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Established Camping

Cuchilla Campground

7 Reviews

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BY

Cuchilla Campground, near Arroyo Seco, New Mexico, is a solid spot for those looking to enjoy the great outdoors without breaking the bank. With its free camping and beautiful riverside location, it’s a favorite among campers who appreciate nature and a bit of adventure.

This campground offers a handful of sites along the highway, providing easy access to the stunning scenery and nearby hiking trails. Visitors have noted that while the sites are close together, the soothing sounds of the river help drown out any highway noise, making it a peaceful retreat. As one camper mentioned, “The highway sounds are mostly drowned out due to the beautiful sounds of the river flowing.”

For those traveling with pets, you’ll be happy to know that furry friends are welcome here. There’s also a single outhouse for convenience, though it’s worth noting that facilities may not be available during the colder months. Campers have enjoyed the chance to set up right by the water, with plenty of opportunities for hiking and exploring the surrounding area.

If you’re planning a trip to Taos Ski Resort, this campground is conveniently located on the way, making it a great base for both winter sports and summer hikes. With its laid-back vibe and access to nature, Cuchilla Campground is a solid choice for your next outdoor adventure.

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Location

Cuchilla Campground is located in New Mexico

Directions

13 miles northeast of Taos via NM 522 & 150

Coordinates

36.55928235 N
105.53560475 W

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Connectivity

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T-Mobile
No Coverage
Verizon
No Coverage
AT&TLTE
Some Coverage

Detours Nearby

LOCAL FAVORITES PRESENTED BY

Rio Grande del Norte National Monument

32 min away

El Aguaje Campground

1 hr 2 min away

Drive Time

Presented by

1 hr 40 min from Santa Fe
2 hrs 29 min from Albuquerque
2 hrs 51 min from Pueblo
3 hrs 43 min from Farmington

Connectivity

Presented by

T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More

T-Mobile
No Coverage
Verizon
No Coverage
AT&TLTE
Some Coverage

Access

Drive-In
Park next to your site
Walk-In
Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Site Types

Tent Sites
Standard (Tent/RV)

Features

For Campers

Picnic Table
Toilets
Alcohol
Pets
Fires

Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.

PERMIT might be REQUIRED

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General Info

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Scott F.

Scout

Reviewed Jun. 22, 2025

Taos camping

Nice spot along the creek, probably 4-5 spots and a bathroom.

Month of VisitJune

Tara S.

Guide

Reviewed Aug. 18, 2024

Wonderful creekside camping

This is a wonderful little campground on the way to Taos Ski Valley. Sites are right on a creek & have picnic tables. From what we could tell, there are 2 different locations that we saw on the road, highway 150, one with sites 4-6 & further North where we stayed sites 1-3. We were able to find a level place to park the van & I took a dip in the creek in the morning. Refreshing! Camping is FREE at this campground for up to two weeks! There is no garbage here, so pack it in & pack it out.

Site2

Month of VisitAugust

(7) View All

Janay` M.

Guide

Reviewed Aug. 10, 2024

Didn’t want to leave

Absolutely magical! My tent got rained out but I just haven’t had the opportunity to waterproof the tent. When it’s not wet season I’m sure this would be just even more magical. The bathroom was easily accessible, fire pits are great. Picnic tables were marked up, but the sound of the River was so worth all of it.

Month of VisitAugust

(6) View All

Ben R.

Ranger

Reviewed Apr. 29, 2023

Nice area!

Very solid location, there are several spots along the Highway. There are multiple camp sites within each pull off, but they are close together so not a whole lot of privacy. Right next to a river which is pretty and convenient. There are toilets right there but they close in the colder seasons so be aware they might not be open. There are trails to hike down but we didn’t really explore too much. Looks like more campsites further down. You have to leave your car up by the road though.

Month of VisitApril

Michael N.

Guide

Reviewed Oct. 10, 2022

Beautiful, easily accessible spot

This Highway area offers a number of camping spots. While next to the Highway, the highway sounds are mostly drowned out due to the beautiful sounds of the river flowing. The spot was clean and easy to get to in the truck out for most standard vehicles. The dogs had a great time but In the fall and winter pack as warm as possible.

Month of VisitOctober

(12) View All

Jason A.

Traveler

Reviewed Apr. 1, 2019

Awesome dispersersed campsights along the River

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. The state seems to have a litter problem in general, so prepare to pickup some trash to make your campsite home. Lots of hiking trails.

(5) View All

Max B.

Guide

Reviewed Jun. 25, 2018

Great access to Taos Ski Resort

Awesome campground on the road up to Taos Ski Resort. Tons of hiking/biking access

Month of VisitAugust

Frequently Asked Questions

How close is Cuchilla Campground to Wheeler Peak?

Cuchilla Campground is relatively close to Wheeler Peak, as it's situated on Highway 150 which leads toward Taos Ski Valley and the Wheeler Peak area. The campground serves as a convenient base for those planning to explore or summit Wheeler Peak. The proximity to the mountain makes it an excellent staging area for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to experience New Mexico's highest point while enjoying riverside camping.

Where is Cuchilla Campground located in New Mexico?

Cuchilla Campground is located along Highway 150 on the way to Taos Ski Valley in northern New Mexico. The campground sits alongside a beautiful river, offering a scenic setting in the mountains. There are actually two sections of the campground along the highway, with sites numbered 1-3 in one section and 4-6 in another section further south. The location provides easy access to numerous hiking and biking trails in the surrounding area.

Is Cuchilla Campground free camping near Taos, NM?

Yes, Cuchilla Campground offers free dispersed camping near Taos, NM. It's located along Highway 150 on the way to Taos Ski Valley, making it a budget-friendly option for visitors to the area. The campground features about 15 dispersed spots along the highway and next to the river. Basic amenities include picnic tables, fire pits, and an outhouse bathroom (which may be closed during colder seasons). No reservations are required, making this an accessible option for spontaneous camping trips near both Taos and Angel Fire.

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Cuchilla Campground

Location

Directions

Coordinates

Connectivity

Detours Nearby

Drive Time

Connectivity

Access

Site Types

Features

For Campers

FREE established camping

PERMIT might be REQUIRED

Contact

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Reviews

4.5

Taos camping

Wonderful creekside camping

Didn’t want to leave

Nice area!

Beautiful, easily accessible spot

Awesome dispersersed campsights along the River

Great access to Taos Ski Resort

How close is Cuchilla Campground to Wheeler Peak?

Where is Cuchilla Campground located in New Mexico?

Is Cuchilla Campground free camping near Taos, NM?