The best camping near Cimarron Canyon State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Cimarron Canyon State Park adventure.

75% (4 reviews)

Discover the serene beauty of Cimarron Canyon State Park.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Cimarron Canyon State Park

Public campgrounds in the park

Stay at a public campground in Cimarron Canyon State Park

Tolby Campground

11 sites · RVs, Tents In Cimarron Canyon State Park

Maverick Campground

12 sites · RVs, Tents In Cimarron Canyon State Park

Ponderosa Campground

7 sites · RVs, Tents In Cimarron Canyon State Park

100%

(2)

Blackjack Campground

1 site · RV, Tent In Cimarron Canyon State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Cimarron Canyon State Park

99%

(1308)

Enchanted Circle Campground (E<<)

13 sites · RVs, Tents161 acres · Angel Fire, NM

The Enchanted Circle Campground sits on the Avalon Ranch. It is 161 owned acres surrounded by a state trust lease. We are very proud to have been voted #1 Campground in NM 4 years in a row and ranked Top 5 by Forbes in the country. We have 8 Sites to choose from. (No large RVs at 4, 7 or 8) Campfires are permitted, and pets are welcome. Free potable water is available as well as a portable toilet. For cooking, you will have a fire pit, with a cast iron grill. Every site (but 7) has a standing charcoal grill, with tongs, a spatula and a grill brush. A fire extinguisher and a shovel. We hang a hand washing jug at every site for your convenience, with potable water, but do not suggest this for drinking water source. The property was originally homesteaded in 1893. It was also the first potato farm in NM. It has seven ground-fed springs that run year-round and is officially the Coyote Creeks Headwaters. The springs converge after filling 4 of our ponds in the marshland where the potatoes were grown. A family of 4 lived in the first dwelling built here, not much larger than a shed. Since that time, 2 homes, 1 of which still stands, a barn, a smokehouse, and 4 other outbuildings were constructed. There are old wagons and farm equipment from the late 1800s and early 1900's still strewn about the ranch. We are home to Huge herds of Elk, mule deer, turkeys, prairie dogs, eagles, black bears, 9 horses, chickens, pigs, goats, our 2 dogs and 4 cats, and the occasional Mountain Lion. We live here year-round. We love our land and want to share it with others. I am a Veteran and our intent is to eventually have a Veterans Retreat facility here. Not a retreat itself, but rather a location for all of the retreats, nationwide, to be able to utilize, so they can use the funds they have to do what they do best. You are helping to make that possible. We do pride ourselves on minimally impacting our land. We strive to keep it clean and as close to nature as we can. And as always, Veterans, LEOs, and Fire Fighters are always free for one night up to 4 guests. Just book your reservation, and show us your ID during your stay, and we will reimburse you for your last night with us.

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(161)

HarmonyTaos Regenerative Farm

6 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Taos, NM

Harmony Taos is a regenerative farm located on approximately 4 acres, just minutes from the town of Taos. We specialize in Permaculture and teaching. Come enjoy the butterflies, raptors, magpies and hummingbirds fluttering throughout the orchards, ponderosas, vegetable gardens, and flowers on our organic community farm. Join us for camping, monthly soup nights, ceremonies, and cultural events throughout the warmer months. Latest Offerings: I hav decided to open up my intuitive practice to visitors. DM Anastasia if you would like an intuitive reading and clearing. 90 minutes long. RENT THE ENTIRE PROPERTY: DM the host for availability and rates. Pitch your tent at one of our 2 drive-in mountain view campsites, located on the lush grounds of our regenerative agriculture farm and gardens. Rest and rejuvenate in this quiet haven, nestled below the canyon yet just minutes from town. Sites Uno and Dos has access to a beautifully equipped bathhouse, picnic tables, and an outdoor cold water washing area . (during winter months, the picnic tables and outdoor sink are not available) Overflow Tres is more primitive with a dirt base and can accommodate larger vehicles. Campsite UNO: Uno fits a small trailer and/ or a RV. You will need to be proficient at backing it into Campsite Uno. This site can accommodate two vehicles. Campsite DOS: It is large enough for a sprinter or smaller camper van. You can pull right in. You will need to back out to depart. It now accommodates two vehicles (two cars, a sprinter and a car, a car with teardrop and another car.) Glampiing Site : Deluxe bamboo encased memory foam king bed (breaks down to two twin beds). Stellar views of the mountains . BYO bedding or DM host for full sheets and towels set up. There is power in the bathhouse for charging phones. but there are no dedicated electrical hook ups for RVs. However, you can text the owner if you want to use a converter and access a nearby ( For Site Uno) outlet with your extension cord for additional fee of $20.00 per day. EVENTS: Harmony Taos Farm is open in 2025 for day long or weekend events. Weddings, family gatherings, teachers. Yoga. There are a number of options including large 12 person tent with heater. The indoor Living room of the main building holds 25-30 for gatherings. There are numerous areas around the farm that lend themselves to ceremony, gathering, etc. Harmony Farm is an excellent wedding venue. There are 4 types of accommodations (hotels, lodges, Inns, rental homes) within 1 mile of the property should you wish to use the site for your wedding and invite guests who require a hotel etc. And of course there are plenty of tent sites available at Harmony. If you rent the entire property, more tent sites can be accommodated than listed here. Harmony host Anastasia can also arrange for catering, flowers, music, party rentals, etc. DM the host with any requests and day use rates. Things to know: This is the hosts homesite and farm. You will be camping near the host's actual home.

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Dragonfly Mountain Ranch

7 sites · RVs, Tents300 acres · Arroyo Seco, NM

Enjoy the majestic beauty of the Taos Valley from the verdant fields and cerros of the Dragonfly Mountain Ranch! Whether a seasoned traveler or one's first visit to Taos our goal is to exceed expectations, and we have a variety of campsites to accommodate various needs and tastes. While here one can see history come to life by way of our living history ranch and historic home, one of the first homesteads in Des Montes owned by the same family for over 150 years. See firsthand how the unique Acequia system of New Mexico has given life to the surrounding pastoral fields and the agricultural practices of the past still relevant in today’s Taos Valley. For those wanting the best of both worlds, access to in-town activities as well as trail/hiking/river adventures, the Des Montes sites would be the best selection. Close enough to town for groceries and conveniences along with other sought after tourist attractions such as the Taos Pueblo, Taos Plaza and surrounding galleries/shops. In addition, Arroyo Seco and Arroyo Hondo are quaint little villages less than 10 minutes away for for addt'l groceries/market/restaurants options. The John Dunn Recreation Area is also less than 15 minutes drive from the campsites. Despite accessibility to endless activities just minutes away there remains a sense of solitude, space and privacy that one would be hard pressed to find elsewhere. Cerro Chiflo, Cerro Montoso and the Miner's Trail are within driving/hiking distance. Spend a day down on the banks of Rio Grande and unwind around the campfire and while stars light up the dark skies. Your next adventure awaits...hope to see you soon! Please see Sol at Rio Grande Balloons to book your hot air balloon ride while in Taos! 575-208-1888. https://www.riograndeballoons.com Taos Pueblo - 15min Taos Plaza and Business District - 15min The Gorge Bridge - 20 min Ojo Caliente Hot Springs - 1hr Carson National Forest - 10min Rio Grande Del Norte Nat'l Monument - 20min Arroyo Hondo - Midtown Market 10min Arroyo Seco - 10min Taos Ski Valley - 30min

96%

(195)

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. 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.

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(170)

Taos Goji Farm & Eco Lodge

13 sites · Lodging, Tents40 acres · San Cristobal, NM

Taos Goji Ecolodge, is an historic property with ten renovated cabins and a 4-acre goji berry farm located on 40 acres of pristine land in San Cristobal, New Mexico. The cabins were built at the beginning of last century, originally for sheep herders. Both Alduous Huxley and D.H. Lawrence lived and wrote in this cabins, and later Elizabeth Kubler Ross and Ram Dass stayed here.

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(38)

High Desert Oasis by Ojo HotSprings

1 site · Lodging3 acres · 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.

94%

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Chili Line Depot Historic Lodging

4 sites · Lodging2 acres · Tres Piedras, NM

Welcome to the Chili Line Depot Bed and Breakfast! Unwind at this historic southwest territorial-style building. Your private upstairs suite boasts two spacious bedrooms: a king-size haven and a room with two cozy twin beds. Indulge in the luxurious bathroom, featuring a jetted tub and a walk-in shower. Step out onto your private deck, where breathtaking views will leave you speechless. Enjoy al fresco meals on your personal outdoor dining area, or head downstairs for a soak in the shared hot tub and a delightful meal on the restaurant patio. Our downstairs rooms are more economical, but they still offer all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay, including soaking in the shared hot tub, free Wi-Fi and continental breakfast. The downstairs restaurant features farm-to-table southwestern cuisine and operates in the Summer and Fall. Open till 6:00PM most nights, and open till 9PM with live music on Saturday nights. Tres Piedras is a great place to enjoy the outdoors. There are many hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails in the area, as well as rock climbing at our world famous rocks. You can also enjoy fishing, camping, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and elk hunting in the Carson National Forest. The Ojo Caliente hot springs resort and spa are just down the road. Whether you're looking for a delicious meal, music on Saturday nights, or a comfortable place to stay, the Chili Line Depot is the perfect place for you. Come and experience the best of that New Mexico has to offer at the Chili Line Depot today!

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(34)

Heaven or Taos 🪐

8 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · San Cristobal, NM

***military, local, and teacher/educator discounts*** It is an incredible little gem right off the highway in San Cristobal, 8 miles north of Taos. It is right next to the national forest and endless trails to explore, steps. NOW WITH RESTROOMS. RV/tent spots have running water and electricity/hook-ups. We do not allow the dumping of sewage tanks due to New Mexico's regulations on septics and private land. Vast, breathtaking views of the Sangre de Cristos mountains and Taos Mountain are right to the south. Easy access to the midtown market, where you can pick up breakfast burritos, beer, drinks, and limited supplies for camping. Wake up to mountains, hiking, and breakfast burritos that will make you ask yourself, “Is this heaven or Taos?”

94%

(9)

Camino Naturale

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Taos, NM

Need a hip place to stay in Taos that is walking and biking distance to many of the restaurants, museums, galleries, and music venues? Safe and private, with morning shade and a compost toilet. There is road noise at the site and it is dark at night. ● Good for Small RV, Van, or tent/car camping (less than 20 ft, 2 people max). Sorry, no trailers or pull behind campers. ● Level ground that is partially shaded ● Mountain views and beautiful skies ● Enter from the main road, follow arrows, and only park and/or pitch tent in designated spot ● Pack it in - pack it out. Leave no trace. ● Compost toilet in outhouse. Key under flat rock by sign. ● No open fires - cook stoves only ● Use no generators ● It's in Town so there is traffic noise ● Pets must be attended at all times ● Host knowledgeable about local adventures/events ● Walking distance to Cid’s grocery and Town Plaza.

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(5)

The Mushroom Yurt

1 site · Lodging5 acres · Questa, NM

Off-grid rustic Mushroom yurt. This little yurt can sleep up to four people. It has a bunk bed cot and a queen size tri-fold mattress. There is a picnic table, a fire pit, and an outhouse. Taos is approximately 30 miles, Red River 20 miles and Questa is 9 miles away. Cell service is good with Verizon and T-Mobile. I will provide a small power station to charge your devices. It is heated! Sunshine rd is plowed in the winter, the driveway is not plowed. 4WD/AWD may be needed in winter.

93%

(23)

Rio Grande Camp

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Embudo, NM

Enjoy river side camping with amenities. This is a great swimming and fishing spot with gorgeous views. Catch and release fishing only please. Our local coop market, restaurants, four local wineries a museum and a pizza brewery all within 5 miles of your campsite. 110v & 50amp 240v plugin are available and a level 2 ccs EV charger is also available upon request. There is a drinking water spigot as well as a trash receptacle on site. There are no bathroom facilities here. The parking area can accommodate camper vans and medium size trailers. Large RV’s aren’t able to turn around in our small parking area.

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(1)

Casa de Santa Maria

1 site · RV, Tent38 acres · San Luis, CO

Casa de Santa Maria, home of Mother Mary's Garden, is a sacred site located 5 miles South of San Luis, Colorado. This is a rustic site for tent camping or boon docking without any electric or water hookup. Restrooms with showers are provided 1/2 mile walking/driving distance. Drinking water is available for transport. The site is situated in the Mystical San Luis Valley and has a majestic view of the Sangre de Cristo Mountain Range to the East, Blanca Peak to the North and Ute Mountain to the South. You will camp under the dark night skies and view the Milky Way depending on the moon phases. The surrounding prairie land is filled with the aroma of prairie sage. If you are looking for a place to contemplate, renew your spirit, worship under the beautiful blue sky, or just unwind from the stresses of life with nothing between you and a Higher Power, you will want to visit Mother Mary's Garden on the Casa de Santa Maria property. The redwood cedar totem statue of Mother Mary is incredible, as is the garden landscaping—and more than anything, this beautiful garden is out in the open for everyone to enjoy. Surrounded by the mesa to the east and the wide expanse of chamiso covered prairie to the north, south and west, this beautiful spot on the planet is definitely a labor of love. The Great Sand Dune National Park is less than an hour drive to North. Taos, New Mexico is 60 miles to the south.

The best camping near Cimarron Canyon State Park guide

Overview

About

Whether you’re traveling the Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway, or just want a weekend of exploring, Cimarron Canyon State Park is going to spice up your life! The park sits in the middle of Colin Neblett Wildlife Management Area, so you’re sure to see some of the “local flavor” like elk, grouse, and bears. Horseback and hiking trails offer access to the stunning forested canyon where you can explore the area's geology and beautiful scenery. While the Cimmaron River that flows at the canyon floor is sure to satisfy your wildest fly fishing desires. Add some sweetness to the spice of Cimmaron by camping in one of their shady campgrounds. This place will quickly become your go to park for outdoor adventures!

Notable campgrounds

Tolby Campground: Shaded by towering pines, Tolby is a favorite for its proximity to hiking trails and the Cimarron River.
Ponderosa Campground: Ideal for families, Ponderosa offers spacious sites and easy access to park amenities and fishing spots.
Maverick Campground: Secluded and serene, Maverick is perfect for those looking to escape into nature's quietude.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Book early, especially for peak season visits, as sites fill up quickly due to the park's popularity.
Consider mid-week stays for better availability and a quieter camping experience.
Keep an eye on cancellations to snag a last-minute reservation.
Explore nearby camping options if the park's campgrounds are fully booked.

When to go

The best time to visit Cimarron Canyon State Park is from late spring to early fall when the weather is mild and all park facilities are open. Winter can be harsh, with some areas inaccessible due to snow, making it less ideal for visits.

Know before you go

Check the park alerts for any closures or restrictions before your visit.
Be prepared for changing weather conditions and pack accordingly.
Accessibility varies across the park; some areas may not be suitable for all visitors.
Remember to bring water and supplies, as services are limited within the park.
Respect wildlife and practice safe viewing, especially during active seasons.

75%

4 ratings · 5 reviews

June 2017

On the plus side, this campground puts you close to great fishing, hiking and the Enchanted Circle. On the minus side, the scenery isn't as good as other places to camp in the area. For RVs, this is a big circular parking lot with sites all around the edges. There are no showers or electric sites. At the far end of the lot is parking for some nice walk-in tent sites. Maverick Campground with the Cimarron River and Gravel Pit Lakes is right across the highway. If you want to avoid the crowds across the street, you'll like it here.

Kate G.

7 years on Hipcamp

June 2017

The campsites are very tightly packed in here. If you grab one close to the water expect lots of traffic during the day as this is a popular place for fishing. There are no showers or electric sites. The lakes are beautiful and stocked regularly so if you love to fish, you'll love being here.

Kate G.

7 years on Hipcamp

June 2017

Tenter's paradise! Park in the lot where there is a vault toilet available and walk to your site. Each site has a table, fire ring and bear proof locker. They're spaced far enough apart you'll have plenty of privacy. The Cimarron River runs right alongside the campground.

Kate G.

7 years on Hipcamp

June 2017

Looking for a spot close to water and big trees? This is it! The campground is shaded by giant cottonwoods and the Cimarron River runs right alongside. Fly fishing is the big attraction but just across the road is the Tolby Trail. There are no showers but the restrooms are nice. Some of the sites have quite a bit of grass. If you like spacious campsites, this may not be the place for you but the scenery makes up for the lack of privacy.

Kate G.

7 years on Hipcamp

August 2015

Campsites are tight. Stayed at site 39, right off lake, but on top of neighbors. Aim for sites on the outer edges, they're bigger. People love to fish on that lake there, so another reason to go to edges for extra privacy. Clear creek is best hike in area.