Paliza

PO BOX 150
Jemez Springs, NM 87025

Notice

Please help protect our forest resources by not cutting, chopping, or using axes or hatchets on live trees. Damaging the bark and the living layers underneath harms the tree’s ability to move water and nutrients. Even small cuts can open the tree to insects, disease, and decay. Larger wounds can disrupt the tree’s vascular system entirely, causing it to weaken and eventually die.

We also ask that you do not hammer nails or screws into live trees. Penetrating the bark creates direct pathways for pests and infections, injures the tree’s internal tissues, and can lead to long-term decline or death.

Your cooperation helps keep our recreation areas healthy, safe, and beautiful for everyone. Thank you for doing your part to protect our trees.

Jul 29, 2026 – Jan 1, 2027

Overview

Paliza Campground sits beneath sandstone cliffs on the Jemez Ranger District of the Santa Fe National Forest. The area is replete with culture, offering visitors a glimpse into the past. Ample recreation opportunities exist at or near the campground, which makes it a wonderful outdoor destination.

Recreation

Hiking, wildlife viewing and scenic drives are some of the popular activities enjoyed near the campground. Striking views of an ancient volcanic crater amid the rolling hills, can be seen from the Cerro Pelado Scenic Overlook, about 11 miles from the campground.

Off-road vehicle trails and numerous hiking and mountain biking trails surround the campground.

Facilities

There is no water.

The campground offers a variety of sites available for tent and RV camping. Picnic tables, lantern posts and campfire rings with grills are provided, as are accessible vault toilets. Roads within the campground are paved.

Natural Features

The newly refurbished campground sits in a forested area at the top of a hill with views of the Jemez Valley below. It was originally the site of a 1930s Civilian Convservation Corps base camp. Remnants of that camp, including log lean-to's and adirondack shelters with rock fireplaces, can be found within the campground.

A small stream runs alongside the campground and sandstone cliffs on the nearby mesas provide excellent photographic and sightseeing opportunities. A small tract of private land is located north of the campground and common courtesy is appreciated.

Nearby Attractions

The campground is located five miles northeast of the town of Ponderosa, New Mexico, an area known for its vineyards and winery with a tasting room.

The Jemez Pueblo and the Walatowa Visitor Center, both of which provide rewarding cultural experiences, are just 11 miles from the campground in the town of Jemez. The quaint community offers shopping and dining opportunities, as well as a variety of recreational opportunities.

Camp site features

Across 30 camp sites:

Fire pit: 27 of 30 sites
Pets allowed: all 30 sites
Longest rig: 50 ft
Largest party: 5 people
Equipment: FIFTH WHEEL, LARGE TENT OVER 9X12`, RV, SMALL TENT, Tent, Trailer, VEHICLE

Directions

From the town of Ponderosa, New Mexico, travel 5 miles northeast on Forest Road 10 to the campground.

Stay Limit

Check in from 1 PM, check out by 11 AM.

Reviews

53 reviews

5 stars

4 stars

Laura G

Loop:Sngl

Site:

Reviewed 8 days ago

Beautiful campground.

Gordon C

Loop:Sngl

Site:

Reviewed 9 days ago

I found the software to make the reservation cumbersome and changes to your reservation ridiculous. We got to the campground and it was completely empty and yet we couldn't change our site even though the Host was okay with the change. Please update your policy and your software to allow for these changes.

Arnie K

Loop:Sngl

Site:

Reviewed 12 days ago

The camp was extremely clean and well kept, the camp host was diligent and you could tell he took pride in his campground!

Elaine J

Loop:Sngl

Site:

Reviewed 14 days ago

We were pleasantly surprised by this campground with its immaculate condition, large campsites, asphalt driveways and roads, clean bathrooms and trash that was collected regularly. The camp host was friendly and helpful. It was definitely one of the nicest USFS campgrounds we have been to.

Gabriela R

Loop:Sngl

Site:

Reviewed 14 days ago

We stayed 4 nights, is was pretty hot, but the camping host was great . Very respectful when letting us know about rules, changes. We also got clarification for us regarding some camp changes but always polite. We also noticed he was always cleaning the area. We will definitely revisit.

Janet R

Loop:Sngl

Site:

Reviewed 21 days ago

Clean, newly paved roads, campers respectful of rules and regulations.

Availability

See the Camp Sites section below to find detailed booking availability.

Reserve Watch

Popularity: Very quiet

Busiest in August, when about 15% of guest capacity is reserved. Based on 8 years of reservations.