Lake Camping Near Ensenada, New Mexico, US: 12 Best Lake Campsites 2026

Welcome to Hipcamp! Looking for a camping experience near Ensenada, New Mexico with a beautiful lake? You're in luck! We have over 500 options that fit your preferences. Whether you're looking for a peaceful lakeside retreat or an action-packed adventure on the water, we've got you covered. Check out top campsites like Enchanted Circle Campground (397 reviews), Rabbit Hole Ranch (259 reviews), and The High Desert Ranch Colorado (205 reviews) for a guaranteed great experience. With amenities like toilets, trash, and potable water, and activities ranging from whitewater paddling to wildlife watching and historic sites, you'll have everything you need for an unforgettable camping trip. Prices start as low as $15 per night, with an average price of $30 per night. Start planning your lakeside getaway today!

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Top-rated campgrounds near Ensenada

Welcome to Hipcamp! Looking for a camping experience near Ensenada, New Mexico with a beautiful lake? You're in luck! We have over 500 options that fit your preferences. Whether you're looking for a peaceful lakeside retreat or an action-packed adventure on the water, we've got you covered. Check out top campsites like Enchanted Circle Campground (397 reviews), Rabbit Hole Ranch (259 reviews), and The High Desert Ranch Colorado (205 reviews) for a guaranteed great experience. With amenities like toilets, trash, and potable water, and activities ranging from whitewater paddling to wildlife watching and historic sites, you'll have everything you need for an unforgettable camping trip. Prices start as low as $15 per night, with an average price of $30 per night. Start planning your lakeside getaway today!

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Top-rated campgrounds near Ensenada

1. Abiquiu Tiny House

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44mi from Ensenada · 1 site · Lodging

 Situated at 6300 ft. above sea level the Chama River Valley is surrounded by forested mountains. There is white water rafting on the Rio Chama and Rio Grande Rivers nearby during spring and summer. Within an hour there are ski areas at Taos and Santa Fe during the winter. Ojo Caliente Hot Springs is 17 miles away and has a full spa and restaurant. There are beautiful hiking trails throughout the area and Abiquiu Lake is less than 20 minutes away. The location of the Tiny House is in a quiet, private and beautiful setting. Abiquiu Lake is only 15 minutes away for fun swimming, Ghost Ranch is 20 minutes away and has 3 beautiful hikes. Santa Fe and Taos are 60 minutes away. The tiny house is a healthy house built on the golden mean and has no electrical radiation inside except wi-fi. All material used are nontoxic.Notable aspect. There are no pets allowed on the property. 

2. AIYM Camp Riverfront Duplex Cabin!

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46mi from Ensenada · 32 sites · Tents, Lodging

The AIYM Camp serves as a wonderful base camp and Christian Retreat for families wanting to recreate in the Rio Grande National Forest. Cabin rentals and Tent Campsites. You are invited to stay on 185 acres surrounded by beautiful mountains in the Rio Grande National Forest. Escape the crowds and relax in the quiet mountains. Easy Alamosa River access. Close to outdoor adventures; fishing, hiking, biking, atv trail access. Come enjoy a secluded and unforgettable mountain experience! The camp is in a wilderness setting with electricity supplied by a diesel generator that operates from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm. No cell service in the canyon but the camp does have a regular phone for special usage and satellite Wi-Fi for $10. The most unique quality is the beauty and cleanliness of the forest. The quiet peaceful atmosphere of the canyon is hard to believe. This is the perfect place for families to unplug, get outside but still have some of the comforts we all enjoy!

3. the LAND

38mi from Ensenada · 1 site · Tent, RV

Welcome to the LAND — 43 private acres of high desert magic nestled at the base of Cerro Pedernal, where canyons cradle the sky and Polvadera Creek flows year-round, drawing beavers, birds, and the occasional awe-struck traveler. This is a place for those seeking the essence of the wild, with just enough comfort to stay awhile. With a one-of-a-kind view of Georgia O’Keeffe’s mountain muse in front of you and the ancient Tsi’pin village site to your left, this sacred land echoes with both artistic legacy and ancestral presence. Camp beside the creek beneath cottonwoods and piñon. Gaze into a night sky free from all light pollution — a dome of stars unlike anywhere else. Walk quiet roads through ancient canyon paths. Listen to the hush. Here, the stillness speaks. While rustic and off-grid in spirit, the LAND offers: • Private, creekside tent sites with canyon views • Fast Wi-Fi if you need it — or want to forget it • A hot shower under open skies • Peaceful access roads for all vehicles • Easy wildlife spotting (beavers, deer, birds of prey) • Nearby hikes, labyrinth walks, and sacred stone outcroppings • 30 minutes from Abiquiú • 2 hours from Santa Fe Whether you're journaling by the creek, meditating at sunrise, or watching the Milky Way unfurl above your tent, this is a place to remember what matters. Come camp at the LAND. Stay for the peace. Return for the stars.

4. Heron Lake State Park

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67 sites · Tierra Amarilla, New Mexico

Discover Heron Lake State Park's tranquil waters and scenic trails.

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5. Carson National Forest

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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. Plaza Blanca Retreat

37mi from Ensenada · 1 site · Lodging

Want time away? Escape to this charming bungalow in picturesque Abiquiu. In the rugged desert environment, the secluded casita is located on Plaza Blanca (“the white place”), memorialized in countless paintings by Georgia O’Keeffe. On a remote mesa with spectacular views at the end of a steep dirt roadway, the 200 square foot Casita Samuel is a modernist jewel that blends native rock and local materials and with architectural details that pay homage to my architect father. Large windows let the outside in; real cork floors; and terrazzo in the kitchen and bath—all materials remembered from 60s LA. Includes a light-filled, restful salon with full-size bed and air conditioning and heat; a Prep Room (small kitchen); and a Wet Room, with Ruvatti sink, shower, and toilet. Livening up the Prep and Wet Rooms are murals by artist Scooter LaForge. With 9 acres of pristine natural landscape surrounding it all, the casita Is a space of deep solitude and silence—offering an ideal location to retreat, rest, write, and dream in the midst of a pristine enchanted landscape. This modernist jewel sits at the end of a steep and rocky dirt road. Though graded and well maintained, this road is rough so slow driving is recommended. Once you reach it, the casita is a still point in a churning and turning world. Located 150 feet above an arroyo on the edge of the Carson National Forest. Petroglyphs and pictograms abound, acres of trails, the village of Abiquiu, Ghost Ranch, Abiquiu Lake, and nine northern pueblos are nearby. Special long-term rental rates. Please inquire.

7. Stone House Lodge

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13mi from Ensenada · 10 sites · Tents, RVs

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 or explore 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 renovated and have electricity 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 Lodge amenities include fishing tackle shop, minimart, picnic tables, BBQ grills, fire pits, bikes, kayaks and paddle boards. Stone House Lodge Cafe is open 8am through 8pm daily through the season serving made to order breakfast, lunch and dinner. Cool off with a beer in a frosty mug or ice cold margarita. Music and dancing in the pavilion every Saturday evening! Check out our website StoneHouseLodge.com for more information and our calendar of events and pavilion available for weddings, reunion, retreats and other gatherings!

8. El Vado Lake State Park

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21 sites · Tierra Amarilla, New Mexico

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

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9. Rio Grande National Forest

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691 sites · Alpine, Colorado

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

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10. Santa Fe National Forest

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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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11. San Juan National Forest

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696 sites · Rico, Colorado

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

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12. Abiquiu Lake

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54 sites · Cañones, New Mexico

Warm breezes and water fun are waiting for you at Abiquiu Lake. With some of the best fishing in New Mexico you’ll have a blast exploring the shores dotted with sage and juniper while you cast your line. Those who want a little leisure can stroll the trails or catch some rays on the swimming beach; there are gorgeous views of the Flint Mountains from the shores. And of course there’s plenty of boating, waterskiing, and jetskiing at your finger tips! The nearby Georgia O'Keeffe Museum and Santa Fe will satisfy your inner artist, but we think the night sky at one of Abiquiu’s campgrounds will be inspiration enough!

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Public campgrounds near Ensenada

Little Oso Primitive Campground

6.2mi from Ensenada · 1 site · in Heron Lake State Park

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Willow Creek Campground

7.3mi from Ensenada · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · in Heron Lake State Park

Blanco Campground

7.4mi from Ensenada · 27 sites · Tents, RVs · in Heron Lake State Park

Brushy Point Campground

8.5mi from Ensenada · 13 sites · Tents, RVs · in Heron Lake State Park

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Island View Campground

8.9mi from Ensenada · 15 sites · Tents, RVs · in Heron Lake State Park

Salmon Run Campground

9.3mi from Ensenada · 1 site · Tent, RV · in Heron Lake State Park

Ridge Rock Campground

11mi from Ensenada · 1 site · Tent, RV · in Heron Lake State Park

Ponderosa Campground

11mi from Ensenada · 1 site · Tent, RV · in Heron Lake State Park

Rincon Primitive Campground

11mi from Ensenada · 1 site · in Heron Lake State Park

La Laja Campground

11mi from Ensenada · 1 site · Tent, RV · in Heron Lake State Park

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Trout Lakes

13mi from Ensenada · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · in Carson National Forest

Elk Run Campground

14mi from Ensenada · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · in El Vado Lake State Park

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

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Caleb

October 2025

4 nights at Abiquiu Tiny House

Great little house with all of the basic amenities someone looking for a place not too rustic would love. Harvey was extremely friendly, and gave us any and all of the privacy we could want. The dirt roads are pretty bumpy, so if you come in a standard height car take it slow.

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Krista

August 2025

5 nights at Abiquiu Tiny House

Harvey was an awesome host. The tiny house is beautiful and comfortable and the land is magical especially at night for star gazing.

Heather

July 2025

3 nights at Abiquiu Tiny House

This tiny house is such a special place. It was so peaceful and relaxing, and is in a great location with so many sites in the area. The house had everything I needed and the views were magical. Harvey was a great host!

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Sarah

July 2025

With pets

2 nights at AIYM Camp Riverfront Duplex Cabin!

AIYM Camp is an amazing place; I highly recommend it. It’s a beautiful setting, every aspect of the facilities is in amazing condition, clean, functional and seems brand new. But, what really made our stay special was the hospitality of Jim and Melony. The are so warm and welcoming, giving us insight about the valley and activities in the area. This is a special place that we plan on returning to. I give it my highest recommendation.

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Amy

July 2025

3 nights at Abiquiu Tiny House

We loved our stay! The property and surrounding area is beautiful and peaceful.

Aimee

June 2025

4 nights at Abiquiu Tiny House

We had an amazing and relaxing time at the Tiny House. It was perfect and stocked with everything you may need. Meeting Harvey and seeing the home he built was a treat as well! What an amazing talent! Thank you for sharing your paradise with us. I will be back!

Justin

June 2025

4 nights at Abiquiu Tiny House

This tiny home is perfect and Harvey is the best host. Well thought out space that is isolated enough but close to all there is to do. Highly recommend this place if you get a chance to stay here.

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Nina

June 2025

10 nights at Abiquiu Tiny House

This place is gorgeous! Harvey is an incredible host with many stories to tell. He made a consistent effort to make me comfortable and recommended local hiking spots to check out. It’s right by Abiquiu lake which has a gorgeous swimming beach, too. There’s basically no light pollution so the view of the sky at night is amazing!! I can’t wait to stay here again!

Craig

May 2025

Weekend Trip to Abiquiu Tiny House

I enjoyed staying at Harvey's place. It was a nice spot to jump off and explore the area. All of the things one would need are here. The weather was a bit brisk at night, so having a cozy place to sleep was nice. Cooking facilities are more than adequate, as is everything else. I was solo for this trip, but a couple would have plenty of room to stay here and enjoy. Harvey gave me exact directions two days before my arrival and was available to answer any questions. Spot was quiet and not too far from places I chose nearby to go on adventures. Hope to return soon. Thanks, Harvey, for your hospitality.

Samantha

May 2025

Weekend Trip to Abiquiu Tiny House

The Tiny House was absolutely perfect. It was clean, quiet, comfortable, and had everything we needed. In fact, it’s not so tiny at all, and Harvey thoughtfully built it himself! This place is an ideal location for all things that Abiquiu and nearby towns have to offer. We did several long hikes around the area and loved coming back to this peaceful abode. Harvey is a phenomenal host, and we are already looking forward to visiting again! Thank you, Harvey, for the best stay in NM.

Christine

April 2025

4 nights at Abiquiu Tiny House

The tiny house at Harvey's spot had more homey comforts than I anticipated! It was a truly beautiful place, located perfectly to be an excellent jumping off point to explore the area. I would highly recommend staying here if you're in the area and gladly stay again without hesitation, thanks Harvey!

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gene

March 2025

3 nights at Abiquiu Tiny House

Harvey’s tiny house is situated in a peaceful location with great views from the house and short walk to explore the landscape. Was very great time to visit(weather) and many stars!

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Brendon

December 2024

4 nights at Abiquiu Tiny House

The tiny house is not actually that Tiny! It was a wonderful place to stay and made for an excellent home base for exploring the area. In ten minutes you can be in the Carson national forest. In twenty minutes you can be in the Santa Fe national forest. Harvey is a wonderful host, he’s kind, responsive and very nice to talk to. The home is very private with excellent views of Sierra Negra in the morning and incredible views of the sky at night. I would absolutely return.