Dispersed camping in Cimarron, New Mexico offers opportunities at elevations between 7,000-9,500 feet within the Carson National Forest. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing, with summer daytime averages reaching 75-85°F. The region sits at the eastern edge of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, creating a transition zone between alpine forests and high desert terrain.
What to do
Fishing at creek-side sites: Blackjack Tent Area provides direct access to fishing waters. "We stayed at camp site #27, which was the biggest and spacesious site, 10/10 the weather was wonderful and if you camp during the week you can pick any spot you want! Caught plenty of trout and overall had a great time," notes Josie H.
Hiking to alpine lakes: Cabresto Lake Campground offers trail access to higher elevation destinations. "Can hike to Heart Lake. 9 mile round trip hike. Saw quite a few backpackers," shares Karen N., who visited during summer months.
Explore wildlife viewing areas: The private ranch at Enchanted Circle Campground provides opportunities for animal sightings. "You can venture off the property for some of the other local restaurants or attractions. I don't know why you would leave the peace and quiet though," notes James F., who appreciated the natural setting.
What campers like
Solitude and spacing: Tent camping near Cimarron offers well-separated sites at certain campgrounds. "ECC is unlike any other 'campgrounds,' there is simply nothing else like it. Best in the west for sure," according to Landon D. about the private camping ranch.
Natural white noise: Cuchilla Campground provides creek-side sites where water sounds mask road noise. "While next to the Highway, the highway sounds are mostly drowned out due to the beautiful sounds of the river flowing," explains Michael N., who stayed during fall months.
Wildlife encounters: The area supports diverse animal species. "My daughter would come back for the pigs, goats, horses, cats, chipmunks, prairie dogs, and assorted other animals as well," shares Joel H. about his family's experience at Enchanted Circle Campground.
Hot springs access: Some dispersed camping areas offer proximity to natural hot springs. "Made a quick walk down to the springs in the evening and watched the stars come out. Awesome!!" reports madeleine H. about camping near Taos.
What you should know
Weather considerations: The high elevation means dramatic temperature shifts even in summer. "In the fall and winter pack as warm as possible," advises Michael N. about camping at Cuchilla Campground along Highway 150.
Road conditions vary significantly: Access to Dispersed Camping Near Taos requires planning your route carefully. "One thing is that you MUST approach from the west, you can't get here coming from the east over John dun bridge. Dirt road but we did it with no problem with our 24ft trailer," explains madeleine H.
Limited facilities: Most tent camping options near Cimarron have minimal amenities. "Longest stay is 2 weeks. There is sufficient room for 10-15 families. Remove all trash when leaving," notes Perl R. about Lower Hondo Campground.
Seasonal closures: Many campgrounds operate on limited schedules. "There are toilets right there but they close in the colder seasons so be aware they might not be open," Ben R. cautions about facilities at Cuchilla Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Animal encounters: Taos Junction Campground offers wildlife viewing opportunities. "Breathtaking views, big horn sheep elk," notes gypsy carpenter D., highlighting the natural attractions.
Beach access for kids: Some creek-side locations feature small sandy areas. "We pulled our 19' RV with solar right up to the river and our dog was in and out of the river all day," shares Jason A. about the dispersed spots along Highway 150.
Day trip options: Multiple campgrounds serve as bases for exploring the broader region. "You can take a day trip in toas and see local artwork or the Gorge!" recommends Christy L., who camps annually in the area.
Morning wildlife watching: The early hours offer the best wildlife viewing. "Lots of hiking and forest to explore. You can hear the elk bugling and the see every star at night," Jamie L. notes about mornings at Enchanted Circle Campground.
Tips from RVers
High clearance vehicles: Arroyo Seco Dispersed NF Camping requires appropriate vehicles for access. "GPS will bring you to the bottom of the road to the Ski Valley. There are campsites all along the lower part of the road," explains Mary-Kate L., who stayed at multiple sites in the area.
Small trailer considerations: Narrow mountain roads limit larger RV access. "You keep going straight from the coordinates to get to Cuchillo de Medio and Cuchillo. It's not truly 'dispersed' camping because there aren't many sites and your pretty close to your neighbors," advises Jacqueline L. about camping near Arroyo Seco.
Leveling challenges: Finding flat parking areas can be difficult in mountain terrain. "We were able to find a level place to park the van & I took a dip in the creek in the morning," reports Tara S. about her experience at Cuchilla Campground.
Solar power options: Some sites offer enough sunlight for panels despite tree cover. "He said 2X per week he would get a shower in town somewhere," Perl R. notes about a photographer with solar cells camping at Lower Hondo Campground.
