Rio Chama Campground provides multiple dispersed camping options along Forest Road 151, about 10 miles from the main highway. The drive takes approximately 40 minutes due to rough road conditions that narrow in several sections. The campground stays open from May through November with camping sites scattered throughout the riverside area. During weekdays, especially mid-week, campers find more secluded spots while holiday weekends see increased traffic and limited site availability.
What to do
River activities: Put in kayaks or tubes upstream from Oak Point Campground and float down to boat ramps or your campsite. "We had a great time camping by the river over Memorial Day weekend... Definitely have some sort of raft or kayak or SUP to put in the river upstream and float down to the boat ramp or to your campground."
Hiking trails: Explore dried riverbed trails from multiple access points. "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."
Fishing spots: Fish directly from riverside camping spots at Fenton Lake State Park Campground. "The campsites are nice too...many are right along the Rio Cerros river (stream really) that makes up the lake. We saw folks fishing - and catching fish! - at those campsites that backed up to the river."
What campers like
Riverside camping: Many sites at Rio Chama Campground offer direct water access. "We got a spot along the river which was beautiful but a little windy and noisy from the stream. But we didn't mind! We came on a Sunday afternoon and passed quite a few people leaving."
Natural surroundings: Campers enjoy diverse terrain with tree coverage. "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. Some spots are unshaded, so recommend you bring a tent cover or something."
Weather patterns: Expect significant temperature variations in horse campgrounds near Lindrith, New Mexico. "Temperatures at night can get down in the low forties after being in the eighties during the day."
What you should know
Road conditions: Forest Road 151 requires slow driving. "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!"
Facility availability: Ghost Ranch offers more amenities than most area campgrounds. "The campground includes a bath house with laundry room and electric hookups if needed. $30 to tent camp (no electric). Lodging, yurts and cabins, are also available."
Weekend crowds: Arrive during weekdays for better site selection. "We stayed Wednesday through Friday night. Only a few other cars around when we first arrived.. if you're traveling here during the weekend, expect a more crowded experience as caravans started pulling in Friday."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Site 14 at Fenton Lake State Park Campground offers family-friendly features. "Loop 2 - there's a playground next to site 14 and this is a GREAT loop for folks with kids. If you're not a kid person, you'd probably prefer a different loop."
Pack-out requirements: Teach children about wilderness conservation. "Always remember: PACK OUT WHAT YOU PACK IN!! Please don't leave your trash at any site and keep the wilderness- WILD."
Activity options: For equestrian-friendly camping near Lindrith, plan alternative activities during hot weather. "This is probably the most lush place at fall it has everything the mountains the trees the creek and more you can go so far in or not it doesn't matter they are all good."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RV sites at Ghost Ranch offer full hookups but limited shade. "We are already talking about next year's visit! RV spots with hookups are $45 a night!"
Hookup availability: Electrical service at campgrounds varies. "30 amp service only. Decent water pressure. No dump station on site (another drawback). No cell service of any kind."
Reservation requirements: Book well in advance for RV sites during summer months. "Fenton Lake is usually busy and reserving months ahead of time is a good idea."
