Best Campgrounds near Peñasco, NM

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.

Best Camping Sites Near Peñasco, New Mexico (188)

    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 Lodge - Glamping & 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. Forest Service 439

    3 Reviews
    Vadito, NM
    8 miles

    "A little stream is near by-- a little shallow and a little mucky on the bottom, but really refreshing. The stars are incredible, also some beautiful views of the mountains from the lower section."

    9. 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"

    10. 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."

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Recent Reviews near Peñasco, NM

928 Reviews of 188 Peñasco Campgrounds


  • Robert F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 17, 2025

    Questa Lodge & RV Resort

    Great location

    Everything was great here. Paulie went out of his way to make my stay comfortable and pleasant. Great guy to talk with.
    Thank you.

  • Shirlee A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 16, 2025

    South Area Campground — Storrie Lake State Park

    Love it here!

    This is a great place to stop and breathe for a while while on the road. Especially with kids.

    Has great hook up sites (electric and water) beach site comes with a sweet outdoor patio with roof and picnic table - perfect for shade or rainy days.when living in an RV this is a great addition/ an extra room!

    There is a great playground and a perfect view of the lake

    Prices are totally fair - between 14-25 depending on site and residency

  • B
    Oct. 13, 2025

    Coyote Creek State Park Campground

    Quiet, beautiful, and no visible burn scars

    Beautiful area with no visible burn scars such as exist nearby. Many trees, nice views of mountains. Lots of spots, some with electric, many without. Many are designated 18 feet and under. Ours (T-4) would fit 35 feet, had lots of shade on a 80• October day. Small clean creek. Great places to walk all around. Water only available April to October 1. Back 2/3 of campground and RV DUMP also closed and gated off during cooler months. We were (luckily) advised on arrival by neighbors that the rangers are zealous about ticketing for any dog off leash, so we were extra careful and had no interactions at all. Referring to another review, there was no host at the time of our visit, but one of our neighbors regularly hosts here and didn't remind us of Goober Pyle at all. Yes we are old enough to remember.

  • Kristin M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 11, 2025

    Camp May Road

    Perfect for a close camp to Los Alamos

    Easy to find pull off spots, lots of good trees. The road is closed Monday-Thursday due to being on lab property. Overall beautiful spot!

  • andrew The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 6, 2025

    Red River RV

    Love It Second Visit

    We love this place. We trout fish. It is perfect. And it is beautiful. Great place.

  • 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.


Guide to Peñasco

The camping areas around Peñasco, New Mexico range from established Forest Service campgrounds to primitive sites in Carson National Forest. At elevations typically between 8,000-9,000 feet, these mountain campsites maintain cool temperatures even during summer, with nighttime lows dipping into the 40s. Many sites provide access to trout streams and hiking trails in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.

What to do

Hiking to high mountain lakes: From Trampas Trailhead Campground, visitors can access trails into the northern Pecos Wilderness. "There is a trail head with 2 trails, one atv accessible and one hiking/horse that goes up to Indian Lake. Beautiful views and about 1200' elevation change," notes a camper at Agua Piedra Campground.

Fishing in mountain streams: Multiple campgrounds offer access to quality trout fishing. "The creek is very close and accessible, which is probably the highlight. There are plenty of hammock and shade trees," reports a visitor about their weekend at Agua Piedra.

Stargazing after dark: The remote location and high elevation provide exceptional night sky viewing. At Hotel Luna Mystica, one camper shared, "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."

What campers like

Peaceful mountain atmosphere: Campsites near Peñasco offer tranquility away from urban areas. A visitor at Santa Barbara Campground mentioned, "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."

Diverse camping options: The region offers various accommodation types. "This campground is a hidden jewel in the mountains on the north end of the Pecos Wilderness. It is near NOTHING. It has no cell/wifi service. BUT what it does have is quiet, and peacefulness, and charm, and views," explains a camper at Agua Piedra.

Access to wilderness areas: Many campsites provide gateways to protected wilderness. A reviewer noted about Santa Barbara Campground: "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."

What you should know

Limited services: Most campsites offer minimal amenities. At Borrego Mesa Campground, a camper reported, "Bathroom is very much out of order. Campground is a little off the beaten path, about 30m from the High Drive highway."

Weather variability: High elevation means rapid weather changes. "Surprise! The weather went from day-time highs in the 60's to blizzard conditions with overnight lows in the teens," shared a winter camper at Hotel Luna Mystica.

Road conditions: Access to some campgrounds requires careful driving. "The road up to the campground is in good shape, 4x4 not required. Overall traffic was very low," noted a Borrego Mesa visitor, though conditions vary by season and location.

Cell service limitations: Connectivity is minimal throughout the region. "You can drive 10 minutes away to Sipapu ski resort to use free wifi at the cafe. So if you really must check your e-mail or social media, it is a quick drive," explains an Agua Piedra camper.

Tips for camping with families

Look for campsites with amenities: Some locations offer family-friendly features. At BLM Orilla Verde Recreation Area, "Clean bathrooms—great camp host. Very hot during the day so make sure you have some shade, no shelters. Beautiful camping right next to the river!"

Consider easy hiking options: Several areas have trails suitable for children. "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," writes a visitor about Black Canyon Campground.

Plan for wildlife encounters: The area hosts diverse wildlife. "You're likely to encounter wildlife in the evening if there aren't many campers, as bears are everywhere here," warns a Black Canyon camper, suggesting proper food storage is essential.

Tips from RVers

Size limitations: Most campgrounds accommodate smaller RVs only. "Our rig is 29 feet, 3 inches, and we were in a spot that maxed out at 32 feet. We barely fit. We saw very few sites that could have accommodate much more. I don't think any site would have been able to handle more than 35 feet," notes a Black Canyon Campground reviewer.

Bring water supplies: Water sources may be unreliable or unpalatable. "Water onsite is listed as potable but smells and tastes so strongly of sulphur that it cannot be tolerated for drinking or cooking. Make sure to haul in water," advises an Agua Piedra camper.

Plan for boondocking: Hookups are limited throughout the region. A visitor at Santa Barbara Campground explained, "The campground isn't exactly 'dispersed', but there are no official campsite. Folks have set up rock rings in a number of places and there are a few picnic tables."

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 188 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.