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Best Campgrounds near Peñasco, NM

923 Reviews

Carson National Forest hosts several campgrounds near Peñasco, New Mexico with tent and RV sites, including Santa Barbara Campground and Trampas Trailhead Campground just a short drive from town. The camping landscape around Peñasco features established National Forest Service sites along mountain streams and dispersed camping opportunities throughout the surrounding mountains. Agua Piedra Campground, situated about 20 miles from Peñasco along State Highway 518, provides access to mixed-use camping with tent, RV, and cabin options during its May to September operational season.

Most campgrounds in northern New Mexico's high country operate seasonally, with many closing between October and May due to winter conditions and snowfall. Road quality varies significantly throughout the region, with some sites requiring high-clearance vehicles to access. A review mentioned that "Santa Barbara Campground is a beautiful spot with well-maintained roads to the campground and beautiful trails throughout the area." Elevation in this region typically ranges from 7,500 to 9,000 feet, keeping temperatures moderate even during summer months. Many campgrounds offer self-service payment systems without camp hosts present, particularly at smaller roadside sites. Travelers should check current fire restrictions during summer months, as wildfire risks can be significant in the area.

Water access ranks high among camper priorities in the Peñasco region, with several sites positioned along mountain streams that provide fishing opportunities. Campers report particularly enjoying the solitude available at smaller Forest Service campgrounds compared to more developed sites closer to Taos. One visitor noted that Comales Campground "has 10 sites along a nice mountain stream with some privacy between campsites," highlighting the appeal of smaller roadside camping areas in Carson National Forest. While highway noise can be an issue at some roadside campgrounds, most provide basic amenities including picnic tables, fire rings, and clean pit toilets. The surrounding national forest lands offer extensive hiking and fishing opportunities that draw visitors to this less-crowded region of northern New Mexico.

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Best Camping Sites Near Peñasco, New Mexico (187)

    1. Taos Valley RV Park & Campground

    28 Reviews
    Ranchos de Taos, NM
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 758-4469

    "Much more vegetation than you would expect from a campground close to town. The staff are friendly. The facilities were clean. The park is older but in an charming New Mexico way."

    "If your wanting to get out and play in the snow or explore more in depth the beautiful culture of New Mexico, Taos has a little for everyone"

    2. Agua Piedra Campground

    10 Reviews
    Llano, NM
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 245-6521

    $40 / night

    "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."

    "just went hiking in the surrounding area. But drove around and looked at the campsite looks like a nice place to go camping definitely willing to try it."

    3. Santa Barbara Campground

    8 Reviews
    Llano, NM
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 245-6521

    $22 - $70 / night

    "Stay at Santa Barbara Campground in Northern New Mexico. Was a beautiful spot. Road to Campground was well taken care of Beautiful trails throughout area"

    "This campground has a PERFECT location, right on the border of the Pecos wilderness with fabulous hiking.  There is also fantastic fishing there, which many guests took advantage of all weekend. "

    4. BLM Orilla Verde Recreation Area

    8 Reviews
    Carson, NM
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 758-8851

    $5 - $15 / night

    "The RV sites are more private Than at Rio Bravo, but Rio Bravo is next to the river. We liked our location. The restrooms were immaculate and the camp host was very helpful."

    "Showers still aren't working but otherwise it's a quiet spot next to the river with plenty of hiking nearby. Shout out to the friendly and helpful camp host"

    5. Taos Junction Campground

    6 Reviews
    Carson, NM
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 758-8851

    "Bathrooms were nice and clean and a close walk. With lots to do including fish and hiking trails. We look forward to going back."

    "They offer easy access to the river and gorge, running water with showers and a community kiva. Nice campground of the car camper."

    6. Black Canyon Campground

    29 Reviews
    Tesuque, NM
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (505) 753-7331

    $20 / night

    "Driving into the camp, you have three options: Walk-In Camping, Camping With Parking Access & Limited Access."

    "To begin, the lots are far enough away from fellow campers that you're seldom disturbed by noise or movement."

    7. LUXX - Taos RV Park

    7 Reviews
    Ranchos de Taos, NM
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 201-3339

    $40 - $60 / night

    "It's located south of Taos on the main drag, hence NOISY. I say, watch this space for more improvements."

    8. Hotel Luna Mystica

    14 Reviews
    Arroyo Hondo, NM
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 613-1411

    $25 / night

    "Hamlet went to visit his fun cousins for the weekend -- Diego, Thelma, Louise, Frida, Ralphie, Sunnie, and others– all vintage campers available for rent at this amazingly cool space just outside of Taos"

    "$10 tent camping in desert behind groovy glamper park. Fantastic people. In walking distance to Taos brewery Oasis. On the road to the gorge. Cool summer nights"

    9. Borrego Mesa Campground

    6 Reviews
    Truchas, NM
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (505) 753-7331

    "Campground is a little off the beaten path, about 30m from the High Drive highway. Dirt roads were nothing to worry about, should be fine for any SUV or sedan."

    "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."

    10. Trampas Trailhead Campground

    2 Reviews
    Llano, NM
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (505) 632-2956

    "The Trampas Trailhead campground gets 4 stars not because it's a great campground (it's good, don't get me wrong) but because it provides great access to an amazing trail."

    "Wonderful trails and mountain views, I have been there 2 times in the last 10 years..."

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Recent Camping Photos near Peñasco, NM

239 Photos of 187 Peñasco Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Peñasco, NM

923 Reviews of 187 Peñasco Campgrounds

  • A
    Sep. 29, 2025

    Oasis on the Mesa

    Lovely spot with beautiful walks nearby

    The camp site is private and comfortable with lovely views of the mountains and sunsets. It has full hookups, a flagstone patio, and a partial fence for privacy. You can walk out the gate to trails that go along the Mesa overlooking the river canyon or down to the river and hot springs. Victoria is a kind and helpful host.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 26, 2025

    Mallette Creek North

    Beautiful Mt View

    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. Very pleased with our 3 nights there.

  • K
    Sep. 16, 2025

    Santa Fe Skies RV Park

    Clean, Friendly, Seamless

    Needed a place to stay while passing through Santa Fe. Found this place on the Dyrt and was able to call and get a full hookup site for our after hours arrival. Easy to find, very clean facilities, and friendly and accommodating staff.

  • Curtis D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 15, 2025

    Tolby Campground — Cimarron Canyon State Park

    To close for comfort

    This is a really nice camping ground. It has flush toilets and an electric plug in the bathroom also. There's drinkable water spigot all around. The bad thing about this place is that the sites are too close for comfort. That's why it's my title. Otherwise, it's pretty nice. Great view of a mountain right in front of you. The mountain is so close, you can count the trees. There's also the Cimarron River that runs through. Stay one night if you like it, stay longer. 🤷‍♂️

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 11, 2025

    Sierra Bonita Cabins & RV Park

    It's very run down

    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. The furniture is old and decrepid. The people that run it are as sweet as can be. The place is terribly ran down.

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2025

    Forest Service Rd 268 Dispersed Site

    Beating the Heat at 8800 ft.

    Great place to get away for the week. Cattle will walk thru your camp and people were far enough away to enjoy the cool.

  • Kara C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Carson national forest

    Great Views, Right on the Rio

    We drove around Forest Trail 9 (FT9) until we found a great spot on the edge overlooking the Rio. Nestled in some trees, it was flat for our tent, awesome views, fires were allowed and already had an established rock ring.

  • Colbey M.
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Morphy Lake State Park Campground

    Awesome campground

    Great camp sites with beautiful views! Had such a wonderful Labor Day weekend. Game warden was nice and respectful. Shout out to Debra who works for the campground. She was super helpful. Unable to follow hiking trail completely- I believe it's grown up.

    3G phone service with Verizon, was able to make phone calls only.

Guide to Peñasco

Camping near Peñasco, New Mexico, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the scenic trails around Holy Ghost Campground. One camper mentioned, "The hikes are the best especially if you have time to go to the lake," highlighting the great access to nature.
  • Fishing: Many campgrounds, like Coyote Creek State Park Campground, are near rivers and lakes. A visitor shared, "Grounds are nice with prairie dogs and skies full of birds," making it a perfect spot for fishing enthusiasts.
  • Wildlife Watching: Campers often spot deer and other wildlife. One reviewer at Eagle Nest Lake State Park Campground noted, "Awesome wildlife in the area. The deer would come by every evening."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campgrounds like Angel Fire RV Resort offer stunning mountain views. A happy camper said, "Spacious sites, great views of surrounding mountains."
  • Clean Facilities: Many campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa remarked, "The bathhouse at the camping area was well heated with wonderfully hot showers."
  • Friendly Hosts: Campers often mention the helpfulness of camp hosts. One reviewer at Taos Valley RV Park & Campground said, "The owner is very hospitable and following her dream of owning the park."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Black Canyon Campground, lack basic amenities like drinking water and showers. A camper noted, "No electric, water, sewer or dumpstation."
  • Cell Service Issues: Be prepared for spotty cell service in many areas. One camper at Holy Ghost Campground mentioned, "I lost all cell service as soon as we started into the mountains."
  • Reservation Recommendations: Some sites are first-come, first-served, while others require reservations. A visitor at Tolby Campground — Cimarron Canyon State Park advised, "If you are using a tent do not use #14," indicating the importance of checking site conditions.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with amenities like playgrounds. A reviewer at Taos Valley RV Park & Campground mentioned, "The park was clean with much attention paid to the aesthetic."
  • Plan Activities: Bring games and outdoor activities to keep kids entertained. One camper at Eagle Nest Lake State Park Campground suggested, "Great walking trails with lots of flora and fauna."
  • Pack Essentials: Make sure to bring enough food and water, especially if camping at places like Black Canyon Campground, where amenities are limited.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Hookup Availability: Some campgrounds, like Angel Fire RV Resort, offer full hookups, while others do not. A camper noted, "All RVs must be self-contained."
  • Be Mindful of Space: RV sites can be close together. One visitor at Coyote Creek State Park Campground mentioned, "The electric hookup RV sites are right on top of each other."
  • Plan for Road Conditions: Some roads can be narrow or in poor condition. A reviewer at Holy Ghost Campground warned, "The road is really narrow and... in terrible condition with HUGE pot holes en masse."

Camping near Peñasco, New Mexico, has its quirks, but with the right preparation, it can be a fantastic experience for everyone involved.

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at camping sites near Peñasco?

Camping sites near Peñasco offer varying levels of amenities. At Capulin Campground, you'll find basic facilities with sites featuring fire rings and picnic tables next to a small creek. For more developed options, Maverick Campground — Cimarron Canyon State Park provides good facilities with camp hosts. Many Forest Service campgrounds in the area offer access to trout streams for fishing, hiking trails, and some privacy between sites. Most public campgrounds provide vault toilets, while RV parks like those in nearby Taos and Angel Fire typically offer full hookups, shower facilities, and sometimes WiFi access.

Where is Rocky Point Campground located in Peñasco, New Mexico?

While there isn't a specific campground named 'Rocky Point' in Peñasco, nearby camping options include several National Forest Service campgrounds in the Carson National Forest. Comales Campground is located about 30 miles south of Taos on Highway 518 near Rock Wall, New Mexico. The area around Peñasco offers multiple camping opportunities with several sites situated along mountain streams in the scenic Carson National Forest. Many campgrounds in this region provide access to hiking trails and outdoor recreation while being conveniently located off major highways like NM-518 and Highway 64.

What camping is available near Peñasco, NM?

According to TheDyrt.com, Peñasco, NM offers a wide range of camping options, with 187 campgrounds and RV parks near Peñasco, NM and 41 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Peñasco, NM?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Peñasco, NM is Taos Valley RV Park & Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 28 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Peñasco, NM?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 41 free dispersed camping spots near Peñasco, NM.

What parks are near Peñasco, NM?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 8 parks near Peñasco, NM that allow camping, notably Carson National Forest and Santa Fe National Forest.

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