Best Campgrounds near Red River, NM
Carson National Forest encompasses multiple campgrounds surrounding Red River, New Mexico, a mountain resort town at 8,750 feet elevation. The area features both established campgrounds and dispersed camping options, with facilities like Junebug Campground, Columbine Campground, and Roadrunner RV Resort offering varying levels of amenities. Most campgrounds accommodate tent and RV camping, while several commercial properties including Red River RV and 4K River Ranch provide cabin rentals and full hookup sites alongside the Red River.
Access to many campgrounds is limited by seasonal closures, with most Forest Service sites operating from May through September or early October. Winter snowfall makes many roads impassable during colder months. Commercial RV parks generally have longer operating seasons. A review noted, "We have been coming here for 20+ years. Love roadrunner, so relaxing and fun, the river is beautiful and sounds amazing." Elevation significantly impacts weather conditions, with summer daytime temperatures typically in the 70s and nights in the 50s, offering relief from lower-elevation heat. Many sites require reservations, particularly during summer weekends and holiday periods.
Riverfront camping represents a major draw in the Red River area, with multiple campgrounds offering sites adjacent to flowing water. The sound of the river creates a peaceful backdrop for camping experiences. "Our camp is right next to the river, there is a shuttle that takes you into town, the facilities are clean and close by, and the fishing is great," mentioned one camper. Fishing opportunities exist both in stocked ponds at private campgrounds and in natural waterways. While some campgrounds provide amenities like showers, laundry facilities and full hookups, others offer a more rustic experience with vault toilets and no electric service. Many campgrounds provide easy access to hiking trails, with several connecting directly to trailheads leading into the surrounding mountains.
