The Tierra Amarilla area sits at approximately 7,500 feet elevation in northern New Mexico, where summer temperatures typically range from 45°F to 85°F. Camping options extend beyond RV parks into nearby locations with cabin rentals and tent sites that accommodate various camping styles. The region experiences afternoon thunderstorms during summer months, particularly in July and August.
What to do
River activities: Visitors to Chama River RV Park & Cooper's El Vado Ranch can enjoy fishing on the property or access quality waters within walking distance. "Always a family favorite. No phones (a short ten minute drive if you need it), just fishing and family fun. Large property, fun to walk, hike and the Chama river is beautiful with fishing on the property," notes one camper.
Train watching: The historic narrow-gauge railroad provides entertainment for campers at Rio Chama RV Park. "The Cumbres & Toltec steam train goes by the campground twice a day at the trestle. The Rio Chama flows along the edge of the campground," reports a visitor. Many campers plan their stay around train schedules to maximize viewing opportunities.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings offer excellent opportunities to spot local fauna. "I loved waking up in the morning to see 6 deer grazing outside my window," shares a camper at Pagosa Pines RV Park. Bird watching is particularly rewarding during spring and fall migration periods when hummingbirds are abundant.
What campers like
River access: The sound of flowing water enhances the camping experience at The Last Resort RV Park & Campground. "The tent sites are separated from the RV sites in a forested area along the river. We shared a campsite on the river that had lots of trees and plenty of room for two tents and a canopy... The sound of the river is soothing and there was very little sound from the road."
Shaded sites: Mature trees provide essential cooling during summer months. "Sky Mountain is nestled in a grove of Cottonwood and Spruce trees next to Rio Chama. Each site is spacious with plenty of room to move around," according to a visitor at Sky Mountain Resort RV Park.
Cleanliness: Well-maintained facilities receive consistent praise. "The park was clean, and the staff was very friendly. RV sites on the river seemed close together, but the sites next to the mountain felt more private," notes a camper at Pagosa Springs RV Park & Cabins.
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies significantly by provider and specific location. "No Verizon cell service and very poor Wifi. If you truly enjoy your peace and quiet this is the spot for you," reports a camper at The Last Resort RV Park & Campground. Some campgrounds offer wifi, but reliability and range fluctuate.
Mosquitoes: Proximity to rivers creates ideal conditions for insects, especially during warmer months. "I'm new to camping but there was a ton of mosquitoes I think because it's right by a river," warns a visitor to Rio Chama RV Park. Bug spray with DEET is considered essential equipment during summer.
Seasonal operations: Many rv campgrounds near Tierra Amarilla, New Mexico close during winter months. "They have full RV hook ups in the loop and partial hook up by the river... They are open year round," notes a reviewer about The Last Resort, one of the few year-round options.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Pagosa Springs RV Park & Cabins offers family-friendly amenities. "Great family atmosphere, you even get free ice cream. Very friendly and helpful staff. Fresh eggs available for sale on site," mentions a visitor. Several campgrounds provide recreational facilities designed specifically for children.
Wildlife encounters: Smaller campgrounds often feature resident animals that delight younger campers. "There are often horses (and a goat) on the property and plenty of space to take a nice walk. This year, we saw a lot of Canada geese and there are also chickens and ducks," shares a camper at The Last Resort.
Boat access: Water activities provide family entertainment options. "Grassy Point campground offers an impressive boat ramp for lake access," notes a visitor to Grassy Point Campground at El Vado Lake State Park. Family fishing licenses can be purchased at local stores or online prior to arrival.
Tips from RVers
Spacing considerations: Site dimensions and privacy levels vary between campgrounds. "Spaces are Huge lots of room to roam. Full hookups 50/30amp. No wifi but very good Verizon and AT&T service," reports a camper at Twin Rivers RV Park & Campground regarding their setup for motorhomes.
Accessibility challenges: Some RV campgrounds in Tierra Amarilla, New Mexico have challenging entry points. "My only complaint was with the entry—the park is tucked behind a business and you have to cross the lot to get to the entrance/exit. It, like many places in Pagosa Springs, was full of potholes, giving my trailer a good bit of bounce coming and going," warns a Pagosa Pines visitor.
Off-season advantages: Visiting during shoulder seasons offers improved availability and quieter conditions. "We are here in the off season, so very few campers. A beautiful area," notes a camper at Grassy Point Campground, highlighting the benefits of early spring or late fall visits.
