Best Tent Camping near Santa Fe National Forest

Santa Fe National Forest is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Discover great camping spots near Santa Fe National Forest, reviewed by campers like you.

Best Tent Sites Near Santa Fe National Forest (23)

    1. American Springs

    3 Reviews
    Los Alamos, NM
    10 miles

    "Any SUV could handle it but being in an extended length van limits where I can go. Very peaceful with a nice view down the canyon. Elk grazing below were the cherry on top."

    "We camped close to the entrance. We explored and found some amazing sites further back"

    2. Big Tesuque Campground

    9 Reviews
    Tesuque, NM
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (505) 753-7331

    "12 miles uphill drive into the Santa Fe National Forest, just past million dollar mansions in Santa Fe. Easy access, just drive up and park. Multiple tent camp sites with fire pit and picnic table.  "

    "- Nice babbling brook alongside campsites, fun for kids to play in (COLD, but shallow), and makes for great white noise.

    • Convenient to Santa Fe (20-25 min from downtown)
    • drive up the mountain 4"

    3. Aspen Basin Campground

    5 Reviews
    Tesuque, NM
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (505) 753-7331

    "Coming from Texas, I almost turned around to go back home with only 4 hours left of my drive because I was so terrified."

    "Most campers pitch tent in the wooded area in the center of the parking lot - this is off the west end of the parking lot. Wonderful trails and you get to camp right in the middle of an aspen grove."

    4. Road 378, Fenton Lake - Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    Jemez Springs, NM
    28 miles
    Website

    "The road is a bit rough, but easy access and close enough to the lake that I drove over to kayak after setting up camp."

    "This campsite is beautiful and right next to the lake. Perfect for some chill camping. There are multiple clearing along this road. Each one is big enough for several cars and even a couple groups."

    5. Panchuela Campground and Trailhead

    3 Reviews
    Tererro, NM
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (505) 757-6121

    "We drove out to the Pecos Wildness and decided to backpack a trail called Cave Creek, this is a mild trail about 2.8 miles in and 2.8 out."

    "Campsite is situated at the Cave Creek trailhead, a cool hike to some local caves. It's 5 bucks for the night, 2 dollars day use, all backpacking tent sites. Some shelters."

    6. Cowles Campground

    2 Reviews
    Tererro, NM
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (505) 757-6121

    "Stay limit: 14 days

    This spot really has a lot to offer. There are trees on one side, a creek on the other, and 2 sites with shelters directly next to the parking lot."

    "Cowles campground in the Pecos Wilderness area is a launching point for the Windsor Trail which travels alongside beautiful Windsor Creek to Stewart Lake and Pecos Falls."

    7. Trampas Trailhead Campground

    2 Reviews
    Llano, NM
    32 miles
    Website
    +1 (505) 632-2956

    "The Trampas Trailhead campground gets 4 stars not because it's a great campground (it's good, don't get me wrong) but because it provides great access to an amazing trail."

    "Wonderful trails and mountain views, I have been there 2 times in the last 10 years..."

    8. Star Dance

    1 Review
    Youngsville, NM
    32 miles
    Website
    +1 (505) 901-2936

    10. Taos Junction Campground

    6 Reviews
    Carson, NM
    42 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 758-8851

    "They have nice grills at the tent sites along 28th tables. Bathrooms were nice and clean and a close walk. With lots to do including fish and hiking trails. We look forward to going back."

    "The shelter provides nice shade. Bugs & dust were only real drawback. Oh, and it was hot!"

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Showing results 1-10 of 23 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Santa Fe National Forest

700 Reviews of 23 Santa Fe National Forest Campgrounds



Guide to Santa Fe National Forest

Tent camping near Santa Fe National Forest in New Mexico offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures, making it a perfect getaway for nature enthusiasts.

Explore Scenic Trails and Natural Beauty

  • The Big Tesuque Campground is nestled in a national forest, providing access to beautiful trails and a picturesque babbling brook, ideal for family fun.
  • At Aspen Basin Campground, campers can enjoy the serene beauty of aspen trees and nearby streams, perfect for day hikes and relaxation.
  • Panchuela Campground and Trailhead offers breathtaking views and is situated at the Cave Creek trailhead, leading to local caves and scenic hikes.

Family-Friendly Amenities

  • Cowles Campground features sites with picnic tables and access to a creek, making it a great spot for families looking to enjoy nature together.
  • At Aspen Basin Campground, visitors can find ample shade and beautiful surroundings, perfect for a peaceful family camping experience.
  • The Big Tesuque Campground provides picnic tables and fire rings, allowing families to enjoy meals and campfires under the stars.

Unique Camping Experiences

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Santa Fe National Forest?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Santa Fe National Forest is American Springs with a 4.7-star rating from 3 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Santa Fe National Forest?

TheDyrt.com has all 23 tent camping locations near Santa Fe National Forest, with real photos and reviews from campers.