The best waterfall campgrounds near Chama, New Mexico

Welcome to Hipcamp! Looking for a camping experience near Chama, New Mexico with stunning waterfalls? You're in luck! We have over 430 options specifically tailored to your preferences. From serene riverside campsites to secluded woodland retreats, we've got you covered. With an average price per night of $30 and options as low as $15, there's something for every budget. Looking for top-rated campsites? Check out Santa Fe Treehouse Camp (512 reviews), Enchanted Circle Campground (E<<) (397 reviews), and Rabbit Hole Ranch (259 reviews). Enjoy popular amenities like campfires, trash disposal, and pet-friendly locations. Get ready for adventure with activities like hiking, wildlife watching, and paddling. Start planning your unforgettable camping experience with Hipcamp today!

98% (445)

Top-rated campgrounds

Welcome to Hipcamp! Looking for a camping experience near Chama, New Mexico with stunning waterfalls? You're in luck! We have over 430 options specifically tailored to your preferences. From serene riverside campsites to secluded woodland retreats, we've got you covered. With an average price per night of $30 and options as low as $15, there's something for every budget. Looking for top-rated campsites? Check out Santa Fe Treehouse Camp (512 reviews), Enchanted Circle Campground (E<<) (397 reviews), and Rabbit Hole Ranch (259 reviews). Enjoy popular amenities like campfires, trash disposal, and pet-friendly locations. Get ready for adventure with activities like hiking, wildlife watching, and paddling. Start planning your unforgettable camping experience with Hipcamp today!

98% (445)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. River Sanctuary by Ojo Hot Springs

96%

(202)

46mi from Chama · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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.

2. Wilderness Bud and Breakfast

96%

(134)

26mi from Chama · 5 sites · Tents · Pagosa Springs, CO

Located on a historic ranch in the spectacular Blanco Basin valley, nestled up against the Continental Divide and South San Juan Wilderness Area. This B&B offers a campground with tent sites along the pristine headwaters of the Rio Blanco. A group fire pit, community kitchen and food prep area, composting toilet facility and on-demand gas heated shower facilities. Feel free to explore the river and surrounding San Juan National Forest, with plenty of hiking trails to accommodate all fitness levels. A 420 Happy Hour is available for all campers age 21 and up, and breakfast is served for all!!!

3. High Desert Oasis by Ojo HotSprings

99%

(43)

46mi from Chama · 1 site · Lodging · 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.

4. Rio Grande National Forest

85%

(27)

691 sites · Alpine, Colorado

Explore the many ecosystems of south-central Colorado in this massive national forest.

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Electrical Hookup

Toilets

5. Carson National Forest

91%

(40)

463 sites · La Madera, New Mexico

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!

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6. Mudita Camel's Yurt

100%

(202)

35mi from Chama · 1 site · Lodging · Capulin, CO

Eons ago camels roamed through the San Luis Valley and today they roam once again.  Come and stay at our yurt enjoying views of the mountains and of the camels and donkeys roaming their home.   Take a farm tour and get the chance to pet the camels and maybe even sneak a camel kiss.  Enjoy a night stay at the yurt viewing the stars or enjoying a nice fire at the fire pit.   Come stay in our yurt and get the chance to meet our little herd of camels and wake up to the views of the gorgeous surroundings!  Travel down a few miles of dirt roads and you will find our little oasis of 35 acres.  The hard-sided yurt sits right next to the field where our camels and donkeys roam.  Set apart from the main house, sitting in Trujillo Canyon, and surrounded by BLM/National Forrest, its the perfect spot for recharging. Located off the beaten path so amazing for star gazing but also close enough to the Sand Dunes for day adventures.  Our property is off the grid and allows you to disconnect for a little while and there is a nice creek to go and sit by.  Each stay also includes a farm tour if you are interested.  The night skies have little light pollution and are perfect for star gazing.  We can't wait for you to come and stay with us!Don't take our word for it, guests love their stays with us! "We struck gold finding this magical place. The yurt was so cozy, comfy, and full of tons of extras that exceeded our expectations. We booked our little trip to visit the dunes, but this farm was by far the best part of our trip. We loved our walks to see all the animals. The camels and donkeys were so friendly!"

7. San Juan National Forest

97%

(41)

696 sites · Rico, Colorado

Hike through the rugged wilderness or take a scenic drive in this expansive national forest.

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8. Santa Fe National Forest

94%

(42)

444 sites · Rio En Medio, New Mexico

Santa Fe National Forest isn’t just a cool spot in New Mexico, it’s a place that painters, poets, photographers and adventurers have waxed poetic about since...well, forever. It’s easy to see why, with over 1.6 million acres and over 1,000 miles of trails to explore. Whether it’s an autumn day trekking under trees blazing gold, or taking turns down the slopes at Santa Fe Ski Basin, the forest is a year round wonderland! Spring and Summer offer thrilling whitewater rafting down the Rio Grande, trout fishing, hunting, and nights under the stars. It’s easy to set up camp here too in one of the forests many campgrounds, and if you plan on staying away, be sure visit the town of Santa Fe, one of the most artistic and beautiful towns in America. This trip is bound to have you channeling your inner artist in no time!

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Public campgrounds near Chama

100%

(1)

Trujillo Meadows Campground

13mi from Chama · 50 sites · Tents, RVs · in Rio Grande National Forest

Lagunitas Campground

15mi from Chama · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · in Carson National Forest

Cruces Basin Campground

18mi from Chama · 1 site · in Carson National Forest

Elk Creek Overflow Campground

20mi from Chama · 14 sites · Tents, RVs · in Rio Grande National Forest

100%

(1)

Elk Creek Campground

20mi from Chama · 44 sites · Tents, RVs · in Rio Grande National Forest

Spectacle Lake Campground

21mi from Chama · 24 sites · Tents, RVs · in Rio Grande National Forest

Aspen Glade Campground

21mi from Chama · 32 sites · Tents, RVs · in Rio Grande National Forest

100%

(1)

Mogote Campground

23mi from Chama · 42 sites · Tents, RVs · in Rio Grande National Forest

Los Pinos Campground

23mi from Chama · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · in Carson National Forest

100%

(1)

Trout Lakes

23mi from Chama · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · in Carson National Forest

100%

(1)

Hopewell Lake Campground

23mi from Chama · 33 sites · Tents, RVs · in Carson National Forest

Blanco River Group Campground

24mi from Chama · 1 site · Tent, RV · in San Juan National Forest

Stories from the community

J

Jess

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wilderness Bud and Breakfast

Had such a peaceful time camping here. The host was super groovy, accommodating and friendly. I felt super safe. The amenities were super convenient. Wish I had more time! Stellar wildlife and great vibes overall. Would give a zillion stars if I could ☺️

A

Albert

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Wilderness Bud and Breakfast

I loved camping here. So many amenities and felt like a home away from home. This was a great place as we were new campers and the host was a great friendly person. I can’t wait to come back next year. Really enjoyed how close it is to pagosa

A

Anthony

August 2025

1 night at Mudita Camel's Yurt

We had a great time staying on Meghan’s land. We rolled in late for our stay, but had no trouble with the clear instructions she provided. The yurt is truly a treat, coming stocked with camping stove supplies so we were able to cook some light meals. I also really enjoyed the wood-burning stove to keep warm. We also treated ourselves to some camel milk fudge and camel yarn. We stopped here for our trip to Great Sand Dunes, and Meghan recommended we stopped at Sand Dunes Recreation hot springs in Hooper nearby. It was just what we needed! Incredible place for a desert getaway.

Kara

July 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at River Sanctuary by Ojo Hot Springs

Susanne let me camp in the gazebo since it was raining. I couldn’t have been more comfortable!

Deacon

July 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to River Sanctuary by Ojo Hot Springs

It was remote we had the whole campground to ourselves

B

Benjamin

July 2025

Tent

2 nights at Wilderness Bud and Breakfast

My wife and I spent 2 nights and absolutely loved it. William was a great host and made us feel welcome, and the camping area had everything we needed to cook and clean. It’s a gorgeous spot, quiet, and lots of deer and wildlife about. The breakfast and coffee provided each morning were an extra great touch, as well as the green treats. Highly recommend!

Lei

July 2025

With kids

1 night at Mudita Camel's Yurt

We loved Matt’s land, animals, and yurt! The yurt was very comfortable and cozy. Also, my kids really loved playing with the animals! They were really tame. Matt had the best hospitality and was very friendly! I would 100% recommend this to someone and come back again. Thank you Matt!

A sweet spot in its own right... this location charges you up with expansive views while feeling softly protected and held by the willow brush, olive and apple trees.

S

Samuel

June 2025

Tent

1 night at River Sanctuary by Ojo Hot Springs

Wonderful place to stay! The RV is beautifully appointed, and Susanne is a lovely host.

J

Janet

June 2025

Tent

2 nights at River Sanctuary by Ojo Hot Springs

Susanne was a gracious and welcoming host and invited me to use the amenities on her property. I loved my site with the screened-in gazebo. The two nights I spent there were quiet and restful.

K

Kayleigh

May 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Wilderness Bud and Breakfast

What an amazing experience from start to finish! This is exactly what I was looking for. The host was wonderful, and the treats provided were outstanding.

T

Tierney

May 2025

2 nights at High Desert Oasis by Ojo HotSprings

Susanne was such a wonderful host. My husband and I had such a great time exploring the land and the hidden gems that Suzanne informed us about. It was peaceful and enchanting and I would highly recommend it.

T

Tanner

May 2025

3 nights at High Desert Oasis by Ojo HotSprings

Susanne is wonderful and her place is really special. Such a beautiful area

A

Alyssa

May 2025

With pets

1 night at High Desert Oasis by Ojo HotSprings

We had a cozy night in the en-suite at Susanne’s beautiful home. Our dog loved running in the yard and we were grateful to have a bed after many nights of camping. Would recommend Susanne’s place to any traveler.

J

Judith

April 2025

With pets

2 nights at High Desert Oasis by Ojo HotSprings

Susanne’s place was nice and secluded. The bedroom had a connecting toilet and sink, both clean. The bed was comfortable and the room was rustic and clean. It was nice that pets were allowed. My dogs were welcomed and especially enjoyed the outdoors. Suzanne had a comfortable set of chairs by the stream which was walking distance. It was cool and peaceful.

J

Juliann

March 2025

1 night at High Desert Oasis by Ojo HotSprings

Lovely home, great host. Short drive to Ojo Calinete for soaking and dinner.

K

Katie

February 2025

Weekend Trip to High Desert Oasis by Ojo HotSprings

Susanne’s place was wonderful. It was a short drive to Ojo to enjoy soaking and be able to come back and relax.

Jaclyn

January 2025

With kids

1 night at Mudita Camel's Yurt

What a special and unique experience this was! We arrived after dark, and the off GPS directions were excellent and easy to follow. My son and I kicked off a ten day road trip with our first stay here, and even though very cold outside, the yurt was cozy and warm. The bed is very comfy, and there are thoughtful touches throughout the yurt including a kettle for the wood stove, handmade soaps, games, and a French press just to name a few. Meghan and Liam gave us a great farm tour where we got to meet the donkeys and camels, and see the frozen creek. Would definitely book again.