Carson National Forest provides dispersed camping options near Eagle Nest, New Mexico at elevations between 7,500 and 10,000 feet. Temperatures can drop to freezing even in summer months, with nighttime lows in the 20s common at higher elevations. The region receives heavy snowfall from October through May, making winter camping possible but challenging.
What to do
Fishing at high-elevation lakes: Cabresto Lake offers trout fishing in clear mountain waters. "The water was so clear, you could see to the bottom in most parts of the tiny lake. The marsh on the east end provided plenty of bugs and worms for bait. The lake provided enough trout for a dinner," notes a visitor to Cabresto Lake Campground.
Hiking to mountain views: Trails around La Junta Canyon provide access to dramatic canyon views. "The trail down to the confluence of the Red River and the Rio Grand is steep and gravel," explains a camper at La Junta - Wild Rivers Rec Area. For longer hikes, "You can hike to Heart Lake. 9 mile round trip hike. Saw quite a few backpackers," shares another visitor to Cabresto Lake.
Hot springs access: Some dispersed camping areas provide access to natural hot springs. "Made a quick walk down to the springs in the evening and watched the stars come out," reports a camper at Dispersed Camping Near Taos, noting you "can't get here coming from the east over John Dun bridge."
What campers like
River sounds: The Rio Hondo provides natural ambient noise at multiple camping areas. "The Hondo River runs right next to the campground so you have easy access to water," notes a reviewer at Lower Hondo Campground. Another camper adds, "Had a great time building a fire and relaxing under the stars."
Seclusion between sites: Many camping areas offer privacy between spots. At Enchanted Circle Campground, a camper notes, "The spaces are relatively far apart so you feel like you are the only people in the vicinity." Another reviewer explains, "This is a private ranch on many acres. You cannot see any other campers from your site."
Wildlife viewing: The region supports diverse wildlife that campers can observe. "My daughter would come back for the pigs, goats, horses, cats, chipmunks, prairie dogs, and assorted other animals," says an Enchanted Circle visitor. Near Eagle Nest, campers report hearing elk bugling at night, especially during fall rutting season.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many camping areas require careful driving or high-clearance vehicles. For Blackjack Tent Area, a reviewer notes site #30 was "in the back and last camp site and right next to the water. Only downside to that one is father back to walk with camp gear."
Winter accessibility: Snow makes most areas impassable in winter. A Lower Hondo camper warns, "Obviously, camp in warm weather or you need to have a snow plow since drifts 3-5 ft deep."
Campground amenities vary widely: Some areas offer basic amenities while others have none. At Capulin Campground, a reviewer explains, "About 10 first come first serve primitive campsites next to the road and creek. The trees give some privacy between the campsites and road."
Seasonal closures: Most tent camping areas near Eagle Nest are open May through September or early October. One camper at Goat Hill noted, "We unknowingly visited Red River when all campgrounds were closed for the season."
Tips for camping with families
Animal encounters: Farms and wildlife offer educational experiences for children. "Enchanted Circle Campground is not like most campgrounds... The property has an outdoor family games area, two private ponds that you can fish in, and the owners animals that sometimes roam the property," explains a visitor.
River activities: Streams provide natural play areas. At Cuchilla Campground, "We pulled our 19' RV with solar right up to the river and our dog was in and out of the river all day," shares a camper.
Weather preparation: Pack warm clothes even in summer. A reviewer at Arroyo Seco Dispersed Camping notes, "We've had a great time, even with the rain and hail. We will definitely come back."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Most camping areas near Eagle Nest lack RV hookups. For those needing amenities, a camper at Enchanted Circle notes, "No electricity but water is available near the owners home. This is boondocking in a very safe environment!"
Solar power considerations: Several dispersed sites work well for solar-equipped RVs. "The photographer had a pop-up trailer, solar cells, (trees everywhere). He said 2X per week he would get a shower in town somewhere," reports a Lower Hondo camper.
Campsite selection for larger vehicles: Some areas have limited access for RVs. At Cuchilla, a visitor explains, "Probably about 15 or so dispersed spots along HWY 150, on the river, in the trees, with one really nice beach spot."
