Tent camping near Wagon Mound, New Mexico offers diverse experiences across high desert and mountainous terrain at elevations ranging from 6,500 to 8,500 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach the mid-80s with cool evenings in the 50s, while winter brings freezing conditions unsuitable for tent camping. Most campsites in this region have limited cellular service, with Carson National Forest areas often experiencing complete signal loss.
What to do
Fishing access for anglers: Blackjack Tent Area in Cimarron Canyon State Park provides immediate river access with quality trout fishing opportunities. According to a visitor at Blackjack Tent Area, "Caught plenty of trout and overall had a great time. Site #30 was probably the other best one as it was in the back and last camp site and right next to the water."
Hiking trails nearby: Capulin Campground offers direct access to hiking and mountain biking trails from the campground. A camper at Capulin Campground noted, "There is also a hiking/biking trail at the end of the campground," making it convenient for exploring the surrounding forest without driving to a trailhead.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The natural setting provides excellent wildlife watching, particularly at dawn and dusk. One camper at Enchanted Circle Campground reported, "The property has abundant wildlife that make the property their home. In fact, that is what you usually hear is the wildlife. We heard a family of owls while we enjoyed a nice campfire."
What campers like
Creek-side camping: Several campgrounds in the region offer sites positioned along flowing water. A camper at Capulin Campground shared, "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. I wasn't too bothered by the road noise and it was quiet after dark."
Well-maintained forest roads: Access to dispersed camping areas in Carson National Forest features reliable roads. A visitor to La Junta Canyon reported, "The forest road is in good shape with several well spaced out dispersed camping sites," making it accessible for most vehicles without specialized equipment.
Fire amenities: Many established campgrounds provide substantial fire pits with seating. According to one camper at Enchanted Circle Campground, "The fire pit is huge and has benches all around. Solar lights and wind chimes are strategically placed in the area."
What you should know
Limited site maintenance: Some campgrounds require better upkeep. A camper at Capulin noted, "I gave this a low rating due to the condition of the sites which needed basic maintenance and cleanup."
Highway noise considerations: Roadside campgrounds experience traffic sounds during daytime hours. A visitor observed, "The site is just a few feet off the highway next to a small creek...The site was also far to close to the highway to enjoy a good camping experience."
Campsite selection strategy: For tent camping around Wagon Mound, arriving on weekdays significantly improves site selection. A camper at Blackjack Tent Area advised, "If you camp during the week you can pick any spot you want!" noting that site #27 was "the biggest and spacesious site, 10/10."
Tips for camping with families
Animal encounters: Some properties feature domestic animals that appeal to children. One family at Enchanted Circle Campground shared, "My daughter would come back for the pigs, goats, horses, cats, chipmunks, prairie dogs, and assorted other animals as well."
Safety considerations: Some campgrounds have terrain features requiring supervision. A camper warned about site #3 at Enchanted Circle Campground, "Just be careful about the nearby cliff. No small children recommended for that site."
Organized activities: Certain campgrounds offer family-friendly amenities beyond camping. A visitor noted, "The property has an outdoor family games area, two private ponds that you can fish in, and the owners animals that sometimes roam the property."
Tips from RVers
Small trailer access: Many tent camping areas near Wagon Mound can accommodate small trailers but have limitations. A camper with a teardrop trailer at Enchanted Circle reported, "We were at site #2 and it is pretty big and can fit multiple trailers. We had a medium size tear drop and one tent with plenty of more space available."
Road conditions: Access roads to camping areas have varying maintenance levels. One visitor noted, "The road to the sites is a dirt road and there is evidence that is well maintained," indicating that while unpaved, the routes are regularly graded and passable for smaller RVs and trailers.
Site sizing limitations: Several campgrounds have restrictions on which sites can accommodate even small trailers. One camper mentioned, "Some of the spots are tent only as you can't get a small trailer in," highlighting the importance of researching specific site dimensions before arriving with any RV.
