Tent camping options near Vallecitos, New Mexico range from 7,000 to over 9,000 feet in elevation, creating dramatic temperature fluctuations even during summer months. The Carson National Forest camping areas surrounding Vallecitos experience nighttime temperatures as low as 27°F even in spring, with many sites requiring 4WD or high-clearance vehicles due to rutted forest service roads. Seasonal snowfall can close certain camping areas from November through May.
What to do
Fishing at nearby lakes: Multiple fishing spots within 30-45 minutes of Vallecitos offer trout fishing opportunities. "There are three lakes filled with trout. Lots of areas to explore," notes a camper about Canjilon Creek Campground, located at around 9,000 feet elevation.
Wildlife viewing: Early morning and dusk provide opportunities to spot elk and other wildlife. A visitor at American Springs reported, "Elk grazing below were the cherry on top. Very peaceful with a nice view down the canyon."
Day hiking: Many camping areas connect to hiking trails with varying difficulty levels. "Beautiful area. Hiking trails from the campground," shares a camper at Resumidero Camping Area, noting the convenience of trails accessible directly from camp.
What campers like
Temperature escape: The higher elevations provide relief from summer heat. "Chilly in mid October visit. Aspens are gorgeous on the drive up," comments a visitor to Aspen Basin Campground, highlighting the fall colors as a bonus attraction.
Water features: Many campsites offer access to creeks or streams. "There's a river that runs right through camp which was a bonus for us," notes a camper at Aspen Basin Campground, appreciating the natural water feature.
Solitude: The dispersed camping areas around Vallecitos often remain uncrowded even on holiday weekends. A visitor to Carson NF - Forest Service Road 578 reported, "Stayed one night and saw no one else. Multiple pulloffs for unmarked campsites."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many camping areas require vehicles with good clearance. "The road is quite rocky and there's a large washout just past the first site. Any SUV could handle it but being in an extended length van limits where I can go," warns a camper at American Springs.
Limited facilities: Most dispersed camping areas have no toilets or water sources. At Cuba Hwy Pulloff on Forest Road 88, a camper noted, "No amenities, but we were the only people in the area. We were just thankful for a place to stop."
Fire restrictions: Check current fire regulations as they vary seasonally. A camper at Big Tesuque Campground advises, "You can check out current conditions at the Forest Service website" before planning your tent camping trip near Vallecitos.
Tips for camping with families
Stream access: Locations with water features provide entertainment for children. "Nice babbling brook alongside campsites, fun for kids to play in (COLD, but shallow), and makes for great white noise," reports a family at Big Tesuque Campground.
Space considerations: Some sites have limited tent pad space. A family camper at Big Tesuque notes, "Our family of 6 usually would use 3 small tents, but had to limit ourselves to 2, so everyone was squeezed together."
Weather preparedness: Pack for cold nights even in summer. "It does get cold at night since at approximately 8,000 elevation," warns a camper at Road 378 near Fenton Lake, emphasizing the need for warm sleeping gear when tent camping in the Vallecitos area.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most forest service roads aren't suitable for larger rigs. "RVs will not make it, so it's nice and quiet. AWD/4WD needed on the rutted rocky road," explains a visitor to Carson NF Forest Service Road 578.
Alternatives for larger vehicles: When tent camping isn't an option, some areas accommodate small to medium RVs. "The road in is steep for long rigs," cautions a visitor to Cuba Hwy Pulloff on Forest Road 88, suggesting careful consideration for RV camping near Vallecitos.
Generator considerations: If using generators in non-restricted areas, be mindful of noise. "We decided to boondock here for the night with a generator for AC (traveling with dogs)," shares an RVer at Cuba Hwy Pulloff, demonstrating that some dispersed sites can accommodate modest RV camping when tent camping near Vallecitos isn't feasible.
