Carson National Forest

Big Arsenic Springs Campground

Montoso - Wild Rivers Rec Area

The Wild Rivers Recreation Area is located within the Rio Grande Del Norte National Monument and along the Rio Grande Wild and Scenic River and Red River Wild and Scenic River. Here visitors may experience the beauty of an 800-foot deep canyon sliced into volcanic flows by the Rio Grande (Spanish for Great River) and Red River where they come together. Located in the high plains of northern New Mexico, this area is rich with history, rugged beauty, and enticing recreational opportunities. A back country byway, visitor center, campgrounds, picnic facilities, and trails are available for visitors. Several spectacular overlooks are found here, including La Junta Point, one of the most dramatic views in the state, overlooking the confluence of the Red River and the Rio Grande -- and it is wheelchair accessible. The canyon ecosystem descends 800 feet from rim to river, creating a unique diversity in plant and animal life. Ancient piсon and juniper forests include 500 year-old trees. Watchable wildlife opportunities include mule deer, red-tailed hawk, mountain blue-bird, and prairie dog. The climate is semi-arid with summer thunderstorms common in July and August, and snow possible from November through March. Summer temperatures range from 45 to 90F and in winter from -15 to 45F.

BLM Wild Rivers Recreation Area

From website:



    Campfires – At Wild Rivers and Orilla Verde Recreation Areas, campfires are only allowed in grills or fire pans, and firewood collection is prohibited. Firewood is available for purchase at the Visitor Centers or from a Camp Host. Do not leave fires unattended. Campstoves are recommended throughout the National Monument.
    Camping – Quiet hours are observed from 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.
    Pets – Pets must be kept under control and on a leash at all times within developed recreation areas. Pets are not permitted on Big Arsenic Trail or in springs.
    Fireworks – Discharge of fireworks is prohibited.
    Firearms - Discharge of firearms is prohibited within one mile of a recreation site.
    Litter – Separate receptacles for trash and aluminum cans are located at all developed campgrounds and picnic areas. Please do not litter.
    Cultural Resources – Sites and artifacts dating back many centuries are located within the Monument. Removal or disturbance of these artifacts destroys valuable information about our past and is punishable by fines and/or imprisonment.

Rio Grande del Norte

Montoso Campground

El Aguaje Campground

La Junta Campground

La Junta - Wild Rivers Rec Area

Rio Grande del Norte National Monument

Accessibility is not guaranteed, always scout ahead before driving down dirt roads. Learn more: https://www.campendium.com/camping/boondocking-101/

Cebolla Mesa Campground

National Forest

Great place to camp along the top of the Rio Grande. 

Views for days

The best site at Wild Rivers. 850 feet above the gorge. This is where the magic happens, beautiful moonrise’s and sunrise, sunsets. clean wasteland clean bathrooms. I camp here as often as I can.

Great camping!

A no nonsense BLM campground with limited spaces. The location is isolated and you need to bring plenty of water. The advantage is being able to walk into the Gorge, which if you fly fish, is an amazing thing.

Big Arsenic Springs Campground

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2021 Explorer Giveaway

Views for days

Great camping!

A Grand View of the Rio Gorge

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Nearby Campgrounds

Montoso - Wild Rivers Rec Area

BLM Wild Rivers Recreation Area

Rio Grande del Norte

Montoso Campground

El Aguaje Campground

El Aguaje Campground

La Junta Campground

La Junta - Wild Rivers Rec Area

Rio Grande del Norte National Monument

Cebolla Mesa Campground

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