Looking for an adventure where you can explore Montezuma and then fall asleep in your tent? The Dyrt can help you find the best tent campsites for your next trip. You're sure to find the perfect tent campsite for your New Mexico camping adventure.
Big Tesuque is a walk in campground not conducive to trailer or RV campoing. There are 10 units, Picnic tables and grills, and Vaulted toilets in the parking lot. There is no potable water and no Campground Host. The entire area is very scenic, and NM 475 is also designated as the Santa Fe Scenic Byway. Because of the large stands of aspen, the area is very busy, especially in the fall aspen viewing season. There are additional recreation opportunities along NM 475, both above and below Big Tesuque Campground, including hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, and in the winter. both nordic and alpine skiing. Tesuque is pronounced "Tess-U-key"
22 miles north of Pecos on NM 63. Uses: Camping, picnicking, and trailhead access. Facilities: Tent camping only, Vaulted toilet, Trash bins, Tables and grills, 3 three-sided shelters, 19 parking spaces, Drinking Water. Fishing in Cave Creek. Special Instructions: NO HORSE TRAILERS ALLOWED.
The Aspen Basin Campground is located adjacent to the very large parking area at Santa Fe Ski Basin. There are 10 units, Picnic tables, and fire rings. There is a vaulted toilet at the far west end of the parking lot. This campground is less developed than most, and primarily serves those who use it for an overnight stay before embarking on a backpack into the Pecos. There is ample space for trailer/RV camping, but no dump station is available. There is no potable water and no Campground Host. The entire area is very scenic, and NM 475 is also designated as the Santa Fe Scenic Byway. Because of the scenic quality and the easy access from Santa Fe, the area is very busy, especially in the summer and in the fall aspen viewing season.
Cowles Campground sits at the base of the Winsor Canyon where it meets the Pecos Canyon and is in walking distance of Cowles Ponds, Winsor Creek, Pecos River, and Winsor Ridge Trailhead. Uses: tent camping, picnicking, fishing, & hiking. Facilities: 1 vault toilet, 9 camping units with tables, fire rings, & grills, 2 covered three-sided shelters with fire places, and trash bins. No potable water, untility hook-ups, dumpstations or showers. Special Instructions: Users are encouraged to recycle and pack out trash. Please visit the Leave No Trace website for more information about frontcountry and backcountry outdoor ethics at www.lnt.org.
Winsor Ridge Trailhead is access point for Winsor Ridge Trail #271 and trail to Panchuela Campground and Trailhead. Located 20 miles north of Pecos on NM 63. Uses: Hiking, Backpacking, Horseback Riding. Facilities: vaulted toilet, trash bins, trailhead kiosk, parking for passenger vehiles & trailers. Special Considerations: Users are encouraged to recycle and pack out trash. Please visit the Leave No Trace website for more information about frontcountry and backcountry outdoor ethics www.lnt.org.
PLEASE READ ALL OF THE DESCRIPTIONS OF EACH SITE BEFORE YOU BOOK. NOT ALL SITES ARE ACCESSIBLE TO RVs.
PLEASE READ…
Nestled in the Carson National Forest@ 9000ft in the Sangre de Cristo mountains in the southern region of the Colorado Rockies lies Enchanted Circle Campgrounds. E<< is a quiet, exclusive, totally unique, primitive campground that generally has open camping sites during the camping season of May 1st until October 31st.
E<< was Voted #1 Campground in NM for 2020, 2021, and 2022." Number #4 in the Country by Forbes!
There are 7 Private campsites.
Site#1: This is the smallest campsite, but it overlooks the valley and lakes and is most often the favorite. It is not large enough for any camper beside teardrops, popups, and anything smaller than 16 ft. It is best served as a tent site.
Site#2: is located in the middle of the ranch. It is one of the larger of the spots and perfect for campers and trailers. It overlooks the valley and has 2 fire pits and hammocks. A great site for more than one trailer or RV. It is also easily accessible.
Site#3: It is the most remote. It sits on top of a pretty large cliff system that the Ute Indians actually lived in and has some of the best views. It is on top of a cliff though and is not the best fit for groups with small children. TRAILERS CANNOT GET TO SITE 3, due to tight turns.
Spot 4. This spot is great for larger groups. It is the furthest spot from the gate. It is nestled in the middle of a valley full of Aspens. There are Hammocks, giant fire pits, pergolas, Log Benches, and plenty of space to explore.
Spot 5. It is the flattest spot on the entire ranch, and the easiest to access. This spot is our stargazer site, it has the biggest views and is the most open site@ECC. There are trees, but it is mainly the sky. This site was built and intended for Large RVs and Motor Homes larger than 34 ft. But, If it is available, feel free to book it whether or not you are in a tent or RV.
Spot 6 was also built for Larger Rvs Or larger Groups with multiple tents. It is also very accessible to Motorhomes and large units. It is a mix of all of the environments we have here, with Big skies, Big trees, big views, and great privacy.
Spot 7 is Identical to spot 6. Big RVs, Big Skies, Big Views. Easy accessibility.
Spot 8 is only accessible to tents. It is the newest and most remote site. Surrounded by forest it is tucked away and feels the wildest.
At ECC, you are surrounded by trees and wildlife no matter what spot you choose. Each spot usually has a campfire grill, cast iron skillet, dutch oven, coffee pot, grilling utensils, shovel, hatchet, trash can, hammocks, and other small necessities. With Covid 19, we have removed all of the cooking utensils, cast iron, and coffee pots. You will need to bring these items with you. We have also added handwashing stations and Antibacterial hand soap at each site. We are also Sanitizing the entire campsite after each checkout to ensure all of our guest Safety to the best of our abilities. Numerous trails wander their way through the pine forest, with many more hiking opportunities within a short drive. The Ranch has both long and short nature hikes that allow for views of local flora, fauna, and wheeler peak. We have too many to count, primitive and natural mountain bike trails, and many more to discover or trail blaze. We also offer Coleman 49CC mini bikes for rent by the day to explore all over the ranch. They are great fun.
ECC has 7 natural ground(underground) fed springs that run year-round. 3 spring-fed ponds, 2 of which are stocked with rainbow trout as well as native brown trout, and crawfish. The natives are very picky eaters and require more patience than I usually have. Many of our campers seem to have what it takes as they are caught often, but the rainbows bite on a few different things, you just have to find the right one, and then it's game on. We stock the ponds at the beginning of the season each year. You can keep what you catch, up to 2 per person per day. But, you are also more than welcome to catch and release as often as you like. We have just about every terrain here as well, from prairie and marshland to cliffs and mountainous forests. We have a little over 900 feet of elevation change on the ranch. We have numerous species of wildlife that call the ranch home. We have elk, mule deer, turkeys, bobcats, prairie dogs, beavers, bears, and the occasional mountain lion. We also have our horses, goats, pigs, and chickens free-roaming within the fenced ranch. It is really important to leave all objects you find on the land where you found them(bones, things at the sweat lodge, etc) because this is sacred land and we all need to respect that.
Our Ranch can accommodate individuals, families, and both large and small groups. We also love to support Veterans, LEO, and Emergency Services. We will cover one night, for up to 4 campers, for any of those professionals.
The biggest draw to ECC besides ECC itself is its proximity to Angel Fire and the Ski and Mountain Bike Resort. Located just 5 miles from Town. There is plenty of exploring to do both on the ranch and in town. We are also located within 15 minutes of 3 State Parks. Come check it out! It might just be your favorite secret spot.
$75 / night
Primitive dispersed camping, 16 miles north of Pecos on NM 63, then 1 mile on FR 646. Uses: Camping. Facilities: Pit toilet, tables, and few fire pits. No water is available. Special Instructions: Users are encouraged to recycle and pack out trash. There are no fees.
Panchuela Campground is nestled at the edge of the Pecos Wilderness, with Panchuela Creek flowing gracefully along its eastern side. Situated at over 8,300 feet in the Santa Fe National Forest, this campground offers a refreshing escape from the warmer temperatures of the city, allowing visitors to enjoy the moderate climate of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The campground features six units, all within walking distance of the parking lot, making it easily accessible. Typically open from mid-May to mid-November, Panchuela Campground serves as an ideal base camp for those looking to embark on day hikes into the surrounding wilderness, providing a perfect blend of comfort and adventure.
With the nearby Panchuela Trailhead, visitors have easy access to the expansive trail system of the Pecos Wilderness, making it simple to explore the natural beauty. Panchuela Campground is also just a short drive from the Winsor Trailheads each offerings cenic views of the surrounding mountains. For those who enjoy fishing, Cowles Fishing Pond and the wild and scenic Pecos River are popular nearby spots. Excellent fishing opportunities can be found along Panchuela Creek and the Pecos River, all just minutes from the campground, making it a perfect destination for anglers seeking a tranquil retreat. Visit New Mexico Game and Fish for updates on stocking and regulations.
The campsites at Panchuela Campground are surrounded by mountain views with mixed conifer and aspen trees. In the fall, the landscape transforms as the aspen leaves turn a brilliant gold. Wildlife is abundant in the surrounding forests, with deer, elk, various songbirds, raptors, and the occasional black bear often spotted nearby. Just a short distance from the campground, an open meadow reveals rustic cabins used by forest service volunteers and employees while they work in the wilderness, adding a unique touch to the serene environment.
There are several State Park fishing areas along the Pecos River, offering great opportunities for anglers. Just 50 minutes away, Pecos National Historical Park features prehistoric archaeological ruins, 19th-century ranches, and a Civil War battlefield, providing a rich glimpse into the areas history. For those seeking similar scenic camping experiences to Panchuela, nearby options include Cowles Campground and Holy Ghost Campground, both available on a first-come, first-served basis. These locations offer the same beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities, making them perfect alternatives for your adventure.
$5 / night
Traveler
12 miles uphill drive into the Santa Fe National Forest, just past million dollar mansions in Santa Fe. Easy access, just drive up and park. Multiple tent camp sites with fire pit and picnic table. Accessible to trails. Beautiful sunset views.
Traveler
As nice a campground as you could want and only be 15 minutes from center of town. The walk to tent camp sites are great, and a short walk. It was just myself when I stayed, looking for a place to sleep and break up drive from Phoenix to Denver. I would go back with family, but most weekends seem booked, so reserve when you can!
Scout
andTreehouse camp is located on a mesa which offers 180 degree views. You feel secluded, yet only 30 minutes to Santa Fe and all it has to offer. There are a variety of camping scenarios from tent camp sites to rustic cabins in trees. Imagine having showers, toilets, electricity, full outdoor kitchen, and water at your disposable. Owners are extremely knowledgeable about outdoor everything, and natural healing concepts. We went in an RV
Guide
We decided to take a late fall trip to CA and drag a 34' 5er up to Hyde memorial state park. Bad idea on many levels. First, you have to navigate through old Santa Fe to get to the entrance to the park. Narrow streets+a big 5th wheel+a huge F250= unfun drive which took well over an hour to get through just a few miles of roads due to the heavy traffic and numerous lights, plus the navigation required to get around very tight corners. We got to the RV part of the park and it was not crowded, but the spaces require some skill to back into and are NOT the slightest bit level, or wide. We managed.
The hiking around the park and campgrounds is amazing, but a bit challenging. We live at 8000 feet, so the altitude was not a problem for us, but if you are from sea level, be prepared to take your time and handle the altitude.
It snowed on Oct 31 and we had to dig out from 8+ inches of snow to get on the road on November 1. The dump station was filled with 6+ inches of mud/slush/water and we regrettably had to use it. It was a disgusting mess to say the least. To add insult to injury, we had to drive BACK through Old Santa Fe, in the snow.
My advice is to go IF you have a smaller trailer or 5th wheel, or are tent camping. The tent campground closed well before we arrived, so I can't add anything to the review on that.
It's a beautiful campground, but the RV area is small, close together spaces, difficult to get into and the dump station is the stuff RV nightmares are made of.
Ranger
We wish we could’ve stayed here longer! We loved this campground. Came here in May 2021 on a bit of faith, as we couldn’t find much info on whether our 28' rig would be okay. The road up from Montezuma/Las Vegas is very winding and sometimes close to one lane, but we had no problems when there was oncoming traffic. (Note the campground host had a class A) The campground is small and quiet. 14 sites, several for tents only, and a few pull through. First come first serve. We were lucky that the campground was empty when we arrived, so we had our choice of spots. Not all sites would’ve fit our trailer. No hookups, no water, pit toilets only. No cell service. Our kids loved playing in the gorgeous mountain stream adjacent to the campground.(Just watch out for broken glass, we found quite a bit) Would’ve definitely stayed longer if we had time
Scout
As with many KOA’s a bit pricey but clean and reliable. Tent sites are near the road and are a bit dusty and noisy with road traffic. There is a current drought and requests to minimize water. One tent site is set apart - near a water holding area … not a great smell but away from the road. The smell they said is drought related.
RangerGreat 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.
Ranger
Tent camped at this location in the middle of September (a week before closing). Very beautiful place to watch the leaves change, trailheads close by and picnic tables at each site. The site didn’t have an actual tent pad but we easily found a spot to pitch a tent. Will definitely be back!
Traveler
I enjoyed this campground. I stayed at a tent site. even though sites were close together the terrain made it kind of neat. $33 for the night
ScoutMy husband had the great idea of tent camping just the two of us. Up to this point our tent camping adventures were reserved for grandbaby time. But I said What the hey! Let's do it. I wanted somewhere cooler than home. The Santa Fe area had plenty to keep us busy for the week.
We did not get a tent spot but opted for a small trailer site with electric and water. Our spot was near the bathhouse but not too close. Each site has native trees and plants, so everyone has privacy. The site had a nice flat spot for the tent, picnic table, fire pit and grill. We had more than enough room to set up our awning for a dining area. We loved our little spot for the week.
The bathhouse was clean and very nice. New tile and fixtures. It was a little small for the size of the campground.
They have plenty of activities there for everyone and in the evening it is very quiet.
Scout
Lovely small camping area about 15 mi north of Pecos, NM on NM 63. 2 loops. Good sites for car/tent camping. Well maintained with clean vault toilets. Fire rings and picnic tables. Rained every afternoon (real boomers!) while we were there, but no problem for us. Will definitely visit again!
Guide
Campsite is situated at the Cave Creek trailhead, a cool hike to some local caves. It's 5 bucks for the night, 2 dollars day use, all backpacking tent sites. Some shelters. Gorgeous views, camp guide says its booked fill every weekend. Good luck
TravelerGreat spot for group camping of 20-40 campers. Nice shaded/wooded area for primitive tent camping with plenty of space to spread out. Gorgeous open meadow at base of camp area perfect for group games, sports. 1930s cabin with tables for meals and cooking under shelter. Campfire ring and outdoor table. Vault toilet. Beautiful views of Sangre de Cristos and Carson National Forest. Trail to Indian Lake is an easy hike of 2.5 Miles each way and perfect for families or hikers with the need for low-impact trails. There is an awesome swimming hole just a few miles west on Hwy 518 past Sipapu Ski & Summer Resort—worth the short drive!
Only a few cons—water onsite is listed as potable but smells and tastes so strongly of sulphur that it cannot be tolerated for drinking or cooking. Make sure to haul in water. Also tent camping area in woods is not level so there will be some incline. Important for those with circulatory issues.
Guide
Good road all the way in. About a 15min drive from the highway. Only 5 or 6 sites. Close to the Rio Mario Trail trailhead. Campsite is at elevation over 8,000ft so it can get chilly at night. Worked great for tent camping. Sites have a small horse pen but you would need to make a gate on them. Not good for big LQ horse trailers.
TravelerIf you have an RV, Hyde Park Sate Park is where you want to be. If you're tent camping, Big Tesuque is AMAZING!! It's small, but absolutely beautiful. Each site has a picknick table and a tent pad. There are basic toilets. No showers, no sinks. But there are 2 streams bordering the campground and trails leading into the mountains.
When I was there, it was 5 to 10 degrees warmer than Hyde Park! (end of May.)
Scout
The area in which the campground is located is absolutely beautiful. Huge pine trees and quaking aspens complement the tranquil sound of Holy Ghost creek. Camp spaces are often full. Dogs must be on leash. Plenty of people driving in looking for spaces are forced to turn around at the dead end. Good for car camping due to accessibility. Tent camping at the end of the site offers a little bit more seclusion.
GuideWe tent camped and the spaces are well maintained and include a little fire pit, picnic table, place for your car, and fairly flat space for the tent. It’s easy to get to from the highway, but that’s also the downside because you can hear all of the traffic. The bathrooms were clean and have a code to enter, we arrived at night to just get a spot so we didn’t have a packet to tell us the code but another camper gave it to us. Overall a nice and convenient spot.
RangerBeautiful spot for fall camping since the leaves are changing colors and temperatures are cooler. In winter, this area receives snow and can be difficult to get to without a reliable, 4-wheel drive vehicle.
Tent sites have covered awnings and fire pits when open flame is allowed. There are two large yurts tucked away from the main road. Great hiking trails in and around the park.
Scout
Such a nice well maintained campground. Stayed here in a single tent site which was large enough for 6 adults and three kids to hang out comfortably. Went exploring in the river next to the campground and then took a short hike up the river to some amazing river canyon views. Recommend reserving a site during their busy season as the campground filled up quickly.
LegendStopped by this KOA to see what it offered for possible future stays. It's a compact campground that provides pull through sites as well as back-in and tent sites. They offer everything from 50 amp electric to cable TV. Sites are clean and neat. There's a dog park for your pets. Bathrooms are clean with hot showers. They have cabins available as well.
Great location for exploring Sandra Fe, Bandelier, and other national monuments.
LegendThis place had options for all: tent sites, camper sites, RV, cabins. Etc. We stayed at the Black Canyon site and the options were plentiful. No showers but clean pit toilets are abundant. There is also a nice playground for those traveling with little ones who may need to burn some steam. Each site had a shelter and a grill as well as fire pit. Many hiking options also from easy to advanced. Plan on spending more than one night and you'll be glad you did
Guide
Cute campground and they are doing a lot of work to the streets and tent sites. However, as others have said, the electric hookup RV sites are right on top of each other. We were awakened on the middle of the night to our neighbor’s son coughing and crying. They do have electric and water (one spicket shared between 2 sites). The water is very low flow. They have an RV dump area with water in the non electric camping area. There is a cute 1 mile trail to the mountain being the coyote creek.
Traveler
Site isn't easy to get to for low clearance vehicles. During rainy seasons, ruts form with deep mud on some spots driving up. Once at site, there are about 14 spaces, reasonably spaced apart in some areas.The trees are beautiful and wild flowers grow around. Great hiking trails are near by taking you up to some great scenic outlooks over the mountain sides. The toilets are scary, not my first choice but good to have I guess. I don't recall the fee being too much per night, I want to say $4/day. Tent camping and popups/small campers are fine. No room for RV's and larger travel trailers.
LegendWe were very excited on our first night to settle into our campsite after a long day of adventuring. Just a short drive to the outskirts of Santa Fe in mountain country we found our campground, Rancheros de Santa Fe.
Upon entry the staff was very friendly and welcoming and we felt like this would be a great place to call home away from home.
The campsites were laid out well with room between campers and because it was the end of a weekend, they were not entirely at capacity which made for a pleasant sense of space in the great outdoors.
Our campsite was positioned in the "high road" tent site area which is a primitive campsite without additional amenities. Each campsite has a fire ring and also a picnic table for campers to utilize and a pad site for tents slightly raises from ground level.
It made for a beautiful night sleep under the chilly New Mexico skies.
By morning we ventured up to the public showers and restrooms which were clean and had amazon water pressure and hot water to set the morning in motion perfectly.
The facility also offers a pool and theater room during summer months so while we didn't get to take advantage we were excited to know upon return we would have these features available.
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Overall we give this campground a 4 of 5 Bunniea! The only things we noticed which kept it from a 5 were the lack of wifi reach in the back sections of the campground, wouldn't have been a big deal but cell service in the off grid location was also patchy so the wifi would have been handy. And the pad site was not designed for a tent quite our size. Our tent is a 12x8 and had a little side hang on on the 12 foot end.
Traveler
I pull a small trailer and the road in was rough. I was concerned about being able to turn around. When I got to the spot where there are six or eight camping spots, finding one suitable for a trailer was difficult, but I did it. This is more suitable to car camping.
There is an open area that would be good for group camping. There are three or more RVs that appear to be permanent features. That was strange. Looked like fishing camps. I didn't want to drive the steep road down to this area.
Personally, I wish I had stopped a the forest service campsites up hill from this location, but if you are in a car and want to tent camp here, I don't see a problem,
RangerA family trip with the RV and although we did enjoy our stay for the most part, there was a lot left to be desired. The larger RV spots we had to get were right next to the road and right next to other campers. The drive up is steep and our RV had a hard time; would not even think of staying up here in the winter. The dump station was closed for some reason when we were leaving. The kids enjoyed the steep hikes and the stream the runs along the other side of the camp sites where there are smaller campgrounds for tent camping. There was a fun playground my kids enjoyed and a nice area at the group shelter. Lots of fun painted rocks my kids round my the stream. Would visit again but not in an RV and not during winter when it would be snowing.
Guide
First of all- DON’T TRAVEL RT 3 FROM I40! Travel on 84, it looks longer, but it’s not really and the road is way better! We enjoyed staying here, even though we didn’t have an actual camp site. The dirt is red but that’s normal for this area. Good hiking (some slight rock climbing) The sites are mostly 2 per site, back to back, but it’s not real close together. And the tables seem to be on the wrong side in several places. When we called they said there were no sites available, but they’d make room for us. That was by the group shelter, and it wasn’t bad, but no where really private to set out chairs and no table, which we didn’t need anyway. It was a very quiet place and you can hear the river running. On through the camp, there are tent sites that are very nice. The ranger were very kind and helpful. Make time to visit in the city. One of the stores sells the best ever frito pie…with a cold Pepsi…wow! We were here in April and it was pretty warm, so I’d think it might be fairly hot in summer. I’d like to come back some
Tent camping near Montezuma, New Mexico offers a blend of stunning natural beauty and outdoor adventure, making it a perfect getaway for nature enthusiasts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Montezuma, NM?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Montezuma, NM is Big Tesuque Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 9 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Montezuma, NM?
TheDyrt.com has all 15 tent camping locations near Montezuma, NM, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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