Dispersed Camping
BLM Orilla Verde Recreation Area
BLM Orilla Verde Recreation Area, near Taos, New Mexico, is a fantastic spot for those looking to camp alongside the stunning Rio Grande. With sites that offer both water and electric hookups, it’s a comfortable choice for RVers and tent campers alike.
This area is known for its beautiful scenery and access to outdoor activities. Visitors rave about the hiking trails nearby and the opportunity to fish or raft in the river. One camper noted, “You are camping right next to the Rio Grande River in the awe-inspiring gorge,” which really captures the essence of this location.
Amenities include clean restrooms and showers, although some campers have mentioned that the showers can be hit or miss. The camp host is often highlighted for being friendly and helpful, making your stay even more enjoyable. As one reviewer put it, “The restrooms were immaculate and the camp host was very helpful.”
For those who appreciate nature, the area is great for birdwatching and stargazing, with plenty of trails to explore. Just remember, cell service can be spotty, so plan accordingly. Whether you’re here for a quick getaway or a longer stay, BLM Orilla Verde offers a peaceful retreat with plenty of opportunities to connect with the great outdoors.
Description
Bureau of Land Management
The Orilla Verde Recreation Area is located within the Rio Grande Del Norte National Monument and along the Rio Grande Wild and Scenic River. Nestled along the banks of the Rio Grande and within the steep-walled Rio Grande Gorge, the campgrounds in this area offer nearby access to the river. The elevation along the river is 6,100 feet and the steep canyon rises 800 feet from the river to the Gorge rim. Because of the dramatic changes in elevation and the diversity of plant life, Orilla Verde draws many species of animals, including raptors (such as eagles and hawks), songbirds, waterfowl, beaver, cougar, ringtail, mule deer, and more. The Rio Grande also has attracted humans since prehistoric times. Evidence of ancient peoples is found throughout the Recreation Area in the form of petroglyphs on the rocks and many other types of archaeological sites. The climate at Orilla Verde is semi-arid, with summer thunderstorms common in July and August, and snow possible from October through March. Summer temperatures range from 45 to 90 degrees, and winter temperatures range from -15 to 45 degrees
Fee Info
Self-service pay stations are located at the campgrounds and Taos Junction Bridge.
Day Use: $3/day per vehicle to use the area for 30 minutes or more. An annual day use pass, good for the calendar year, is available for $20. Camping: $5/night primitive campsites $7/night developed campsites $15/night RV site and $3 for extra vehicle. Maximum 2 vehicles and 8 people per site. (Additional vehicles may park in day use parking areas for $3/day.) Please bring exact change or checks to pay the fees. Annual day use passes do not apply to camping fees. The Rio Bravo Group Shelter reservations are made by submitting a request through BLM_NM_TAFO-Admin@blm.gov. Taos Junction Group Site does not include a shelter or electricity but group camping and day-use is still available. Each group These sites accommodate up to 40 people which includes up to 15 vehicles. Fees for the group shelters are $30/day use and $40/overnight. Additional vehicles are $3 per vehicle.
New: The pay showers are closed at Río Bravo Campground. Petaca Campground is closed. Construction is on-going. Please avoid the campground when work crews are present.
Location
BLM Orilla Verde Recreation Area is located in New Mexico
Coordinates
36.29300031 N
105.77900028 W
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Stay Connected
- WiFiUnknown
- VerizonUnknown
- AT&TUnknown
- T-MobileUnknown
Site Types
- Dispersed
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Reservable
- Showers
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Water Hookups
- Pull-Through Sites
- Big Rig Friendly
DISPERSED CAMPING
Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if BLM Orilla Verde Recreation Area needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 1 hr 1 min from Santa Fe
- 1 hr 50 min from Albuquerque
- 3 hrs 4 min from Pueblo
- 3 hrs 16 min from Farmington
