The sound of the Santa Barbara River flowing just steps from campsites creates a constant backdrop at this 15-site Forest Service campground. Located at 8,900 feet elevation in Carson National Forest, the campground sits directly at the northern entrance to the Pecos Wilderness, making it a launching point for both day hikers and multi-day backpackers.
Most sites work best for smaller rigs and tents, as James F. notes: "A small travel trailer or tent works well in most sites." The gravel sites offer varying levels of shade from the surrounding forest, with vault toilets and drinking water available throughout. However, water spigots are designed for drinking rather than filling tanks. Weekend crowds can be significant, with the backpacker parking lot often overflowing onto the main road during peak season.
Fishing draws many visitors to the nearby river, while hiking trails lead directly into wilderness areas from the campground. The elevation keeps temperatures moderate even in summer, though campers should prepare for potential encounters with cattle that sometimes wander through the area. For those exploring the broader region, campgrounds near Llano provide additional options.
Reservations are recommended during the May through October season, especially for weekend stays when the campground fills quickly with both car campers and wilderness adventurers.
Description
Overview
Santa Barbara Campground is situated nicely on the edge of the Pecos Wilderness area and next to Rio Santa Barbara, a beautiful and healthy trout stream.
Recreation
This is a great drop off point for hikers and horseback riders seeking close access to the Pecos Wilderness and Jicarita Peak.
Facilities
The campground has 15 single sites, each containing a table and fire ring; two double sites, each containing two tables and a fire ring; one triple site containing three tables and a fire ring; and two quad sites containing four tables and a fire ring. Vault toilets, drinking water from faucets and trash removal are provided. There are no horse facilites within the campground. First-come, first-served sites are available.
Natural Features
Santa Barbara is located in a mixed forest of spruce, fir and aspen trees, which provide some shade throughout the day. At an altitude of 8,900 feet, temperatures can cool off during the summer nights.
Nearby Attractions
Trail access to Jicarita Peak, with close access to North Truchas Peak, Sipapu Ski Resort, the town of Vadito, and the town of Penasco are all nearby. All are within 8-15 miles from the campground. Most services are available in Taos, NM, 25 miles north of the campground or Espanola, NM, 45 miles southwest.
Contact Info
For facility specific information, please call (928) 537-8888.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsSanta Barbara Campground is located in New Mexico near Llano
Directions
From the junction with State Road 75, follow SR 73 1.4 miles to the Santa Barbara Road. Turn left onto the Santa Barbara Road. Then travel 6.2 miles to the campground. Santa Barbara Road becomes Forest System Road 116 when the pavement ends.
Coordinates
36.0891 N
105.6101 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Equestrian
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Water Hookups
- Pull-Through Sites
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 1 hr 23 min from Santa Fe, NM
- 2 hrs 13 min from Albuquerque, NM
- 3 hrs 40 min from Pueblo, CO
- 3 hrs 46 min from Farmington, NM
