Best Equestrian Camping near Questa, NM
McCrystal Campground accommodates horse campers with dedicated corrals installed at multiple sites. Located in a remote area near Questa, New Mexico, the campground is particularly popular with equestrians and hunters seeking access to the surrounding wilderness. The level sites offer good separation between camping areas, with adequate space for horse trailers. Bears frequent the area at night, attempting to raid garbage bins, which makes tent camping somewhat unnerving for some visitors. A small creek runs nearby, and the surrounding flat lands provide opportunities for riding and hiking. The campground features pit toilets that are well-maintained, though no water hookups are available.
Rio Costilla Park spans 10,000 acres of aspens and ponderosa pines approximately one hour from Taos, offering extensive terrain for horseback riding. The park's expansive layout creates a dispersed camping experience with sites spread far apart along streams and rivers. Four-wheel drive vehicles access the more remote areas and higher elevations within the park, including trails to Little Blue Lake. Cattle roam freely throughout the property, occasionally wandering through campsites in the early morning hours. The park charges $30-40 per night depending on the season, with additional fishing permits available for the quality waters that attract fly fishermen. Portable toilets are positioned near camping areas, though no running water is available. Picnic tables under roofs by the clear river enhance several of the camping sites.