Tent camping near Truchas, New Mexico offers outdoor experiences at elevations between 8,000-10,000 feet within the Carson and Santa Fe National Forests. The camping season typically runs May through October, with La Junta Canyon sites accessible until the first significant snowfall closes forest roads. Water crossings can become challenging during monsoon season, with some campground access requiring stream crossings up to 24 inches deep.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Cowles Campground, campers can access nearby fishing ponds specifically designated for different users. "A short walk takes you to the fishing ponds (one specifically for kids and disabled folks) which were really cool for the kids," notes Carrie S., who adds that the walk has "at least 1 technical spot," so those with mobility issues should consider "walking on the road or driving to the pond."
River access: Taos Junction Campground provides direct access to the Rio Grande for water activities. According to Christy L., "The best part about camping here is you can kayak down the river. We always rent from a local rafting business. The tour guides have never failed to impress. They are only 15 minutes from the camp ground." Jennifer H. adds, "Very cheap only $6 to camp all ages all year... With lots to do including fish and hiking trails."
Cave exploration: For those interested in geological features, the Cave Creek Trail near Panchuela Campground leads to fascinating cave formations. Abraham notes, "Campsite is situated at the Cave Creek trailhead, a cool hike to some local caves." Naythin H. shares that the trail is "about 2.8 miles in and 2.8 out," describing it as "a mild trail" though warns that even with this easier route, carrying full camping gear made the hike challenging.
What campers like
Creek sounds: Many campers appreciate the natural white noise from streams running through campgrounds. At Big Tesuque Campground, C.J. L. mentions a "nice babbling brook alongside campsites, fun for kids to play in (COLD, but shallow), and makes for great white noise." Bailey B. confirms this appeal, noting "I loved it because it was next to a little river and the sites are so spaced out!"
Wildlife viewing: The region offers chances to spot native wildlife. At Taos Junction, gypsy carpenter D. reports seeing "big horn sheep elk" and notes the "breathtaking views." Tyler R. adds that swimming in the Rio Grande was "cold but worth the swim" during their stay.
Winter camping options: Some campgrounds remain accessible year-round, offering unique winter experiences. Jorge G. visited Big Tesuque in early December and found it "fantastic. Easy to access. Road is paved all the way and regularly plowed during the cold seasons... we had the place to ourselves during the week."
What you should know
Site availability: Competition for sites increases on weekends, particularly at popular campgrounds. At Trampas Trailhead Campground, Damon T. notes it provides "great access to an amazing trail" and describes it as "a 'short' 2 hours from Albuquerque to the trailhead, so I was able to get up there on a Friday night after work for a Saturday/Sunday overnight at the lakes."
Vehicle access considerations: Some campgrounds have access limitations. Trampas Medio Campground requires crossing the Rio de las Trampas, which Damon T. reports "was running about 18"-24"" in July. He advises that coming from FR 639 "requires a high-clearance vehicle and good shocks, and if it's been wet you may encounter serious mud."
Weather preparation: Even in summer, temperatures drop significantly at night. At Big Tesuque, C.J. L. advises "Chilly, even in July, just FYI, come prepared." Brett B. experienced unexpected conditions, reporting "It snowed heavily, but that only added to the beauty! I didn't realize the elevation here was nearly 10,000 ft, so we were affected slightly by altitude sickness while unloading our gear."
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-friendly water features: Aspen Basin Campground offers water play opportunities for children. Sarah L. shares, "I've never felt so at peace. The sites were so clean, vaulted toilets clean. And the hikes... was it even real??" Jake J. notes "there's a river that runs right through camp which was a bonus for us!"
Consider space constraints: Some campsites have limited space for larger families. At Big Tesuque, C.J. L. reports "campsite tent pads are small/limited. Our family of 6 usually would use 3 small tents, but had to limit ourselves to 2, so everyone was squeezed together."
Plan for walk-in camping: Many sites require carrying gear from parking areas. C.J. L. describes Big Tesuque as "essential hike in, uphill, have to carry your gear. The further in your campsite, the more hiking you will do (we chose one close to the parking lot, but sacrificed privacy)."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: The best tent camping near Truchas is primarily geared toward smaller setups. At Trampas Medio Campground, Damon T. explains it "seems to be a favorite for folks bringing truck-bed or tow-behind campers, ATVs and motorbikes" rather than large RVs. The campground has "3-4 campsites. Though there's not a ton of separation between the sites, you're not on top of each other."
Alternative locations: Larger RVs should consider established campgrounds with proper facilities. At Cowles Campground, Warren K. notes that while "camping is fairly unstructured," there are "several campgrounds nearby, if you get there on the 4th of July and all the sites are full."
Parking constraints: Limited parking affects RV accessibility. Carrie S. observes at Cowles Campground that "2 cars are allowed per site. The parking lot is small, so that was interesting" and adds that the "$6 per night" sites have a "stay limit: 14 days."
