Dispersed camping options near El Rito, New Mexico provide tent campers with a range of experiences across the Carson National Forest. Located at elevations between 7,000-9,000 feet, temperatures can drop below freezing even in summer months, requiring appropriate gear year-round. The region features juniper and pine forests with intermittent creeks that typically run strongest during spring snowmelt.
What to do
Fishing at Canjilon Lakes: Visit the three trout-filled lakes at Canjilon Creek Campground for some of the best fishing in the area. "We went to this campground in June of 2021. 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."
Wildlife viewing: Look for elk and other wildlife at dawn and dusk from your campsite. At Forest Service Road 578, campers report frequent sightings. "I saw two elk across a swath of sage. I could see the snow capped peaks of the Sangre de Cristo range on the eastern horizon when I walked farther up the road."
Rafting and kayaking: Plan a river adventure on the Rio Grande near Taos Junction Campground. "I come to Toas once a year. Occasionally we decide to camp. The best part about camping here is you can kayak down the river. We always rent from a local rafting business. The tour guides have never failed to impress."
What campers like
Creek-side sites: Many campers prefer sites along creeks for natural cooling and ambiance at Cuchilla Campground. "This is a wonderful little campground on the way to Taos Ski Valley. Sites are right on a creek & have picnic tables. From what we could tell, there are 2 different locations that we saw on the road, highway 150."
Solitude in remote areas: Forest Service Road 578 offers genuine seclusion for tent campers wanting privacy. "A nice secluded little forest road. RVs will not make it, so it's nice and quiet. Stayed one night and saw no one else. Multiple pulloffs for unmarked campsites."
Natural surroundings: Campers value the undeveloped nature and minimal crowds at primitive sites. "The forest is a nice mix of sage, juniper, and pine trees. 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."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many camping areas require high-clearance vehicles. For Dispersed Camping Near Taos, approach routes matter: "One thing is that you MUST approach from the west, you can't get here coming from the east over John dun bridge. Dirt road but we did it with no problem with our 24ft trailer."
Cell service limitations: Coverage is unreliable throughout the region. "Cell service drops completely pretty soon after leaving the highway. I sporadically received some messages at my camp site but not reliably."
Weather preparedness: Temperature swings are extreme at these elevations. "The spot was clean and easy to get to in the truck out for most standard vehicles. The dogs had a great time but In the fall and winter pack as warm as possible."
Tips for camping with families
Creek play areas: Children enjoy shallow water access at Arroyo Seco Dispersed NF Camping. "There are so many campsites to choose from, all along the Hondo Rio. It's peaceful and quiet. We brought our four dogs and 13 year old. There's so much to do to keep them busy. The dogs love the river and to run through it."
Accessible sites for varied abilities: Some areas offer easier access for families with different mobility needs. "Highly recommend for folks who are less physically abled; I developed a heart condition which limits my abilities most days and the ease of access to these sites and close parking is great."
Camping timing: Weekdays offer better site availability and quieter camping. "Great location for free tent camping. Sites are located starting at the trail head and continuing up Big Tesque Trail. Recommend going during the week as it's very busy on the weekends."
Tips from RVers
Smaller trailers only: Most dispersed tent camping areas near El Rito can accommodate small trailers but have limitations. "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. Made a quick walk down to the springs in the evening and watched the stars come out."
Leveling challenges: Bring leveling blocks as many sites have uneven terrain. "Probably about 15 or so dispersed spots along HWY 150, on the river, in the trees, with one really nice beach spot. One out-house bathroom. We pulled our 19' RV with solar right up to the river."
Limited services: Pack all supplies as services are minimal in the area. "Absolutely magical! My tent got rained out but I just haven't had the opportunity to waterproof the tent. When it's not wet season I'm sure this would be just even more magical."
