Dispersed camping areas near El Rito offer experienced horseback riders access to extensive trails in the Carson National Forest between 7,500-9,500 feet elevation. The region's high desert terrain transitions into dense pine forests at upper elevations, creating diverse riding conditions. Summer temperatures typically range from 45°F at night to 85°F during day, with afternoon thunderstorms common in July and August.
What to do
Fishing at multiple locations: Hopewell Lake provides trout fishing opportunities with regular seasonal stocking. "The trout fishing is fun and always a success at the lake. We've only stayed at the developed camp ground once, and it was nice especially with the toilets. We prefer to stay in one of the dispersed areas now, though, because we have such a large group," notes Sara S. about Hopewell Lake Campground.
Horseback riding on Forest Service roads: Carson National Forest's network of trails offers routes suitable for equestrian access north of El Rito. "You can find a sandy beach access to the river from some campsites. It gives you more private, primitive, and exciting camp feel to it compared to stay at the Amphitheater campsite nearby," explains Lila L. about Rio Chama Campground.
Hiking near camping sites: Many equestrian-friendly areas connect to hiking trails. "Great hiking trail leads into Pecos wilderness, another trail leads up to Indian lake. Trailhead is right in the campground, so hike right from your campsite. Perfect," shares Robin T. about the trail access at Agua Piedra Campground.
What campers like
High elevation camping for cooler summer temperatures: Areas around El Rito sit at higher elevations providing relief from summer heat. "It's nice and cool even in summer. The trout fishing is fun and always a success at the lake," according to reviews of Hopewell Lake Campground.
River access for horses: Several campgrounds offer direct access to water for livestock. "We actually stayed down the road about a mile and half from Rio Chama Campground, however we were still in the park and off of Forest Road 151. We camped off-the-grid on a spot right by Rio Chama. We were lucky to have found a spot mid-day and that had a sort of 'beach front' type inlet to the river. Definitely a place to launch kayaks or rafts," notes Ellie S. about Oak Point Campground.
Secluded camping options: For those seeking equestrian camping with privacy, dispersed sites provide isolation. "A nice secluded little forest road. RVs will not make it, so it's nice and quiet. AWD/4WD needed on the rutted rocky road. Stayed one night and saw no one else," reports Kala J. about the experience at Forest Service Road 578.
What you should know
Water availability varies by season: Many dispersed camping areas around El Rito lack reliable water sources. "Water was not available. Very peaceful and quiet with lots of great views," Julie F. notes about Agua Piedra Campground.
Road conditions can be challenging: Access to prime equestrian camping often requires capable vehicles. "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. People are not kidding when they say that's not a good idea. We had our Tacoma in 4L and I'm honestly not sure how some 2WD vehicles make it," warns Dorrs T. about accessing Iron Gate Campground.
Campsite availability is limited during peak season: First-come, first-served sites fill quickly from June through September. "We visited memorial day weekend 2021 with a group of 6. This spot is beautiful with a good amount of tree coverage. It's an easy dirt road drive down the river and you will pass many dispersed site and a couple of defined camping grounds. Not a ton of large group sites," explains Megan V. about Rio Chama Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Look for sites with water features: Children appreciate accessible water for warm-weather activities. "We came on a Sunday afternoon and passed quite a few people leaving. So other than a few campers, we pretty much had the place to ourselves for 2 nights. It was very peaceful! The road to get there is about 10 miles but it takes about 40 minutes to drive. It's a little rough and narrow in spots. But totally worth the drive!" shares Jennifer about Oak Point Campground.
Choose developed sites for facilities: When camping with horses and children, amenities matter. "This campground is a hidden jewel in the mountains on the north end of the Pecos Wilderness. It is near NOTHING. It has no cell/wifi service. BUT what it does have is quiet, and peacefulness, and charm, and views views views. It is just what WE want when we go camping," explains Robin T. about Iron Gate Campground.
Plan for weather changes: Mountain elevations experience significant temperature swings. "It got cold at night, like 27 F. It was a nice waypoint on my trip between Gunnison CO and El Paso TX but it didn't look like many people camped there," notes Jacob W. about camping at Carson National Forest.
Tips from RVers
Research access roads thoroughly: Many equestrian camping areas have limited RV access. "Site isn't easy to get to for low clearance vehicles. During rainy seasons, ruts form with deep mud on some spots driving up. Once at site, there are about 14 spaces, reasonably spaced apart in some areas. Tent camping and popups/small campers are fine. No room for RV's and larger travel trailers," advises Cory M. about Santa Barbara Campground.
Verify hookup availability: Most dispersed equestrian camping sites lack amenities. "Tent and RV sites are large and spread out. Some sites have livestock pens, but I'm not sure on the campground policies. Hopewell Lake has tables for day picnics and is a popular fishing location. Be prepared for summer monsoon rains," explains Megan E. about Hopewell Lake facilities.
Consider generator restrictions: Many equestrian camping areas prohibit generators. "The campground is large with several interconnecting loops. There aren't many trees, but the sites are not on top of each other so there is a semblance of privacy. Showers and laundry are available in the campground," notes Annie C. about camping options near El Rito.
