Camping options near Peñasco, New Mexico range from rustic tent sites to full-service RV facilities situated across varied terrain from 7,000 to 9,000 feet elevation. Summer temperatures typically range from 50-85°F, with afternoon thunderstorms common from July through September. Winter camping requires preparation for temperatures that can drop below freezing, with snowfall possible from October through April.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: 10 minutes from Taos Valley RV Park & Campground visitors can explore mountain trails with chances to spot mule deer, black bears, and various bird species. "There is a dog trail and walking path at the back of the park, which is nice," notes one camper at Taos Valley.
Hiking to local waterfall: 3-mile moderate trail accessible from several camping areas. "The waterfall trail was beautiful, the vault toilet was clean, the views were incredible. Very peaceful," shares a visitor to Hyde Memorial State Park Campground.
Visit historic Taos attractions: within 15 minutes of most northern campsites. "This location is so prime for visiting all the sights in Taos, and there are many. Restaurants are really close enough to walk to," explains a camper from Taos Valley RV Park.
What campers like
Mountain views: especially at sunset from elevated camping areas. "Views were shockingly good. Because of the weather I felt like I was in the Scottish highlands or something, not New Mexico," reports a visitor at Angel Nest RV Retreat.
Privacy between sites: creative site design at several parks enhances camping experience. "I like how their sites are arranged so that you are not looking and eating with your neighbors sewer. They have cleverly added angled dividers to maintain your privacy," mentions a Taos Valley camper.
Clean facilities: particularly bathrooms at several campgrounds despite remote locations. "Bathrooms are dated but cleaned daily. Overall the place could use a few upgrades but it's a quality location," notes a reviewer at Taos Monte Bello RV Park.
What you should know
Seasonal access limitations: many forest roads close after snowfall, typically October through April. "The drive up is steep and our RV had a hard time; would not even think of staying up here in the winter," cautions a visitor at Hyde Memorial State Park.
Water restrictions: some parks have limited or no potable water supply. "The lot is very large gravel and a bit difficult to walk upon. Location sits directly on the highway with lots of traffic noise," reports a camper at LUXX - Taos RV Park.
Cell service and WiFi: extremely variable with many mountain locations having no service. "The wifi was better than average the entire time, it was a little spotty at times but we were consistently able to stream and upload large videos without fail," explains a Monte Bello RV Park reviewer.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: limited options for children's recreation areas. "They do have a playground, a dishwashing area, bathrooms with very hot showers, and office. During my stay everyone was very quiet," shares a Taos Valley camper.
Stream play areas: seasonal water access varies based on rainfall and drought conditions. "The kids enjoyed the steep hikes and the stream that runs along the other side of the camp sites where there are smaller campgrounds for tent camping," mentions a visitor at Hyde Memorial State Park Campground.
Cabin alternatives: yurt accommodations provide comfort for families not ready for tent camping. "We walked through the yurt site just above us, and they are stunning, with patios and what appears to be heating," notes a Hyde Memorial camper.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: bring blocks as many sites have significant slopes. "We got to the RV part of the park and it was not crowded, but the spaces require some skill to back into and are NOT the slightest bit level, or wide," advises an RVer at Hyde Memorial.
Access limitations: research route restrictions before attempting mountain roads with larger rigs. "About 5 minutes to downtown. Even a little bit of shade. Sites are basic, but nice, with fire rings and concrete picnic tables. We camped with our 21' teardrop and had no problems," shares a camper at Sierra Village Lodge & RV Park.
Reservation requirements: book early during high season from June through September. "After 3 nights in the mountains this was a great place to shower and do laundry. Easy walk to 2 great New Mexican restaurants," notes a visitor at Taos Valley RV Park.