Best Tent Camping near Vadito, NM
Searching for a tent camping spot near Vadito? The Dyrt is an easy way to find tent camping spots near Vadito. Each tent site offers quick access to one or more of Vadito, New Mexico's most popular destinations.
Best Tent Sites Near Vadito, New Mexico (36)
1. Taos Junction Campground
6 Reviews•7 Photos•129 SavesCarson, New Mexico- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Drinking Water
2. Enchanted Circle Campground E<< - #1 Campground in NM
7 Reviews•29 Photos•78 SavesAngel Fire, New MexicoPLEASE READ ALL OF THE DESCRIPTIONS OF EACH SITE BEFORE YOU BOOK. NOT ALL SITES ARE ACCESSIBLE TO RVs.
PLEASE READ…
Nestled in the Carson National Forest@ 9000ft in the Sangre de Cristo mountains in the southern region of the Colorado Rockies lies Enchanted Circle Campgrounds. E<< is a quiet, exclusive, totally unique, primitive campground that generally has open camping sites during the camping season of May 1st until October 31st.
E<< was Voted #1 Campground in NM for 2020, 2021, and 2022." Number #4 in the Country by Forbes!
There are 7 Private campsites.
Site#1: This is the smallest campsite, but it overlooks the valley and lakes and is most often the favorite. It is not large enough for any camper beside teardrops, popups, and anything smaller than 16 ft. It is best served as a tent site.
Site#2: is located in the middle of the ranch. It is one of the larger of the spots and perfect for campers and trailers. It overlooks the valley and has 2 fire pits and hammocks. A great site for more than one trailer or RV. It is also easily accessible.
Site#3: It is the most remote. It sits on top of a pretty large cliff system that the Ute Indians actually lived in and has some of the best views. It is on top of a cliff though and is not the best fit for groups with small children. TRAILERS CANNOT GET TO SITE 3, due to tight turns.
Spot 4. This spot is great for larger groups. It is the furthest spot from the gate. It is nestled in the middle of a valley full of Aspens. There are Hammocks, giant fire pits, pergolas, Log Benches, and plenty of space to explore.
Spot 5. It is the flattest spot on the entire ranch, and the easiest to access. This spot is our stargazer site, it has the biggest views and is the most open site@ECC. There are trees, but it is mainly the sky. This site was built and intended for Large RVs and Motor Homes larger than 34 ft. But, If it is available, feel free to book it whether or not you are in a tent or RV.
Spot 6 was also built for Larger Rvs Or larger Groups with multiple tents. It is also very accessible to Motorhomes and large units. It is a mix of all of the environments we have here, with Big skies, Big trees, big views, and great privacy.
Spot 7 is Identical to spot 6. Big RVs, Big Skies, Big Views. Easy accessibility.
Spot 8 is only accessible to tents. It is the newest and most remote site. Surrounded by forest it is tucked away and feels the wildest.
At ECC, you are surrounded by trees and wildlife no matter what spot you choose. Each spot usually has a campfire grill, cast iron skillet, dutch oven, coffee pot, grilling utensils, shovel, hatchet, trash can, hammocks, and other small necessities. With Covid 19, we have removed all of the cooking utensils, cast iron, and coffee pots. You will need to bring these items with you. We have also added handwashing stations and Antibacterial hand soap at each site. We are also Sanitizing the entire campsite after each checkout to ensure all of our guest Safety to the best of our abilities. Numerous trails wander their way through the pine forest, with many more hiking opportunities within a short drive. The Ranch has both long and short nature hikes that allow for views of local flora, fauna, and wheeler peak. We have too many to count, primitive and natural mountain bike trails, and many more to discover or trail blaze. We also offer Coleman 49CC mini bikes for rent by the day to explore all over the ranch. They are great fun.
ECC has 7 natural ground(underground) fed springs that run year-round. 3 spring-fed ponds, 2 of which are stocked with rainbow trout as well as native brown trout, and crawfish. The natives are very picky eaters and require more patience than I usually have. Many of our campers seem to have what it takes as they are caught often, but the rainbows bite on a few different things, you just have to find the right one, and then it's game on. We stock the ponds at the beginning of the season each year. You can keep what you catch, up to 2 per person per day. But, you are also more than welcome to catch and release as often as you like. We have just about every terrain here as well, from prairie and marshland to cliffs and mountainous forests. We have a little over 900 feet of elevation change on the ranch. We have numerous species of wildlife that call the ranch home. We have elk, mule deer, turkeys, bobcats, prairie dogs, beavers, bears, and the occasional mountain lion. We also have our horses, goats, pigs, and chickens free-roaming within the fenced ranch. It is really important to leave all objects you find on the land where you found them(bones, things at the sweat lodge, etc) because this is sacred land and we all need to respect that.
Our Ranch can accommodate individuals, families, and both large and small groups. We also love to support Veterans, LEO, and Emergency Services. We will cover one night, for up to 4 campers, for any of those professionals.
The biggest draw to ECC besides ECC itself is its proximity to Angel Fire and the Ski and Mountain Bike Resort. Located just 5 miles from Town. There is plenty of exploring to do both on the ranch and in town. We are also located within 15 minutes of 3 State Parks. Come check it out! It might just be your favorite secret spot.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- Tents
$75 / night
3. Arroyo Seco Dispersed NF Camping
7 Reviews•19 Photos•485 SavesValdez, New MexicoMany people enjoy the solitude and primitive experience of camping away from developed campgrounds and other campers. Dispersed camping is camping anywhere in the National Forest OUTSIDE of a designated campground. It means no services; such as trash removal, and little or no facilities; such as tables, fire pits and toilets are provided.
There are extra responsibilities and skills that are necessary for dispersed camping. It is your responsibility to know these before you try this new experience. Camping rules and regulations apply to make your experience safe, and to keep the natural resources scenic and unspoiled for other campers.
- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Group
- Dispersed
- Toilets
4. Big Tesuque Campground
9 Reviews•30 Photos•139 SavesTesuque, New MexicoBig Tesuque is a walk in campground not conducive to trailer or RV campoing. There are 10 units, Picnic tables and grills, and Vaulted toilets in the parking lot. There is no potable water and no Campground Host. The entire area is very scenic, and NM 475 is also designated as the Santa Fe Scenic Byway. Because of the large stands of aspen, the area is very busy, especially in the fall aspen viewing season. There are additional recreation opportunities along NM 475, both above and below Big Tesuque Campground, including hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, and in the winter. both nordic and alpine skiing. Tesuque is pronounced "Tess-U-key"
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Trash
5. Cuchilla Campground
6 Reviews•34 Photos•207 SavesValdez, New Mexico- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Picnic Table
- Toilets
6. Trampas Trailhead Campground
2 Reviews•5 Photos•192 SavesLlano, New Mexico- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Group
- Picnic Table
- Toilets
7. Capulin Campground
3 Reviews•16 Photos•21 SavesTaos, New MexicoPopular roadside area near La Sombra Campground and Shady Brook stores with access to Rio Fernando de Taos fishing and trail to "Ice Cave" waterfall
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Tent Cabin
$6 - $12 / night
8. Aspen Basin Campground
5 Reviews•18 Photos•190 SavesTesuque, New MexicoThe Aspen Basin Campground is located adjacent to the very large parking area at Santa Fe Ski Basin. There are 10 units, Picnic tables, and fire rings. There is a vaulted toilet at the far west end of the parking lot. This campground is less developed than most, and primarily serves those who use it for an overnight stay before embarking on a backpack into the Pecos. There is ample space for trailer/RV camping, but no dump station is available. There is no potable water and no Campground Host. The entire area is very scenic, and NM 475 is also designated as the Santa Fe Scenic Byway. Because of the scenic quality and the easy access from Santa Fe, the area is very busy, especially in the summer and in the fall aspen viewing season.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Tent Cabin
- Glamping
9. Panchuela Campground and Trailhead
3 Reviews•8 Photos•68 SavesTererro, New Mexico22 miles north of Pecos on NM 63. Uses: Camping, picnicking, and trailhead access. Facilities: Tent camping only, Vaulted toilet, Trash bins, Tables and grills, 3 three-sided shelters, 19 parking spaces, Drinking Water. Fishing in Cave Creek. Special Instructions: NO HORSE TRAILERS ALLOWED.
- Pets
- Tents
- Tent Cabin
- Glamping
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
10. Carson NF - Forest Service Road 578 - Dispersed Camping
5 Reviews•13 Photos•90 SavesCarson National Forest, New Mexico- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Equestrian
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
Recent Tent Reviews near Vadito, New Mexico
643 Reviews of 36 Vadito Campgrounds
- ttiffany T.
Traveler
Big Tesuque Campground
Simple beauty
12 miles uphill drive into the Santa Fe National Forest, just past million dollar mansions in Santa Fe. Easy access, just drive up and park. Multiple tent camp sites with fire pit and picnic table. Accessible to trails. Beautiful sunset views.
- PPatrick R.Traveler
Black Canyon Campground
Close to town but felt like way out in the woods.
As nice a campground as you could want and only be 15 minutes from center of town. The walk to tent camp sites are great, and a short walk. It was just myself when I stayed, looking for a place to sleep and break up drive from Phoenix to Denver. I would go back with family, but most weekends seem booked, so reserve when you can!
Damon T.
Guide
Cabresto Lake Campground
Beautiful area, but not much as far as camping
This place seems like more of a day use area that has some fire rings and picnic tables. As best we could tell, there weren't any great tent camp sites, so we just pulled up onto a ridge and dragged a table up. Perhaps better for campers & small RV's.
That said, the lake is gorgeous and there's a great hike up the riverbed.
Platinum P.
Scout
Santa Fe Treehouse Camp
Secluded with fantastic views!
andTreehouse camp is located on a mesa which offers 180 degree views. You feel secluded, yet only 30 minutes to Santa Fe and all it has to offer. There are a variety of camping scenarios from tent camp sites to rustic cabins in trees. Imagine having showers, toilets, electricity, full outdoor kitchen, and water at your disposable. Owners are extremely knowledgeable about outdoor everything, and natural healing concepts. We went in an RV
- KKathi V.Guide
Hyde Memorial State Park Campground
Dumpsite disaster area after rain/snow
We decided to take a late fall trip to CA and drag a 34' 5er up to Hyde memorial state park. Bad idea on many levels. First, you have to navigate through old Santa Fe to get to the entrance to the park. Narrow streets+a big 5th wheel+a huge F250= unfun drive which took well over an hour to get through just a few miles of roads due to the heavy traffic and numerous lights, plus the navigation required to get around very tight corners. We got to the RV part of the park and it was not crowded, but the spaces require some skill to back into and are NOT the slightest bit level, or wide. We managed.
The hiking around the park and campgrounds is amazing, but a bit challenging. We live at 8000 feet, so the altitude was not a problem for us, but if you are from sea level, be prepared to take your time and handle the altitude.
It snowed on Oct 31 and we had to dig out from 8+ inches of snow to get on the road on November 1. The dump station was filled with 6+ inches of mud/slush/water and we regrettably had to use it. It was a disgusting mess to say the least. To add insult to injury, we had to drive BACK through Old Santa Fe, in the snow.
My advice is to go IF you have a smaller trailer or 5th wheel, or are tent camping. The tent campground closed well before we arrived, so I can't add anything to the review on that.
It's a beautiful campground, but the RV area is small, close together spaces, difficult to get into and the dump station is the stuff RV nightmares are made of.
- Ali B.Scout
Santa Fe KOA
Pricey but safe and clean
As with many KOA’s a bit pricey but clean and reliable. Tent sites are near the road and are a bit dusty and noisy with road traffic. There is a current drought and requests to minimize water. One tent site is set apart - near a water holding area … not a great smell but away from the road. The smell they said is drought related.
Max M.Guide
Tolby Campground — Cimarron Canyon State Park
Beautiful Cimarron Canyon
Cimarron Canton State Park is a wonderful place to stay, right on the Cimarron River. Bring your fishing gear and license for some relaxing fishing. Some of the sites are immediately adjacent to the river. My favorite campground is Tolby, the Westernmost. It has a Ranger/Information Station in the east end of the campground. It has flush toilets and sinks, but no shower. This is my favorite, because I love to hike and backpack. Just south across Highway 64 from the campground entrance is the Tolby Trailhead. The Tolby Trail takes you all the way back to Tolby Meadow on an excellent trail. A good spot for overnight tent camping. Tolby campground is also just minutes from Eagle Nest, NM and within easy range of Angel Fire, Red River, and a little less than an hour from Taos.
There are two other campgrounds for RVs, Maverick and Ponderosa, as well as one more for tent camping. Maverick sits right next to a pair of gravel pit lakes for added Fishing opportunities. Ponderosa is across the street from that, but is more like a parking lot with painted camping slots around its perimeter.
In the town of Cimarron I recommend dining at the Historic St. James hotel (very haunted) or lunch at the Creemee. Stop in at the headquarters of Philmont Scout Ranch for the National Scounting Museum and a Tour of the Villa Philimonte (Waite Phillips’ mansion). Also recommended is the Tooth of Time Traders at Philmont. It’s a camping/hiking store that is like an REI.
If you’re coming via Raton, the Colfax Tavern between Raton and Cimarron at Cold Beer New Mexico is a great place to stop for food and drinks.
- AAdam C.Traveler
Columbine Campground (NM)
Beautiful valley with two rivers
One of the most beautiful campsites I seen. Two nights tent camping in the valley where two rivers meet. No showers but restrooms were adequate.
Jes P.Traveler
Hotel Luna Mystica
Hidden Gem
$10 tent camping in desert behind groovy glamper park. Fantastic people. In walking distance to Taos brewery Oasis. On the road to the gorge. Cool summer nights
Megan E.
RangerBig Tesuque Campground
Simple camping
Great location for free tent camping. Sites are located starting at the trail head and continuing up Big Tesque Trail. Recommend going during the week as it’s very busy on the weekends.
- Megan E.Ranger
Agua Piedra Campground
Quiet at 8000’
Tent camped at this location in the middle of September (a week before closing). Very beautiful place to watch the leaves change, trailheads close by and picnic tables at each site. The site didn’t have an actual tent pad but we easily found a spot to pitch a tent. Will definitely be back!
- JJames T.Traveler
Rancheros de Santa Fe
interesting campground
I enjoyed this campground. I stayed at a tent site. even though sites were close together the terrain made it kind of neat. $33 for the night
- Megan E.Ranger
Ghost Ranch
Beautiful
This is an artist paradise. So many beautiful land formations and gorgeous sunsets. The campground includes a bath house with laundry room and electric hookups if needed. $30 to tent camp (no electric). Lodging, yurts and cabins, are also available.
- Anthony G.Traveler
Juniper Family Campground — Bandelier National Monument
Perfection
The Juniper campground is perfection. The layout of the campground allows for both RV and tent camping, while still having you own quiet area. Plenty of water filling stations, and bear boxes. The evening ranger presentations, held at the amphitheater, are informative and interactive.
Darren G.TravelerJuniper Family Campground — Bandelier National Monument
Better get there early
Not good for large trailers but if you have a smaller one or tent camping, this place is great. When it is full it is still fine as it seems people there are decent and know their manners. (becoming unusual these days) Will stay there again.
- GGrayson L.Traveler
Tolby Campground — Cimarron Canyon State Park
One of my favorite spots
Great fishing opportunities, and wonderful hiking all around. Close by to two towns where you can pick up provisions. Campgrounds are great for tent camping, with many right by the river. Even though some sites are close to the road, the traffic is light so we didn’t notice.
- TTraci M.Scout
Santa Fe KOA
Romantic Tent for Two Please
My husband had the great idea of tent camping just the two of us. Up to this point our tent camping adventures were reserved for grandbaby time. But I said What the hey! Let's do it. I wanted somewhere cooler than home. The Santa Fe area had plenty to keep us busy for the week.
We did not get a tent spot but opted for a small trailer site with electric and water. Our spot was near the bathhouse but not too close. Each site has native trees and plants, so everyone has privacy. The site had a nice flat spot for the tent, picnic table, fire pit and grill. We had more than enough room to set up our awning for a dining area. We loved our little spot for the week.
The bathhouse was clean and very nice. New tile and fixtures. It was a little small for the size of the campground.
They have plenty of activities there for everyone and in the evening it is very quiet.
- MMichaelScout
Jacks Creek Horse Camp
Jack’s Creek
Lovely small camping area about 15 mi north of Pecos, NM on NM 63. 2 loops. Good sites for car/tent camping. Well maintained with clean vault toilets. Fire rings and picnic tables. Rained every afternoon (real boomers!) while we were there, but no problem for us. Will definitely visit again!
Jennifer B.Traveler
Taos Valley RV Park & Campground
Great Campground Close to Taos Plaza
Had a great experience here, stayed 3 nights tent camping with my dog. Bathrooms with showers, laundry room, store, and coffee/tea available in the office. The whole property has a friendly/family culture and the couple who manages the campground is very personable and knowledgeable about the area. Will be back!
AbrahamGuide
Panchuela Campground and Trailhead
Great Location
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. Gorgeous views, camp guide says its booked fill every weekend. Good luck
- Rebecca A.Traveler
Agua Piedra Campground
Beautiful group camping!
Great spot for group camping of 20-40 campers. Nice shaded/wooded area for primitive tent camping with plenty of space to spread out. Gorgeous open meadow at base of camp area perfect for group games, sports. 1930s cabin with tables for meals and cooking under shelter. Campfire ring and outdoor table. Vault toilet. Beautiful views of Sangre de Cristos and Carson National Forest. Trail to Indian Lake is an easy hike of 2.5 Miles each way and perfect for families or hikers with the need for low-impact trails. There is an awesome swimming hole just a few miles west on Hwy 518 past Sipapu Ski & Summer Resort—worth the short drive!
Only a few cons—water onsite is listed as potable but smells and tastes so strongly of sulphur that it cannot be tolerated for drinking or cooking. Make sure to haul in water. Also tent camping area in woods is not level so there will be some incline. Important for those with circulatory issues.
- JJoel H.Guide
Tolby Campground — Cimarron Canyon State Park
Ponderosa Campground
Awesome 4 tent campsites tucked away at end of parking lot. A short jaunt from vehicle to campsites so does require carrying your gear. Pretty neat. Highly recommend.
- Jeff K.Guide
Borrego Mesa Campground
Great campsite!!
Good road all the way in. About a 15min drive from the highway. Only 5 or 6 sites. Close to the Rio Mario Trail trailhead. Campsite is at elevation over 8,000ft so it can get chilly at night. Worked great for tent camping. Sites have a small horse pen but you would need to make a gate on them. Not good for big LQ horse trailers.
- Jennifer H.Guide
Taos Junction Campground
Taos Junction Campground
We had a great time camping here. Very cheap only $6 to camp all ages all year. 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.
- Marc H.Guide
Fawn Lakes Campground
Pretty but tight.
We stayed in the tent only portion.. with a rooftop tent. Problem being there are no pull in spots for the individual tent sites....just parking along the camp road. Had to pitch our rooftop tent over the parking barrier. Also, sites are right on top of each other. On the plus side the creek is pretty and loud enough to drown out the road not far away.
- Alex G.Traveler
Big Tesuque Campground
Absolutely beautiful! If you're tent camping, it's perfect! And it's free. What a gem!!
If you have an RV, Hyde Park Sate Park is where you want to be. 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. But there are 2 streams bordering the campground and trails leading into the mountains.
When I was there, it was 5 to 10 degrees warmer than Hyde Park! (end of May.)
- Megan E.Ranger
Juniper Family Campground — Bandelier National Monument
Beautiful place
Sites are exposed, and summer is hot. I imagine fall or spring would be more ideal weather. Definitely planning a trip back later in the year. Each tent site is small, relatively flat with picnic table. A few pull through sites are available. Firewood is pre-cut and can be purchased for $1 a log (cash only, drop box).
Guide to Vadito
Vadito, New Mexico, offers a variety of tent camping options that cater to outdoor enthusiasts looking for scenic views and peaceful surroundings.
Tent campers appreciate these amenities
- Enjoy the convenience of drinking water and picnic tables at the well-reviewed Taos Junction Campground, making it a great spot for families.
- The Enchanted Circle Campground features a large fire pit and solar lights, creating a cozy atmosphere for evening gatherings.
- At Capulin Campground, you'll find basic amenities like toilets and fire pits, perfect for a rustic camping experience.
Tent campers should check out Arroyo Seco
- The peaceful setting of Arroyo Seco Dispersed NF Camping offers numerous campsites along the Hondo Rio, ideal for those who enjoy fishing and river activities.
- With its proximity to hiking trails, Trampas Trailhead Campground serves as a great base for exploring the stunning landscapes of the Carson National Forest.
- Dispersed Camping Near Taos provides breathtaking gorge views and is perfect for those seeking solitude in nature.
Local attractions for tent campers
- The scenic Rio Grande is just a stone's throw away from Taos Junction Campground, offering opportunities for swimming and fishing.
- Nature lovers will appreciate the hiking trails accessible from Trampas Medio Campground, which lead to beautiful lakes and mountain vistas.
- For a unique experience, visit the nearby hot springs after camping at Dispersed Camping Near Taos, where you can unwind in natural thermal waters.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Vadito, NM?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Vadito, NM is Taos Junction Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 6 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Vadito, NM?
TheDyrt.com has all 36 tent camping locations near Vadito, NM, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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