The best waterfall campgrounds near Ensenada, New Mexico

Looking for a camping experience near Ensenada, New Mexico that's all about waterfalls? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 400 options to choose from, you'll find the perfect campsite that caters to your waterfall-loving heart. Whether you prefer to pitch a tent or stay in a cozy cabin, there's something for everyone. Some of the top campsites in the area include Santa Fe Treehouse Camp (512 reviews), Enchanted Circle Campground (397 reviews), and Rabbit Hole Ranch (259 reviews). With popular amenities like pet-friendly sites, potable water, and trash facilities, you'll have everything you need for a comfortable stay. Plus, you can enjoy activities like whitewater paddling, surfing, and off-roading (OHV) in the area. So pack your gear and get ready to chase waterfalls in Ensenada, New Mexico!

98% (503)

Top-rated campgrounds

Looking for a camping experience near Ensenada, New Mexico that's all about waterfalls? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 400 options to choose from, you'll find the perfect campsite that caters to your waterfall-loving heart. Whether you prefer to pitch a tent or stay in a cozy cabin, there's something for everyone. Some of the top campsites in the area include Santa Fe Treehouse Camp (512 reviews), Enchanted Circle Campground (397 reviews), and Rabbit Hole Ranch (259 reviews). With popular amenities like pet-friendly sites, potable water, and trash facilities, you'll have everything you need for a comfortable stay. Plus, you can enjoy activities like whitewater paddling, surfing, and off-roading (OHV) in the area. So pack your gear and get ready to chase waterfalls in Ensenada, New Mexico!

98% (503)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. River Sanctuary by Ojo Hot Springs

96%

(202)

37mi from Ensenada · 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. Big Little Hideaway

99%

(68)

50mi from Ensenada · 3 sites · Lodging · Taos, NM

We call it Big Little Hideaway and it will take you about 30 seconds upon arriving to discover why. My wife and I had been coming to Taos to ski for years and years and always felt at home, but it was a Summer trip that made us realize how much our souls belong here. My wife envisioned a property with a beautiful gate so that it feels like a courtyard (And she got it!) and after visiting the hot springs we knew this was The Spot!This is perfect if you're looking for a little bit of everything; mountain views, minutes away from hiking, paddle boarding, hot springs, skiing, and endless roads and beauty to explore. We're 15 minutes away from Taos and Arroyo Secco where you can enjoy great food, galleries and shopping, and 30 minutes away from the awesome Taos Ski Valley.Ideal for couples or families of 4 or close friends.

3. Wilderness Bud and Breakfast

96%

(134)

37mi from Ensenada · 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!!!

4. 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!

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

5. Rio Grande National Forest

85%

(27)

691 sites · Alpine, Colorado

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

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

6. Mudita Camel's Yurt

100%

(202)

43mi from Ensenada · 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. High Desert Oasis by Ojo HotSprings

99%

(43)

37mi from Ensenada · 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.

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!

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

9. 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.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

Public campgrounds near Ensenada

100%

(1)

Trout Lakes

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

Lagunitas Campground

16mi from Ensenada · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · in Carson National Forest

Canjilon Lakes

17mi from Ensenada · 52 sites · Tents, RVs · in Carson National Forest

100%

(1)

Hopewell Lake Campground

17mi from Ensenada · 33 sites · Tents, RVs · in Carson National Forest

Canjilon Creek

17mi from Ensenada · 4 sites · in Carson National Forest

Cruces Basin Campground

19mi from Ensenada · 1 site · in Carson National Forest

100%

(1)

Trujillo Meadows Campground

22mi from Ensenada · 50 sites · Tents, RVs · in Rio Grande National Forest

Los Pinos Campground

25mi from Ensenada · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · in Carson National Forest

Echo Campground

26mi from Ensenada · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · in Carson National Forest

Rio Chama Campground

27mi from Ensenada · 20 sites · Tents, RVs · in Santa Fe National Forest

El Rito is a premier rock climbing destination and Super Slab is the place to be to warm up in some great morning sun.

El Rito Campground

28mi from Ensenada · 11 sites · Tents, RVs · in Carson National Forest

Aspen Glade Campground

28mi from Ensenada · 32 sites · Tents, RVs · in Rio Grande National Forest

Stories from the community

The Rainbow connection is a well designed tiny home we purchased new in 2021 and put it out on our land. We love the simplicity of this tiny home.

Natalya

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Big Little Hideaway

Adorable peaceful respite just 15 minutes from Taos. Ideal for 2 people needing a home base to run, hike, and explore. Hosts very proactive and responsive with instructions and communication. Would definitely go back!

G

Gretchen

October 2025

With kids

2 nights at Big Little Hideaway

Loved this tiny getaway home and how close it was to Taos attractions! The home itself is very nice and comfortable. We were 4 adults (including 2 seniors) and a child and it was perfect! Since there are several homes on the property, we will consider coming back next time with friends!

M

Michael

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Big Little Hideaway

We loved staying at the Rainbow Connection in the Big Little Hideaway. The tiny home was quite comfortable and filled with all the amenities we could need. We are already planning a return visit next year.

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

T

Tony

September 2025

3 nights at Big Little Hideaway

Very nicely appointed tiny house. Great location. Best part was proximity to Rio Grande Gorge for wading, hot springs, stargazing in total darkness.

D

Debra

September 2025

2 nights at Big Little Hideaway

This tiny home was adorable! They appointed it with such nice touches and it was so comfortable to sleep in. We enjoyed our stay so much! The hosts were so accommodating too. Very kind people!

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.

Juliany (JT)

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Big Little Hideaway

The Bougie tiny house was awesome (had everything you could need for a comfortable stay) & the views were stunning! So close to the river, too. Would definitely recommend and/or return :)

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!

H.

July 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Big Little Hideaway

The Rainbow Connection was impeccably clean and labeled with helpful directions to navigate the building’s amenities. They even included river blankets for us to use during our time at the hot springs down the road (just a short walk to the Rio Grande!)

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!

Rebecca

July 2025

With pets

2 nights at Big Little Hideaway

We loved staying at The Rainbow Connection on Jayme & Doug’s land. The instructions were clear and helpful. Being so close to the Rio Grande was such a treat, and being at essentially the start of the Enchanted Circle Drive was also amazing. It was such a cozy spot to land each night and we enjoyed making breakfast with the windows open and the cool early morning breeze. Would definitely stay again! And will definitely recommend to friends!

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!

d

dave

July 2025

With pets

4 nights at Big Little Hideaway

This is a wonderful space, there are great views to be had, definitely stroll around the property for different vantage points. The space feels very private and it was amazingly quiet, especially in the evenings The homes themselves are laid how really well and do not "feel" tiny at all, the kitchen was stocked with what you need and totally functional making meal prep a breeze. In the evenings, with the windows open there was a wonderful breeze. During the hot day, the AC was more than sufficient to keep the home cool. Hot tub is an amazing place to watch the sun set and then to gaze at the stars that follow. Host was wonderful and provided us with a hike recommendation that ended up being our favorite of the trip. Should also mention the proximity to hiking, the Rio Grand and Taos made this a great location! Highly recommend!

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.

M

Marta

June 2025

2 nights at Big Little Hideaway

Great place and great people! Close to town really cozy and a wonderful outhouse with a heck of a view

A

Allyson

May 2025

3 nights at Big Little Hideaway

The Rainbow Connection was perfect. Peace and quiet with amazing views. The river access was a plus for my dog and I. We had a great couple of walks, and spent our mornings riverside while I sipped my morning tea.