Dispersed camping areas near Valdez, New Mexico sit at elevations between 7,500-9,000 feet within Carson National Forest, creating distinct weather patterns compared to nearby Taos. Summer temperatures typically range from 45°F at night to 80°F during daytime, with afternoon thunderstorms common in July and August. Winter access becomes limited as forest service roads accumulate snow drifts up to 5 feet deep.
What to do
Hiking to alpine lakes: Cabresto Lake Campground offers access to Heart Lake via a 9-mile round trip trail popular with backpackers. "Someone who knows how to off-road to get Subaru outback up there. We did not have to air down or anything to get up," notes camper Savvy, though the campground itself has limited spaces with "about 5 by the lake and then 3 on the trail up."
Fishing in mountain streams: The clear waters around Lower Hondo Campground provide fishing opportunities, though one visitor notes: "Tent camped in July and could not get into the water; but did freeze my ankles off." A photographer staying there "said 2X per week he would get a shower in town somewhere" during his extended stay.
Wilderness exploration: Little Arsenic Springs Campground features dramatic cliff-side camping with river access. "There are two campsites I3 and I2 that are cliffside campsites with amazing views," reports camper Parth P., adding that "hiking trails down to the Rio Grande river are close by."
What campers like
Peaceful creek sounds: At Cuchilla Campground, tent campers appreciate the water features. "This is a wonderful little campground on the way to Taos Ski Valley. Sites are right on a creek & have picnic tables," writes Tara S., who adds that camping is "FREE at this campground for up to two weeks!"
Accessible wildlife viewing: La Junta - Wild Rivers Rec Area provides opportunities for nature observation. "Truly fantastic view go along with this campsite. The sites are fairly primitive but the location is one of the greatest around," notes Bryan P., mentioning "the trail down to the confluence of the Red River and the Rio Grand is steep and gravel."
Proximity to small towns: Capulin Campground offers convenient access to nearby communities. "About 10 first come first serve primitive campsites next to the road and creek. The trees give some privacy in between the campsites and road," writes Molly S., who found road noise "wasn't too bothering" and "it was quiet after dark."
What you should know
High-clearance vehicle requirements: Many tent camping locations require appropriate vehicles. At Dispersed Camping Near Taos, one camper advises: "One thing is that you MUST approach from the west, you can't get here coming from the east over John Dun bridge. Dirt road but we did it with no problem with our 24ft trailer."
Seasonal accessibility: Winter camping options severely diminish from November through April. A Lower Hondo Campground visitor notes: "Obviously, camp in warm weather or you need to have a snow plow since drifts 3-5 ft deep."
Limited amenities: Most of the best tent camping near Valdez requires self-sufficiency. At Cuchilla Campground, campers are reminded "there is no garbage here, so pack it in & pack it out" despite having picnic tables and creek access.
Tips for camping with families
River recreation options: Taos Junction Campground offers family-friendly water activities. "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 with tables," writes Jennifer H., adding there's "lots to do including fish and hiking trails."
Look for flat terrain: Finding level ground for multiple tents can be challenging. One Cabresto Lake camper reported taking "four teenage girls for a weekend of camping and fishing" and "the challenge was finding enough flat land for three tents."
Water safety precautions: Mountain streams run cold year-round. At Taos Junction, one visitor notes: "The Rio Grande was cold but worth the swim. We had a great time and only saw a few other people."
Tips from RVers
Smaller rigs recommended: RV camping near Valdez requires careful planning. At Cuchillo Del Medio Campground, one RVer notes: "Probably about 15 or so dispersed spots along HWY 150, on the river, in the trees, with one really nice beach spot. One out-house bathroom. We pulled our 19' RV with solar right up to the river and our dog was in and out of the river all day."
Road condition awareness: Forest roads vary greatly in quality throughout the season. When visiting Cabresto Lake, one camper warned: "Definitely need an all terrain vehicle for the drive up to lake. Rough dirt road. Got a flat tire."
Solar setup benefits: With no hookups available, alternative power sources become valuable. The RVer at Cuchilla Campground mentioned their solar setup allowed them to camp comfortably while enjoying river access for their dog.
