Camping sites near Rociada, New Mexico range from 7,000 to 9,000 feet in elevation, creating distinct temperature patterns across seasons. Primitive camping options in the Pecos Wilderness provide access to high-altitude trails and wildlife viewing. Summer temperatures typically range from 40-80°F with significant drops at night, even in July and August.
What to do
Trout fishing at streams and lakes: The Pecos River and surrounding waterways offer productive fishing opportunities at campgrounds like Jack's Creek. "Trout fishing but must have license from closest store 20 miles down in Mora. Maybe 8500 ft elevation. Very cool even in July; need blankets," notes a visitor at Morphy Lake State Park Campground.
Mountain hiking on established trails: Several campgrounds serve as trailheads for mountain excursions. At Jack's Creek Campground, "Hiking trails leave from the Horse camp up into the mountains.... and they are busy with hikers every day of week. Some are day hikers from this campground, but most are backpackers going out to spends several days."
Wildlife observation: The area supports diverse wildlife viewing options. "Saw lots of wildlife (deer, eagle, foxes as well chipmunks)," reports a camper at Morphy Lake. Chipmunks are common at higher elevations, with one visitor noting they "were a hoot but need to guard your food."
What campers like
High elevation cooling: Most campgrounds sit at 8,000-9,000 feet, providing natural air conditioning during summer. "At this elevation of around 9,000 feet, it is cooler even on the hottest summer days," explains a visitor at Jack's Creek Campground. Another notes needing "blankets" even in July.
Dark skies for stargazing: Limited light pollution creates exceptional night viewing conditions. A camper at El Porvenir Campground describes "a night sky that is lovely and awe inspiring." The remote locations minimize artificial light.
Varied camping environments: Sites range from meadows to dense forest settings. "Sites have everything except sewer but they do have a dump station," notes a camper at North Area Campground. Another visitor describes El Porvenir as having "nice flat tent platforms" with approximately "30 places" where you can "drive up to campsites."
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Access to many campgrounds requires careful driving on rough roads. At Iron Gate Campground, "The road to get there is a bit rough... Not a road for a large trailer or 5th wheel." Another camper adds, "We had our Tacoma in 4L and I'm honestly not sure how some 2WD vehicles make it."
Limited or no potable water: Bring sufficient water supplies as many campgrounds have unreliable or no water sources. "There is no longer any potable drinking water at Jack's Creek. Haul your own in," advises one visitor. Similarly, Johnson Mesa Campground has "No water available" according to multiple reviews.
Weather extremes: Despite summer visits, prepare for cold nights and possible storms. "It was VERY windy but we were camping in a site with few trees for wind barrier," reports a camper at Johnson Mesa Campground. Temperature fluctuations of 30-40 degrees between day and night are common.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with nearby activities: Look for campgrounds with accessible recreation options. "Went for the day and loved hiking around the lake. Lots of small fish," notes a visitor at Morphy Lake. Another mentions the campground has "great camp spots around the lake" with "beautiful views."
Prepare for wildlife encounters: Animals frequently visit campgrounds, requiring proper food storage. "Please, for the love, do not feed the stupid chipmunks - they are not afraid of people and it shows," warns a camper at Jack's Creek Campground. Bears are also present throughout the region.
Check seasonal availability: Many sites close outside summer months. "The campground is open from March 1st until October 31st each year!" notes a Morphy Lake visitor. Johnson Mesa and other higher elevation sites may close earlier depending on weather conditions.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions limit larger rigs: Many campgrounds accommodate only smaller RVs and trailers. A visitor to Holy Ghost Campground notes, "It is a very beautiful place, with a lot to see and explore" but warns the narrow access road makes it difficult for larger vehicles. Most sites accommodate RVs under 30 feet.
Limited hookup options: Full hookups are scarce, with most campgrounds offering primitive camping only. At Pendaries RV Resort, "The campground is rustic but not trashy. Very well kept and maintained." The resort provides one of the few developed options with hookups in the immediate area.
Leveling challenges: Bring additional leveling equipment as many sites sit on uneven terrain. "Several of the sites are shorter and many of the sites are far from level, so not really a campground suitable for very large RV's," explains a Jack's Creek camper. Several campgrounds feature sloped sites requiring blocks and levelers.
