Tent campsites near Questa, New Mexico range from low-elevation riverside spots along the Rio Hondo to alpine lake settings at 9,000+ feet in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The Carson National Forest campgrounds typically operate between May and October, with snowpack often blocking access through April at higher elevations. Nighttime temperatures can drop below freezing even in summer months at campsites like Cabresto Lake, where thermometers regularly read 20-30 degrees cooler than in Taos.
What to do
Fishing in alpine lakes: Cabresto Lake Campground provides access to trout fishing in a small mountain lake surrounded by forest. A camper reported, "The marsh on the east end provided plenty of bugs and worms for bait. The lake provided enough trout for a dinner." The trail to Cabresto Lake Campground requires navigation of unpaved switchbacks.
Riverside hiking: Follow the Rio Hondo on multiple trails connecting from Lower Hondo Campground. The river access makes for convenient day activities. One visitor noted, "There is sufficient room for 10-15 families. Remove all trash when leaving." Many campers use this area as a basecamp for day trips to nearby Wheeler Peak.
Hot springs access: Wild Rivers Recreation Area camping gives you access to natural hot springs by hiking down to the river. Near Dispersed Camping Near Taos, campers report, "Made a quick walk down to the springs in the evening and watched the stars come out." Most hot springs require a 1-2 mile hike with significant elevation change.
What campers like
River sounds for sleeping: Multiple campsites in the area offer tent spots right next to flowing water. At Cuchilla Campground, campers appreciate the natural white noise: "While next to the Highway, the highway sounds are mostly drowned out due to the beautiful sounds of the river flowing."
Private dispersed options: The forest roads outside Tres Piedras provide secluded tent camping with fewer neighbors. One camper at Carson NF - Forest Service Road 578 shared, "I didn't see anyone else camping or driving by. The forest is a nice mix of sage, juniper, and pine trees. I saw two elk across a swath of sage."
Star viewing: The minimal light pollution makes for exceptional night sky viewing. A camper at La Junta - Wild Rivers Rec Area stated, "Each campsite had a concrete pad and awning. No electricity and only a single bathroom and water spigot in the campground, but since the sites in Wild Rivers aren't very large, access wasn't a big issue."
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Many access roads require high-clearance vehicles, particularly for camping near alpine lakes. A visitor to Cabresto Lake noted, "We took four teenage girls for a weekend of camping and fishing. We pulled right in and grabbed the last spot in the area; the challenge was finding enough flat land for three tents."
Limited amenities: Most camping areas provide minimal facilities, with vault toilets being the main amenity. At Arroyo Seco Dispersed NF Camping, campers should expect basics: "All camping spots here are right off the roads where you can find one or two spots that are less close. Arroyo Seco is the town close to the camping, but you keep going straight from the coordinates to get to Cuchillo de Medio and Cuchillo."
Pack-in water requirements: Few campgrounds offer potable water, requiring campers to bring their own supply. A camper at Lower Hondo Campground explained, "Tent camped in July and could not get into the water; but did freeze my ankles off. Have nice latrine commode and that is all. There are no specific sites. Just find a place and set up."
Tips for camping with families
Creek play opportunities: The Rio Hondo provides natural water play areas for children at lower elevations. A family camping at Arroyo Seco Dispersed NF Camping shared, "There are so many campsites to choose from, all along the Hondo Rio. It's peaceful and quiet. We brought our four dogs and 13 year old. There's so much to do to keep them busy."
Best family-friendly sites: Cuchilla Campground offers designated sites with picnic tables for easier family camping. One family noted, "This is a wonderful little campground on the way to Taos Ski Valley. Sites are right on a creek & have picnic tables."
Cold water awareness: Mountain streams remain extremely cold even in summer months. Parents should supervise children closely near water. A visitor mentioned, "I took a dip in the creek in the morning. Refreshing!" while another camper noted the extreme temperature: "could not get into the water; but did freeze my ankles off."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most camping areas near Questa accommodate smaller RVs and campervans but have limited space for large rigs. A visitor to Carson NF Forest Service Road 578 advised, "RVs will not make it, so it's nice and quiet. AWD/4WD needed on the rutted rocky road."
Road conditions: Forest service roads require careful navigation for vehicles with trailers. According to one RVer at Dispersed Camping Near Taos, "Dirt road but we did it with no problem with our 24ft trailer. Make sure you go all the way to the coordinates as there are a ton of great spots off to the left of the road."
Solar power viability: The open areas receive good sun exposure for RVs with solar setups. A long-term camper at Lower Hondo noted, "Photographer had a pop-up trailer, solar cells, (trees everywhere). He said 2X per week he would get a shower in town somewhere."
