The best camping near Carson National Forest

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Carson National Forest adventure.

92% (38 reviews)

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Carson National Forest

Public campgrounds in the park

Stay at a public campground in Carson National Forest

Las Petacas Campground

9 sites In Carson National Forest

Beautiful lake covered in mist early morning

100%

(5)

Cabresto Lake Campground

9 sites In Carson National Forest

100%

(1)

Cebolla Mesa Campground

5 sites · RVs, Tents In Carson National Forest

Twining Campground

4 sites · RVs, Tents In Carson National Forest

Canjilon Creek

4 sites In Carson National Forest

Canjilon Lakes

52 sites · RVs, Tents In Carson National Forest

Cedar Springs Campground

4 sites · RVs, Tents In Carson National Forest

Junebug Campground

20 sites · RVs, Tents In Carson National Forest

100%

(1)

Hopewell Lake Campground

33 sites · RVs, Tents In Carson National Forest

Laguna Larga Campground

5 sites · RVs, Tents In Carson National Forest

Agua Piedra Group Shelter

1 site In Carson National Forest

El Rito is a premier rock climbing destination and Super Slab is the place to be to warm up in some great morning sun.

El Rito Campground

11 sites · RVs, Tents In Carson National Forest

McCrystal Campground

66 sites · RVs, Tents In Carson National Forest

Cruces Basin Campground

1 site In Carson National Forest

100%

(2)

Agua Piedra Campground

44 sites · RVs, Tents In Carson National Forest

Comales Campground

13 sites · RVs, Tents In Carson National Forest

Duran Canyon Campground

12 sites · RVs, Tents In Carson National Forest

100%

(3)

La Junta Canyon Campground

8 sites · RVs, Tents In Carson National Forest

100%

(1)

Trout Lakes

12 sites · RVs, Tents In Carson National Forest

Buzzard Park Campground

1 site · RV, Tent In Carson National Forest

100%

(3)

Fawn Lakes Campground

11 sites · RVs, Tents In Carson National Forest

Lagunitas Campground

12 sites · RVs, Tents In Carson National Forest

Los Pinos Campground

5 sites · RVs, Tents In Carson National Forest

La Bobita Campground

1 site · RV, Tent In Carson National Forest

Goat Hill Campground

5 sites · RVs, Tents In Carson National Forest

100%

(1)

Cuchillo Del Medio Campground

3 sites · RVs, Tents In Carson National Forest

50%

(3)

Upper La Junta Campground

8 sites · RVs, Tents In Carson National Forest

Capulin Campground

10 sites · RVs, Tents In Carson National Forest

La Sombra Campground

13 sites · RVs, Tents In Carson National Forest

100%

(2)

Cuchilla Campground

3 sites · RVs, Tents In Carson National Forest

Lower Hondo Campground

4 sites · RVs, Tents In Carson National Forest

95%

(13)

Santa Barbara Campground

29 sites · RVs, Tents In Carson National Forest

Echo Campground

10 sites · RVs, Tents In Carson National Forest

100%

(2)

Cimarron Campground

36 sites · RVs, Tents In Carson National Forest

Top-rated campgrounds near Carson National Forest

99%

(1308)

Enchanted Circle Campground (E<<)

13 sites · RVs, Tents161 acres · Angel Fire, NM

The Enchanted Circle Campground sits on the Avalon Ranch. It is 161 owned acres surrounded by a state trust lease. We are very proud to have been voted #1 Campground in NM 4 years in a row and ranked Top 5 by Forbes in the country. We have 8 RV/tent sites to choose from. Campfires are permitted, and pets are welcome. Potable water is available as well as a portable toilet. For cooking, you will have a fire pit, with a good size in fire grill. With the grill, you will have tongs, a spatula and a grill brush. A fire extinguisher and a shovel. And then every site but 7 has an additional large grill mounted for the larger cooking. The property was originally homesteaded in 1893. It was also the first potato farm in NM. It has seven ground-fed springs that run year-round and is officially the Coyote Creeks Headwaters. They converge after filling 4 of our ponds in the marshland where the potatoes were grown. A family of 4 lived in the first dwelling built here, not much larger than a shed. Since that time, 2 homes, 1 of which still stands, a barn, a smokehouse, and 4 other outbuildings were constructed. There are old wagons and farm equipment from the late 1800s and early 1900's still strewn about the ranch. We are home to Huge herds of Elk, mule deer, turkeys, prairie dogs, eagles, black bears, 9 horses, chickens, pigs, goats, our 3 dogs and 4 cats, and the occasional Mountain Lion. We live here year-round. We love our land and want to share it with others. I am a Veteran and our intent is to eventually have a Veterans Retreat facility here. Not a retreat itself, but rather a location for all of the retreats, nationwide, to be able to utilize, so they can use the funds they have to do what they do best. You are helping to make that possible. We do pride ourselves on minimally impacting our land. We strive to keep it clean and as close to nature as we can. We encourage you to leave it better than you found it, as it is only making it that much better. We encourage you to get out and explore. Trailblaze. Be a pioneer. Go wherever you feel lead. And as always, Veterans, LEOs, and Fire Fighters are always free for one night up to 4 guests.

96%

(193)

River Sanctuary by Ojo Hot Springs

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents3 acres · La Madera, NM

Learn more about this land: Lush high desert river oasis nestled in a fertile valley in the Carson National Forest right between the fiery expanse of Taos and the rolling colorful formations of Abiquiu. Peaceful and private 3 acres right by the river at the edge of a little quaint town called La Madera (145 people, no shops)- just 6 miles to the healing mineral Hot Springs of Ojo Caliente, a place of emergence or rebirth as known to the local Natives. Right by the river, held by a ridge (that makes for amazing sunset hikes), I have a 16ft Yurt Canvas set up with furnishings (desk, couch, wash stand) and a wooden Queen Bed with down bedding. This site can only be reached by foot across the river via stumps- a car can be parked near by.. approx. 50ft. I also have a Vintage Camper that can be heated, has a kitchen, electricity and plenty of outdoor furniture with a fire pit and serene mountain views. As well as a monastic and very grounding Ensuite Bedroom, or a simple campsite if you want to bring your own camper or tent. All facilities have access to a guest bathroom inside the main house. I offer dog sitting while you soak at Ojo, healing modalities that you'll find in the Extras section, and my dear neighbor Jackie takes appointments for massages with homemade essential oils. +++ 6 miles to Ojo Caliente Hot Springs. There you will find the best restaurant in the area, with locally/organically farmed produce. The land is naturally and beautifully wild- it is not a manicured campsite. The dirt rd down to the property is best suited for higher clearance vehicles, but is manageable for city cars. With land by the river comes the mosquitos- June to August only. They are predominantly active during sunrise and sunset; long loose fitting clothes and a repellent work great. Waterhole, Waterfall and climbing sites near by, as well as Plaza Blanca, Abiquiu, Ghost Ranch and the Taos Gorge are 30 mins drive away. *No cell service in the greater area. WiFi reaches around the house/deck and allows for WiFi Calling: that’s a setting in your phone that enables phone calls & texts beside usual internet access.

98%

(156)

HarmonyTaos Regenerative Farm

6 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Taos, NM

Harmony Taos is a regenerative farm located on approximately 4 acres, just minutes from the town of Taos. We specialize in Permaculture and teaching. Come enjoy the butterflies, raptors, magpies and hummingbirds fluttering throughout the orchards, ponderosas, vegetable gardens, and flowers on our organic community farm. Join us for camping, monthly soup nights, ceremonies, and cultural events throughout the warmer months. Latest Offerings: I hav decided to open up my intuitive practice to visitors. DM Anastasia if you would like an intuitive reading and clearing. 90 minutes long. RENT THE ENTIRE PROPERTY: DM the host for availability and rates. Pitch your tent at one of our 2 drive-in mountain view campsites, located on the lush grounds of our regenerative agriculture farm and gardens. Rest and rejuvenate in this quiet haven, nestled below the canyon yet just minutes from town. Sites Uno and Dos has access to a beautifully equipped bathhouse, picnic tables, and an outdoor cold water washing area . (during winter months, the picnic tables and outdoor sink are not available) Overflow Tres is more primitive with a dirt base and can accommodate larger vehicles. Campsite UNO: Uno fits a small trailer and/ or a RV. You will need to be proficient at backing it into Campsite Uno. This site can accommodate two vehicles. Campsite DOS: It is large enough for a sprinter or smaller camper van. You can pull right in. You will need to back out to depart. It now accommodates two vehicles (two cars, a sprinter and a car, a car with teardrop and another car.) Glampiing Site : Deluxe bamboo encased memory foam king bed (breaks down to two twin beds). Stellar views of the mountains . BYO bedding or DM host for full sheets and towels set up. There is power in the bathhouse for charging phones. but there are no dedicated electrical hook ups for RVs. However, you can text the owner if you want to use a converter and access a nearby ( For Site Uno) outlet with your extension cord for additional fee of $20.00 per day. EVENTS: Harmony Taos Farm is open in 2025 for day long or weekend events. Weddings, family gatherings, teachers. Yoga. There are a number of options including large 12 person tent with heater. The indoor Living room of the main building holds 25-30 for gatherings. There are numerous areas around the farm that lend themselves to ceremony, gathering, etc. Harmony Farm is an excellent wedding venue. There are 4 types of accommodations (hotels, lodges, Inns, rental homes) within 1 mile of the property should you wish to use the site for your wedding and invite guests who require a hotel etc. And of course there are plenty of tent sites available at Harmony. If you rent the entire property, more tent sites can be accommodated than listed here. Harmony host Anastasia can also arrange for catering, flowers, music, party rentals, etc. DM the host with any requests and day use rates. Things to know: This is the hosts homesite and farm. You will be camping near the host's actual home.

98%

(32)

Dragonfly Mountain Ranch

7 sites · RVs, Tents300 acres · Arroyo Seco, NM

Enjoy the majestic beauty of the Taos Valley from the verdant fields and cerros of the Dragonfly Mountain Ranch! Whether a seasoned traveler or one's first visit to Taos our goal is to exceed expectations, and we have a variety of campsites to accommodate various needs and tastes. Our motto is, “No Cramped Camping!”, with spacious and private camp sites to ensure that quiet time is just that - quiet. Pure gold for those looking to truly unplug and disconnect from everyday stresses and obligations. While here one can see history come to life by way of our living history ranch and historic home, one of the first homesteads in Des Montes owned by the same family for over 150 years. See firsthand how the unique Acequia system of New Mexico has given life to the surrounding pastoral fields and the agricultural practices of the past still relevant in today’s Taos Valley. For those wanting the best of both worlds, access to in-town activities as well as trail/hiking/river adventures, the Des Montes sites would be the best selection. Close enough to town for groceries/conveniences along with other sought after tourist attractions such as the Taos Pueblo, Taos Plaza and surrounding galleries/shops. In addition, Arroyo Seco and Arroyo Hondo are quaint little villages less than 10 minutes away for for addt'l groceries/market/restaurants options. Please see our friends at Rio Grande Balloons to book your hot air balloon ride while in Taos! https://www.riograndeballoons.com 575-208-1888. We only refer the best - so leave the rest We will provide courtesy rides to their location upon request and Sol will get your group in the air! Taos Pueblo - 15min Taos Business District - 15min Taos Plaza - 15min The Gorge Bridge - 20 min Ojo Caliente Hot Springs - 1hr John Dunn Hot Springs/Day Recreation area - 15min Taos Ski Valley - 30min Rio Grande Del Norte Nat'l Monument - 30min Carson Nat'l Forest - 10 minutes Despite accessibility to endless activities just minutes away there remains a sense of solitude, space and privacy that one would be hard pressed to find elsewhere. Taos Plateau - Two Camp Sites However, if feeling more adventurous and an Overland expedition is calling your name, the Tio Willy's locations on the Taos Plateau (Rio Grande Del Norte Nat'l Monument) would be a perfect choice. Rejuvenate the heart and soul with 300+ spacious acres to roam, hike and explore. Not to mention the breathtaking views of the entire Taos Valley from atop the cerro located on the property. With only TWO campsites at this location there are 360 degree views, solitude and privacy with no comparison. Despite the fact there is plenty of ground to cover within the property boundaries there is no shortage of additional hiking trails on Rio Grande Del Norte Nat'l Monument land which surrounds the property. Cerro Chiflo, Cerro Montoso and the Miner's Trail are within driving/hiking distance. Spend a day down on the banks of Rio Grande and unwind around the campfire and while stars light up the dark skies. Your next adventure awaits...hope to see you soon!

97%

(18)

Rancho Algo Mas

1 site · RV, Tent7 acres · Ohkay Owingeh, NM

This land was previously undeveloped when we bought it in 2011, having only been used as horse grazing land and chile production in the 1960s. It is characteristic of inherited irrigated properties in the area and is about 150 ft wide and half a mile long that extends from the traditional irrigation ditch (acequia) at the top of the property to the river drainage. In the 1940s the Chile Line Railroad ran through here on the way to Espanola. Learn more about this land: Nestled in the river valley halfway between Taos and Santa Fe, near the confluence of the Rio Chama and the Rio Grande, this off-grid property is just north of Ohkay Owingeh, where indigenous settlements have existed for many centuries due to rich soil and available ground and surface water. In the 1500s settlers from Mexico came to farm land for New Spain. These historical Spanish and Native influences and identities run deep in this area, as well as the more recent influences of hippie dropout culture in Taos, Ojo Caliente, and Dixon. We have lots of book recommendations if you want to learn more about the complexity of culture and identity in northern New Mexico. Our 5 acres property is a narrow agricultural strip that extends from the irrigation acequia (ditch) at the top of the property down through a dense bosque (forest), ending in a path to the placid river bend of the Rio Grande. The campsites lie midway, among the privacy of the cottonwood bosque and adjacent pond. It is a short walk to a riverside perch with stairs to the shallow water and kayak launch. Other activities on the property include visiting the goats, chickens, and our friendly dogs, playing on the scrap-built playground, swinging on the pond swing, wading in the river, fishing, and doing some beginner kayaking the pond. This property is at its best late Spring through mid Fall when all is green, the pond is full and river is cool. Winter camping is still doable but may include snow, frozen pond, and leafless trees, and sandhill cranes. The site has a nice firepit and we have lots of wood. Summertime means mosquitos so come prepared with some serious sprays or creams- and don't bother with citronella candles, they won't be effective here. You will have a lot of privacy in the bosque, and it is relatively quiet from urban noise. You will be in agricultural and farm country, so you will be amongst the sounds of roosters, sheep, goat, peacocks and horses doing their thing in the farm land all around you. There can be dogs barking so if any of this noise bothers you you will want to bring earplugs.

92%

(19)

Rio Grande Camp

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Embudo, NM

Enjoy river side camping with amenities. This is a great swimming and fishing spot with gorgeous views. Catch and release fishing only please. Our local coop market, restaurants, four local wineries, and a pizza brewery all within 5 miles of your campsite. 110v & 50amp 240v plugin are available and a level 2 ccs EV charger is also available upon request. There is a drinking water spigot as well as a trash receptacle on site. There are no bathroom facilities here. The parking area can accommodate camper vans and medium size trailers. Large RV’s aren’t able to turn around in our small parking area.

99%

(35)

High Desert Oasis by Ojo HotSprings

1 site · Lodging3 acres · La Madera, NM

Monastic earthy Bedroom with ensuite bathroom in 1,700 sqft adobe house in a High-desert River Oasis. Three serene acres by the River Vallecitos, and moments away from the healing waters of Ojo Hot Springs (6miles). Lush vegetation with lots of trees and shade to relax, ground, and explore the enchanting natural phenomena all around. Lots of hiking tips. Where the fiery Taos (45mins) desert expanse and its majestic mountain ranges merge with the colorful rolling hills of magical Abiquiu (30mins) lies a fertile valley in Carson National Forest. There the old town (145 people) of La Madera sits, where you'll find this quaint private room with its own bathroom. A nourishing hide out to center and ground into Earth and melt with the elements, listen to the birds, mountains and your self.

99%

(795)

Mystical & Enchanted Desert Escape

9 sites · Tents50 acres · Youngsville, NM

Discover the magic of Star Dance High Desert Retreat—a serene haven nestled in New Mexico’s breathtaking high desert. Here, expansive views of rugged canyons, majestic mountains, and a starlit sky set the stage for an unforgettable escape. Whether you choose the convenience of a car camping spot or the secluded charm of a tent site, every space is thoughtfully designed to immerse you in nature’s splendor. At Star Dance, modern comforts blend seamlessly with the wild beauty of the desert. Enjoy a fully stocked, well-equipped kitchen perfect for preparing a cozy meal, and experience the luxury of clean, inviting bathrooms. Imagine stepping into an outdoor shower framed by stunning mountain vistas or relaxing in a hot tub under a canopy of twinkling stars. The retreat’s peaceful atmosphere and gentle, healing energy have touched the hearts of many. Guests have described their stays as “magical,” “healing,” and “beyond words” as they connect with the landscape and embrace the soulful ambiance of the high desert. With warm, welcoming hosts who add personal, thoughtful touches, Star Dance is more than just a place to camp—it’s a sanctuary where nature, comfort, and inspiration dance together. Step into a world of tranquility and wonder at Star Dance High Desert Retreat, and let the beauty of the desert soothe your spirit. Star Dance provides a secluded experience for travelers, artists, fishermen, birdwatchers, stargazers, and more. Star Dance sits above the upper Rio Chama canyons on 30 acres of trails and undisturbed natural terrain. **ATTENTION POTENTIAL GUESTS** Recently we've had a rash of guests who, either through the difficulties with using the mobile app or just not reading our provided information, have been arriving passed our check in time. We require guests to arrive no later than an hour before sundown (summer 7:30pm - winter 5:00pm) We require this because we are very rural and our sites are not lit to keep our property natural and prevent light pollution for ourselves and our neighbors. In the past we've issued refunds for people who have neglected this rule. We will no longer be doing so in the future.

100%

(5)

Juniper Mesa Camp

2 sites · Lodging10 acres · Abiquiu, NM

Remnants of the ancient Tewa culture accompany breathtaking views of the Sangre de Cristo range to the east, Jemez range and village of Abiquiu to the south. On the north, vast dramatic views of the Plaza Blanca, stretch out toward the towering Sierra Negra peak. A few acres of short juniper forest top the mesa, leaving the sky wide open for stargazing. An easy 10 minute drive to Bode's general store, dollar store, Cafe Sierra Negra, Abiquiu Inn, 15 to Abiquiu Lake, and 20 to Ghost Ranch, 10 miles off.

94%

(170)

Taos Goji Farm & Eco Lodge

13 sites · Lodging, Tents40 acres · San Cristobal, NM

Taos Goji Ecolodge, is an historic property with ten renovated cabins and a 4-acre goji berry farm located on 40 acres of pristine land in San Cristobal, New Mexico. The cabins were built at the beginning of last century, originally for sheep herders. Both Alduous Huxley and D.H. Lawrence lived and wrote in this cabins, and later Elizabeth Kubler Ross and Ram Dass stayed here.

99%

(53)

Big Little Hideaway

3 sites · Lodging5 acres · Taos, NM

We call it Big Little Hideaway and it will take you about 30 seconds upon arriving to discover why. My wife and I had been coming to Taos to ski for years and years and always felt at home, but it was a Summer trip that made us realize how much our souls belong here. My wife envisioned a property with a beautiful gate so that it feels like a courtyard (And she got it!) and after visiting the hot springs we knew this was The Spot!This is perfect if you're looking for a little bit of everything; mountain views, minutes away from hiking, paddle boarding, hot springs, skiing, and endless roads and beauty to explore. We're 15 minutes away from Taos and Arroyo Secco where you can enjoy great food, galleries and shopping, and 30 minutes away from the awesome Taos Ski Valley.Ideal for couples or families of 4 or close friends.

89%

(51)

Rio Grande Gorge National Monument

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Embudo, NM

Learn more about this land:We are at the entrance to the Rio Grande Del Norte National Monument. The Rio Grande River is a quarter mile away. Fishing Hiking Biking Boating Climbing. Historic Taos NM is 15 miles to the North. Santa Fe Nm is 50 miles to the south.

The best camping near Carson National Forest guide

Overview

About

Come get lost in the wild, enchanted lands of New Mexico! One of five unearthly National Forests in this great state, Carson National Forest is open for business all year round, and never fails to bring the heat with magnificent mountain scenery and some seriously stunning natural features. If solitude is your muse than look no further! Cold mountain streams, ample trout fishing, and out of sight camping is sure to give you your fix. With over 1.5 million acres laden with high ridges, dense vegetation and some of the cleanest air you’re likely to find west of the Mississippi, Carson is simply the epitome of Southwestern frontier!