Hyde Memorial State Park Campground offers glamping accommodations near Chimayo, New Mexico. Located in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains at 8,500 feet elevation, the park experiences cooler temperatures than surrounding lower elevations. Winter visitors should expect snow at higher elevations, with temperatures often 10-15 degrees lower than Santa Fe. The park provides several accommodation options including yurts situated away from main camping areas for privacy.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Hyde Memorial State Park features multiple trail options, including the waterfall trail. "The waterfall trail was beautiful, the vault toilet was clean, the views were incredible. Very peaceful," says a camper from Hyde Memorial State Park Campground.
Hot springs soaking: Visit mineral springs for relaxation after hiking. "The hot springs are a treat and I'm happy to sleep cheap and soak all day," notes a visitor at Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa. Campers receive 20% off admission to the hot springs.
Fishing spots: Holy Ghost Creek provides excellent fishing opportunities. "Plenty of fish for fishing as well," reports a camper at Holy Ghost Campground. The $8 per night fee includes access to fishing areas along the creek.
What campers like
Cooler temperatures: The higher elevations provide relief from summer heat. "Beautiful spot for fall camping since the leaves are changing colors and temperatures are cooler. In winter, this area receives snow," explains a visitor at Hyde Memorial State Park Campground.
Convenient location: Many campgrounds provide easy access to attractions. "Great base camp for checking out SF. Planned on 2 day stay, ended up staying 6. Bike trails are close and awesome," shares a camper at Trailer Ranch RV Resort.
Natural settings: Campsites often feature mature trees and water features. "The camping area is more of a campground than an RV park, in a positive way. Many of the sites are shaded with mature trees. A river runs by the edge of the campground," notes a visitor at Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa.
What you should know
Road conditions: Some campgrounds require vehicles with higher clearance. "Definitely difficult in a car. We made it barely. A nice remote campground," warns a camper at Iron Gate Campground. During wet seasons, roads may become impassable for standard vehicles.
Site availability: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially on weekends. "Get there early, Friday or even Thursday, it does get filled fast," advises a Holy Ghost Campground visitor about securing spots.
Weather preparedness: Temperature swings can be significant. "Bring layers year round, despite being less than 10 miles from Santa Fe where weather is often very warm, the elevation is much different and considerably cooler," recommends a Hyde Memorial camper.
Tips for camping with families
Select shaded sites: Mature trees provide natural cooling. "There were a lot more spots to camp (with a tent) than they advertise!" mentions a visitor at Holy Ghost Campground, noting the abundance of shaded options.
Plan for altitude adjustment: Higher elevations affect children differently. "If you are from sea level, be prepared to take your time and handle the altitude," suggests a camper at Aspen Basin Campground.
Check age restrictions: Some facilities limit access for children. A visitor at Ojo Caliente notes, "I would have given this property 5 stars but they've become unfriendly to families. Children under 13 are not allowed in the hot springs."
Tips from RVers
Hookup placement: Some sites have unusual utility configurations. At Ojo Caliente, "As others have mentioned, the hookups are on the opposite side but they will lend you extensions if you need," explains a camper.
Size limitations: Many campgrounds cannot accommodate larger rigs. "Absolutely do not try to take a camper of any size to this campground unless it's a legit overland type tear or squaredrop, ideally with an articulating hitch," warns an Iron Gate Campground visitor.
Winter access challenges: Snow affects accessibility. "The drive up is steep and our RV had a hard time; would not even think of staying up here in the winter," shares a Hyde Memorial camper about the challenges of RV access during colder months.
