The Ojo Caliente region sits at approximately 6,000 feet elevation in northern New Mexico, characterized by high desert terrain and pinyon-juniper woodland. Nights can drop below freezing even when days reach 80°F, creating significant temperature swings that campers should prepare for with appropriate gear. Winter camping requires cold-weather equipment as temperatures regularly fall below 20°F.
What to do
Hiking trails: Access mountain views from Tres Piedras Dispersed Site where campers can enjoy creek-side exploration. "Great spot for dispersed. No hookups. Not many people. You can spend 14 days there. Make sure you practice LNT and take some time to enjoy nature," notes camper Jake C.
Hot springs soaking: Enjoy mineral waters at Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa with discounted rates for overnight guests. "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," shares Jolene C. The resort offers several different mineral pools ranging in temperature.
Wildlife viewing: Spot bighorn sheep at BLM Orilla Verde Recreation Area along the Rio Grande. "I've seen Bighorn sheep every time I've been. There are hiking trails in and at the top of the gorge," says Max M. Morning hours offer the best wildlife spotting opportunities.
What campers like
Privacy at certain sites: Choose secluded spots at Forest Road 558 for more isolated camping experiences. "We stayed closer to the highway which is safer without 4WD. Higher clearance is helpful due to ruts in the road. The nights were quiet, other than occasionally coyote calls, which add to the ambiance," explains Charlie O.
Riverside locations: Camp adjacent to moving water at Taos Junction Campground for soothing natural sounds. "We had a great time camping here. Very cheap only $6 to camp all ages all year. They have nice grills at the tent sites along with tables. Bathrooms were nice and clean and a close walk," reports Jennifer H.
Seasonal changes: Visit during fall for colorful landscapes. "The leaves were turning, we could walk down to the river right from our campsite, we could see a million stars at night, and we loved our time there," describes Delite P. about the Orilla Verde area. Fall camping also means fewer insects and more moderate daytime temperatures.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Prepare for extreme temperature fluctuations throughout the year. "It got cold at night, like 27 F. The forest is a nice mix of sage, juniper, and pine trees," shares Jacob W. about camping at Forest Service Road 578.
Limited connectivity: Expect minimal or no cell service in most remote camping areas. "Cell service drops completely pretty soon after leaving the highway. I sporadically received some messages at my camp site but not reliably," reports Kala J. from Carson NF Road 578.
Campground bathhouse access: El Rito Campground offers creek-side camping with some restoration work underway. "Campsites are closed due to mistreatment-- signs indicate too much partying, ATVs, and trash. Campsites are closed for wilderness restoration but parking/camping off the main road is possible. No services," notes camper Sg.
Tips for camping with families
Creek access: Choose sites with water features for natural play areas. "We had no clue that this gem was close to us we went for a quick weekend camp we were right next to the creek with amazing views of the mountains," says Naythin H. about El Rito Campground.
Early pool access: Consider Hotel Luna Mystica for its proximity to entertainment options. "Parking my vintage Shasta on the mesa of Luna Mystica is like no other place I've ever parked. Rustic site with a nearly 360 view to die for, I just picked a place and parked. A very short walk to the best private bathrooms I've ever used at a campground," shares Cheryl E.
Avoid summer heat: Time family visits for spring or fall when temperatures are more moderate. "Cold but worth the swim. We had a great time and only saw a few other people," Tyler R. mentions about swimming in the Rio Grande near Taos Junction, indicating that even cold water can be refreshing during hot periods.
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: Pay attention to the placement of utilities when selecting RV sites. "The hookups are on the opposite side but they will lend you extensions if you need. All spots have picnic tables," explains Jolene C. about Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort.
Size restrictions: Check access roads for larger rigs before committing to remote sites. "I believe all spots have electricity and water. There is a communal bathroom with individual and stall shower. Good Verizon service and free WIFI out the the car," notes Jonathan G. about the amenities at Ojo Caliente, making it more suitable for RVers needing these services.
Dump station availability: Plan ahead for waste management as many campgrounds lack this facility. "The spaces only had electric and water. The electric and water outlets where placed in an odd location for the site and a dump station is available for extra $20," shares Joseph W. about his stay at Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort.
