San Antonio Campground
4.25164 reviews051 Woodsy Lane, P.O. Box 150, Jemez Springs, NM 87025, USA
San Antonio Campground
$20.00 - $150.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$30.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$150.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $20 for tent-only and standard non-electric sites to $150 for group sites. Electric sites are $30 per night. Prices do not include taxes or reservation fees.
About this campground
Discover your perfect mountain escape at San Antonio Campground, where the gentle murmur of the San Antonio River harmonizes with the whisper of wind through towering ponderosa pines. Perched at 7,600 feet elevation, this thoughtfully rebuilt campground offers 20 well-appointed sites that welcome everything from cozy tents to spacious RVs. A dedicated group area complete with pavilion makes it ideal for family reunions and gatherings. Since its 2010 renovation, San Antonio has emerged as a model for sustainable camping, embracing reduced-impact practices and recycling initiatives that help preserve this pristine forest setting for future generations.
Offers a mix of tent, RV, and group camping options. Primitive camping is limited.
Historical SignificanceStep into the living history of the American Southwest, where century-old logging roads tell tales of timber barons, abandoned mine shafts whisper of fortune seekers, and weathered fence posts mark the legacy of hardy ranchers. Your basecamp sits near the spectacular 163-mile Jemez Mountain Trail Scenic Byway, a journey through time that winds past ancient Ancestral Puebloan ruins and leads to vibrant modern-day Indian pueblos where traditions dating back millennia continue to thrive.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the best of mountain camping from May through October, when San Antonio Campground comes alive under warm, sun-drenched days that give way to refreshingly cool evenings perfect for campfire stories. Summer temperatures invite daytime adventures while crisp nights remind you that you're sleeping among the clouds. Pack layers to fully enjoy the dynamic mountain climate that makes every day an adventure.
ElevationAt 7,600 feet above sea level, San Antonio Campground offers a refreshing retreat from desert heat, where the air is crisp, the stars shine brilliantly, and panoramic mountain vistas stretch as far as the eye can see. This elevated paradise provides natural air conditioning in summer and spectacular viewing points for watching weather patterns dance across the peaks.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a cathedral of ancient ponderosa pines that tower overhead, their vanilla-scented bark and emerald canopy creating a natural sanctuary within this scenic canyon. The melodious San Antonio River runs alongside the campground, providing a soothing soundtrack and habitat for the region's remarkable wildlife. Keep watch for the endemic Jemez Mountain salamander hiding among moist logs, listen for the distinctive gobble of Merriam's turkeys at dawn, and spot playful Abert's squirrels with their distinctive tufted ears as they leap between branches.
Geological RegionSan Antonio Campground sits within the magnificent Santa Fe National Forest, a 1.6-million-acre wonderland where elevations soar from desert foothills at 5,300 feet to the snow-capped summit of Truchas Peak at 13,103 feet. From your campsite at 7,600 feet, you're perfectly positioned to explore this remarkable tapestry of ecosystems—from piñon-juniper woodlands to alpine meadows bursting with wildflowers. The dramatic geology tells a story of ancient volcanoes, uplifted mountains, and carved canyons that create one of the Southwest's most stunning and diverse landscapes.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible vault toilets, grills, and walkways are available. South end sites are specifically designed for accessibility.
Sites SizeStandard, electric, and tent-only sites available. Group pavilion accommodates up to 100 people.
Sites PrivacySites are generally shaded and fairly private but clustered in some areas. "The sites are fairly private. Shade galore." - User review by G S.
Total Campsites20 campsites
Recommended CampsitesGroup sites are recommended for large gatherings due to their pavilion and proximity to the creek. Tent-only sites (27-29) offer privacy and are ideal for campers seeking tranquility.
Best CampsitesSite #29 is frequently recommended for its privacy and level tent pad. Electric hookup sites (#1-6) are popular but limited.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
1:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights consecutively during your visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Exact number varies by site type
- group sites accommodate up to 100 people.
Groups
Group area includes nine tent sites and a pavilion accommodating up to 100 people.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes standard sites with electric hookups (1-6), tent-only sites (27-29), and a group area with a pavilion.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May to October; peak season: May 9 - October 14.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityDuring October 15 - November 17, sites operate on a first-come, first-serve basis. Limited tent sites are available for walk-ups during peak season, but availability is unpredictable.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made anytime before the scheduled arrival date with a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations for individual campsites will also forfeit the first night's fee. Group cancellations within 14 days of arrival forfeit the first night's fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
San Antonio Campground offers a variety of recreational activities, including fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. Nearby attractions include the Spence Hot Springs, La Cueva Picnic Site, and Battleship Rock Trailhead.
Hiking
A paved walking trail along the river offers fishing access and scenic views. "Nice trail to walk very tranquility." - User review by Zylny Gutierrez.Fishing
Anglers can fish for rainbow trout in the San Antonio River. "Fishing was bad. Someone said they don't stock the river at the campground which is very sad." - User review by Mary M.Wildlife viewing
Ponderosa pine forests provide habitat for unique wildlife, including Jemez Mountain salamanders and Merriam's turkey.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities mentioned.Water Sports
No motorized water sports allowed, but creek wading is popular.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings. During fire bans, only charcoal in pedestal cooking grills is permitted.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM - 7:00 AM
Hazards
General hazardsChallenges include proximity to NM State Road 126, leading to occasional road noise. Seasonal accessibility concerns may arise from weather or road grading.
Active alertsNo active alerts reported.
Weather forecast
57
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 72%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 9.8 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
The nearest emergency services, including police and fire stations, are located in Jemez Springs, NM. For hospital services, Cuba, NM, is likely the closest option.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 9 - October 14.
Trash and recyclingRecycling bins are provided but visitors are encouraged to pack out trash. "Large trash container on site." - User review by Olivia Hill.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to the San Antonio River, which provides opportunities for fishing and wading.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include maintenance issues such as unclean bathrooms, lack of toilet paper, and occasional absenteeism of camp hosts.
HostThe presence and quality of camp hosts have varied significantly. Some visitors reported attentive hosts, while others cited absenteeism.
Campground Map
051 Woodsy Lane, P.O. Box 150, Jemez Springs, NM 87025, USA
Driving directionsFrom Jemez Springs, New Mexico, travel 9 miles north on New Mexico State Road 4 along the Jemez Mountain Trail National Scenic Byway, then take New Mexico State Road 126 for 2 miles to the campground.
The campground is accessible via well-maintained paved roads. Seasonal accessibility concerns include road grading activities which may occur during certain periods, as mentioned in one user review.Nearby places
Jemez Springs (9 miles), Cuba, NM (approximately 35 miles)
Nearby supplies
A local corner store is approximately 8 minutes away, offering basic groceries and camping essentials. Additional supplies can also be found in Cuba, NM, which is approximately a 35-minute drive.
Camper Reviews
4.3
164 reviews
San Antonio Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall sentiment is mixed, with an average rating of 4.0182926829268295. Positive reviews highlight cleanliness, scenery, and helpful hosts, while negative reviews focus on overcrowding, proximity to the road, and inconsistent host presence.
Review Summaries
Based on 164 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean restrooms, scenic views, helpful staff, and proximity to recreational sites like Spence Hot Springs.
Based on 164 reviewsCommon Concerns
Road noise, close site proximity, host absence, and inconsistent water availability.
Based on 164 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Book reservations early, especially for electric/water sites. Bring a wagon for group sites and extra toilet paper, as restrooms may run out.
Based on 164 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer camping is popular due to creek access and cool nights. Monsoon season can lead to muddy conditions. Hosts are more active earlier in the season.
Based on 164 reviewsCamper Quotes
"This camping ground rocks." - Marcos Gallegos. "Bathrooms very clean." - Patrick O. "Beautiful nice clean campground." - Kashif Rehman.
Based on 164 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site 9 is not recommended for trailers due to slope issues. Group sites offer privacy but are near the road.
Based on 164 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible sites are on the south end, equipped with grills and vault toilets.
Based on 164 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed. Larger dogs have been noted roaming free in some cases.
Based on 164 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025