down in the valley on one of our hikes. We had deer roam through our campsite, they could care less that we were even there. The kids had a few streams to keep them busy."
Tips for RVers
Site selection considerations: For RVers traveling with horses, selecting proper equestrian sites is crucial. At Sugarite Canyon State Park, the campground host can help direct you to suitable sites. Jeff T. advises, "The so-called 'treacherous' road up to the campground is gravelly and a bit steep in a few places, but very passable (there was a Class A rig up there, and a number of 30+ ft 5th Wheelers as well)."
Water and hookup availability: Water sources may be limited or require treatment. Fred S. notes about Soda Pocket Campground, "No potable water. Restroom/shower house across from state park visitor center is very good." This makes it essential to arrive with full water tanks.
Leveling challenges: Some sites require extra effort for leveling. At McCrystal Campground, horse corrals are installed at select sites, but the terrain can be uneven. Rosalinda S. notes about nearby dispersed camping, "Not the easiest piece of ground to get the trailer leveled but we made it work."
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