Carson National Forest offers equestrian camping near Costilla, New Mexico at elevations around 8,000-10,000 feet. The region features alpine meadows with seasonal wildflowers and numerous creeks for watering horses. Summer temperatures range from 45°F at night to 75°F during the day, making it comfortable for riders seeking to explore the extensive trail systems.
What to do
Trail riding access: Rio Costilla Park provides extensive riding trails through 10,000 acres of aspens and ponderosa pines. "From the 9 Lakes or Latier lakes however you prefer to call them to the hidden Little Blue Lake. A must visit for nature enthusiasts!" notes Larry S. about the Rio Costilla Park.
Fly fishing opportunities: Dedicated fishing areas throughout the region offer quality waters for anglers. "Fishing is great and quality waters. It is fisherman's fly fishing dream. Camping is great too as you can park next to the river," shares Michelle B. about her experience at Rio Costilla Park.
Wildlife observation: Early morning wildlife viewing is excellent throughout the Carson National Forest. "We saw a herd of elk down in a valley near a turn out off the road," reports a visitor at Mccrystal Campground. Morning hours provide the best opportunities for viewing elk herds in valley areas.
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: The dispersed camping areas offer privacy and distance between sites. "The sites are spread apart so much that it feels like dispersed camping," notes Terry about camping at Rio Costilla Park.
River access: Many campsites are positioned near streams and creeks. "The campsites are nearly all along a babbling brook, stream, or river," explains Joel H. who stayed at Rio Costilla Park. This provides convenient water access for horses and pleasant white noise for sleeping.
Mountain views: Mallette Creek North offers scenic vistas of the surrounding mountains. "This is what we wanted to find with dispersed camping! Beautiful view! A couple of neighbors but never heard them," writes Rosalinda S. The dispersed camping areas provide excellent views with minimal campsite density.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many campgrounds require travel on rough roads that may be challenging for certain vehicles. "It takes an hour to get to the campsite on a graveled road off the highway out of Cimerron. 25mph was best speed to go to handle the washboard road to the campsite," advises Ken M. about accessing Mccrystal Campground.
Weather patterns: Afternoon storms are common during summer months. "It rained only in the afternoons but everyday," reports Jade T. about camping at Cimarron Campground in July. Pack rain gear and plan activities accordingly.
Facilities availability: Toilet facilities vary widely between established and dispersed sites. "Pit toilets are well-maintained," notes Ken M. about Mccrystal Campground, while dispersed sites typically have no facilities. Portable toilets may be available seasonally at some locations.
Tips for camping with families
Lake activities: Hopewell Lake Campground offers family-friendly fishing opportunities. "The trout fishing is fun and always a success at the lake," writes Sara S. The lake is stocked with trout and offers accessible shore fishing for children.
Wildlife encounters: Prepare children for potential wildlife sightings. "Cows woke us up early in the morning, which was cool, but also scared the shit out of us!" reports Christa A. at Rio Costilla Park. Bears occasionally visit campgrounds at night, so proper food storage is essential.
Temperature fluctuations: Even summer nights can be cold at high elevations. "It will be cold at night, so be prepared," advises Ricky B. about camping at Cimarron Campground. Pack extra layers for children and quality sleeping bags rated for temperatures below 40°F.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Find level spots for easy setup at most campgrounds. "Not the easiest piece of ground to get the trailer leveled but we made it work," notes Rosalinda S. about camping at Mallette Creek North.
Water access: No hookups are available, so bring sufficient water supplies. "There is no running water at this campground, so bring plenty," cautions Jennifer G. who camped at Cimarron Campground. Most campgrounds require self-sufficiency for water needs.
Driving recommendations: Forest service roads present challenges for larger rigs. "I wondered how rough the roads were, but driving from Castillo to the campground and then on to Hwy 64 east of Cimarron on 1950 was all very doable in a Subaru Ascent towing a trailer despite some heavy rains," reports Stephen K. about his experience at Cimarron Campground.
