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Map showing campground location near Rociada, New Mexico
Camper submitted image from Johnson Mesa CampgroundView 8 Photos
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Johnson Mesa Campground

3 ReviewsAdd Review

Santa Fe National Forest manages Johnson Mesa as a dispersed camping area accessible via NM 65 and FR 153, with vaulted toilets, picnic tables, and grills on site. No potable water is available, so campers need to arrive self-sufficient. Wind can be significant, particularly at sites with little tree cover. Critically, the area burned in the 2022 Hermits Peak/Calf Canyon Fire, and the Forest Service has advised against use due to ongoing flash flood risk. Pets are not permitted. Those exploring camping spots around Santa Fe National Forest should check current conditions before committing to this site.

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Map & DirectionsJohnson Mesa Campground is located in New Mexico near Rociada

Detail location of campground
Public Campground

Coordinates

35.70378448 N
105.469463 W

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Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)

Features

For Campers

  • Phone Service
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol

Contact

General Info

Drive Time

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Reviews3 Camper Reviews - Johnson Mesa Campground

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5 Stars

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1 Star

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3.5

out of 5

3 Reviews

Visitors often highlighted the peaceful setting and basic amenities like fire pits and tables. However, lack of water and windy conditions were common concerns, plus recent fire damage affects current usability.

Reviewed Mar. 13, 2024

Burn notice

Notice from the USDA Forestry Service:

Johnson Mesa is a dispersed camping area located east of Las Vegas on NM 65 and FR 153. Facilities: vaulted toilets, tables and grills. NO potable water available. This recreation site and its surroundings were burned in the 2022 Hermits Peak/Calf Canyon Fire. Use of this site is not recommended. Exercise extreme caution and pay attention to the weather to avoid flash flood danger.

Month of VisitJanuary
Reviewed May. 31, 2020

Mesa

Nice undeveloped spot we found Had picnic table and fire pit. There were a few sites with pits. Beautiful view and very peaceful.

The 2 nights we stayed got very windy but we were camping in a site with few trees for wind barrier. They were several standalone pit toilets.

  • Review photo of Johnson Mesa Campground by Karen N., May 31, 2020
  • Review photo of Johnson Mesa Campground by Karen N., May 31, 2020
  • Review photo of Johnson Mesa Campground by Karen N., May 31, 2020
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Showing results 1-3 of 3 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Johnson Mesa Campground located in New Mexico?

Johnson Mesa Campground is located east of Las Vegas, New Mexico, accessible via NM Highway 65 and Forest Road 153. This dispersed camping area sits on Johnson Mesa, providing visitors with a remote high-elevation experience. The campground is managed by the USDA Forest Service and offers a peaceful retreat in this scenic part of northeastern New Mexico.

What does Johnson Mesa Campground look like?

Johnson Mesa Campground features an open landscape with beautiful panoramic views and a peaceful atmosphere. The camping area has some sites with limited tree coverage, which can make it quite windy at times. Each site typically includes a picnic table and fire pit. The area was affected by the 2022 Hermits Peak/Calf Canyon fire, which may have altered the landscape. The mesa setting provides a scenic backdrop for camping with wide-open vistas typical of high-elevation New Mexico terrain.

What facilities and amenities are available at Johnson Mesa Campground?

Johnson Mesa Campground offers basic amenities for a rustic camping experience. Facilities include vault toilets, picnic tables, and fire pits/grills at several sites. It's important to note that no potable water is available, so campers must bring all the water they'll need. This is an undeveloped dispersed camping area, so visitors should come prepared with their own supplies and be ready for a more primitive outdoor experience.

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