Camping opportunities around Folsom, NM exist across northeastern New Mexico's high plains and mountains, with elevations ranging from 5,200 to over 7,000 feet influencing weather patterns throughout the year. Most folsom nm campgrounds remain accessible year-round, though winter brings snow at higher elevations and summer temperatures typically range from 45°F at night to 85°F during peak daytime hours. Cell service varies widely across camping areas near Folsom, with some locations offering reliable connectivity while others provide complete disconnection.
What to do
Dinosaur track viewing: 30-minute hike at Clayton Lake State Park Campground, where tracks are accessible via a short trail. "The dinosaur tracks (uncovered at the spillway around 1982 after a flood) at the spillway are of particular interest. Informational signage lines the spillway and the small pavilion atop the levy," shares a visitor.
Hiking trails: Various lengths at Soda Pocket Campground in Sugarite Canyon. "The Little Horse Mesa Trail which takes you to the top of the mesa you can see to the north of Soda Pocket Campground. It meanders a bit but at some point the trail builder said 'I've given you all the switchbacks I can, you'll just have to go straight up' and the last 50 yards are pretty much straight uphill," notes a camper.
Fishing: Stocked lake access at multiple campgrounds near Folsom. "We arrived just as a thunderstorm was passing to our east, and witnessed an incredible double rainbow over the canyon. The pics don't even do it justice. There's great hiking and viewpoints from Soda Pocket," a visitor reports about their experience.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Year-round at Lake 13-Maxwell National Wildlife Refuge. "Lots of wildlife and pets allowed on leash," reports one camper. Another notes the area has "Lots of birds, a couple of deer, lots of coyotes off in the distance."
Dark skies for stargazing: Best from May-September when camping near Folsom. "Very dark at night so great for star viewing," mentions a camper at Soda Pocket Campground. Another visitor at Maxwell Wildlife Refuge adds, "the Milky Way was to die for."
Historic mining exhibits: Self-guided tours around Lake Alice Campground at Sugarite Canyon. "The visitor center is small but with a lot of good exhibits, and adjacent to the hiking trails of the abandoned coal camp and mine. The coal camp trails have lots of informative stands explaining what everything was, how the people lived, etc," explains a camper describing the historic site.
What you should know
Toilet and shower facilities: Varying quality across campgrounds near Folsom. "Bathroom could use an overhaul but it's not a very big or busy campground," notes a visitor to Clayton Lake. At Capulin RV Park, however, "I must stay unequivocally this campground has the nicest bathrooms I've seen in a very long time. Very clean very modern and very well maintained!"
Water availability: Check before arrival as some campgrounds have seasonal restrictions. "Soda Pocket has no water, so bring plenty for a stay!" warns one camper. Another mentions, "Water is available at the lower Lake Alice campground and showers at the park entrance."
Road conditions: Variable access depending on weather and season. One camper at Maxwell Wildlife Refuge cautions, "But north eastern and north central New Mexico have had days of heavy rain and flooding alerts. Today was dry until shortly after we arrived to check out the camping area. We deemed the ground too damp, figuring we would get stuck sinking into the soft earth if we drove onto the grass."
Tips for camping with families
Campground selection: Consider amenities when choosing Folsom NM campgrounds. "Sites were nice and all pretty close to a man made lake. Stocked with fish and a really amazing set of dinosaur tracks you can hike to," notes a camper at Clayton Lake State Park.
Bear awareness: Food storage required at several campgrounds. A visitor to Soda Pocket mentions, "Sites have a shelter over the picnic table. Site also has a bear box & fire ring." At Lake Alice, another camper points out, "bear boxes provided, deer walked through campground often. I did see bear tracks while hiking but host said they've never been a human issue."
Educational opportunities: Ranger programs available seasonally. "The ranger came by one night and showed a group of kids a mountain lion pelt and a bear pelt," shares a visitor at Carpios Ridge Campground, noting the educational aspects of camping in the region.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Limited full-service sites at most campgrounds. "The site was a crushed limestone site. There was barely enough parking for my 34 ft TT. Neighbors are VERY close. Utilities: 20/30/50A electric in middle of site. Water in middle of site, good pressure. Sewer in middle of site with 4-in screw-on fitting," explains a Capulin RV Park visitor.
Weather considerations: Plan for wind especially at higher elevations. "We were in the last part of Soda Pocket loop. Great views of area but it does catch the wind!" warns a camper. Another visitor confirms, "Sites 20-23 have spectacular views of the canyon, but you trade that for some serious wind and neighbors as there is no natural shade."
Parking logistics: Site selection matters for larger rigs. "The so-called 'treacherous' road up to the campground is gravelly and a bit steep in a few places, but very passable (there was a Class A rig up there, and a number of 30+ ft 5th Wheelers as well). The sites were well spaced, and Site 23 was fairly level and wide, easy to back in," advises an RVer about Soda Pocket Campground.
