Santa Fe National Forest camping areas range from high-elevation sites at 8,400 feet in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains to lower-elevation areas along the Rio Grande. Winter temperatures can drop below 20°F with occasional snow, while summer days typically reach 70-85°F with cooler nights even in July. Most primitive camping areas remain accessible April through October, with limited winter facilities available at lower elevations.
What to do
Hiking at Black Canyon Campground: Explore the Black Canyon Loop trail accessed at the back of the camping area, with a 1.3-mile route featuring some steep sections. "The trail is phenomenal. The incline is quite steep, but the loop is a reasonable length and I've seen families with young children and elderly folks successfully complete the loop," notes one Black Canyon Campground visitor.
Explore archaeological sites: Camp at Juniper Family Campground for direct access to Bandelier National Monument's cliff dwellings. "Don't miss this national monument! Not only are the archeological treasures there well worth the effort, the campground is pleasant, well groomed, and easy to get to," explains a visitor to Juniper Family Campground.
Water recreation at Cochiti Lake: Fish, swim, and boat at Cochiti Lake, located near several campgrounds. "There is a boat launch and swimming beach both less than a mile from the lower loop and available for day use as well as for campers," notes a recent visitor to Cochiti Recreation Area.
What campers like
Mountain wildlife viewing: Several dispersed camping areas offer good wildlife observation opportunities. "Nice, quiet, and saw lots of elk during our stay," reports a camper about their experience at Pajarito Springs dispersed camping area.
Cooler summer temperatures: The higher elevation campgrounds provide relief from summer heat. "If these lowlands are too hot in the summer, drive up Artist Road to Big Tesuque or the ski-way at the end of the road, where shade, cold streams, and elevation keep nights pleasant even in July or August," suggests a Santa Fe BLM camper.
Clean facilities at established sites: Many campers note the well-maintained facilities at formal campgrounds. "Camp host was wonderful. Clean bathrooms (flush toilets are a treat while camping). Fresh water nearby and quiet," writes a Juniper Family Campground visitor.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Many Santa Fe National Forest campgrounds operate only part of the year. "Very nice and large campground. Lots of trees and shade. Very busy on weekends," says a Jemez Falls Campground visitor about this popular site that's only open April through November.
Limited potable water: Bring enough water for dispersed camping areas. "There is a dump station and RV fresh water fill station. It is all paved except for a very nice ASTRO turf dog run. With water," notes a visitor to White Rock Visitor Center RV Park, one of the few sites with reliable water sources.
Fire restrictions: Regulations vary by location and season. "No campfires are permitted. Water views from many sites," reports a Cochiti Recreation Area camper about specific restrictions at that location.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. "There is also a nice playground for those traveling with little ones who may need to burn some steam," shares a Black Canyon Campground visitor.
Well-spaced sites for privacy: Families appreciate campgrounds with adequate space between sites. "Sites are well spaced and private. Bath is clean but I thought pushbutton no temp control showers went out years ago," mentions a Cochiti Recreation Area camper.
Camp near hiking trails: Choose family-friendly locations with trails accessible from camp. "The Juniper campground is perfection. The layout of the campground allows for both RV and tent camping, while still having you own quiet area," notes a Pajarito Springs visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Bring leveling blocks for most campgrounds. "Sites are all sloping downhill toward the Fire Station, you will very likely need to use blocks if you don't have a mechanical leveling system," advises an RVer who stayed at White Rock Visitor Center RV Park.
Limited big rig access: Many forest campsites have size restrictions. "The campground was a little tight for us so I'd think anything much bigger (40' is probably pushing it) than us will have some trouble getting around," cautions a Juniper Family Campground visitor who stayed in a 30-foot travel trailer.
Dump station locations: Plan ahead for waste disposal. "There is a dump station near the entrance with potable water. There are also potable water spigots throughout the campground," explains an RVer who visited Juniper Family Campground.
