The Carson National Forest covers much of the northeastern portion of New Mexico, offering multiple equestrian camping options near Ocate. At elevations ranging from 8,000 to 9,000 feet, these camping areas provide cooler summer temperatures compared to lower elevations. Equestrian campsites in this region typically include larger parking areas for horse trailers and proximity to wilderness trail systems.
What to do
Trout fishing in stocked waters: Rio Costilla Park offers quality fishing waters regularly stocked with trout. "Fishing is great and quality waters. It is fisherman's fly fishing dream. Camping is great too as you can park next to the river," notes Michelle B. at Rio Costilla Park.
Hiking into alpine areas: Trails at Cimarron Campground lead to mountain lakes and meadows. "We hiked near Shuree Ponds and camped between Ash Mountain and Little Castillo Peak. The weather was all over the place, but the views were stunning," shares Dusty G. at Cimarron Campground.
Family picnicking by streams: Several campgrounds feature picnic areas near water. "Great campground right off the road with lots of hikes nearby. Zero cell service. Water was not available. Very peaceful and quiet with lots of great views," reports Julie F. about Agua Piedra Campground.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campers appreciate the spacing at many forest campgrounds. "The campsites were nicely spaced, so we felt like we were primitive camping, but it was nice to have a picnic table, especially because we have a small child," writes Christa A. about Rio Costilla Park.
Cooler mountain temperatures: The higher elevation provides relief from summer heat. "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," notes Megan E. about Agua Piedra Campground.
Immediate trail access: Many sites connect directly to wilderness trails. "There is a walking trail at the back of the campground to get to Surree Ponds. I would say it is of medium difficulty as there is a precarious creek crossing, and it is uphill the whole way back to camp," explains Jen M. about Cimarron Campground.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Access roads can be challenging after weather events. "The road to get there is a bit rough, hence the title. By no means, Not a road for a large trailer or 5th wheel. Wild life everywhere," warns Frank and Olga C. about Iron Gate Campground.
Limited or no cell service: Most wilderness campgrounds lack connectivity. "Visited late September, about a quarter of the sites were occupied. All sites are close enough to the river to hear it from a tent. The site has drinking water and pit toilets, but no cell service," reports Jacqueline D. about Santa Barbara Campground.
Water availability is seasonal: Water systems may be turned off during shoulder seasons. "It is now up to $40. $20 bucks for the night and then $20 for the day pass. It is well maintained. The spots are hit or miss. There's some spots close to each other and some dispersed," notes Savvy about Rio Costilla Park.
Tips for camping with families
Stream play opportunities: Kids enjoy wading and exploring the water. "We took inner tubes and rode them down the stream!" shares Anthony Z. about Santa Barbara Campground.
Wildlife viewing chances: Early mornings offer the best wildlife spotting. "There is trout fishing near by. Miles of hiking and an abundance of wildlife, we watched several herds of Elk down in the valley on one of our hikes. We had deer roam through our campsite," notes Terry R. about Cimarron Campground.
Pack additional water: Many campgrounds have limited water sources. "Potable water available at camp host's location. It has sulfer but the smell cleared after half a day sitting in the sun. We brought our own to drink though," advises Tammy V. about Agua Piedra Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for trailers: Choose carefully when bringing horse trailers. "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," advises Jeff K. about Borrego Mesa Campground.
Prepare for elevation changes: Higher elevations mean temperature fluctuations. "Even with a couple and a new born up the hill I never heard them from our campervan! Serene surroundings and even and beautiful place to camp during a thunderstorm!" reports Erika L. about Mallette Creek North.
Bring leveling equipment: Many sites require adjustment for comfortable camping. "This is what we wanted to find with dispersed camping! Beautiful view! A couple of neighbors but never heard them. Not the easiest piece of ground to get the trailer leveled but we made it work," shares Rosalinda S. about Mallette Creek North.
Scout
