Camping near San Cristobal, New Mexico offers varying elevations from 7,000 to 8,500 feet, creating distinct temperature zones throughout the area. The semi-arid climate produces warm days and cool nights during camping season, with afternoon thunderstorms common in July and August. Most dispersed camping areas require visitors to pack out waste and bring their own water supplies as potable sources are limited to developed campgrounds.
What to do
Hike to the river confluence: At Montoso Campground, trails lead down to where the Red River meets the Rio Grande. According to a camper, "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."
Enjoy mountain biking routes: The Wild Rivers Recreation Area provides paved roads perfect for family cycling. As one visitor notes, "Great bicycling for kids on nicely paved roads. One loop is above the Red River and you can hike down to the confluence of the 2 wild rivers."
Visit nearby cultural attractions: Taos Monte Bello RV Park provides a convenient base for exploring. The owner "gave us local info and maps of points of interest, restaurants and activities," and "The Taos plaza is about 15 minutes away and there is plenty to do."
Explore nearby ski areas: Camp in Arroyo Seco and visit Taos Ski Valley in warmer months. "GPS will bring you to the bottom of the road to the Ski Valley. There are campsites all along the lower part of the road," with "great hikes nearby & close to Arroyo Seco for a good market too."
What campers like
Sites along rivers: Junebug Campground offers waterfront camping. "We stayed at site 14. Only a mile from town," reports one visitor, while another enjoyed that "We did have river access at our site. Camp host was great."
Dispersed camping privacy: Campers appreciate the isolation in areas like Arroyo Seco. "I car-camped here just before Labor Day weekend and while it wasn't the most private camping area, I was able to snag a spot along the river and had a nice time."
Clean facilities: Campground hosts maintain facilities well across the area. At Cuchilla Campground, "The spot was clean and easy to get to in the truck or for most standard vehicles. The dogs had a great time but in the fall and winter pack as warm as possible."
Proximity to breweries: Several campgrounds are located near craft breweries. Hotel Luna Mystica has "a brewery literally right next to the campground," and "Across the road from the campground is the Taos Mesa Brewery where you can get amazing craft beers and some great food."
What you should know
Limited cellular connectivity: Reception varies significantly throughout the area. At Columbine Campground, "We had a little trouble making a reservation as they don't currently accept online reservations and getting ahold of them via phone or email took constant attempts."
Campground crowding: Some areas have become increasingly popular. "This Red River area has been taken over by groups from Texas and Oklahoma primarily. Large groups with multiple campers book up the sites and then put up canopies and tables for large parties."
Weather shifts: Prepare for temperature swings and precipitation. "Surprise! The weather went from day-time highs in the 60's to blizzard conditions with overnight lows in the teens," reported one camper at Hotel Luna Mystica.
Reservation considerations: Many sites fill quickly during peak seasons. "We came on a Tuesday and there were only 2 other cars here. Drive further down the campground road for more isolated locations," advised a visitor about dispersed camping areas.
Tips for camping with families
Find creekside spots for natural entertainment: Taos Valley RV Park & Campground offers sites with running water nearby. "I camp in my car, so this area was really nice for that, the ground is mostly gravel and not much space between the camp sites, probably not as enjoyable as a tent camper. I still felt cozy and safe here though."
Look for campgrounds with playgrounds: Some developed areas have dedicated children's facilities. "There is a dump station, a dishwashing area, bathrooms with very hot showers, a playground, and office."
Consider group-friendly sites: Multiple areas accommodate larger family gatherings. "There are several pull-thru sites for big rigs, many back-in sites with water/elec. hookups, and some tent sites in the back of the campground."
Time your visits around school breaks: School schedules impact campground noise levels. "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."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: Hotel Luna Mystica offers designated RV areas. "There's lots of room here for dozens of campers, vans and RV's. There are no trees or shade structures in the dry camping area, just a few randomly placed fire rings."
Hookup availability: Investigate services before arrival. "Sites were quite level and hookups are easy access. There are both full hookup sites and water and electric only sites; there is an RV dump."
Mind your clearance on forest roads: Access routes can present challenges. "We pulled our 19' RV with solar right up to the river and our dog was in and out of the river all day. The state seems to have a litter problem in general, so prepare to pickup some trash to make your campsite home."
Space between sites: Layout varies considerably between campgrounds. "The spaces are wide and angled enough to allow for great views! There are no trees, so you will be using your AC and awning when it's hot out."
