The Los Ojos area sits in northern New Mexico at elevations over 7,500 feet, creating a mountain climate with cool evenings even during summer months. The region connects to the Carson National Forest and Rio Chama wilderness, offering dispersed camping options beyond the established glamping sites. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing, making seasonal availability important for visitors planning glamping near Los Ojos, New Mexico.
What to do
Hiking to Chimney Rock: Access the famous trail directly from Ghost Ranch, where you can experience the dramatic landscapes that inspired Georgia O'Keeffe's paintings. "Beautiful site - decent camping. This is a beautiful campground in a unique spot with incredible hike. Great amenities - showers, ice, refrigerator, sink for washing dishes," noted one camper who particularly enjoyed the combination of outdoor adventure and amenities.
Fishing the Rio Grande: The confluence of the Rio Grande and Red River creates exceptional fishing opportunities near Cebolla Mesa Campground. The 1.5-mile trail down to the river rewards anglers with secluded fishing spots. According to a visitor, "There's a 1.25 mile hike down to the river to cool down. Plenty of shade and lots of off road trails for driving/running/biking."
Riding the scenic train: The historic Cumbres & Toltec Railroad operates near Los Ojos, offering day trips through spectacular mountain scenery. "Not much in town to do but there is the Cumbres & Toltec train to ride. Lots of hunting and fishing in the area," mentioned a camper at Twin Rivers RV Park & Campground who enjoyed this local attraction.
What campers like
Hot mineral springs access: Many visitors to boutique camping and glamping sites near Los Ojos appreciate the healing mineral waters at Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa. "The entire staff is helpful and kind, especially Danny on the grounds and Annie at the restaurant. The best part is that you get early access to the pools, you'll have them nearly to yourselves 7:30-10am and 20% off admission," shared one satisfied guest.
Dramatic canyon views: Campers consistently mention the spectacular vistas from camping areas overlooking the Rio Grande Gorge. "Beautiful views of the river as well as the sunrise. It's a bumpy 3 mile road off the highway, had no issues in my transit van as long as you take it slow," reported one visitor to Cebolla Mesa Campground about the stunning location.
Private riverside sites: The peaceful sound of running water enhances many camping experiences near Los Ojos. A visitor to Pagosa Riverside Campground noted, "We only stayed one night but would definitely come back. We had a nice large tent site right by the river. No trees on this site but the view and the river made up for that."
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Many campgrounds in the area have limited seasons due to high elevation weather conditions. "The campground is open April 15-Oct 15," warned a reviewer about Riana - Abiquiu Lake, highlighting the importance of checking operating dates before planning a trip to glamping sites near Los Ojos.
Road conditions to remote sites: Access to more secluded camping options requires planning for unpaved roads. A Cebolla Mesa visitor advised, "There are six free fcfs campsites 3.24 mile dirt road which is fine in dry weather but can be treacherous when wet. Nice view of gorge."
Alcohol restrictions: Some public lands and campgrounds prohibit alcohol consumption. A camper at Riana - Abiquiu Lake warned, "There is NO alcohol allowed in the park so don't get caught with any they will pour it out. 2 Older men were having a beer in their site & they made them pour out 2 cases of beer."
Tips for camping with families
Campgrounds with kid-friendly amenities: Select sites with facilities that accommodate children. A visitor to Pagosa Riverside Campground mentioned, "Very quiet at night & during the day other campers kids were having a blast. Near to town & activities." The property includes a small lake where families can paddle and fish.
Age restrictions at hot springs: When planning luxury glamping near Los Ojos with children, note that not all facilities welcome young visitors. "I would have given this property 5 stars but they've become unfriendly to families. Children under 13 are not allowed in the hot springs," shared a visitor to Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The region offers chances to observe native species in their natural habitat. "The view was beautiful and it's a short hike down to wade in the cool water. I really enjoyed the quiet here," noted a visitor to Ponderosa Campground about the peaceful setting perfect for wildlife watching with children.
Tips from RVers
Hookup considerations: RVers staying at established glamping sites should verify hookup availability. A camper at Twin Rivers RV Park & Campground shared, "The spaces are Huge lots of room to roam. Full hookups 50/30amp. No wifi but very good Verizon and AT&T service."
Alternative hookup arrangements: Some campgrounds have unusual utility configurations. "The hookups are on the passenger side and towards front of TT we had enough hose and cords to reach. It says they have loaners if needed," explained an RVer at Ojo Caliente who managed the unconventional setup.
Winter RV options: Glamping in an RV near Los Ojos during colder months requires planning. "Our truck broke down 1 mile from the ranch and we weren't sure what to do. We ended up staying there for about five or six days while the truck was being fixed in Albuquerque. Completely unplanned. It's probably important to know this is not a remote campsite because there's lots of amenities," shared an RVer who unexpectedly experienced Ghost Ranch's winter hospitality.
