Tent campsites near Red River, New Mexico sit at elevations between 8,000-10,000 feet in Carson National Forest, creating naturally cool summer temperatures. The Rio Hondo and smaller tributaries create a network of waterways throughout the camping areas, with most primitive sites situated within hearing distance of rushing water. Winter snowpack typically closes most dispersed camping locations from late October through mid-May.
What to do
Fishing access year-round: La Junta - Wild Rivers Rec Area offers exceptional angling opportunities at the confluence of the Red River and Rio Grande. "If you like canyon hikes (steeeeep trails) or whitewater, this is a great place for you to explore. There are a lot of outfitters in the area that will take you down the rivers," notes camper Irene L.
Mountain hiking from camp: Cuchilla Campground provides direct access to trails near Taos Ski Valley. "Awesome campground on the road up to Taos Ski Resort. Tons of hiking/biking access," reports Max B. The campground features approximately 15 dispersed spots along Highway 150.
Swimming holes: Many camping areas feature accessible creek swimming spots for cooling off. At Arroyo Seco Dispersed NF Camping, one camper shares: "There are so many campsites to choose from, all along the Hondo Rio. The dogs love the river and to run through it."
Hot springs access: Dispersed camping near Taos provides nearby hot springs access. "Made a quick walk down to the springs in the evening and watched the stars come out. Awesome!!" notes camper Madeleine H. The springs are approximately a one-mile walk from camp.
What campers like
River sounds mask road noise: Many campsites sit close enough to waterways that flowing water drowns out traffic sounds. At Cuchilla Campground, Michael N. notes: "While next to the Highway, the highway sounds are mostly drowned out due to the beautiful sounds of the river flowing."
Free camping options: Most dispersed sites in the area have no fees with 14-day stay limits. At Lower Hondo Campground, one camper explains: "Longest stay is 2 weeks. There is sufficient room for 10-15 families. Remove all trash when leaving."
Wildlife viewing: The riparian zones attract diverse wildlife. A camper at Arroyo Seco reports: "It's peaceful and quiet. We brought our four dogs and 13 year old. There's so much to do to keep them busy."
Stargazing opportunities: The high elevation and minimal light pollution create exceptional night sky viewing. Campers at Dispersed Camping Near Taos mention they "watched the stars come out" as a highlight of their experience.
What you should know
Road conditions vary seasonally: Many access roads require high-clearance vehicles, particularly after rain. At Cabresto Lake Campground, David L. advises: "A vehicle with off-road capabilities is recommended if you want to reach this campground. While not impossible with a regular sedan, it does take navigating up some unpaved switchbacks."
Weather changes rapidly: Mountain storms develop quickly, even in summer. Perl R. at Lower Hondo notes: "Obviously, camp in warm weather or you need to have a snow plow since drifts 3-5 ft deep."
Water filtration required: While campsites near waterways offer filtering opportunities, no potable water exists at most primitive sites. Pack enough water or bring reliable filtration systems.
No trash service: All dispersed sites require pack-in/pack-out practices. Tara S. reminds campers: "There is no garbage here, so pack it in & pack it out."
Limited cell coverage: Most camping areas have minimal or no cell service. Brittani M. notes about Arroyo Seco: "There is no Verizon service."
Tips for camping with families
Fishing-focused sites: Blackjack Tent Area offers designated tent sites with river access. "We stayed at camp site #27, which was the biggest and spacious site, 10/10 the weather was wonderful and if you camp during the week you can pick any spot you want! Caught plenty of trout," reports Josie H.
Shallow water play: Several campsites feature shallow creek areas safe for supervised children. An Arroyo Seco camper shares: "The dogs love the river and to run through it. No one really bothers anyone."
Restroom access: Select camping areas maintain vault toilets, important for families. Jacob S. mentions Lower Hondo has "a pit toilet and it's the most fresh compared to the others along the road to the ski valley."
Supply runs: Camping near Goat Hill Campground provides convenient access to towns. Brittany S. notes: "This park is located between Red River and Questa, so if you are in need of groceries or hot food, it is not far down the road."
Tips from RVers
RV size limitations: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller rigs only. Jason A. reports at Cuchilla Campground: "We pulled our 19' RV with solar right up to the river and our dog was in and out of the river all day."
Generator restrictions: Many camping areas prohibit generator use to preserve natural quiet. Solar setups work well given the area's abundant sunshine.
Leveling challenges: Finding flat parking requires scouting. Tara S. notes about Cuchilla: "We were able to find a level place to park the van."
Seasonal access restrictions: RVers should check road conditions before travel. A Dispersed Camping Near Taos reviewer warns: "One thing is that you MUST approach from the west, you can't get here coming from the east over John dun bridge. Dirt road but we did it with no problem with our 24ft trailer."
