Best Camping near Costilla, NM

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Costilla, NM has a lot to offer. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that New Mexico camping has to offer. Find the best campgrounds near Costilla, NM. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Best Camping Sites Near Costilla, NM (165)

    Camper-submitted photo from Sacred White Shell Mountain
    Camper-submitted photo from Sacred White Shell Mountain
    Camper-submitted photo from Sacred White Shell Mountain
    Camper-submitted photo from Sacred White Shell Mountain
    Camper-submitted photo from Sacred White Shell Mountain
    Camper-submitted photo from Sacred White Shell Mountain
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Lake Campground - Temporarily Closed
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Lake Campground - Temporarily Closed
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Lake Campground - Temporarily Closed
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Lake Campground - Temporarily Closed
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Lake Campground - Temporarily Closed
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Lake Campground - Temporarily Closed

    2. Blue Lake Campground - Temporarily Closed

    35 Reviews
    127 Photos
    199 Saves
    La Veta, Colorado

    Overview

    Blue Lake Campground is located in the beautiful San Isabel National Forest at an elevation of 10,500 ft. Views of the nearby Culebra Range Mountains with aspen and spruce forests offer campers a genuine Colorado experience.

    Recreation

    A well-marked trail system between Bear Lake and Blue Lake is open to foot and horse traffic. Across the road from the campground FSR 436, a rough jeep road, provides access to Trinchera Peak where Big Horn Sheep are often seen.

    Natural Features

    A tributary of the Cuchara River runs through the campground. Blue Lake is 1/2 mile from the campground, and Bear Lake is one mile away. Both of these small lakes are stocked several times during the summer providing for good fishing.

    Nearby Attractions

    The nearby mountain town of Cuchara offers shopping and visitor information. The town of La Veta offers a grocery store, gas stations, and shops. The Spanish Peaks Wilderness, 14 miles from the campground, is a popular hiking destination.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Cancellations Individual Campsites: Cancellations up to 2 days before a reservation start date incur a $10.00 cancellation fee. A visitor who cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee including tax and applicable add-on for a campsite. Cancellations for a one-night reservation will forfeit the entire amount paid and will not be subject to an additional service fee. No-Shows A no-show visitor is one who does not arrive at a campground and does not cancel the reservation by check-out time on the day after the scheduled arrival date. Staff will hold a campsite until check-out time on the day following the arrival date. No-shows are assessed $20.00 service fee and forfeit the first night's rate, taxes and applicable add-on for a campsite. Refunds Visitors may submit a refund request through their Recreation.gov profile within 7 days of the end date of their reservation. Refunds will not be issued after the 7 days has ended. Refunds for debit or credit card payments will be issued as a credit to the original bank or credit card used to pay. For check or cash purchases, Recreation.gov will mail a Treasury check for refunds of cash, check, or money order payments to the address associated with the reservation. Treasury check refunds may take up to 6-8 weeks to arrive. In the event of an emergency closure, the Recreation.gov team or facility manager will refund all fees and will attempt to notify you using the contact information within the Recreation.gov visitor profile.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $24 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Zapata Falls Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Zapata Falls Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Zapata Falls Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Zapata Falls Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Zapata Falls Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Zapata Falls Campground

    3. Zapata Falls Campground

    69 Reviews
    291 Photos
    719 Saves
    Blanca, Colorado

    Overview

    A short drive up the gravel road that leads to the Bureau of Land Managements Zapata Falls Campground (CG) will let visitors to the area see the San Luis Valley and Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve from a whole new perspective. The campground offers birds-eye views of the valley floor below, the San Juan Mountains to the west, the adjacent Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, and several 14ers and many other towering peaks of the Sangre de Cristo Mountain range that Zapata Falls CG sits on not to mention spectacular sunrises, sunsets and night skies! Zapata Falls CG has 23 single campsites, 1 group site and 1 camp host site nestled among pi__on pines along two one-mile long loops. The sites on one loop are designed for tent campers. Parking spurs on the second loop vary a little in length but in general can handle RVs, towed campers, or other configurations of vehicles up to about 50 feet long. A new trailhead in the campground supplies a link to the South Zapata Creek Trail and the Sangre de Cristo Wilderness. A second trail, next door to the campground in the day-use area, leads visitors on a mildly steep half-mile hike to Zapata Falls, which gives the campground its name.

    Recreation

    Zapata Falls Recreation Area is a destination known for its waterfall viewing and sweeping vistas of the San Luis Valley, its soaring mountain ranges, and the adjacent Great Sand Dunes National Park. From the waterfall, the trail continues onto the Rio Grande National Forest, for those seeking a backcountry experience in the high country above and the Sangre de Cristo Wilderness. Recreation Sites Standard Nonelectric Rv Nonelectric Group Tent Only Area Nonelectric Overnight

    Natural Features

    Zapata Falls Special Recreation Management Area The Zapata Falls Special Recreation Management Area (SRMA) is rich in history and geology and offers opportunities to hike, camp, mountain bike and view spectacular scenery. Zapata Falls and the 628 acres surrounding them are State Trust Lands owned by the Colorado State Land Board and are also a designated Colorado Natural Area. They are cooperatively managed with the Bureau of Land Management. History The name _ Zapata _ is the Spanish word for shoe and is tied to the history of settlement in the San Luis Valley. In 1864, Mexican families established the community of Zapata at the western base of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and raised sheep and other livestock. In the 1870s, cattleman consolidated land holdings and established one of the San Luis Valleys first and largest cattle ranches know as Zapata Ranch, which remains an active ranch today. Geology Zapata Falls SRMA perches on the edge of an active rift valley. The San Luis Valley was formed when geologic activity along the Rio Grande Rift, a giant crack in the earths top layers, caused the rugged Sangre de Cristo Mountains to rise and the flat plain of the San Luis Valley to sink. Bedrock lies 5,000 to 13,000 feet below the valley floor, beneath layers of gravel, soil, and water. Approximately two million years ago, alpine glaciers inched down the steep slopes of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Water flowing from the glacier and snowfields in the valley above found a weak spot near the end of a moraine a huge rock pile deposited thousands of years ago by a glacier. For thousands of years, water has carved its path, forming Zapata Falls. Dont Take the Plunge at Zapata Falls The cold waters of South Zapata Creek drop more than 25 feet through a narrow, rocky canyon. Please use extreme caution when hiking or wading around the base of Zapata Falls. In spring and summer, the water is cold, the current may be strong, and the rocks are slippery. In winter, climbing to the base of the falls is a slick proposition. Zapata Creek freezes into a sheet of ice blanketed by snow. Beware, the ice may not be thick enough to support your weight. There is no view of the falls from above; trying to climb the rocky walls is dangerous to you and to people below you. The falls are home to the black swift, a rare and elusive bird that nests only in the misty reaches of waterfalls. Stay on the trails to keep from disturbing the birds nesting in the cliffs.

    Nearby Attractions

    Zapata Falls Trail To reach Zapata Falls, you will need to take a short but arduous hike to Zapata Creek. The falls are upstream from where the trail meets the creek. The only way to view the falls is to get your feet wet by wading carefully upstream to the base of the falls. Length: 1/2 mile each way Elevation: 9,000 to 9,400 feet Connections: South Zapata Lake Trail (U.S. Forest Service Trail #852) Other Nearby Attractions: NPS-Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve. USFS-Rio Grande National Forest and Sangre de Cristo Wilderness. BLM-Blanca Wetlands Recreation Area. USFWS-Baca and Alamosa National Wildlife Refuges. Great Sand Dunes Oasis-Restaurant, gift shop, and lodge (near GRSA Park entrance). Ft. Garland Museum and Cultural Center. Colorado Gators Reptile Park. UFO Watchtower. Sand Dunes Hot Springs Pool. Other Nearby Campgrounds: Pinyon Flats CG, Great Sand Dunes NPP

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo from Rio Costilla Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Rio Costilla Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Rio Costilla Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Rio Costilla Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Rio Costilla Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Rio Costilla Park

    4. Rio Costilla Park

    8 Reviews
    23 Photos
    199 Saves
    Red River, New Mexico

    Rio Costilla ~ Pristine Wilderness is located in Northern Taos County, New Mexico. Lush forests offer Spring & Summer Recreation through Labor Day Weekend and are a Hunter’s Paradise throughout the year.

    Camping, Fishing, Hiking, Bike Riding, Rock Hounding, and just plain Relaxing are among many activities to be enjoyed during warmer months of the year in Rio Costilla Park.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Equestrian

    $30 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Columbine Campground (NM)
    Camper-submitted photo from Columbine Campground (NM)
    Camper-submitted photo from Columbine Campground (NM)
    Camper-submitted photo from Columbine Campground (NM)
    Camper-submitted photo from Columbine Campground (NM)
    Camper-submitted photo from Columbine Campground (NM)

    5. Columbine Campground (NM)

    10 Reviews
    28 Photos
    175 Saves
    Questa, New Mexico

    Overview

    Columbine Campground is located between Questa and Red River, New Mexico. The Red River flows past the campground and a trailhead leads into the Columbine-Hondo Wilderness area. Columbine Campground sits at 7,900 feet in elevation.

    Recreation

    The Columbine Twining hiking trail can be found at the south end of the campground and gives access to 14 miles of hiking trails, and leads into the Columbin-Hondo Wilderness area. The Red River runs near the campground and can be accessed near the first loop.

    Natural Features

    The campground is composed of two loops. One small loop at the campground entrance, has all open sites and views of the towering mountains. The other is a long loop up the canyon along the fast-flowing Columbine Creek. The campsites in this loop are tucked in among pine, spruce and some aspen providing ample shade and good privacy between campsites.

    Contact Info

    For facility specific information, please call (928) 537-8888.

    Nearby Attractions

    Be sure to explore Red River, Questa, and the Enchanted Circle while in the area.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $22 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Home Mountain Reservoir SWA - Dispersed Campsites
    Camper-submitted photo from Home Mountain Reservoir SWA - Dispersed Campsites
    Camper-submitted photo from Home Mountain Reservoir SWA - Dispersed Campsites
    Camper-submitted photo from Home Mountain Reservoir SWA - Dispersed Campsites
    Camper-submitted photo from Home Mountain Reservoir SWA - Dispersed Campsites
    Camper-submitted photo from Home Mountain Reservoir SWA - Dispersed Campsites

    6. Home Mountain Reservoir SWA - Dispersed Campsites

    11 Reviews
    27 Photos
    308 Saves
    San Luis, Colorado

    This is an irrigation reservoir that's stocked throughout the summer with trout. Camping and restrooms are available. NOTE: Reservoir is open to ice fishing during the winter.

    Interactive Map: https://ndismaps.nrel.colostate.edu/index.html?app=FishingAtlas&keyword=fspot&value=262

    Fishing Coldwater lake

    Recreation Camping, Boating

    Facilities Boat Ramp, Restrooms

    Restrictions Colorado Parks and Wildlife reminds visitors to check current hunting, fishing and land use regulations when planning to visit a State Wildlife Area. Refer to the Recreational Lands Brochure, as well as the Fishing and Hunting Regulation Brochures located on the Regulations Brochures Page. State Wildlife Area visitors can also find rules and regulations information in Chapter 9 Regulations.​

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Dispersed
    • Toilets
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Junebug Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Junebug Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Junebug Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Junebug Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Junebug Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Junebug Campground

    7. Junebug Campground

    9 Reviews
    17 Photos
    86 Saves
    Red River, New Mexico

    Recently refurbished roadside campground sits near historic Red River mining area and downhill ski resort. Can be very crowded during summer weekends. As an alternative, try BLM's Wild Rivers Recreation Area north of Questa.

    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Trash
    • Firewood Available
    Camper-submitted photo from Cimarron Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cimarron Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cimarron Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cimarron Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cimarron Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cimarron Campground

    8. Cimarron Campground

    10 Reviews
    46 Photos
    152 Saves
    Red River, New Mexico

    Overview

    Cimarron Campground is located in the scenic Valle Vidal within Carson National Forest in northern New Mexico, at an elevation of 9,300 feet. The sites are tucked among spruce, aspen and fir trees, and the camp offers an open range feel. Visitors have opportunities to enjoy a variety of recreational activities in a picturesque setting. Viewing wildlife and simply relaxing in the mountain air are popular activities.

    Recreation

    Anglers can fish for Rio Grande cutthroat trout in Comanche Creek and the Rio Pueblo. Nearby Shuree Ponds offers excellent fishing. The smaller pond is a fishing hole for kids 12 and under. The main pond is stocked with rainbow trout and is also popular for float tubing. The area around the campground is open to horseback riding, and there are few maintained trails. Elk and deer hunting is excellent.

    Natural Features

    Some of the finest mountain scenery in the Southwest is found in the 1.5 million acres within the Carson National Forest. Elevations range from 6,000 feet to 13,161 feet at Wheeler Peak, the highest in New Mexico. Big game animals roam the Carson, including mule deer, elk, antelope, black bear, mountain lion and bighorn sheep. Many species of smaller animals and songbirds can also been found in the forest. Cimarron Campground is located within the beautiful Valle Vidal, a Spanish term meaning "Valley of Life," of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Shuree Ponds, Comanche Creek and the Rio Pueblo are all near the campground, offering excellent fishing.

    Contact Info

    For facility specific information, please call (928) 537-8888.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group

    $22 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Great Sand Dunes Oasis
    Camper-submitted photo from Great Sand Dunes Oasis
    Camper-submitted photo from Great Sand Dunes Oasis
    Camper-submitted photo from Great Sand Dunes Oasis
    Camper-submitted photo from Great Sand Dunes Oasis
    Camper-submitted photo from Great Sand Dunes Oasis

    9. Great Sand Dunes Oasis

    53 Reviews
    157 Photos
    417 Saves
    Great Sand Dunes National Park And Preserve, Colorado
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $25 - $169 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Road Runner RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Road Runner RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Road Runner RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Road Runner RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Road Runner RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Road Runner RV Resort

    10. Road Runner RV Resort

    8 Reviews
    12 Photos
    53 Saves
    Red River, New Mexico

    Stay at Road Runner RV Resort and discover all that the Red River Valley has to offer. We offer 120 RV sites located among 23 acres of mature trees. Contact us today to book your stay. Quiet & Secure At Road Runner RV Resort, we take security seriously. The resort itself is a gated community, so only guests have access to the grounds. This keeps traffic to a minimum and makes the whole property lovely and peaceful. Guests are provided an access code, so they can enter and leave the site whenever they like.

    Top-Notch Amenities Whether you want to explore the town of Red River or simply relax, our resort is a great choice. The Red River trolley will pick you up right at the park and drop you off anywhere in town. We directly border the Goose Lake trailhead, and you can ride a UTV from our park to any trailhead in the area. There are also plenty of opportunities for fun and recreation right here at the resort, including:

    A State-Of-The-Art Tennis Court 2 Basketball Courts Playground BBQ Grills Picnic Tables Firepits at Selected Sites A Putting Green Fishing in the Red River

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
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Showing results 1-10 of 165 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Costilla

Recent Reviews in Costilla

710 Reviews of 165 Costilla Campgrounds


  • Julie K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Montoso Campground
    Oct. 26, 2024

    Montoso Campground

    Great view, quiet, well appointed

    Picnic table, running water in spigots, fire ring and a view. We drove our van right to the spot. Clean pit toilets. $7/night

  • UThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Questa Lodge & RV Resort
    Oct. 17, 2024

    Questa Lodge & RV Resort

    Beautiful grounds

    Stayed in spot R1 which is pretty small/crowded in, but near river and trees. Lovely duck and geese ponds and river walk, also dog park. Clean restrooms and showers but no changing stalls in either mens/womens shower. Very quiet and affordable. Near to grocery. Grounds are well-kept and healthy & green (lots of trees, shrubs, beautiful walk by river). Sorry pics are a bit washed out, doesn't do it justice.

  • Vincent S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Weathers RV Park
    Oct. 13, 2024

    Weathers RV Park

    Great Little RV Park

    We had 50 amp, full hookups and stayed for a week. Stable power, good water pressure and threaded sewer connectors. The sites are level, decently spaced and easy to access. The wonderful lady that runs the place (Marti) is warm, friendly and very appreciative of business. If you’re in the area, I recommend staying here. If you’re close by, I’d recommend the same!

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM Mt. Blanca Rd. Dispersed
    Oct. 13, 2024

    BLM Mt. Blanca Rd. Dispersed

    Great Spot

    Was able to find a really nice open spot with amazing views of the mountains. Was big and spacious enough for me and my friend to camp in our vans. No one around for miles!

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Elk Creek Trail
    Oct. 11, 2024

    Elk Creek Trail

    spacious creekside hiking area

    Parked on edge of flat in trees close to creek. Nice ambient noise. Fire rings, metal and stone. Plenty of room. Two vault toilets were clean plenty if TP. Lots of trails, bridge over creek, lakes are near by foot.

  • DL M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Mountainside 4WD High-Clearance Dispersed Campsites
    Oct. 1, 2024

    Mountainside 4WD High-Clearance Dispersed Campsites

    Tree sheltered sites along

    I walked up the road about three miles on the way to the lake because the beginning of the road was way to rough for my van with large rocks about 6 inch diameter.  There were lots of people disperse camping on the hilside above Como Road.

  • Jeremy S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Angel Nest RV Retreat
    Sep. 30, 2024

    Angel Nest RV Retreat

    A really nice place

    Nice place! Great views! It's a quite place with a gathering hall to watch TV or charge your devices if need be. I would definitely stay there again!

  • Timothy N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Taos Valley RV Park & Campground
    Sep. 28, 2024

    Taos Valley RV Park & Campground

    Clean and well run RV park

    We enjoyed our 2 nights here and would stay again next time we are in Taos.  Easy access to all the activities in the area.  Grounds and bathrooms were very clean.  The staff was friendly and helpful.  In late Sep it was still busy and full, but it was quiet within the RV park.   We had a full hookup site and all services worked as expected.  Wifi was available, with repeaters around the park.  Mobile service was solid.  The showers worked well and were clean.  The only negative was the noise from the adjacent streets with what sounded like street racing, finally quieting down around 1AM.

  • Patricia N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Junebug Campground
    Sep. 24, 2024

    Junebug Campground

    Red River access

    We camped right to. The Red River, the site was fairly clean but we cleaned up what the campground host failed to pick up.

    Picnic table and fire ring. Pit toilet was clean.

    This is a great place to stay and it allows for day trips into Taos and Valle Vidal which is a spectacular trip. We saw large herds of bison roaming and had to wait for 20 minutes while they crossed the dirt road.

  • Levi S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sacred White Shell Mountain
    Sep. 23, 2024

    Sacred White Shell Mountain

    Easy free camping

    Got here on a Saturday night in September and found a spot right away. It had been raining for awhile too. No issue on the road with a kia sorento.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Taos Monte Bello RV Park
    Sep. 22, 2024

    Taos Monte Bello RV Park

    Small, quiet, and we'll maintained.

    20 gravel sites in the desert about 6 miles NW of Taos. Only issue is there was only 1 men's room and 1 woman's room. But since we were smallest rig in our Sprinter van it wasn't an issue as I think others in Class A and C rigs had their own showers.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from North Fork Purgatiore River
    Sep. 19, 2024

    North Fork Purgatiore River

    Great campground!

    Beautiful river and lots of wildlife. Drive past the wildlife area sign that says no camping. That sign is only for the entranced area. On down the road you will see the entrance and pay station for the campgrounds. Gorgeous! Nice trail to hike as well.

  • Melissa J.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Arroyo Seco Dispersed NF Camping
    Sep. 18, 2024

    Arroyo Seco Dispersed NF Camping

    Absolutely Gorgeous

    There are so many campsites to choose from, all along the Hondo Rio. It's peaceful and quiet. We brought our four dogs and 13 year old. There's so much to do to keep them busy. The dogs love the river and to run through it. No one really bothers anyone. There are toilets at some of the sites. Very clean. We had storms while camping. At least six rock/mud slides on the road. I don't know who, but someone managed to clean it all up in record time. We've had a great time, even with the rain and hail. We will definitely come back.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sacred White Shell Mountain
    Sep. 11, 2024

    Sacred White Shell Mountain

    Wide Open Spaces

    Not much tree cover at a lot of these spots. Great location to be close enough to the dunes.

    Was pretty windy and sandy while we were there

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Zapata Falls Campground
    Sep. 3, 2024

    Zapata Falls Campground

    Labor day mountain camping

    Nice campsite. Bathrooms were locked and no host on site today maybe due to holiday. Plenty of hiking nearby. Hike to the falls is short and worth it. You can also hike further up to the lake.

  • Shana D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Great Sand Dunes Oasis
    Aug. 31, 2024

    Great Sand Dunes Oasis

    Great Location

    We booked here last minute on a holiday weekend and we were thankful they had a spot for us! The campground parking area is just that. It’s a place to park for the night, with full hook ups. No wifi. The location can’t be beat! Views are incredible! The bath house was clean. There is a store and restaurant in property. They also have cabins to rent. . My only complaint…this is a dark sky area with expansive views of the sky and the opportunity to see the Milky Way. This is not something g I get to see at home! However, all the giant campers had their bright lights on at night and it really messed with viewing of the sky. I wish there was a rule of no outside lights at night. It’s unnecessary! If you are one of those people that leave your lights on when you go in for the night, please reconsider!

  • Lisa M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Great Sand Dunes Oasis
    Aug. 29, 2024

    Great Sand Dunes Oasis

    Close to the park but basic campsites

    We spent one night here so we could go to the park. Nice enough campground with level spaces and full hook ups. We paid $54. Area also has cabins and a lodge as well as a store with a little restaurant. The showers were amazing at this place. Nice hot copious amounts of water and very clean. About 4 miles from the park entrance. Sandunes were pretty cool, but unless you want to hike to the very top of them, you could easily only spend two hours at the most here. 

  • Timothy N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping Near Hopewell Lake
    Aug. 29, 2024

    Dispersed Camping Near Hopewell Lake

    Plentiful dispersed options

    We spent a few nights in the dispersed area near Hopewell .  We rolled in at 5 and had plenty of sites to choose from.  We chose one of the lower areas, with one large open space surrounded by smaller sites.  There were many more up the road, and there was constant traffic headed uphill until about 9PM.   Once the traffic stopped it was very quiet, only the cattle calling through the trees.  It rained for several hours and our spot stayed solid.  Some offshoot roads were rutted out. The main road had minimal rocks and holes, didn't get very muddy.  TMobile\Google mobile service worked well enough.  Verizon did not work.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Great Sand Dunes Dispersed
    Aug. 22, 2024

    Great Sand Dunes Dispersed

    Good spot if you get there early

    There’s plenty of spots off the main road, but seems like you need to get there early. We showed up around 6 pm. The road does get pretty rough eventually, and we didn’t trust our minivan going through the “unmaintained” section, we turned around and were able to find a connecting side road that had plenty of open space out there. When entering the road initially, the side road would be about half way up to your left. Pretty close to Great Sand Dunes National Park, so we were happy with this location! Nice mountain view.

  • cali N.
    Camper-submitted photo from Zapata Falls Campground
    Aug. 19, 2024

    Zapata Falls Campground

    the most incredible place

    i had an amazing time here. my site was great, so clean with a breathtaking view, clean bathrooms close by, and a bear locker! there is so much to do and the falls were insane. if you go past the trail and into the water to the cave, you can see the falls and feel the mist on your face. i am coming back next year FOR SURE. oh, and the camp host was very kind and friendly, truly a big help!!



Guide to Costilla

Camping near Costilla, New Mexico, offers a mix of stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family getaway, this area has something for everyone.

What to do

  • Fishing: The area is great for fishing, especially at Cimarron Campground. One camper mentioned, "The fishing in the area was very popular and it seemed like everyone was catching fish."
  • Hiking: Explore nearby trails, like the one leading to Shuree Ponds from Cimarron Campground. A reviewer noted, "There’s a nice easy/moderate half mile hike down to the Shuree Ponds which were stocked with trout."
  • Wildlife Watching: Campers often spot deer and other wildlife. One visitor shared, "We had deer roam through our campsite; they could care less that we were even there."

What campers like

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. A review for Eagle Nest Lake State Park Campground states, "Perfectly located on a picturesque lake with the Sangre de Cristo mountains as a backdrop."
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Many appreciate the peacefulness of the campgrounds. One camper at Cimarron Campground said, "It stayed quiet even when full."
  • Clean Facilities: Clean restrooms and well-maintained sites are a plus. A visitor at Junebug Campground mentioned, "The vault toilets were adequate, and each site I saw had multiple tent options."

What you should know

  • Limited Amenities: Many campgrounds, like Cimarron Campground, do not have electric hookups or showers. A camper noted, "It’s not glamping but is some great camping!"
  • Road Conditions: Some roads can be rough, especially for larger vehicles. A review for Cebolla Mesa Campground warned, "It takes about half an hour to drive in, through rutted, dirt roads."
  • Wildlife Caution: While wildlife is abundant, keep an eye on your pets. One camper at Home Mountain Reservoir SWA advised, "I recommend keeping a close eye on your dogs here, especially dogs that like to get into things they shouldn’t."

Tips for camping with families

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with nearby fishing and hiking. A parent at Cimarron Campground shared, "A short beautiful hike to the ponds allowed for some fishing for the kids."
  • Space for Play: Choose sites with enough room for kids to play. A reviewer at Junebug Campground mentioned, "You can hear the river running all day; it’s so relaxing."
  • Plan for No Cell Service: Many campgrounds have limited or no cell service. One camper at Cimarron Campground noted, "No cell service at the camp site but a short 5 min drive back allowed for service to multiple cell providers."

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Alamosa KOA advised, "If resort camping is your thing, this one is clean, has showers, and pancake breakfast on Saturdays."
  • Be Prepared for Noise: Some campgrounds can be close to roads. A visitor at Eagle Nest Lake State Park Campground mentioned, "Can be noisy at times."
  • Look for Amenities: Choose campgrounds with amenities like water and dump stations. A camper at Alamosa KOA said, "There is a well-stocked store with ice, propane, firewood, etc."

Camping near Costilla, New Mexico, offers a unique experience with its beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities. Whether you're in a tent or an RV, there's something for everyone to enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Costilla, NM?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Costilla, NM offers a wide range of camping options, with 165 campgrounds and RV parks near Costilla, NM and 41 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Costilla, NM?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Costilla, NM is Sacred White Shell Mountain with a 4.5-star rating from 53 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Costilla, NM?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 41 free dispersed camping spots near Costilla, NM.

  • What parks are near Costilla, NM?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 14 parks near Costilla, NM that allow camping, notably Carson National Forest and Great Sand Dunes National Park And Preserve.