Sitting just outside Taos within Carson National Forest, El Nogal is a free, drive-in overnight stop managed by the US Forest Service. It functions more as a trailhead parking area than a traditional campground, with no designated campsites on the ground. The bathroom is reportedly locked most of the time, so campers should plan accordingly. Three trails depart directly from the lot into the forest. Pets are allowed, cell service is available, and the site meets ADA accessibility standards. Las Petacas Campground sits about 1.4 miles east for those wanting a more developed setup.
Fee Info
Going east on 64, El Nogal is the first USFS recreation site you will see.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsEl Nogal Campground is located in New Mexico near Taos
Coordinates
36.37530034 N
105.54612067 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 9 usersLast on 8/6/26
VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 8/6/26- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 8/6/26
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 9 usersLast on 8/6/26
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 8/6/26
- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 8/6/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Phone Service
- Toilets
- Pets
FREE established camping
Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if El Nogal Campground needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 1 hr 19 min from Santa Fe, NM
- 2 hrs 8 min from Albuquerque, NM
- 2 hrs 51 min from Pueblo, CO
- 3 hrs 34 min from Farmington, NM
