The Taos Valley Overlook Trails consist of several single track loops, and
some two track trails totaling about 16 miles of intermediate level of
difficulty.

The Taos Valley Overlook Trails consist of several single track loops, and some two track trails totaling about 16 miles of intermediate level of difficulty.

Bird's eye view of the park

Taos Valley Overlook Trails

**April 19, 2021 update:** The Orilla Verde Recreation Area spot known as the
The Bend **is now reopen after a temporary law enforcement investigation. Due
to cultural values, the placement of rock climbing hardware is prohibited in
some specific locations and near cultural sites.** The public should check
social media or contact the BLM Taos Field Office at 575-758-8851 for more
information.

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.

Gentle waters with occasional small rapids flow through Orilla Verde,
providing an ideal setting for many recreational activities. 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.

<p><b>April 19, 2021 update:</b> The Orilla Verde Recreation Area spot known as the The Bend <b>is now reopen after a temporary law enforcement investigation. Due to cultural values, the placement of rock climbing hardware is prohibited in some specific locations and near cultural sites.</b> The public should check social media or contact the BLM Taos Field Office at 575-758-8851 for more information.</p><p>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.</p>

<p>Gentle waters with occasional small rapids flow through Orilla Verde, providing an ideal setting for many recreational activities. 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.</p> 

<p>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.</p>

Orilla Verde Recreation Area

## Overview

Agua Piedra, located in the Carson National Forest, is nestled near the Rio
Pueblo and Agua Piedra Creek. The campground contains many shaded areas to
camp, relax, and enjoy the outdoors.

## Recreation

Visitors to the Agua Piedra campground and group shelters can also enjoy
fishing in the Rio Pueblo River, which is a tributary of the mighty Rio
Grande. The river is stocked with rainbow trout and there is a small pier in
the day use area.  
Hiking to Serpent Lake and Cordova Canyon, which are both within seven miles
of the campground and group shelters, are also favorite activities for
visitors. Also popular is further exploration of points of interest in the
Pecos Wilderness, as well as within the Sangre De Cristos Mountains, the
southernmost Rocky Mountain range.

## Facilities

Visitors to the Agua Piedra campground and group shelters can also enjoy
fishing in the Rio Pueblo River, which is a tributary of the mighty Rio
Grande. The river is stocked with rainbow trout and there is a small pier in
the day use area.  
Hiking to Serpent Lake and Cordova Canyon, which are both within seven miles
of the campground and group shelters, are also favorite activities for
visitors. Also popular is further exploration of points of interest in the
Pecos Wilderness, as well as within the Sangre De Cristos Mountains, the
southernmost Rocky Mountain range.

## Natural Features

Agua Piedra campground and group shelters are located in a mixed forest of
spruce, fir and aspen trees, which provide some shade throughout the day. At
an altitude of 8,100 feet, temperatures can cool off during the summer nights.

## contact_info

For facility specific information, please call (928) 537-8888.

## Nearby Attractions

Sipapu Ski Resort, the town of Vadito, and the town of Penasco is within 3 -
17 miles from the campground and group shelter. Most services are available in
Taos, NM, 25 miles north of the campground or Espanola, NM, 45 miles
southwest.

<h2>Overview</h2>
Agua Piedra, located in the Carson National Forest, is nestled near the Rio Pueblo and Agua Piedra Creek. The campground contains many shaded areas to camp, relax, and enjoy the outdoors.<h2>Recreation</h2>
<p>Visitors to the Agua Piedra campground and group shelters can also enjoy fishing in the Rio Pueblo River, which is a tributary of the mighty Rio Grande. The river is stocked with rainbow trout and there is a small pier in the day use area.<br>Hiking to Serpent Lake and Cordova Canyon, which are both within seven miles of the campground and group shelters, are also favorite activities for visitors. Also popular is further exploration of points of interest in the Pecos Wilderness, as well as within the Sangre De Cristos Mountains, the southernmost Rocky Mountain range.</p>
<h2>Facilities</h2>
<p>Visitors to the Agua Piedra campground and group shelters can also enjoy fishing in the Rio Pueblo River, which is a tributary of the mighty Rio Grande. The river is stocked with rainbow trout and there is a small pier in the day use area.<br>Hiking to Serpent Lake and Cordova Canyon, which are both within seven miles of the campground and group shelters, are also favorite activities for visitors. Also popular is further exploration of points of interest in the Pecos Wilderness, as well as within the Sangre De Cristos Mountains, the southernmost Rocky Mountain range.</p>
<h2>Natural Features</h2>
Agua Piedra campground and group shelters are located in a mixed forest of spruce, fir and aspen trees, which provide some shade throughout the day. At an altitude of 8,100 feet, temperatures can cool off during the summer nights.
<h2>contact_info</h2>
For facility specific information, please call (928) 537-8888.
<h2>Nearby Attractions</h2>
Sipapu Ski Resort, the town of Vadito, and the town of Penasco is within 3 - 17 miles from the campground and group shelter. Most services are available in Taos, NM, 25 miles north of the campground or Espanola, NM, 45 miles southwest.

Agua Piedra Campground Group Shelter

Agua Piedra Campsite containing mountainous views

Agua Piedra Campground Water Spout

Agua Piedra Campground Restrooms next to a water spout

Agua Piedra Campground Trail

Agua Piedra Campground Trash Collection

Agua Piedra Campground

Agua Piedra Campground Views from Entrance

Agua Piedra Campground Restrooms

## Overview

The Amole Group Shelter is located immediately adjacent to the popular wooded
Amole Canyon Day Use Area at 8,400 feet in elevation. The group shelter
accommodates up to 100 people with plenty of solitude since this is the only
group facility in this location.

## Recreation

There are approximately 11 miles of non-motorized trails located in the Amole
Canyon Day Use Area. Here, visitors can enjoy sections of the nearby South
Loop Trail, with views of the Rio Pueblo Valley, and nearby Bear Mountain and
Penasco Mountain. Along the Upper Cutoff Trail, views of Picuris Mountain are
readily available. The trails are popular for hiking, mountain biking,
snowshoeing and cross-country skiing and are rated easy to more difficult. The
Amole Canyon Trailhead also provides access to the Forest's Motorized Trail
System via Trail 182, the Tio Maes Trail.

## Facilities

There are approximately 11 miles of non-motorized trails located in the Amole
Canyon Day Use Area. Here, visitors can enjoy sections of the nearby South
Loop Trail, with views of the Rio Pueblo Valley, and nearby Bear Mountain and
Penasco Mountain. Along the Upper Cutoff Trail, views of Picuris Mountain are
readily available. The trails are popular for hiking, mountain biking,
snowshoeing and cross-country skiing and are rated easy to more difficult. The
Amole Canyon Trailhead also provides access to the Forest's Motorized Trail
System via Trail 182, the Tio Maes Trail.

## Natural Features

The group camping area has been constructed within a stand of tall ponderosa
pine trees. The shelter has been constructed on a small hill overlooking a
pristine meadow.

## Nearby Attractions

Amole Canyon Group Shelter is located approximately seven miles away from the
unincorporated community of Penasco with art galleries, some restaurants, fuel
and automotive services, and a small hardware store; seven miles from Sipapu
Ski and Summer Resort with a resturant and a nationally ranked disc golf
course; eight miles from the Taos Campus of Southern Methodist University and
the Pot Creek Cultural Site; 11 miles from Picuris Pueblo; 15 miles from Taos
which has a hospital and most services; 15 miles from access to the Pecos
Wilderness and world class fly fishing at the Santa Barbara Trailhead; 20
miles from the Serpent Lake Trailhead which accesses the Pecos Wilderness and
Jicarita Peak (12,800 feet); 20 miles to Taos Pueblo with events and pueblo
tours; and 30 miles from the Rio Grande del Norte National Monument with word
class rafting, kayaking and flying fishing.

<h2>Overview</h2>
<p>The Amole Group Shelter is located immediately adjacent to the popular wooded Amole Canyon Day Use Area at 8,400 feet in elevation.  The group shelter accommodates up to 100 people with plenty of solitude since this is the only group facility in this location.</p>
<h2>Recreation</h2>
<p>There are approximately 11 miles of non-motorized trails located in the Amole Canyon Day Use Area.  Here, visitors can enjoy sections of the nearby South Loop Trail, with views of the Rio Pueblo Valley, and nearby Bear Mountain and Penasco Mountain.  Along the Upper Cutoff Trail, views of Picuris Mountain are readily available.   The trails are popular for hiking, mountain biking, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing and are rated easy to more difficult.  The Amole Canyon Trailhead also provides access to the Forest's Motorized Trail System via Trail 182, the Tio Maes Trail.</p>
<h2>Facilities</h2>
<p>There are approximately 11 miles of non-motorized trails located in the Amole Canyon Day Use Area.  Here, visitors can enjoy sections of the nearby South Loop Trail, with views of the Rio Pueblo Valley, and nearby Bear Mountain and Penasco Mountain.  Along the Upper Cutoff Trail, views of Picuris Mountain are readily available.   The trails are popular for hiking, mountain biking, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing and are rated easy to more difficult.  The Amole Canyon Trailhead also provides access to the Forest's Motorized Trail System via Trail 182, the Tio Maes Trail.</p>
<h2>Natural Features</h2>
The group camping area has been constructed within a stand of tall ponderosa pine trees.  The shelter has been constructed on a small hill overlooking a pristine meadow.
<h2>Nearby Attractions</h2>
<p>Amole Canyon Group Shelter is located approximately seven miles away from the unincorporated community of Penasco with art galleries, some restaurants, fuel and automotive services, and a small hardware store; seven miles from Sipapu Ski and Summer Resort with a resturant and a nationally ranked disc golf course; eight miles from the Taos Campus of Southern Methodist University and the Pot Creek Cultural Site; 11 miles from Picuris Pueblo; 15 miles from Taos which has a hospital and most services; 15 miles from access to the Pecos Wilderness and world class fly fishing at the Santa Barbara Trailhead; 20 miles from the Serpent Lake Trailhead which accesses the Pecos Wilderness and Jicarita Peak (12,800 feet); 20 miles to Taos Pueblo with events and pueblo tours; and 30 miles from the Rio Grande del Norte National Monument with word class rafting, kayaking and flying fishing.</p>

Amole Loop Sign

Amole Canyon Shelter with BBQ grills

Amole Canyon Group Shelter

Amole Canyon Restroom located at the day use trailhead about 1/10 of mile away from the group shelter

Amole Canyon Restroom

Amole Canyon RV Site

Amole Shelter with Meadow view

Amole Canyon Restrooms located immediately adjacent to the group shelter.

Amole Canyon Restrooms

## Overview

Cimarron Campground is located in the scenic Valle Vidal within Carson
National Forest in northern New Mexico, at an elevation of 9,300 feet. The
sites are tucked among spruce, aspen and fir trees, and the camp offers an
open range feel.  
  
Visitors have opportunities to enjoy a variety of recreational activities in a
picturesque setting. Viewing wildlife and simply relaxing in the mountain air
are popular activities.

## Recreation

Anglers can fish for Rio Grande cutthroat trout in Comanche Creek and the Rio
Pueblo. Nearby Shuree Ponds offers excellent fishing. The smaller pond is a
fishing hole for kids 12 and under. The main pond is stocked with rainbow
trout and is also popular for float tubing.  
  
The area around the campground is open to horseback riding, and there are few
maintained trails. Elk and deer hunting is excellent.

## Facilities

Anglers can fish for Rio Grande cutthroat trout in Comanche Creek and the Rio
Pueblo. Nearby Shuree Ponds offers excellent fishing. The smaller pond is a
fishing hole for kids 12 and under. The main pond is stocked with rainbow
trout and is also popular for float tubing.  
  
The area around the campground is open to horseback riding, and there are few
maintained trails. Elk and deer hunting is excellent.

## Natural Features

Some of the finest mountain scenery in the Southwest is found in the 1.5
million acres within the Carson National Forest. Elevations range from 6,000
feet to 13,161 feet at Wheeler Peak, the highest in New Mexico.  
  
Big game animals roam the Carson, including mule deer, elk, antelope, black
bear, mountain lion and bighorn sheep. Many species of smaller animals and
songbirds can also been found in the forest.  
  
Cimarron Campground is located within the beautiful Valle Vidal, a Spanish
term meaning "Valley of Life," of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Shuree
Ponds, Comanche Creek and the Rio Pueblo are all near the campground, offering
excellent fishing.

## contact_info

For facility specific information, please call (928) 537-8888.

<h2>Overview</h2>
Cimarron Campground is located in the scenic Valle Vidal within Carson National Forest in northern New Mexico, at an elevation of 9,300 feet. The sites are tucked among spruce, aspen and fir trees, and the camp offers an open range feel.<br/><br/> 

Visitors have opportunities to enjoy a variety of recreational activities in a picturesque setting. Viewing wildlife and simply relaxing in the mountain air are popular activities.<h2>Recreation</h2>
Anglers can fish for Rio Grande cutthroat trout in Comanche Creek and the Rio Pueblo. Nearby Shuree Ponds offers excellent fishing. The smaller pond is a fishing hole for kids 12 and under. The main pond is stocked with rainbow trout and is also popular for float tubing.<br/><br/>  

The area around the campground is open to horseback riding, and there are few maintained trails. Elk and deer hunting is excellent. <h2>Facilities</h2>
Anglers can fish for Rio Grande cutthroat trout in Comanche Creek and the Rio Pueblo. Nearby Shuree Ponds offers excellent fishing. The smaller pond is a fishing hole for kids 12 and under. The main pond is stocked with rainbow trout and is also popular for float tubing.<br/><br/>  

The area around the campground is open to horseback riding, and there are few maintained trails. Elk and deer hunting is excellent. <h2>Natural Features</h2>
Some of the finest mountain scenery in the Southwest is found in the 1.5 million acres within the Carson National Forest. Elevations range from 6,000 feet to 13,161 feet at Wheeler Peak, the highest in New Mexico.<br/><br/>

Big game animals roam the Carson, including mule deer, elk, antelope, black bear, mountain lion and bighorn sheep. Many species of smaller animals and songbirds can also been found in the forest.<br/><br/> 

Cimarron Campground is located within the beautiful Valle Vidal, a Spanish term meaning "Valley of Life," of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Shuree Ponds, Comanche Creek and the Rio Pueblo are all near the campground, offering excellent fishing. 
<h2>contact_info</h2>
For facility specific information, please call (928) 537-8888.

CIMARRON Campground Standard Site

CIMARRON Campground Site Entrance

CIMARRON Campground Standard Site 15

Cimarron Campground with Mountainous Views

CIMARRON Campground Information Kiosk

CIMARRON Campground Shuree Ponds Trail

CIMARRON Campground Restroom

Fishing near Cimarron Campground

CIMARRON Campground Trash Collection

CIMARRON Campground Water Spout

Horse Stall at Cimarron Campground

Cimarron Campground

## Overview

Columbine Campground is located between Questa and Red River, New Mexico. The
Red River flows past the campground and a trailhead leads into the Columbine-
Hondo Wilderness area. Columbine Campground sits at 7,900 feet in elevation.

## Recreation

The Columbine Twining hiking trail can be found at the south end of the
campground and gives access to 14 miles of hiking trails, and leads into the
Columbin-Hondo Wilderness area. The Red River runs near the campground and can
be accessed near the first loop.

## Facilities

The Columbine Twining hiking trail can be found at the south end of the
campground and gives access to 14 miles of hiking trails, and leads into the
Columbin-Hondo Wilderness area. The Red River runs near the campground and can
be accessed near the first loop.

## Natural Features

The campground is composed of two loops. One small loop at the campground
entrance, has all open sites and views of the towering mountains. The other is
a long loop up the canyon along the fast-flowing Columbine Creek. The
campsites in this loop are tucked in among pine, spruce and some aspen
providing ample shade and good privacy between campsites.

## contact_info

For facility specific information, please call (928) 537-8888.

## Nearby Attractions

Be sure to explore Red River, Questa, and the Enchanted Circle while in the
area.

<h2>Overview</h2>
Columbine Campground is located between Questa and Red River, New Mexico. The Red River flows past the campground and a trailhead leads into the Columbine-Hondo Wilderness area. Columbine Campground sits at 7,900 feet in elevation.<h2>Recreation</h2>
The Columbine Twining hiking trail can be found at the south end of the campground and gives access to 14 miles of hiking trails, and leads into the Columbin-Hondo Wilderness area. The Red River runs near the campground and can be accessed near the first loop. <h2>Facilities</h2>
The Columbine Twining hiking trail can be found at the south end of the campground and gives access to 14 miles of hiking trails, and leads into the Columbin-Hondo Wilderness area. The Red River runs near the campground and can be accessed near the first loop. <h2>Natural Features</h2>
The campground is composed of two loops.  
One small loop at the campground entrance, has all open sites and views of the towering mountains.
The other is a long loop up the canyon along the fast-flowing Columbine Creek.  The campsites in this loop are tucked in among pine, spruce and some aspen providing ample shade and good privacy between campsites.

<h2>contact_info</h2>
For facility specific information, please call (928) 537-8888.
<h2>Nearby Attractions</h2>
Be sure to explore Red River, Questa,  and the Enchanted Circle while in the area.

Vault toilets.

Vault toilet.

Columbine Campground

On-site water.

Trail head.

Site 26.

Columbine Campground (Nm)

## Overview

Elephant Rock Campground has excellent fishing access to the well-stocked Red
River, nearby Eagle Rock Lake and hiking into the surrounding high country.
This campground is close to the highway with plenty of large pine trees. The
campground rests at 8,400 feet above sea level.

## Recreation

The nearest hiking trail, Fawn Lakes Trail, is located .3 miles east of
Elephant Rock Campground, near Fawn Lakes Campground. This trail meets
accessibility guidelines. Elephant Rock offers convenient access to State Rt.
38 and is well situated for day trips on the Enchanted Circle and to the town
of Red River. The Red River is across the road from the campground but is not
accessible.

## Facilities

The nearest hiking trail, Fawn Lakes Trail, is located .3 miles east of
Elephant Rock Campground, near Fawn Lakes Campground. This trail meets
accessibility guidelines. Elephant Rock offers convenient access to State Rt.
38 and is well situated for day trips on the Enchanted Circle and to the town
of Red River. The Red River is across the road from the campground but is not
accessible.

## Natural Features

Elephant Rock Campground is a single loop that meanders up a hillside with
several sites featuring stone terracing. The campsites are tucked in among a
mixture of ponderosa pine, aspen, fir and spruce. The Red River flows near
this campground.

## Nearby Attractions

Visitors to the area can explore the town of Red River, Questa, and the
Enchanted Circle.

## contact_info

For facility specific information, please call (928) 537-8888.

<h2>Overview</h2>
Elephant Rock Campground has excellent fishing access to the well-stocked Red River, nearby Eagle Rock Lake and hiking into the surrounding high country. This campground is close to the highway with plenty of large pine trees. The campground rests at 8,400 feet above sea level.<h2>Recreation</h2>
The nearest hiking trail, Fawn Lakes Trail, is located .3 miles east of Elephant Rock Campground, near Fawn Lakes Campground.  This trail meets accessibility guidelines.  Elephant Rock offers convenient access to State Rt. 38 and is well situated for day trips on the Enchanted Circle and to the town of Red River.  The Red River is across the road from the campground but is not accessible.<h2>Facilities</h2>
The nearest hiking trail, Fawn Lakes Trail, is located .3 miles east of Elephant Rock Campground, near Fawn Lakes Campground.  This trail meets accessibility guidelines.  Elephant Rock offers convenient access to State Rt. 38 and is well situated for day trips on the Enchanted Circle and to the town of Red River.  The Red River is across the road from the campground but is not accessible.<h2>Natural Features</h2>
Elephant Rock Campground is a single loop that meanders up a hillside with several sites featuring stone terracing.  The campsites are tucked in among a mixture of ponderosa pine, aspen, fir and spruce. The Red River flows near this campground.
<h2>Nearby Attractions</h2>
Visitors to the area can explore the town of Red River, Questa, and the Enchanted Circle.
<h2>contact_info</h2>
For facility specific information, please call (928) 537-8888.

Site 2

Elephant Rock Campground

Site 5

Campground bathrooms.

Self pay station.

## Overview

The El Rito Campground Group Shelter is situated along El Rito Creek and is
part of a larger campground, El Rito Campground. The group shelter and
campground are located approximately 5 miles from the small village of El
Rito. Elevation of the group shelter is 7,600 feet with the predominant
vegetation being pinon, cottonwood, spruce, juniper and gambel oak.

This is a **great place** to host your family and friends, graduation parties,
organization meetings, and school events. Stay for the day or make it an
overnight! Visitors can enjoy hiking and fishing, plus there are also nearby
opportunities for sport and traditional climbing . Wildlife (depending on the
season) may include mule deer, squirrels, chipmunks, and racoons plus the rare
sighting of a bear or mountain lion. The campground is situated along the
banks of the El Rito Creek.

**Typical season** of use is May 1 to October 1. **Check-in at the site is
1:00 PM on the start date of your reservation. Check-out is 11:00 AM on the
last day of your reservation.**

## Recreation

The nearby creek is great for fishing and enjoying nature. Look for birds
flitting around the water in search of their next aquatic meal and splash
around in the creek on hot days when the water is lower and you need to cool
off. The water from this creek begins in the mountains as snow and rain runoff
and travels along the corridor shared with the picnic shelter/camping area.
Cross the creek and you will find adventures at the base of the red cliffs.
Can you spot the hawk flying overhead and was that a chipmunk that just ran
past you?!

Please **do not** climb the cliffs unless you are an experienced rope/harness
climber. There are specific climbing areas designed for such adventures in the
nearby vicinity.

## Facilities

The nearby creek is great for fishing and enjoying nature. Look for birds
flitting around the water in search of their next aquatic meal and splash
around in the creek on hot days when the water is lower and you need to cool
off. The water from this creek begins in the mountains as snow and rain runoff
and travels along the corridor shared with the picnic shelter/camping area.
Cross the creek and you will find adventures at the base of the red cliffs.
Can you spot the hawk flying overhead and was that a chipmunk that just ran
past you?!

Please **do not** climb the cliffs unless you are an experienced rope/harness
climber. There are specific climbing areas designed for such adventures in the
nearby vicinity.

## Natural Features

This group shelter/camping area is tucked up in the forest and located next a
babbling creek that is popular for fishing and lounging next to when the
moment strikes you. The view of the nearby cliffs tops off this great
experience in nature.

<h2>Overview</h2>
<p>The El Rito Campground Group Shelter is situated along El Rito Creek and is part of a larger campground, El Rito Campground.  The group shelter and campground are located approximately 5 miles from the small village of El Rito. Elevation of the group shelter is 7,600 feet with the predominant vegetation being pinon, cottonwood, spruce, juniper and gambel oak.  </p>
<p>This is a <strong>great place </strong>to host your family and friends, graduation parties, organization meetings, and school events.  Stay for the day or make it an overnight!  Visitors can enjoy hiking and fishing, plus there are also nearby opportunities for sport and traditional climbing .  Wildlife (depending on the season) may include mule deer, squirrels, chipmunks, and racoons plus the rare sighting of a bear or mountain lion.  The campground is situated along the banks of the El Rito Creek. </p>
<p><strong>Typical season </strong>of use is May 1 to October 1.  <strong>Check-in at the site is 1:00 PM on the start date of your reservation. Check-out is 11:00 AM on the last day of your reservation.</strong></p>
<h2>Recreation</h2>
<p>The nearby creek is great for fishing and enjoying nature.  Look for birds flitting around the water in search of their next aquatic meal and splash around in the creek on hot days when the water is lower and you need to cool off.  The water from this creek begins in the mountains as snow and rain runoff and travels along the corridor shared with the picnic shelter/camping area.  Cross the creek and you will find adventures at the base of the red cliffs. Can you spot the hawk flying overhead and was that a chipmunk that just ran past you?!  </p>
<p>Please <strong>do not</strong> climb the cliffs unless you are an experienced rope/harness climber. There are specific climbing areas designed for such adventures in the nearby vicinity.</p>
<h2>Facilities</h2>
<p>The nearby creek is great for fishing and enjoying nature.  Look for birds flitting around the water in search of their next aquatic meal and splash around in the creek on hot days when the water is lower and you need to cool off.  The water from this creek begins in the mountains as snow and rain runoff and travels along the corridor shared with the picnic shelter/camping area.  Cross the creek and you will find adventures at the base of the red cliffs. Can you spot the hawk flying overhead and was that a chipmunk that just ran past you?!  </p>
<p>Please <strong>do not</strong> climb the cliffs unless you are an experienced rope/harness climber. There are specific climbing areas designed for such adventures in the nearby vicinity.</p>
<h2>Natural Features</h2>
<p>This group shelter/camping area is tucked up in the forest and located next a babbling creek that is popular for fishing and lounging next to when the moment strikes you.  The view of the nearby cliffs tops off this great experience in nature.  </p>

Group Shelter with Southwest Conservation Corps van

Southwest Conservation Corps 2022--group shelter site improvements

A great placed to camp!

Group shelter in the fall

El Rito Campground--Group Shelter

## Overview

Fawn Lakes Campground is located in Carson National Forest, one of a few
campgrounds located along the scenic canyons of Red River. Visitors enjoy
fishing and exploring nearby hiking trails.

## Recreation

Located between Questa and Red River, many activities such as hiking and
fishing are available to visitors either at the campground or a short drive
away. There is fishing access for Red River and to the nearby small lakes.
Columbine Trailhead is within 4 miles and starts at Columbine Campground.

## Facilities

Located between Questa and Red River, many activities such as hiking and
fishing are available to visitors either at the campground or a short drive
away. There is fishing access for Red River and to the nearby small lakes.
Columbine Trailhead is within 4 miles and starts at Columbine Campground.

## Natural Features

The Red River runs adjacent to the campground. Two small fishing lakes are
within a short walk from the campground. The surrounding mountains comprise a
beautiful forest of ponderosa pine that blankets the campground and offers
partial shade.

## Nearby Attractions

The City of Red River is about 3 miles away, with groceries, gas, showers,
laundry facilities and a café. An RV dump station is within 1 mile of the
campground.

## contact_info

For facility specific information, please call (928) 537-8888.

<h2>Overview</h2>
Fawn Lakes Campground is located in Carson National Forest, one of a few campgrounds located along the scenic canyons of Red River. Visitors enjoy fishing and exploring nearby hiking trails.<h2>Recreation</h2>
Located between Questa and Red River, many activities such as hiking and fishing are available to visitors either at the campground or a short drive away. There is fishing access for Red River and to the nearby small lakes. Columbine Trailhead is within 4 miles and starts at Columbine Campground.<h2>Facilities</h2>
Located between Questa and Red River, many activities such as hiking and fishing are available to visitors either at the campground or a short drive away. There is fishing access for Red River and to the nearby small lakes. Columbine Trailhead is within 4 miles and starts at Columbine Campground.<h2>Natural Features</h2>
The Red River runs adjacent to the campground. Two small fishing lakes are within a short walk from the campground. The surrounding mountains comprise a beautiful forest of ponderosa pine that blankets the campground and offers partial shade. 
<h2>Nearby Attractions</h2>
The City of Red River is about 3 miles away, with groceries, gas, showers, laundry facilities and a café. An RV dump station is within 1 mile of the campground.
<h2>contact_info</h2>
For facility specific information, please call (928) 537-8888.

Parking area and trail head.

Site 14

Fawn lakes Campground

Fawn Lakes Campground

On-site vault toilets.

## Overview

Hopewell Lake Campground sits next to its scenic namesake lake between Tres
Piedras and Tierra Amarilla in northern New Mexico. Visitors enjoy horseback
riding, hiking, fishing and canoeing.

## Recreation

The 14-acre lake is perfect for canoeing and is regularly stocked with rainbow
and brook trout. The Continental Divide National Scenic Trail goes through the
campgound, and is popular with horseback riders and hikers.

## Facilities

The 14-acre lake is perfect for canoeing and is regularly stocked with rainbow
and brook trout. The Continental Divide National Scenic Trail goes through the
campgound, and is popular with horseback riders and hikers.

## Natural Features

Hopewell Lake is a small, man-made lake, set high in the Carson National
Forest at an elevation of 9,500 feet. A forest of conifer and aspen trees
covers the area and offers partial shade in the campground.

## contact_info

For facility specific information, please call (928) 537-8888.

<h2>Overview</h2>
Hopewell Lake Campground sits next to its scenic namesake lake between Tres Piedras and Tierra Amarilla in northern New Mexico. Visitors enjoy horseback riding, hiking, fishing and canoeing.<h2>Recreation</h2>
<p>The 14-acre lake is perfect for canoeing and is regularly stocked with rainbow and brook trout. The Continental Divide National Scenic Trail goes through the campgound, and is popular with horseback riders and hikers.</p>
<h2>Facilities</h2>
<p>The 14-acre lake is perfect for canoeing and is regularly stocked with rainbow and brook trout. The Continental Divide National Scenic Trail goes through the campgound, and is popular with horseback riders and hikers.</p>
<h2>Natural Features</h2>
Hopewell Lake is a small, man-made lake, set high in the Carson National Forest at an elevation of 9,500 feet. A forest of conifer and aspen trees covers the area and offers partial shade in the campground.
<h2>contact_info</h2>
For facility specific information, please call (928) 537-8888.

Hopewell Lake view

Hopewell lake trailhead

Hopewell lake forest trail

Hopewell Lake Campground

HOPEWELL LAKE water tub

HOPEWELL LAKE CAMPGROUND

## 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

This is a great drop off point for hikers and horseback riders seeking close
access to the Pecos Wilderness and Jicarita Peak.

## 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.

## contact_info

For facility specific information, please call (928) 537-8888.

## 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.

<h2>Overview</h2>
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.<h2>Recreation</h2>
This is a great drop off point for hikers and horseback riders seeking close access to the Pecos Wilderness and Jicarita Peak.<h2>Facilities</h2>
This is a great drop off point for hikers and horseback riders seeking close access to the Pecos Wilderness and Jicarita Peak.<h2>Natural Features</h2>
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.
<h2>contact_info</h2>
For facility specific information, please call (928) 537-8888.
<h2>Nearby Attractions</h2>
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.

Santa Barbara Campground

Campsite forest view of dense trees.

Campground lavatory.

Santa Barbara info board with posters

Santa Barbara water spout.

Site trail for Santa Barbara campground

Wheeler Peak Wilderness

Valle Vidal Unit

Carson National Forest

The Old Spanish National Historic Trail links Santa Fe and Los Angeles across
six states and 2,700 miles. It traverses red rock mesas, passes below snow-
capped peaks, and fords untamed rivers, avoiding the immense depths of the
Grand Canyon and skirting the continent’s harshest deserts. The trail takes
its name from the Spanish colonies in northern New Mexico and southern
California that were linked by this rugged route. The Spanish outpost of Santa
Fe, New Mexico was founded in the early 1600s and the pueblo of Los Angeles,
California was founded in 1781. But it was not until 1829 when Santa Fe
merchant Antonio Armijo led 60 men and 100 pack mules northward on the trails
blazed by native peoples that a suitable land passage between these colonies
was established. Armijo’s mules carried woolen goods for trade in California.
On the return trip, Armijo backtracked along the route Spanish padres
Dominguez and Escalante recorded as they returned to Santa Fe from southern
Utah more than 50 years earlier. He and his men drove mules, horses, and
donkeys obtained in California for trade in New Mexico. Some of the several
Old Spanish Trail trade routes were eventually replaced by wagon roads, and
many portions of the routes remain today in state highway transportation
networks. The Old Spanish Trail was designated by Congress as a National
Historic Trail in December 2002. By memorandum from the Secretary of the
Interior, the Old Spanish National Historic Trail is jointly administered by
the BLM and the National Park Service, working in partnership with other
federal, state, and local government agencies, as well as private landowners
who manage or own lands along the trail route.

The Old Spanish National Historic Trail links Santa Fe and Los Angeles across six states and 2,700 miles.  It traverses red rock mesas, passes below snow-capped peaks, and fords untamed rivers, avoiding the immense depths of the Grand Canyon and skirting the continent’s harshest deserts.

The trail takes its name from the Spanish colonies in northern New Mexico and southern California that were linked by this rugged route. The Spanish outpost of Santa Fe, New Mexico was founded in the early 1600s and the pueblo of Los Angeles, California was founded in 1781. But it was not until 1829 when Santa Fe merchant Antonio Armijo led 60 men and 100 pack mules northward on the trails blazed by native peoples that a suitable land passage between these colonies was established. Armijo’s mules carried woolen goods for trade in California. On the return trip, Armijo backtracked along the route Spanish padres Dominguez and Escalante recorded as they returned to Santa Fe from southern Utah more than 50 years earlier. He and his men drove mules, horses, and donkeys obtained in California for trade in New Mexico. Some of the several Old Spanish Trail trade routes were eventually replaced by wagon roads, and many portions of the routes remain today in state highway transportation networks.
 
The Old Spanish Trail was designated by Congress as a National Historic Trail in December 2002. By memorandum from the Secretary of the Interior, the Old Spanish National Historic Trail is jointly administered by the BLM and the National Park Service, working in partnership with other federal, state, and local government agencies, as well as private landowners who manage or own lands along the trail route.

Old Spanish Trail National Historic Trail

Horsethief Mesa Trail is about a 12-mile loop that is rated an intermediate
level of difficulty with some technical, rocky sections.

Horsethief Mesa Trail is about a 12-mile loop that is rated an intermediate level of difficulty with some technical, rocky sections.

Taos Valley Overlook Trails

Directions

Reviews

Nearby Parks

Orilla Verde Recreation Area

Carson National Forest

Old Spanish Trail National Historic Trail

Horsethief Mesa Trail