- Waterside Camping
The best waterside camping near Santa Fe
Top-rated campgrounds near Santa Fe
1. Santa Fe National Forest
2. Fenton Lake State Park
Top-rated campgrounds near Santa Fe
1. Santa Fe National Forest
2. Fenton Lake State Park
The best waterside camping near Santa Fe guide
Where to go
Santa Fe National Forest
Santa Fe National Forest spans a whopping 1.6 million acres of densely forested hills, ancient volcanic rock formations, dramatic gorges and valleys, and some of the wildest territory in the U.S. today. The park offers year-round hiking across its dozens of trails, each of which takes you on a different route through the forest’s changing elevations. Other activities include bicycling, fishing, hunting, boating, Nordic skiing, and snowshoeing. Afterward, campers are a stone’s throw from a variety of tent camping sites near Santa Fe National Forest, as well as some great Santa Fe RV sites with full hookups onsite.
Carson National Forest
Amazingly, Santa Fe is flanked by not one but two massive national forests. Carson National Forest is almost as large as Santa Fe National Forest, offering 1.5 million acres of mountain ranges, shrubland foothills, high desert mesas, and, of course, dense forests of juniper and conifer trees. Area activities include biking and hiking trails at all difficulty levels, rivers to paddle down, vistas and viewpoints of Santa Fe’s terrain (any of which would make a great picnic area), and even opportunities for more unique pastimes like horseback riding and off-highway vehicle (OHV) riding. Camping areas abound near Carson National Forest, including sites with amenities like picnic tables, restrooms, grills, and fire rings.
Rio Grande Valley
Though the Rio Grande River is shared by several states and with Mexico, one of its most impressive stretches lies within New Mexico, just a short drive from Santa Fe. The Rio Grande Valley is made up of arid and desert lands, with grasses and shrubs offering a home to diverse wildlife species all along the powerful waters—the banks offer a chance to spot bighorn sheep, river otters, and more as you hike through the valley and its rugged, rocky trails. At the end of the day, Rio Grande campers are conveniently close to campgrounds with fishing spots, luxury glamping sites, beach sites, and even treehouse rentals.
Sandia Mountains
One of the most popular destinations in New Mexico, the Sandia Mountains are characterized by the many distinctive biomes depending on elevation, each home to dozens of day hiking trails. The mountainous trails offer vistas and viewpoints of the stunning Cibola National Forest along the way, and most end up at one of the range’s summits, providing panoramic views of the entire region. Snag tent sites at campgrounds near the Sandia Mountains.
When to go
Despite being in an arid desert climate, Santa Fe experiences four distinct seasons each year, from hot, dry summers (average high of 86°F in July) to chilly winters (average high of 42°F in January), with mild spring and fall seasons in between. For campers interested in hiking Santa Fe’s many parks and trails, the warmer months tend to be the best time, although crowds may be larger at smaller, popular locations. For those visiting in the height of summer, be aware of shade and water when doing longer hikes and activities. To avoid heat stroke and dehydration, pack excess water, wear appropriate clothing to prevent sunstroke, and use sunscreen.