Best Tent Camping near Truchas, NM

Tent camping near Truchas, New Mexico provides access to several established campgrounds within the Carson National Forest and Santa Fe National Forest. Trampas Trailhead Campground offers free primitive tent sites with access to hiking trails, while Panchuela Campground provides walk-in tent sites from May to November. Cowles Campground, located in Pecos, features creekside tent camping with partial shade throughout the day. Trampas Medio Campground, situated about a quarter mile from the Trampas Lakes trailhead, offers 3-4 tent sites along the Rio de las Trampas, though access requires crossing a stream that can run 18-24 inches deep during summer months.

Most tent campgrounds in the area provide basic amenities including vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables. Potable water is limited, with many sites requiring campers to filter water from nearby streams. The camping season typically runs from May through November, as winter brings heavy snowfall with drifts reaching 3-5 feet. Fire restrictions are common during dry summer months. Tent campsites at Big Tesuque Campground feature designated tent pads but limited space, requiring careful planning for larger groups. Backcountry tent camping is available via several trailheads, including the Cave Creek Trail which offers a moderate 2.8-mile hike to primitive camping areas.

The tent camping experience near Truchas is characterized by mountain streams, aspen groves, and access to high-elevation hiking. According to reviews, Big Tesuque Campground is "perfect for tent camping" with each site featuring a picnic table and tent pad, though sites fill quickly on weekends. One visitor to Panchuela Campground noted that "all backpacking tent sites" cost $5 per night with "gorgeous views," but warned the campground books completely on weekends. Campers should prepare for chilly nights even in summer months, with temperatures dropping significantly after sunset. The area's creeks provide natural white noise for sleeping but are typically too cold for comfortable swimming even in July.

Best Tent Sites Near Truchas, New Mexico (37)

    1. Trampas Trailhead Campground

    2 Reviews
    Llano, NM
    8 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..."

    2. Big Tesuque Campground

    10 Reviews
    Tesuque, NM
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (505) 753-7331

    "- 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"

    "If you're tent camping, Big Tesuque is AMAZING!! It's small, but absolutely beautiful. Each site has a picknick table and a tent pad. There are basic toilets. No showers, no sinks."

    3. Aspen Basin Campground

    5 Reviews
    Tesuque, NM
    17 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. Trampas Medio Campground

    1 Review
    Llano, NM
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (505) 438-5300

    5. Panchuela Campground and Trailhead

    3 Reviews
    Tererro, NM
    17 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. Taos Junction Campground

    6 Reviews
    Carson, NM
    21 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!"

    7. Cowles Campground

    2 Reviews
    Tererro, NM
    18 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."

    10. Hodges Camp

    Be the first to review!
    Llano, NM
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 587-2255
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Showing results 1-10 of 37 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Truchas, NM

784 Reviews of 37 Truchas Campgrounds



Guide to Truchas

Nestled in the stunning landscapes of New Mexico, Truchas offers a variety of tent camping options that cater to outdoor enthusiasts looking for adventure and tranquility.

Tent campers appreciate these amenities

  • The Big Tesuque Campground features picnic tables and fire rings, perfect for cozy evenings under the stars.
  • At Taos Junction Campground, campers can enjoy clean toilets and drinking water, ensuring a comfortable stay.
  • Aspen Basin Campground offers a peaceful setting with plenty of shade from towering trees, ideal for relaxing after a day of exploration.

Tent campers like these nearby activities

  • Hiking enthusiasts will love the trails accessible from Panchuela Campground and Trailhead, which lead to breathtaking views and local caves.
  • Fishing is a popular pastime at Cowles Campground, where families can enjoy the nearby fishing ponds.
  • For those seeking adventure, Trampas Trailhead Campground provides access to stunning hiking trails and mountain views, making it a great base for outdoor activities.

Explore the natural beauty of the area

  • The scenic drive to Big Tesuque Campground takes you through the picturesque Santa Fe National Forest, offering stunning vistas along the way.
  • Taos Junction Campground is located near the Rio Grande, providing opportunities for swimming and enjoying the river's beauty.
  • The tranquil environment at Aspen Basin Campground allows for peaceful hikes and the chance to immerse yourself in nature's serenity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Truchas, NM?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Truchas, NM is Trampas Trailhead Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 2 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Truchas, NM?

TheDyrt.com has all 37 tent camping locations near Truchas, NM, with real photos and reviews from campers.