Equestrian camping opportunities near Red River, New Mexico range from 8,000 to 10,000 feet in elevation, with summer temperatures averaging 70°F during the day and 40°F at night. The area encompasses the Carson National Forest with abundant pine and aspen forests. Several campgrounds cater specifically to horse enthusiasts with specialized facilities such as corrals and access to mountain riding trails.
What to do
Fly fishing access: Rio Costilla Park offers quality fishing waters with reliable success. "Fishing is great and quality waters. It is fisherman's fly fishing dream. Camping is great too as you can park next to the river. It's pricey at 20.00 a night but worth it," notes Michelle B. at Rio Costilla Park.
Mountain hiking: The Santa Barbara Campground serves as an entry point to the northern section of Pecos Wilderness. "This campground is the entry point to the NORTHERN end of Pecos wilderness with access to amazing backpacking, high mountain peaks, and literally dozens of groups of backpackers daily going up the trail or coming back out from their adventures," according to Robin T. at Santa Barbara Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Mallette Creek North provides opportunities to observe local fauna in their natural habitat. "Beautiful view! A couple of neighbors but never heard them. Not the easiest piece of ground to get the trailer leveled but we made it work. Very pleased with our 3 nights there," reports Rosalinda S., who appreciated the secluded setting.
What campers like
Night sky viewing: Cimarron Campground offers exceptional stargazing opportunities thanks to its remote location. "Overall it is quiet and peaceful with amazing stargazing at night," mentions Jen M. at Cimarron Campground.
Creek access: Many sites feature proximity to running water. "Campsites are nearly all along a babbling brook, stream, or river," reports Joel H. about Rio Costilla Park, adding that covered picnic table areas are "absolutely wonderful" for those lucky enough to secure them.
Secluded spots: Dispersed camping provides isolation from other campers. "Private and beautiful. A nice secluded little forest road. RVs will not make it, so it's nice and quiet," explains Kala J. about Carson NF - Forest Service Road 578, noting that "multiple pulloffs for unmarked campsites" are available.
What you should know
Current fees: Camping costs have increased at several horse campgrounds near Red River. "It is now up to $40. $20 bucks for the night and then $20 for the day pass. It is well maintained. The spots are hit or miss. There's some spots close to each other and some dispersed," explains Savvy about Rio Costilla Park.
Road conditions: Access to some horse-friendly camping areas requires careful driving. "The road to get here from Amalia becomes very wash boarded. It is a long road to get here and is wash boarded the whole way," warns Jen M. about Cimarron Campground, though she adds that "the drive through Rio Costilla Canyon is gorgeous."
Cell service limitations: Most campgrounds have limited or no connectivity. "Cell service drops completely pretty soon after leaving the highway. I sporadically received some messages at my camp site but not reliably," reports Kala J. about Forest Service Road 578 dispersed camping.
Tips for camping with families
River recreation: Several campgrounds feature streams suitable for water play. "Stayed two nights and loved every minute. Took inner tubes and rode them down the stream!" shares Anthony Z. about Rio Costilla Park.
Easy fishing access: Hopewell Lake Campground provides reliable fishing for children. "The trout fishing is fun and always a success at the lake. We've only stayed at the developed camp ground once, and it was nice especially with the toilets," says Sara S. at Hopewell Lake Campground.
Wildlife encounters: Many campgrounds include grazing livestock. "There are cows that roam the campground... Also, some cows woke us up early in the morning, which was cool, but also scared the shit out of us!" reports Christa A. about Rio Costilla Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Campgrounds vary in their ability to accommodate larger vehicles. "The campground is large, with 36 camping sites. We stayed at #24 which had a nice partial overlook to the opposing valley, mountainside," notes Jen M. about Cimarron Campground.
Water supply: Water availability is inconsistent at equestrian camping areas near Red River. "No running water at this campground, so bring plenty. They have port-o-potties by every camping site and they keep them clean," advises Jennifer G. about Rio Costilla Park.
Weather preparation: High-elevation sites experience considerable temperature fluctuation. "This campground does get a little chilly in the night, even in summer, so bring a good sleeping bag. It will drizzle regularly and sometimes pours so prepare for that," warns Jennifer G. about camping in the area.
