Rio Puerco Campground provides modest accommodations with just four camping spots approximately 62 miles from Counselor, New Mexico. Two spots accommodate RVs while two are designed for tent camping. Temperatures in this region fluctuate dramatically between seasons, with summer highs regularly exceeding 100 degrees near Navajo Dam, cooling to 73 degrees at night. Access requires navigating unpaved forest roads for the final 6-10 miles.
What to do
Waterfall exploration: Several small waterfalls exist along the Rio Puerco, requiring some bushwhacking to reach. According to one camper at Rio Puerco Campground, "We found some waterfalls bushwhacking along the creek but be prepared to get your feet wet."
Lake recreation: Navajo Lake offers boating and fishing opportunities with multiple access points. A visitor to Sims Mesa Campground noted, "If you don't have a boat or fancy water toys, Sims Mesa is where you should go. Much less crowded than the main marina."
Biking: Forest roads near Rio Puerco provide biking opportunities on relatively flat terrain. One reviewer mentioned, "Road here is great for kids biking," making it suitable for family outings with younger cyclists.
What campers like
Solitude: Less-traveled campgrounds offer quiet experiences away from crowds. A camper at Rio Puerco reported, "During the week in April we had this campground all to ourselves. It fit our little teardrop very well."
Waterside camping: Some sites allow camping directly adjacent to water. At Sims Mesa Campground, "Several sites available right on the lake, just steps away from the water. Bathrooms available. Water and trash available just a short walk."
Evening ambiance: The sound of flowing water creates peaceful sleeping conditions. A visitor to Rio Puerco Campground stated, "Sleeping with the sounds of the many mini waterfalls at the site was very peaceful."
What you should know
Navigation challenges: GPS directions can be unreliable in this remote area. One visitor to Rio Puerco Campground warned, "The site is beautiful, but it is way past where Jesus lost his sandal. Google took us down the wrong path. We wound up at a driveway where we were quickly chased off by 4 vicious dogs that scratched up our SUV pretty bad."
Facility limitations: Amenities vary significantly between sites. A camper noted about Rio Puerco, "There aren't any port-a-pottys. There were signs to get there long ago."
Road conditions: Access roads can be rough and dusty. Regarding Sims Mesa, one reviewer cautioned, "My only complaint I guess would be the road in from the main highway was pretty rough and had lots of potholes. That road is about 17 miles long."
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife awareness: Watch for wildlife on approach roads, especially during evening hours. A camper at Sims Mesa reported, "I arrived at 10:00pm or so. It was 73 degrees. I came in from the east side 64 to 527 and there were deer and elk EVERYWHERE! Which is why I arrived so late, you just have to slow down."
Table conditions: Bring portable seating as existing picnic tables may be deteriorated. One Rio Puerco visitor observed, "Each has a fire ring and log table but most of the benches on the tables are collapsed or gone so bring chairs."
Shade considerations: Many lakeside sites lack natural shade. A camper noted, "Not much shade on the Lakeshore, so make sure to bring something for the day time."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: When seeking glamping close to Counselor, New Mexico, choose campground loops carefully for easier backing. A visitor to Navajo Lake Relax Wild-u-can mentioned, "We were in campsite 26 and it was a little difficult to get our trailer into it because we had to back uphill. Also, the other loop most likely would have a view overlooking the lake more."
Site spacing: RV sites at some locations provide comfortable spacing. One camper at Sims Mesa noted, "Nice spread out and spacious spots. Easy back in for campers."
Distance considerations: Factor in extra drive time when planning stays at more remote campgrounds offering glamping near Counselor. A reviewer cautioned about Sims Mesa, "Keep in mind that this requires a little more driving to get to, so if you're just passing through, be mindful that it's ~17 miles from highway 64."
