Cabin camping near Ocate, New Mexico offers options within the Carson National Forest and surrounding mountain areas. Most sites sit at elevations between 7,000-9,000 feet, creating cool summer temperatures that contrast with New Mexico's desert regions. Winter access to many cabin facilities becomes limited from November through April due to mountain snow conditions, with overnight temperatures often dropping below freezing even in early fall.
What to do
Hiking to Indian Lake: At Agua Piedra Campground, trails lead directly from the cabin area into the Pecos Wilderness. "There is a trail head with 2 trails, one atv accessible and one hiking/horse that goes up to Indian Lake. Beautiful views and about 1200' elevation change," notes a camper who appreciated the direct access to wilderness.
Fishing opportunities: Cabin sites near Eagle Nest provide access to trout waters. At Red River RV, visitors can fish right at their accommodation. "This is our second stay at the River RV. Our camp is right next to the river, there is a shuttle that takes you into town, the facilities are clean and close by, and the fishing is great," explains one repeat visitor.
Winter activities: Some cabin sites remain open year-round despite seasonal closures elsewhere. Cabins near Sipapu ski resort provide winter accommodation options. "You can drive 10 minutes away to Sipapu ski resort to use free wifi at the cafe (which is open, but you must wear a mask!) So if you really must check your e-mail or social media, it is a quick drive and you can grab a burger and beer," mentions a visitor to Agua Piedra Campground.
What campers like
Stargazing opportunities: The remote mountain cabins offer exceptional night sky viewing. "At night, when everyone is settling, with a clear sky, you get an amazing view of the stars. The only downside is that you can kind of hear the road traffic in the morning. Not too bad but it's noticeable," explains a visitor to Agua Piedra Campground.
Wildlife encounters: The forest setting around cabins provides frequent wildlife sightings. At Road Runner RV Resort, "Tucked in a canyon with a stream running through it, we secured a spot on the water. Large pine trees, tiered spots, walking distance to the cute town of Red River... deer come in every night," reports one camper.
Mountain views: Cabin sites offer panoramic mountain scenery. At Angel Nest RV Retreat, visitors appreciate the setting. "Very large rv park with full hookups, showers, laundry, and community building. Was not busy when we were here, so we did not have anyone next to us, but the sites are very close to each other. The lake and boat launch are just down the road. Set off the main highway enough that you don't hear a lot of traffic noise. Staff were very nice and accommodating. Wonderful views of the mountains."
What you should know
Water limitations: Several cabin locations have water challenges visitors should prepare for. "Water was not available," reports a camper at Agua Piedra. Another notes: "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."
Cabin conditions vary significantly: Quality and maintenance differ between properties. At Sierra Bonita Cabins & RV Park, a visitor warned: "We stayed in the cabins. They are very ran down. The sink plumbing leaks. Utility closet has a hole in the door about 7 in in diameter and there is an animal that lives in there and scratches on the wall at night."
Seasonal closures affect many locations: Most cabin sites around Ocate operate on limited schedules. Road Runner RV Resort operates from "May 1 - Oct 15" according to their information, while Agua Piedra Campground lists their season as "May 25 to September 3," making advance planning essential for off-season visits.
Tips for camping with families
Meadow access for activities: Some cabin locations offer open play spaces. "Great 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," notes a visitor about Agua Piedra Campground.
Swimming options: Look for cabin sites with water recreation. "There is an awesome swimming hole just a few miles west on Hwy 518 past Sipapu Ski & Summer Resort—worth the short drive!" recommends one family visitor to the Agua Piedra area.
Breakfast services: Several cabin locations offer morning meal options. At Las Vegas/New Mexico KOA Journey, visitors appreciate the convenience: "Clean shower and common areas with a homemade breakfast available too! It's off season but the core functions are solid so I could see another stop here to soak in the sun and the pool."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at some locations. "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," notes a visitor at Agua Piedra.
Utility considerations: Water pressure varies between cabin locations. At Pendaries RV Resort, facilities receive high marks: "The bathrooms are the best we have ever seen and the water pressure allows you to take a very nice shower. Will definitely go back."
Access road conditions: Some cabin areas have challenging approach roads. "The road was not well maintained, but it wasn't really a problem," notes a visitor about Agua Piedra Campground, while other cabin locations like Angel Nest and Pendaries offer easier access for larger vehicles.
