Carson National Forest surrounds Red River, providing tent and RV camping opportunities at elevations between 7,500-9,000 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 45°F at night to 75°F during the day, with afternoon thunderstorms common in July and August. The area sits within the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, where two rivers meet in several locations, creating ideal conditions for fishing enthusiasts and those seeking water-adjacent campsites.
What to do
Fishing at trout ponds: Red River RV Park offers stocked fishing opportunities steps from your campsite. "We trout fish. It is perfect. And it is beautiful. Great place," notes a visitor to Red River RV.
Hiking from campgrounds: Many sites offer direct trail access without driving. At Columbine Campground, one camper mentioned, "Hiking trails from the campground. Host was very knowledgeable and helpful." Another visitor appreciated the "Columbine Twining hiking trail - can't wait to go back to be able to hike more!"
Riverside relaxation: The sound of flowing water creates a peaceful backdrop at many sites. A Columbine Campground reviewer described it as having "a huge circular fire pit" with sites that "sit on a beautifully shaded Creek (Columbine Creek) that feeds the Red River."
Canyon exploration: The Rio Grande Gorge offers dramatic views and hiking opportunities. At Cebolla Mesa Campground, "There's a 1.25 mile hike down to the river to cool down. Plenty of shade and lots of off road trails for driving/running/biking."
What campers like
Creek-side tent sites: Many campers appreciate the natural sound barrier that flowing water provides. At Columbine Campground, "The sound of the river drowns out the noise from the road which is fairly close. The sites are very nice and spacious with a grill pit and a huge circular fire pit."
Sunrise and sunset views: Mesa locations offer panoramic skies. A visitor to Cabresto Lake Campground mentioned it's "a beautiful mountain lake" with "nice hiking trail. Can hike to Heart Lake. 9 mile round trip hike."
Accessibility to town services: Many campgrounds provide easy access to supplies and dining. A camper at Taos Valley RV Park noted, "Restaurants are really close enough to walk to and there is an Ace Hardware store across the street for emergency repairs. Old Town Taos is 3 miles away."
Vault toilet cleanliness: Several campgrounds maintain exceptionally clean facilities despite their rustic nature. A Columbine camper remarked, "Vault toilets were incredibly clean and the whole campground was well-maintained."
What you should know
Road conditions: Some campgrounds require high-clearance vehicles. At Cabresto Lake, "It's a busy road, constant stream of people. The trail itself is maybe a 2/10 for difficulty. Someone who knows how to off-road to get Subaru outback up there."
Limited level sites: Many mountain campgrounds have uneven terrain. One Columbine Campground visitor warned, "Some sites are short, very few are level, some have a steep slope."
Site spacing varies significantly: Privacy levels differ between campgrounds and specific sites. A camper at Taos Valley RV Park and Campground observed, "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."
Seasonal water availability: Drought conditions can affect streams and water features. One reviewer noted, "Aside from the drought having dried out the stream, it was again a very nice visit."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies greatly by location. At Hotel Luna Mystica, a visitor reported, "1-2 bars LTE AT&T service available near bathroom but gets worse the further you go away from it."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection for children: Look for campgrounds with accessible water features. At Columbine Campground, "Each site has ample shade to the back of the site along the Creek. Each site has more than expected space and offset to adjacent sites."
School proximity awareness: Some campgrounds back up to community facilities. At Taos Valley RV Park, "Our site row backed up to an elementary school, so if you are there during the week and don't want to listen to children enjoying their recess, you should request another site."
Weekend crowds: Popular sites fill quickly during peak times. A visitor to Hotel Luna Mystica reported, "We stayed one night out in the dispersed camping area and pretty much had the huge area all to ourselves."
Off-peak benefits: Visiting during shoulder seasons provides more solitude. One camper mentioned, "We stayed here for 10 days during the 'off season' at the end of April. It was beautiful and quiet."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many sites require leveling blocks. At Columbine Campground, "The loop to the left side near the host is more level and can handle bigger RVs but overall this is not a big rig campground."
Water pressure variations: Some older facilities have infrastructure limitations. At Sierra Village, a reviewer noted, "This is an older unit with low water pressure."
Shuttle services: Some locations offer transportation to town. A Red River RV visitor mentioned, "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."
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds with hookups provide dump facilities. Check availability before arrival as many visitors have mentioned using the dump stations as they leave to prepare for dry camping at their next location.
