Best Tent Camping near El Rito, NM

Tent campers exploring the Carson National Forest near El Rito, New Mexico have access to several primitive camping areas with varying levels of development. Carson National Forest Road 578 offers dispersed tent camping with drive-in and walk-in access, while Taos Junction Campground provides established tent sites with basic amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets. The Cuchilla Campground in Arroyo Seco offers seasonal tent camping from May to September with toilets and picnic tables.

Most tent camping areas in this region require self-sufficiency as amenities are minimal. Dispersed sites typically lack drinking water, toilets, and trash service, requiring campers to pack in all supplies and pack out waste. Many established campgrounds provide fire rings and picnic tables, but potable water is scarce. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for accessing remote tent sites, particularly those near Cabresto Lake where unpaved switchbacks can be challenging. According to one visitor, "A vehicle with off-road capabilities is recommended if you want to reach this campground. While not impossible with a regular sedan, it does take navigating up some unpaved switchbacks."

Areas farther from main roads offer deeper seclusion and less noise pollution for tent campers. The dispersed camping near Taos provides excellent views of the gorge with relatively flat tent sites. Many campsites are situated alongside creeks or streams, providing both natural scenery and ambient sound that enhances the camping experience. Tree cover varies significantly between locations, with some sites offering shade while others are more exposed. One camper noted that "The trees give some privacy in between the campsites and road. I wasn't too bothered by the road noise and it was quiet after dark." Elevation changes affect temperatures significantly, with higher sites experiencing much cooler overnight temperatures even during summer months.

Best Tent Sites Near El Rito, New Mexico (43)

    1. Carson NF - Forest Service Road 578 - Dispersed Camping

    5 Reviews
    Carson National Forest, NM
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 758-8678

    "There are a bunch of different roads you can turn off to camp on if you’re driving from Taos to Durango."

    "I tent-camped off of Carson NF Forest Service Road 578 in mid April 2022. FS 578 is south of Tres Piedras about 5 miles on the west side of Hwy 285."

    2. Canjilon Creek Campground

    1 Review
    Canjilon, NM
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 758-6200

    "This park is very primitive. It has no running water, toilets, or amenities. What it has a lot of, is charm. Hardly met anyone while there. It has three lakes filled with trout."

    3. Taos Junction Campground

    6 Reviews
    Carson, NM
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 758-8851

    "They have nice grills at the tent sites along 28th tables. Bathrooms were nice and clean and a close walk. With lots to do including fish and hiking trails. We look forward to going back."

    "The shelter provides nice shade. Bugs & dust were only real drawback. Oh, and it was hot!"

    4. Star Dance

    1 Review
    Youngsville, NM
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (505) 901-2936

    5. Dispersed Camping Near Taos

    4 Reviews
    Arroyo Hondo, NM
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 758-8851

    "Make sure you go all the way to the coordinates as there are a ton of great spots off to the left of the road, plenty of room to spread out and some solidly flat spots."

    "Don’t drive to the John dun bridge from Taos use the longer route instead. The switch back road is blocked off now."

    6. Arroyo Seco Dispersed NF Camping

    8 Reviews
    Valdez, NM
    37 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 758-6200

    "Right off the road, literally. it hidden behind some trees so the barrier between the site and road makes for a little privacy. Great spot for a day or two right next to a creek so you fall asleep to"

    "First coms first served with mostly tenting spaces."

    7. Cuchilla Campground

    7 Reviews
    Valdez, NM
    39 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 758-6200

    "Sites are right on a creek & have picnic tables."

    "Picnic tables were marked up, but the sound of the River was so worth all of it."

    8. Big Tesuque Campground

    10 Reviews
    Tesuque, NM
    44 miles
    Website
    +1 (505) 753-7331

    "- Nice babbling brook alongside campsites, fun for kids to play in (COLD, but shallow), and makes for great white noise.

    • Convenient to Santa Fe (20-25 min from downtown)
    • drive up the mountain 4"

    "If you're tent camping, Big Tesuque is AMAZING!! It's small, but absolutely beautiful. Each site has a picknick table and a tent pad. There are basic toilets. No showers, no sinks."

    9. American Springs

    4 Reviews
    Los Alamos, NM
    36 miles

    "Just sad to see bullet casings litter ground and these trees that survived the most intense fire in new mexico are being shot up and destroyed. Shame on anyone doing this"

    "Any SUV could handle it but being in an extended length van limits where I can go. Very peaceful with a nice view down the canyon. Elk grazing below were the cherry on top."

    10. La Junta - Wild Rivers Rec Area

    3 Reviews
    San Cristobal, NM
    36 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 758-6200

    "Each campsite had a concrete pad and awning."

    "The sites are fairly primitive but the location is one of the greatest around. It’s a decent drive up here from Taos but you won’t be disappointed once you get here."

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Showing results 1-10 of 43 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near El Rito, NM

734 Reviews of 43 El Rito Campgrounds



Guide to El Rito

Tent camping near El Rito, New Mexico, offers a blend of serene landscapes and outdoor adventures, perfect for nature enthusiasts looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

Tent campers should check out Carson NF - Forest Service Road 578

  • This location provides a peaceful atmosphere with multiple flat spots for camping, making it ideal for those seeking solitude in nature.
  • The area allows campfires, so you can enjoy cozy evenings under the stars while soaking in the tranquility of the forest.
  • With no permits required and free camping, it's a budget-friendly option for tent campers looking to explore the beauty of Carson National Forest.

Tent campers appreciate these amenities at Canjilon Creek Campground

  • Located at a high elevation, this campground offers stunning vistas and a primitive camping experience, perfect for those who enjoy a rustic setting.
  • The nearby lakes are filled with trout, providing excellent fishing opportunities for those looking to catch their dinner.
  • With plenty of wood available for foraging, campers can easily gather materials for campfires, enhancing the outdoor experience.

Explore local attractions near La Junta - Wild Rivers Rec Area

  • This campground features breathtaking views and is a great base for canyon hikes and whitewater adventures, appealing to thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike.
  • The steep trails lead to the confluence of the Red River and the Rio Grande, offering stunning scenery and excellent photo opportunities.
  • Campers can enjoy simple amenities while being surrounded by the natural beauty of the area, making it a perfect spot for a weekend getaway.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near El Rito, NM?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near El Rito, NM is Carson NF - Forest Service Road 578 - Dispersed Camping with a 4.4-star rating from 5 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near El Rito, NM?

TheDyrt.com has all 43 tent camping locations near El Rito, NM, with real photos and reviews from campers.