Best Camping in and near El Vado Lake State Park

100% (2 reviews)

El Vado Lake State Park: A Haven for Outdoor Enthusiasts and Nature Lovers.

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Community favorites near El Vado Lake State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in El Vado Lake State Park

Sands Cove Primitive Campground

1 site In El Vado Lake State Park

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(2)

Grassy Point Campground

10 sites · RVs, Tents In El Vado Lake State Park

Elk Run Campground

2 sites · RVs, Tents In El Vado Lake State Park

Hargroves Point Primitive Campground

1 site In El Vado Lake State Park

Pinon Beach Campground

7 sites · RVs, Tents In El Vado Lake State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near El Vado Lake State Park

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(756)

Star Dance High Desert Retreat

9 sites · Tents100 acres · Youngsville, NM

Visit the startling beauty of the plateaus above Lake Abiquiu in northern New Mexico. 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.

64%

(11)

Fountain of Youth Springs Ranch

4 sites · RVs, Tents6 acres · Los Ojos , NM

This camp is on the chama river, swimming holes up stream, has natural Fresh water springs on the property. Close to heron lake state park El vado state park. Nature trail walks great fishing, plan to have have spring water supply to camping area great for growing gardens and building green house for future plans. camping accommodation can be provided or built on the land.Learn more about this land:This camp is on the Chama River, swimming holes up stream, has natural fresh water springs on the property. Close to Heron Lake State Park, El vado state park. Nature trail walks great fishing, plan to have have spring water supply to camping area great for growing gardens and building green house for future plans. Camping accommodation can be provided or built on the land.

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(7)

Stone House Lodge

13 sites · RVs14 acres · Tierra Amarilla, NM

Discover the beauty of Stone House Lodge nestled between northern New Mexico’s most popular recreation areas, El Vado and Heron Lake State Parks. Come and relax in this beautiful, fun and friendly environment. We are surrounded by mountains, lakes and rivers in a wooded setting. We have five unique rustic cabins, each with their own special features. The cabins have been recently renovated and have electric and hot water. Our RV sites are spacious long level pull-throughs and have access to water, septic and electricity. Our premium RV spaces are secluded with mountain and lake views. Community showers and restrooms available. Our Dry Camp Sites are secluded and peaceful with mountain and lake views. Our campsite amenities include fishing tackle shop, minimart, picnic tables, BBQ grills, fire pits, bikes, kayaks and paddle boards.

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Eve is her name

2 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Brazos, NM

Learn more about this land:Pull into this off road area to park and explore 5 acres of pine and oak forest. Set up your camp on one of several flat areas around the property. If the creek bed is dry, that is a beautiful valley area to set up. View mountains hundreds of miles away and enjoy the milky way at night. This area is green all summer and breath taking during fall. About a mile off the highway, this land is easy to get to and six miles south of Chama, New Mexico where the old train runs. Going south are Heron Dam and Abiquiu Lake as well as beautiful red rock formations.

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(140)

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. Very yummy! 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. 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.

Stone House Lodge

8 sites · RVs14 acres · Tierra Amarilla, NM

Discover the beauty of Stone House Lodge nestled between northern New Mexico’s most popular recreation areas, El Vado and Heron Lake State Parks. Come and relax in this beautiful, fun and friendly environment. We are surrounded by mountains, lakes and rivers in a wooded setting. We have five unique rustic cabins, each with their own special features. The cabins have been recently renovated and have electric and hot water. Our RV sites are spacious long level pull-throughs and have access to water, septic and electricity. Our premium RV spaces are secluded with mountain and lake views. Community showers and restrooms available. Our Dry Camp Sites are secluded and peaceful with mountain and lake views. Our campsite amenities include fishing tackle shop, minimart, picnic tables, BBQ grills, fire pits, bikes, kayaks and paddle boards.

100%

(6)

Sky Mesa Ranch

7 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · NM

10 flat acres Close to all the Abiquiu and Northern New Mexico Activities. A very quiet community tucked about about a mile off highway 554. Currently we are working on utilities. There are no utilities available to you, you will need to be self sufficient. However there are a handful of convenience store south and north of the property. A very safe and beautiful piece of property. Camp at the edge of the Mesa for an unobstructed view of Pedernal.

89%

(32)

Echo Canyon Reservoir Camping

3 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · CO

Beautiful forest with 5 acres of land to camp, the area is mostly flat with a secluded feel, great views available with a very short 5 minute hike. There is a reservoir that is a nice hike down and a river that is on the other side that can be walked to, but its steep and a good half mile away! This river leads to a hot springs resort that is pretty awesome but is a whole separate company. We're excited to host you! Pagosa Springs downtown and hot springs are about a 10-15 minute drive from the site. This is not a commercial property. This is an RV dry camping site so please remain self-contained and pack out whatever you pack in! No open campfires, gas stoves and enclosed fires are allowed when no fire ban.

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Gallina Canyon Wilderness Rentals

2 sites · Lodging299 acres · NM

Elizabeth is originally from the San Francisco Bay Area. Andrew is from Grand Rapids Michigan. In 1977 we bought the homestead complete with cows. We grew speciality organic produce for restaurants in Santa Fe, Taos, and Albuquerque for fifteen years. David is from the Los Angeles area. He came to the ranch in 2002. He is our caretaker, and webmaster.Dogs are very much welcome at the ranch and we even have a couch for dogs at Anasazi. At both camps, we provide dog bowls for food and water, and horse blankets for dogs to sleep on. Dogs must be on leashes at the main ranch where there are cats, dogs, horses, chickens, cows and other ranch animals.The canyon stretches more than seven miles, with a dirt road going through the canyon, and the road crosses Rio Gallina many times. Dogs and humans are welcome to explore the entire canyon system.Rio Gallina is shallow, and for most of the time it is not a hazard for dogs or humans. In addition to the river, there are several places where dogs can drink when exploring: two springs west of Remote Casita cross the river, and several seeps in the big grassy meadow farther west. The land is populated by Cottonwood trees, Pinyon pine trees, Ponderosa pine, sage brush, a few Junipers, many white and red cedars, some Russian olives, and tall grasses.

RoadRunner Coyote Retreat

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Coyote, NM

Nature's allure knows no bounds at RoadRunner Coyoté Retreat: Embrace Mother Nature as she guides you to discover the depths of your soul. Find sanctuary here, tailored to your desired level of comfort and simplicity. Choose accommodations that resonate with you, whether you seek comfort or a closer connection to nature. With 40 gated acres, come with just your basic needs, and let RRCR cater to your wide range of accommodation preferences.

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(6)

Lower Blanco Camping Hideaway

1 site · RV, Tent5 acres · Pagosa Springs, CO

Learn more about this land:While Camping on our site you will enjoy the privacy of being one of the last property's on the road with little to no traffic whatsoever. Surrounded by Huge Ponderosa Pines and National Forest you will enjoy the serene peace that comes from being tucked away behind a mountain side. Just 30 minutes from town where you can dine and visit the famous Hot Springs. With the national forest so close by you will have many opportunities as far as hiking trails and mountain biking. There is also fishing nearby on ECHO Lake as well as the San Juan river where you can park downtown Pagosa Springs and fish there. In the Winter you are only about 45 minutes from Wolf Creek Ski Area. There is no service or wifi available here so you will be very remote and off the grid.

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Creekside Glamping Tipis on Off-Grid, 70 Acre Working Ranch

3 sites · Lodging70 acres · Tres Piedras, NM

Unforgettable Stargazing Awaits in Luxurious Glamping Tipis Under the Darkest Skies in the US Escape to our two gorgeous "Glamping" Tipis, nestled amidst the whispering pines and beside a gurgling mountain stream on our peaceful ranch in Northern New Mexico. Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring vastness of the Carson National Forest and its endless recreational opportunities. Gaze at a Universe of Stars from Your Private Tipi Sanctuary As day surrenders to dusk, prepare to be spellbound by the spectacle above. Far from light pollution, our secluded location boasts some of the darkest skies in the United States, transforming into a mesmerizing canvas for stargazing and astrophotography. Imagine the Milky Way ablaze with a million shimmering stars, planets twinkling like celestial diamonds, and shooting stars streaking across the velvet darkness. Luxurious Comfort Meets Untamed Nature in Your Glamping Tipi Choose from our two beautifully furnished tipis, each offering a unique haven for relaxation and stargazing adventures. The 16-foot tipi cradles you in a queen-sized bed on an elevated wood deck, while the 22-foot deluxe tipi sleeps four with a king bed and a cozy bunk bed. Both tipis are adorned with bedside tables, a device charger, and a camp stove for brewing coffee and tea under the starlit sky. Your All-Inclusive Glamping Retreat Awaits We've meticulously curated everything you need for a comfortable and unforgettable stay. Each tipi boasts a single-burner camping stove, a kettle, a French press coffee maker with coffee and tea selections, a cooler, and a drinking water dispenser. Step outside to find a grill for open-air cooking, a crackling fire pit with comfy camping chairs, a picnic table, and a ramada strung with a hammock for stargazing naps. Unwind and Explore at Your Pace For meals, unleash your inner chef on the grill or savor delicious home-cooked fare at the Chili Line Depot, owned by your hosts and just 7 miles away. You can choose to dine in at the restaurant or call for convenient pick-up. We'll even provide a menu in your tipi. After a day of exploring the surrounding wilderness, rejuvenate in the shared bathhouse, featuring a composting toilet, a hot shower, and an outdoor sink. Bath towels, soap, and shampoo are thoughtfully provided for your comfort. Experience the Enchantment of Nature Up Close Our 70-acre working ranch offers endless opportunities to connect with nature. Cast a line for rainbow trout in the sparkling stream (NM fishing license required) or let the kids enjoy catch-and-release fishing in our stocked pond. Hike through the whispering pines, scale rugged rock faces, or simply bask in the tranquility of your private tipi sanctuary. Sustainable Glamping in Harmony with Nature We are committed to responsible tourism and operate entirely off-grid. A solar-powered charging station keeps your essential devices connected, while minimal light pollution preserves the breathtaking night sky. Escape the Ordinary, Embrace the Extraordinary At our glamping tipis, we promise an unforgettable experience that blends luxurious comfort with the untamed beauty of nature. Come disconnect from the everyday and reconnect with the universe under the breathtaking tapestry of stars.

The best camping near El Vado Lake State Park guide

Overview

About

Lake to lake access is easy at El Vado Lake State Park, set beneath the picturesque mountains of northern New Mexico. Hike the 5.5 mile trail along the Rio Chama from El Vado to Heron Lake where you can spot bald eagles and enjoy the river views. With all these water works, there’s lots of opportunity to fish for trout and salmon or head out on your boat. There’s even boat in camping (as well as beach camping), for those who want to stay out until the sun sinks behind the mountains. Winter time is prime time here too; with ice fishing, snowshoeing and cross country skiing, there isn’t a season at El Vado you won’t enjoy.

Notable campgrounds

Developed Campsites: Offering 80 well-equipped sites for a comfortable stay amid nature's splendor.
Primitive Beach Camping: For those seeking a more rugged experience, beachside camping is a thrilling option.
Boat-in Camping: Accessible only by water, these sites promise a secluded and unique camping adventure.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Book early to secure your spot, as campgrounds fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.
Consider mid-week stays for better availability and a quieter experience.
Keep an eye on cancellations for last-minute opportunities to snag a prime site.
Explore nearby camping options to maximize your chances of finding the perfect spot.

When to go

The best time to visit El Vado Lake State Park is during the warmer months, from late spring to early fall, when all activities are in full swing. Winter offers a tranquil escape with snowy landscapes for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, though some facilities may be limited.

Know before you go

Check park alerts for any closures or restrictions before your visit.
Always wear a life jacket while boating and be aware of the boating safety regulations.
Accessibility varies across the park, so plan according to your needs.
Restrooms with water and showers are available for your convenience.
Remember to pack out all trash and respect the park's pristine environment.