Cimarron Canyon State Park consists of several campgrounds located at elevations around 8,000 feet along Highway 64 between Cimarron and Taos. The canyon features limestone palisades rising dramatically alongside the Cimarron River, creating a distinct microclimate that remains cool even during summer months. Winter camping requires preparation for overnight temperatures that frequently drop below freezing, with snow possible from October through May.
What to do
Fishing the stocked ponds: Shuree Ponds in the Valle Vidal section of Carson National Forest offers specialized fishing opportunities with specific regulations. "The smaller [pond] was reserved for kids's fishing. Both are classified as 'Green Chile' waters so only flies or artificial lures with a single, barbless hook are allowed. 2 fish limit," notes Stephen K. about Cimarron Campground.
Hiking Clear Creek Trail: Located near Tolby Campground, this family-friendly trail provides moderate terrain suitable for beginners. "Clear creek hiking trail is a short drive away and was a beautiful and totally doable 3 mile trail for our 3 young girls," reports Tony M. from Tolby Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The meadows and forests around Eagle Nest Lake support diverse wildlife populations. "Prairie dogs, deer, and birds abound," mentions alexa about Eagle Nest Lake State Park, making it ideal for animal enthusiasts bringing pets who need to remain leashed around wildlife.
What campers like
Natural water sounds: Many campsites offer proximity to streams, enhancing the camping experience. "The river is directly behind us so you can hear that babbling brook sound - I love that!" shares Tammy C. about her experience at Ponderosa Campground. "The sounds of rushing water, the birds and frogs chirping, and the elk walking through--it's really special right now!" adds Meghan B. about springtime conditions at Forest Road 5.
Stargazing opportunities: The high elevation and limited light pollution create ideal night sky viewing. "The sky was beautiful at night with the milky way visible," reports James F. about camping at Eagle Nest Lake State Park. Another camper at Cimarron Campground describes it as "quiet and peaceful with amazing stargazing at night."
Campsite privacy: Some locations offer more seclusion than others. "The campsites were large and surrounded by trees," notes Stephen K. about Cimarron Campground. For tent campers seeking seclusion at Blackjack Tent Area, site #30 was described as "probably the other best one as it was in the back and last camp site and right next to the water."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly across the region. "No cell service at the camp site but a short 5 min drive back to the first cattle guard allowed for service to multiple cell providers," advises drew about Cimarron Campground. At Maverick Campground, campers report the sites are "clean, quiet and right off the road."
Distance to supplies: The remote location requires advance planning. "You will need to bring everything you need. There are not any stores really close by, you will have to go to Cimarron or Eagle Nest to stock on supplies if you are missing anything and they can be 30 minutes away," cautions Ricky B. "The nearest gas station is about a half hour ride away," adds another camper.
Weather variability: The mountain climate brings unpredictable conditions. "It rained only in the afternoons but everyday," reports Jade T. about summer conditions. Another camper experienced "80s in the day and 50s at night which is amazing," demonstrating the significant daily temperature swings typical of high-elevation camping.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly fishing spots: Special fishing areas are designated specifically for younger anglers. "The smaller [pond] was reserved for kids's fishing," mentions Stephen K. about the Shuree Ponds near Cimarron Campground, making it easier for families to introduce children to fishing with less competition.
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer recreational facilities for children. "They have an arrangement that allows campers to use recreational facilities in town such as the pool. Walk around the lake, rent a canoe, kids activities (bungie bouncing, rock climbing)," explains Colorado C. about staying at Angel Fire RV Resort.
Family-appropriate trails: Several hiking options accommodate children of various ages. "We hiked near Shuree Ponds and camped between Ash Mountain and Little Castillo Peak," shares Dusty G., adding that "water was plentiful as the streams and creeks were rapid with snow melt," providing natural attractions for children to explore.
Tips from RVers
Boondocking considerations: RVers planning to dry camp should prepare accordingly. "First time dry camping and it was great with no problems," reports Todd about Eagle Nest Lake State Park. "No power, no sewer, pit toilets," adds another RVer, emphasizing the need for self-sufficiency.
Site selection at Ponderosa: The parking-lot style layout at Ponderosa offers different advantages depending on location. "If you are on the side with the river, the river is nice but then the road is right there. If you are on the side of the hill you have more privacy but no barrier between you and your neighbor," advises Laura H.
Full hookup options: For those requiring full services, Angel Nest RV Retreat provides year-round accessibility with pet-friendly policies. "Nice place! Great views! It's a quite place with a gathering hall to watch TV or charge your devices if need be," shares Jeremy S. about this pet-friendly camping option near Ute Park.
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