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Best Campgrounds near Cochiti Lake, NM

984 Reviews

Camping options around Cochiti Lake range from established campgrounds to dispersed sites on public lands. The Cochiti Recreation Area offers both tent and RV camping with electric hookups, drinking water, and picnic tables at most sites. Several dispersed camping areas exist within the Santa Fe National Forest, including BLM Road 62 dispersed sites, providing free primitive camping with minimal amenities. Juniper Family Campground in Bandelier National Monument, approximately 15 miles north, offers year-round camping with drinking water and designated fire rings.

Road conditions vary significantly between developed and dispersed camping areas, with some forest roads requiring high-clearance vehicles. Summer temperatures often exceed 90°F, while winter nights can drop below freezing, making spring and fall ideal for comfortable camping. "About half of the Cochiti campground has sites with electricity and water. All sites have paved driveways, canopies, and charcoal grills. The entire campground is on a hill overlooking Cochiti Lake," noted one visitor. Cell service remains spotty throughout the region, particularly at dispersed sites. Many campgrounds implement fire restrictions during dry periods, typically from May through September.

Campers consistently mention the scenic views as a highlight of the area. Sites overlooking Cochiti Lake provide panoramic vistas of the water and surrounding mountains, with Buffalo Grove sites 51 and 53 specifically noted for their clear lake views. The proximity to Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument (commonly called Tent Rocks) offers excellent day-trip opportunities from most camping areas. Bathroom facilities at established campgrounds receive mixed reviews, with some visitors noting inconsistent maintenance. Dispersed camping areas provide more solitude but require self-sufficiency as they lack amenities like trash collection, potable water, and restroom facilities. The region serves as a convenient base for exploring both Albuquerque (50 minutes away) and Santa Fe (35 minutes away).

Map showing campgrounds near Cochiti Lake, New MexicoExplore the Map

Best Camping Sites Near Cochiti Lake, New Mexico (147)

    1. Cochiti Recreation Area

    36 Reviews
    Cochiti Lake, NM
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (505) 465-2557

    $15 - $20 / night

    "Cochiti lake and surrounding views are amazing. Started snowing later in the evening and was absolutely beautiful to see a fresh blanket of powder all over the land. Would definitely return."

    "The entire campground is on a hill overlooking Cochiti Lake. Buffalo Grove sites 51 and 53 have a clear view over the lake."

    2. Juniper Family Campground — Bandelier National Monument

    30 Reviews
    White Rock, NM
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (505) 672-3861

    $20 - $50 / night

    "There are trail heads that are a short walk from the campground including a 1.5 mile trail to the visitor center The spots have picnic table and fire rings, there is potable water and vault toilets throughout"

    "Shuttle bus takes you to visitor center Where ruins are and access to trails. There is a lovely 2 mile trail  from campground that you can also walk to center. Ruins are interesting."

    3. Sante Fe National Forest BLM-Road 62 Dispersed

    42 Reviews
    Santa Fe, NM
    14 miles

    "I often camp by Diablo Canyon, which has wonderful sunsets and decent off trail hiking.  There's even a cave for those who know where to find it. "

    "Wide open space to pick your spot next to a Juniper or two. Hardly anyone here, just the coyotes howling. Appreciated access to a pit toilet."

    4. Santa Fe Skies RV Park

    36 Reviews
    Santa Fe, NM
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (505) 473-5946

    $71 - $91 / night

    "This campground will be rated as a Basecamp — grounds that offer a comfortable home base that you’re happy to return to after a day of exploring the surrounding area."

    "There is art scattered around the property as well as along the walking paths. The sunsets are amazing all within just 5 to 10 minutes from town."

    5. Santa Fe BLM Dispersed Campsite

    26 Reviews
    Santa Fe, NM
    15 miles

    "Given the area described has piles of trash and little else to recommend it, it seems a shame to be close to gorgeous wilderness and stare at rubbish."

    "Close by, easy to find, plenty of space. Little trash left behind by some people. Overall, a great place for the night."

    6. Pajarito Springs (Dispersed)

    19 Reviews
    Los Alamos, NM
    13 miles

    "While most of the trees in this area were burnt by fires less than 10 years ago, it still provides great views of the valley below and the highest mountains in all of New Mexico! "

    "We stayed in site fairly close to the entrance and off to the right on the East spur for 6 days in a 36’ motorhome and Cherokee Trailhawk."

    7. Jemez Falls Campground

    30 Reviews
    Jemez Springs, NM
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 829-3535

    $20 / night

    "This is one of the places to camp in New Mexico"

    "**Campground Review: ** Imagine 1.25 Ma ago an eruption blew apart the landscape of Northern New Mexico that would rival the shear volume erupted by the world famous Yellowstone hotspot! "

    8. Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site

    41 Reviews
    Placitas, NM
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (505) 761-8700

    "Top of New Mexico" near Albuquerque is a fantastic camping spot if you love open spaces and beautiful desert views."

    "This campground offered amazing views of the Sandia mountains and the surrounding area."

    9. Tetilla Peak

    5 Reviews
    Cochiti Lake, NM
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (505) 465-0274

    $15 - $20 / night

    "Some sites had great views of the lake. It may not be as nice as the camp on the other side, but offered a bit more solitude."

    10. Caja Del Rio Dispersed Camping

    9 Reviews
    Santa Fe, NM
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (505) 438-5300

    "I stayed 4 nights bc it was so close to hiking and town. Very dusty and packed some trash out that was left behind. Pretty quiet with beautiful sunrises and sunsets."

    "Can get a bit crowded and hard to find a spot away from people, but plenty of room."

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Recent Camping Photos near Cochiti Lake, NM

257 Photos of 147 Cochiti Lake Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Cochiti Lake, NM

984 Reviews of 147 Cochiti Lake Campgrounds

  • Emma G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 28, 2025

    Pajarito Springs (Dispersed)

    Totally fine

    Pretty rough road, my Subaru was fine but couldn’t get far. A bit busy, especially for late October. Totally fine place to camp but not my favorite.

  • Emma G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 26, 2025

    Whirlpool Dispersed Camping Area

    CLOSED OCT 15th

    Closed for winter! Beautiful area, would recommend visiting anyways. Day area is stunning.

  • Shirlee A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 22, 2025

    Coronado campground

    Great mountain vibes

    Awesome stop over in the city. The view of the mountains from the sites are incredible. It is very close to the road so sometimes there is noise but its background.

    The playground is great. There is sites with electric and water and sites without.

    It was comfortable and felt relatively clean with good vibes for a city rv park

  • VThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 21, 2025

    Jemez Falls Campground

    Nice setting with adjacent trails.

    Most sites level. Ryan, campground host was very helpful and professional. Sites well-spaced and relatively private. Trees and shade everywhere. Short hike to Jemez Falls. About 4 miles to Valle Calderas and a couple more to Bandalere.

    Vault toilets very clean and convenient to most sites.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 19, 2025

    Cuba Hwy Pulloff on Forest Road 88

    FR 88 - dispersed camping 10-19-25

    Right off hwy - beginning of has limited spots (25’ or less total length) as you start going up the road it gets way rutted / washboarded out - I would recommend 4x4 - some spots need high clearance. Cell service ATT - 1 / 2 bars at the bottom as you go up the road you get better service

  • Arthur B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 12, 2025

    Titilla Peak

    Tetilla Peak campground

    This campground has mix of gravel dirt on awesome peak overlooking Cochiti Lake! Most of the campsites have shelter ( a cover) and a picnic table. Will note that the bathroom/showers have no light until sundown, and it remains dark in there during the day.

  • E
    Oct. 12, 2025

    Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site

    Can’t Reach Site

    Spent a while driving around trying to find a dirt road to reach the site. Everything was blocked off by the neighbors who were of no help and just kept saying it was private property

  • Kristin M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 11, 2025

    Camp May Road

    Perfect for a close camp to Los Alamos

    Easy to find pull off spots, lots of good trees. The road is closed Monday-Thursday due to being on lab property. Overall beautiful spot!

  • Stacia M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 9, 2025

    Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site

    Great experience 10/10

    Amazing experience! Definitely a tight squeeze for my rv but definitely worth it. Don’t listen to anyone that it’s “closed.” You just have to listen to the description and not take the private roads!

Guide to Cochiti Lake

Camping near Cochiti Lake, New Mexico, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of options to explore.

What to do:

  • Hiking: There are numerous trails around Cochiti Lake. Many campers enjoy the scenic hikes that lead to stunning views. One reviewer mentioned, "The hiking from the visitor center was great! We enjoyed visiting the ancient Pueblos," highlighting the area's rich history and natural beauty.
  • Fishing: The lake is a popular spot for fishing. Campers have reported good catches, making it a great way to spend a day. One visitor noted, "We spent hours fishing and had a great time," emphasizing the fun of fishing in the area.
  • Exploring nearby attractions: The campground is close to attractions like Bandelier National Monument. A reviewer shared, "Cochiti Army Core of Engineer CG: Good location to visit both Albuquerque and Santa Fe," showcasing the convenience of the location for day trips.

What campers like:

  • Spacious campsites: Many campers appreciate the large areas available for camping. One happy camper said, "This is a large area with many campsites. Pretty much anywhere you can get your vehicle, you can camp," which is great for those who enjoy a bit of freedom in choosing their spot.
  • Quiet atmosphere: Campers often mention the peacefulness of the area. A reviewer remarked, "The campground was very quiet and peaceful," making it an ideal spot for relaxation.
  • Friendly staff: Many visitors have praised the helpfulness of the campground staff. One camper noted, "The host was really nice and helpful," which can make a big difference in your camping experience.

What you should know:

  • Limited amenities: Some campgrounds, like Cochiti Recreation Area, do not have showers or electric hookups. A visitor mentioned, "The only downside to the campground is that there are no trees and it can be windy or very sunny," so be prepared for the conditions.
  • Trash issues: Some campers have reported trash in certain areas. One reviewer stated, "If it is still open, you’ll see a lot of trash," which is something to keep in mind when choosing your campsite.
  • Wildlife encounters: Campers should be aware of the local wildlife. One camper warned, "If you put up a hummingbird feeder, they will love you," indicating that you might attract some curious critters.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose a family-friendly campground: Look for places like Santa Fe Skies RV Park, which has amenities that cater to families. A reviewer said, "The park has been set up nicely," making it a good choice for families with kids.
  • Plan activities: Make sure to have a list of activities to keep everyone entertained. One family shared, "Our kiddos LOVED the beautiful pool," which can be a great way to unwind after a day of exploring.
  • Safety first: Always keep an eye on the kids, especially near water. A camper mentioned, "The campground is incredibly safe!" which can give parents peace of mind.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site sizes: Make sure your RV fits the campsite. One reviewer noted, "Some sites were small, traffic noise depending on where site located," so it's good to confirm before you arrive.
  • Bring your own water: Many campgrounds, like Black Canyon Campground, do not have water hookups. A camper advised, "Water is currently out at this campground," so be prepared.
  • Use reservations wisely: Some campgrounds fill up quickly, especially on weekends. A visitor mentioned, "The campground was only about 1/3 full," indicating that planning ahead can help secure a good spot.

Camping near Cochiti Lake, New Mexico, offers a unique blend of nature, adventure, and relaxation. With the right preparation, you can enjoy everything this beautiful area has to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I find a map of Cochiti Lake campground?

Yes, maps of Cochiti Lake campground are available from several sources. You can obtain a free map at the entrance station when you arrive, or download one in advance from the US Army Corps of Engineers website. The map shows the campground's layout on the hillside overlooking the lake, including both the Buffalo Grove and Tetilla Peak areas. For a more detailed camping experience in the region, consider consulting maps for nearby options like Pajarito Springs or Juniper Family Campground for alternate camping locations near Cochiti Lake.

Are there RV rentals available at Cochiti Lake, New Mexico?

Cochiti Lake does not offer on-site RV rentals at the recreation area itself. However, RV rentals may be available from private companies in nearby towns like Santa Fe (35 minutes away) and Albuquerque (50 minutes away). For a full-service RV experience in the region, Albuquerque KOA Journey and Rancheros de Santa Fe are excellent alternatives with more amenities. Cochiti Recreation Area does accommodate RVs at their campground, with paved driveways and some sites offering electricity and water hookups, making it suitable for those who already have their own RV.

Is there camping available at Cochiti Lake?

Yes, camping is definitely available at Cochiti Lake through the Cochiti Recreation Area. This Army Corps of Engineers campground offers sites with electricity and water, along with amenities including paved driveways, canopies, and charcoal grills. The campground sits on a hill overlooking the lake, with some sites (like Buffalo Grove sites 51 and 53) providing clear lake views. Sites cost around $12 per night, and reservations aren't always necessary as sites are often available for walk-ins. The campground provides clean facilities and convenient access to both Cochiti Lake and Tent Rock Monument.

What fishing opportunities are available at Cochiti Lake, NM?

Cochiti Lake offers excellent fishing opportunities in northern New Mexico. The lake supports multiple fish species including bass, catfish, and trout. Fishing is permitted from both the shoreline and boats, with designated fishing areas and boat ramps available. While the lake itself is a popular fishing destination, the wider region offers additional options like Riana - Abiquiu Lake and the streams in Holy Ghost Group Area in the Pecos National Forest, known for its great fishing. A New Mexico fishing license is required, which can be purchased online or from local vendors before fishing at Cochiti Lake.

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