102 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
The region surrounding Gallina, New Mexico offers several camping opportunities within the nearby Santa Fe National Forest and along the Rio Chama watershed. Dispersed camping areas like Whirlpool and Resumidero provide primitive sites with minimal facilities, while established campgrounds such as Rio Chama Campground and Rio Puerco Campground offer more defined camping spaces. Most locations accommodate both tent and RV camping, with select areas providing picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets. Several campgrounds remain open seasonally from May through October, with some closing during winter months.
Forest roads throughout the area vary in quality and accessibility. Many campgrounds require traveling on unpaved roads that may become difficult during wet weather. "We wound up at a driveway where we were quickly chased off by vicious dogs. Take the 62 to the 103 and turn left. Do not turn at county 425 after the Santa Teresa Capilla," noted one camper about navigating to Rio Puerco. Most dispersed sites lack drinking water, requiring visitors to pack in their own supplies. Elevation in the region generally ranges between 6,000-8,000 feet, creating cooler temperatures even during summer months. Fire restrictions are common during dry periods, particularly from late spring through early fall. Cell service remains limited or nonexistent at most camping locations.
Riverside camping represents a significant draw for the area, with many sites positioned along the Rio Chama and Rio Puerco. Campers consistently mention the peaceful sounds of running water as a highlight of their experience. According to visitor feedback, "We found a secluded spot, not on the river. It was nice due to the area being overwhelmed with people." While some campgrounds can become crowded during peak summer weekends and holidays, dispersed sites along Forest Road 151 provide more isolation. Several camping areas feature proximity to hiking trails, fishing opportunities, and scenic canyon views. The Resumidero Camping Area receives positive reviews for its combination of meadow and forested sites, with one visitor noting "the camp sites were far apart and you could choose between open meadows or in the trees."
"Rio Chama RV park in Chama, New Mexico, is at the intersection of the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad and the upper Rio Chama. A nice place to stay May 1 thru mid October."
"It's an easy dirt road drive down the river and you will pass many dispersed site and a couple of defined camping grounds."
"Seems a given, since it’s close to the river! I found a site right next to the Rio and even though it was muddy, I still appreciated being able to get in to cool down a bit."
"One down side being close to the river is the bugs, literally thousands of them can make it unpleasant. Outside of that the spot on the river is fantastic for viewing pleasure."
"New Mexico is just beautiful and this park really brings that to life. Its a great place for fishing, camping, hiking and breath taking river veiws. Love every picture I took here."
"It's actually only 10 miles off the main road, & 6 miles after the pavement ends, but Google took us down the wrong path."
"There are nice trails that you can hike or mountain bike. Some are near cliff edges and not for the beginners. The lake is nice for New Mexico and sees a lot of use."
"Good views of lake & surrounding area from site. Vault toilet & drinking water a short walk away. Juniper provided minimal privacy. Site has lantern poll, fire ring, trash can & table."
from $10 - $80 / night
Check Availability"there’s a fire ban, so it makes it hard to stay warm at night, but the stars are amazing. it’s quiet. it’s lovely. there’s canyon walls for miles. it’s really amazing. some of these pics are from the nearby"
"I've stayed here twice now since being in New Mexico. This site is right on the water, overlooks the canyon, and is close to a hike to the right side of the canyon through a dried up riverbed."
"Access to good trails for day hiking. One of the best camping spots I’ve visited. Stayed on a Sunday night - was quiet and peaceful."
"Clear Creek was full so we camped her for the night and had a great place to park the pop up and our friends were out behind us in their tent. Very beautiful area!"
from $20 / night
Check Availability"Small campground next to U.S. Highway 84. There are 9 campsites with 3 small pull-throughs. I have seen large RVs in the day use area, not sure if this is tolerated. No services. "
"Easy walk to the Amphitheater."
from $10 - $50 / night
Check Availability"Hiking trails from the campground. Beautiful area."
"A nice campground next to a creek. Sites are pretty well spaced and cost was $20/night. Although if you are tent camping and you want some privacy, head up FR 70 for free spots."
"Each site is surrounded by ponderosa pines. A small creek flows through the campground."
from $20 - $75 / night
Check Availability"Great experience, not too far, about 7 miles off the beaten path."
"You can’t drive your car right up to each site, but you can park fairly close."
TravelerEasy access from the north, damside. Lovely sites by the river and under cottonwood trees. Had the place to ourselves in our 21' Sprinter, but could easily accommodate three campers.
TravelerLevel, electric hookup, waterless sites with long vista's below. Clean toilets. Easy walk to the Amphitheater.
RangerNice and quiet plenty of space.
TravelerThis dispersed camp spot is just past a day use area at the base of a damn. The drive down from the damn is a little tight but the dirt/gravel roads are wide and easy to manage. There are multiple dispersed camp sites along the river past the day use area. I stayed in the second, it was large enough to have multiple vehicles and plenty of flat ground for car camping and past the rock barriers there was additional flat ground for tent camping. The spots are situated down off the main road but there is plenty of space to maneuver vehicles.
ScoutLove the quiet non populated group camping spot
GuideA nice campground next to a creek. Sites are pretty well spaced and cost was $20/night. Although if you are tent camping and you want some privacy, head up FR 70 for free spots. The weekend had a full campground with people driving in circles all day. They quieted down at night but for only a dozen sites they were very active.
Site 2-6 have great access to the creek and a bit more privacy
GuideA very nice area for camping. During the rainy season there might even be some water in the creek. But there is a crowded area when you first turn into the road. There was about 20 RVs there when I drove past. They were shooting guns pretty late into the night. Further up the road the sites thin out. The easy access ones fill up quick. If you have some ground clearance there are a few more options.
TravelerI really enjoyed my weekend here. It is a small campground with only 12 spots. It has only pit toilets and no electric sites. I think the only potable water source was not functioning but other than that it was great. Very clean, recently resurfaced roads and spots, surrounded by tall pines. The nights were dark and quiet with only an occasional generator running but not during quiet hours. I will definitely return.
ScoutWas closed today. Gate locked.
The Santa Fe National Forest surrounding Gallina offers camping experiences at elevations between 7,500-8,500 feet, with areas along forest roads that become inaccessible during winter months. Average summer temperatures reach 75°F during the day and drop to 45°F at night, even in July and August. Spring runoff affects river camping conditions significantly, with peak flows typically occurring from late April through early June.
Hiking to waterfalls: Several trails near Rio Puerco Campground lead to seasonal waterfalls through bushwhacking adventures. "We found some waterfalls bushwhacking along the creek but be prepared to get your feet wet," notes a visitor who discovered hidden water features.
Fishing opportunities: The streams and river access at Rio Chama Campground provide excellent fishing conditions. "We chose a secluded site and the only people we saw were kayakers. There are hiking spots, the echo amphitheater, and a monastery to visit. We even made objects from the clay in the river. Then fired them in the camp fire," reports one camper.
Mountain biking: Forest roads surrounding Fenton Lake State Park offer varied terrain for cyclists of different skill levels. "Nice hikes along the creek. Getting a fishing spot may be hard to find sometimes as the small lake is usually circled with people fishing," explains a regular visitor.
River access: The riverside camping at Oak Point Campground receives high marks from visitors seeking water proximity. "This site is right on the water, overlooks the canyon, and is close to a hike to the right side of the canyon through a dried up riverbed. The road is runner friendly, so you can go on a jog if you like," shares one enthusiastic camper.
Privacy between sites: Many visitors appreciate the well-spaced camping at Resumidero Camping Area with its mixture of open and wooded sites. "The camp sites were far apart and you could chose between open meadows or in the trees. Hiking trails from the campground. Beautiful area," notes a camper who valued the spacing.
Cool mountain temperatures: The higher elevation camping provides relief from summer heat. "The sites are all close to the river and at most a quick drive away from a place to put your kayak or tube in the water. Not a ton of large group sites," explains a summer visitor at Rio Chama Campground.
Road conditions: Forest roads require planning and appropriate vehicles, especially after rainfall. At Whirlpool Dispersed Camping Area, visitors note specific challenges: "The road to the campground is about 6 miles of curvy dirt and gravel single lane. But a woman managed it in a Jaguar so not too bad just go slow. Rustic and relaxing."
Seasonal campground closures: Most established campgrounds near Gallina operate from May through October. "Fenton lake is usually busy and reserving months ahead of time is a good idea. We like spots number 1 and 17 for tent camping," advises a regular visitor.
Bug activity: River proximity brings increased insect populations. "One down side being close to the river is the bugs, literally thousands of them can make it unpleasant. Outside of that the spot on the river is fantastic for viewing pleasure," warns a Whirlpool camper.
Playground access: Certain campgrounds offer dedicated facilities for children. "There's a playground next to site 14 and this is a GREAT loop for folks with kids," mentions a visitor at Fenton Lake, making it worth considering for family camping trips.
Kid-friendly hiking: Several trails provide accessible adventures for younger campers. "Great hiking and climbing for kids. Sights level and pit toilets clean," notes a grandparent who camped at Rio De Las Vacas Campground with grandchildren.
Water play opportunities: The gentle river sections provide natural entertainment. "We were able to find a very private spot with easy access to the river! We will be visiting again. Great for our dog too," shares a camper about their Oak Point experience.
Limited hookup availability: Few campgrounds offer electrical or water connections. "Pull through sites have great shade and full hookups with 30 or 50 amp electrical service. Spacious tent sites with full service restrooms nearby," notes one RVer describing the uncommon amenities at Rio Chama.
Site selection for larger vehicles: Most dispersed areas accommodate smaller RVs only. "Some larger sites fit campers/RVs," explains an RVer about Whirlpool Dispersed Camping Area, indicating the need to arrive early to secure appropriately sized spots.
Leveling challenges: Many forest campsites require equipment for leveling. "The sites are very well maintained, and the Camp Host was incredibly friendly and made regular rounds," reports a Fenton Lake visitor, noting the maintained but still naturally uneven terrain.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Gallina, NM?
According to TheDyrt.com, Gallina, NM offers a wide range of camping options, with 102 campgrounds and RV parks near Gallina, NM and 33 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Gallina, NM?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Gallina, NM is Rio Chama Campground with a 4.8-star rating from 14 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Gallina, NM?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 33 free dispersed camping spots near Gallina, NM.
What parks are near Gallina, NM?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 12 parks near Gallina, NM that allow camping, notably Abiquiu Lake and Santa Fe National Forest.
Keep Exploring
