Primitive tent campsites near Taos Ski Valley, New Mexico offer access to the Rio Grande and several tributary creeks at elevations ranging from 7,500 to 9,000 feet. Winter camping options are severely limited as snowfall can block access to most areas from November through April. Sites along Highway 150 typically open earlier in spring due to lower elevation and more direct sun exposure.
What to do
Hiking to Hidden Lakes: Access Heart Lake from Cabresto Lake Campground via a challenging 9-mile round trip trail. "Can hike to Heart Lake. 9 mile round trip hike. Saw quite a few backpackers," notes Karen N., who recommends bringing proper hiking gear for the elevation changes.
Fishing in Mountain Waters: Fish for trout in the clear waters at higher elevation sites. At Cabresto Lake, campers report good fishing conditions throughout summer. As Lisa C. describes, "The water was so clear, you could see to the bottom in most parts of the tiny lake. The marsh on the east end provided plenty of bugs and worms for bait. The lake provided enough trout for a dinner."
Whitewater Adventures: La Junta - Wild Rivers Rec Area offers access to whitewater rafting on 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," explains Irene L. The steep trails down to the confluence require good footwear and physical fitness.
What campers like
River Sounds: Campers consistently mention the pleasant sounds of flowing water at Cuchilla Campground. Jason A. explains, "We pulled our 19' RV with solar right up to the river and our dog was in and out of the river all day." Sites positioned directly along the water are most coveted and fill quickly during summer weekends.
Spacious Sites: At Enchanted Circle Campground, campers appreciate the private, well-spaced sites. James F. notes, "The spaces are relatively far apart so you feel like you are the only people in the vicinity. The property has an outdoor family games area, two private ponds that you can fish in, and the owners animals that sometimes roam the property."
Affordability: Free camping at dispersed sites along the Rio Hondo makes the area budget-friendly. "Dispersed camping along the road (though it's not a busy one, especially not at night so not noisy) right on the river. First comes first served with mostly tenting spaces," writes Shavit L. about Arroyo Seco camping areas, which offer many spots throughout the canyon.
What you should know
Vehicle Requirements: The road to Cabresto Lake Campground requires high-clearance vehicles. Lila L. advises, "So... luckily we have Jeep. The road up to the lake is pretty rocky so we had to air down our tires so that we don't get back aches after our day 4x4 goose lake trail getaway. The road is not tricky but just too many sharp rocks/pebbles."
Seasonal Closures: Winter camping is impractical in most areas. Jacob S. describes conditions at Lower Hondo Campground: "I do want to reiterate what someone already said about the winter and snow season. Unless you have a plow it's not accessible as the drifts do reach about 5ft+."
Limited Privacy: Many sites along Highway 150 offer minimal separation between campers. Jacqueline L. notes about Arroyo Seco camping, "It's not truly 'dispersed' camping because there aren't many sites and your pretty close to your neighbors."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-Friendly Animal Viewing: Enchanted Circle Campground offers opportunities for children to interact with farm animals. Joel H. explains, "My daughter would come back for the pigs, goats, horses, cats, chipmunks, prairie dogs, and assorted other animals as well."
Water Play Areas: Melissa J. recommends Arroyo Seco dispersed camping for families with pets and children: "There are so many campsites to choose from, all along the Hondo Rio. It's peaceful and quiet. We brought our four dogs and 13 year old. There's so much to do to keep them busy. The dogs love the river and to run through it."
Level Ground for Tents: Scout for flat tent sites, particularly at higher elevations. David L. observed at Cabresto Lake: "The campsites here are undeveloped but there are picnic tables. Also most of the sites are on some sort of slope."
Tips from RVers
Solar Power Options: Arroyo Seco Dispersed NF Camping has spots suitable for solar-powered RVs. Jason A. shares his experience: "We pulled our 19' RV with solar right up to the river and our dog was in and out of the river all day." Solar panels work well in this area due to consistent sun exposure in summer months.
Smaller RVs Only: Most camping areas can only accommodate smaller trailers and RVs. Madeleine H. advises, "Dirt road but we did it with no problem with our 24ft trailer. Make sure you go all the way to the coordinates as there are a ton of great spots off to the left of the road, plenty of room to spread out and some solidly flat spots."
Overnight Temperature Drops: Even in summer, prepare for significant temperature drops after sunset. Michael N. cautions, "In the fall and winter pack as warm as possible." Temperature differences between day and night can exceed 30 degrees, even during summer months.
