Dispersed camping opportunities near Ocate, New Mexico expand beyond established campgrounds into Carson National Forest, where campers find sites along forest roads and near mountain streams. The region sits at elevations ranging from 7,000 to 10,000 feet, creating significant temperature variations between day and night even in summer months. Most dispersed sites require campers to pack out all trash as formal waste collection services aren't available.
What to do
Fishing access: At Blackjack Tent Area in Cimarron Canyon State Park, campsites provide direct river access for anglers. One camper notes, "We stayed at camp site #27, which was the biggest and spacesious site, 10/10 the weather was wonderful and if you camp during the week you can pick any spot you want! Caught plenty of trout and overall had a great time."
Hiking trails: The tent camping areas near Ocate provide access to multiple trail systems. At Capulin Campground, visitors can access the Capulin ice cave trail from the end of the road near site number one. Another camper mentions that at Cuchilla Campground, "There are trails to hike down but we didn't really explore too much."
Stargazing opportunities: The minimal light pollution in forest camping areas creates exceptional night sky viewing. As one camper at Enchanted Circle Campground observed, "You can hear the elk bugling and see every star at night."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many tent campers appreciate the spacing between sites in this region. At Enchanted Circle Campground, a reviewer commented, "The spaces are relatively far apart so you feel like you are the only people in the vicinity."
Riverside camping: The sound of flowing water enhances the camping experience at several locations. At Arroyo Seco Dispersed NF Camping, a camper shared, "Right off the road, literally. It's hidden behind some trees so the barrier between the site and road makes for a little privacy. Great spot for a day or two right next to a creek so you fall asleep to the sound of it."
Wildlife viewing: The forests near Ocate offer opportunities to observe various animal species. One camper at Taos Junction noted, "breathtaking views, big horn sheep elk," while another at Enchanted Circle Campground mentioned, "My daughter would come back for the pigs, goats, horses, cats, chipmunks, prairie dogs, and assorted other animals as well."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to some tent camping areas requires navigating unpaved roads. A visitor to Taos Junction Campground reported, "This site is dusty & a little wild, but the views of the Rio Grande & mountains are great."
Weather considerations: Winter camping is extremely limited due to heavy snowfall. A camper at Lower Hondo Campground warned, "Camp in warm weather or you need to have a snow plow since drifts 3-5 ft deep."
Limited amenities: Most sites have minimal facilities. At Cuchilla Campground, a reviewer noted, "There are toilets right there but they close in the colder seasons so be aware they might not be open."
Stay limits: Most dispersed camping near Ocate has time restrictions. According to one camper at Arroyo Seco, "Camping is FREE at this campground for up to two weeks!"
Tips for camping with families
Animal encounters: Several camping areas feature opportunities for children to interact with wildlife. One family at Enchanted Circle Campground shared, "The animals! How could I forget!?!?! My daughter would come back for the pigs, goats, horses, cats, chipmunks, prairie dogs, and assorted other animals as well."
River recreation: Streams and rivers provide natural entertainment for children. A camper at Lower Hondo Campground reported, "The Hondo River runs right next to the campground so you have easy access to water."
Site selection for safety: Some tent sites require extra caution with children. At Enchanted Circle Campground, a camper advised, "If you are a tent camper and have some friends, I would recommend site #3. Just be careful about the nearby cliff. No small children recommended for that site."
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: Many tent camping sites near Ocate cannot accommodate larger vehicles. At Trampas Trailhead Campground, a camper noted, "Access is either from FR 207, a well-maintained dirt road, or FR 639 which requires high clearance, good shocks, and would be difficult after rains because of some muddy areas."
Solar power options: Some sites work well for solar-equipped RVs. One camper at Arroyo Seco Dispersed Camping observed, "We pulled our 19' RV with solar right up to the river and our dog was in and out of the river all day."
Site availability: Smaller RVs can access some tent-focused areas during less busy periods. A camper at Enchanted Circle Campground shared, "We were at site #2 and it is pretty big and can fit multiple trailers. We had a medium size tear drop and one tent with plenty of more space available."
