Camping in Santa Fe National Forest spans elevations from 5,300 to 13,000 feet, creating diverse camping conditions across the region. Most equestrian campgrounds sit at 8,000+ feet elevation, resulting in temperature drops to the 40s even during summer nights. The forest contains over 1,000 miles of trails, many accessible to horse riders.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: The Rio Chama area offers excellent equestrian access with multiple riverside trails. "Chama canyon is our weekend go-to place. Only 2 hrs from Albuquerque. Many campsites available (some are dispersed) along the river," notes one visitor to Rio Chama Campground.
Stargazing at high elevations: The minimal light pollution makes this area ideal for night sky viewing. At Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site, campers report exceptional night skies: "This is a Dark Sky Sanctuary. You can clearly see the Milky Way. No light pollution except the beautiful view of the city far away," writes Lauren I.
Wildlife viewing: Many campgrounds offer opportunities to see wild horses, birds, and other animals. "We spent one night in our class c while on our trip to Miami and yeah the road is to be taken slow but it was worth it! There is a tiny art gallery on the side of the road!" mentions Lily C. about Top of New Mexico, where wild horses frequently visit campsites.
What campers like
Natural water features: Many campsites are positioned alongside creeks and rivers that provide both recreation and ambiance. At Santa Barbara Campground, "All sites are close enough to the river to hear it from a tent. The site has drinking water and pit toilets, but no cell service," according to Jacqueline D.
Well-maintained horse facilities: Several campgrounds cater specifically to equestrians with appropriate facilities. "Great hiking trail leads into Pecos wilderness, another trail leads up to Indian lake. Trailhead is right in the campground, so hike right from your campsite," writes Robin T. about Agua Piedra Campground.
Forest density and shade: The mature pine and aspen forests provide natural cooling during summer months. At Fenton Lake State Park Campground, "We liked spots number 1 and 17 for tent camping. Nice hikes along the creek. Getting a fishing spot may be hard to find sometimes as the small lake is usually circled with people fishing," shares James F.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many horse campgrounds require navigating rough forest roads. "Road isn't terrible going up, saw many 2WD vehicles. Good amount of spots but many have no shade/not level," notes Nathan M. about Iron Gate Campground.
Seasonal closures: Most higher elevation campgrounds close during winter months, typically operating May through October. "There is a burn notice in effect in May, which was lifted for our June trip - probably because the significant afternoon hail storms on the first two days of our trip nicely saturated everything!" reports Nicole B. about Fenton Lake.
Wildlife interactions: Cattle and wildlife frequently move through campgrounds. "We stayed one night while traveling to North Dakota. Woke up in the morning to a heard of wild horses moving through the area. Google/Apple directions should not be used, they take you to a locked gate," warns Taz G. about Top of New Mexico.
Tips for camping with families
Choose loop-based campgrounds: Some campgrounds feature multiple loops with different characteristics. At Fenton Lake, "Loop 2 - there's a playground next to site 14 and this is a GREAT loop for folks with kids. If you're not a kid person, you'd probably prefer a different loop," advises Nicole B.
Fishing access: Many campgrounds provide easy access to stocked fishing areas ideal for children. "Plenty of sites with tables and grills. This definitely isn't a campsite as they close at sundown so no camping. The fishing is okay here. Better if you have a small boat or kayak and can get further from the shore," explains Lane L. about Fenton Lake.
Weather preparedness: Mountain weather can change rapidly, especially at higher elevations. At Fenton Lake, campers experience "day time temps of 70s - 80s and nighttime drops to the low 40s. There was a burn notice in effect in May, which was lifted for our June trip," according to Nicole B.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most horse campgrounds near Santa Fe National Forest have restrictions on RV length. "Absolutely do not try to take a camper of any size to this campground unless it's a legit overland type tear or squaredrop, ideally with an articulating hitch," warns Dorrs T. about Iron Gate Campground.
Electric options: Limited electric hookups exist in this region. At Ghost Ranch, "RV spots with hookups are $45 a night! Most guests stay in housing/lodging, so the ranch has a dining hall that serves three meals a day," mentions Mike B.
Seasonal availability: Most higher-elevation campgrounds have limited seasons and services. "Campground is at 8,000 feet of elevation, prepare for cold nights and intermittent rain, hail, and high winds, even during the 'summer' season," notes Nicole B. about Fenton Lake.
