Juniper Campground
05 reviews15 Entrance Rd, Los Alamos, NM, 87544
Juniper Campground
$20.00 - $50.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$50.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Individual sites are $20 per night; group sites are $50 per night. Taxes and reservation fees are additional. Entrance fees to Bandelier National Monument are separate.
About this campground
Nestled within the breathtaking Bandelier National Monument, Juniper Family Campground offers adventurers the perfect gateway to explore the ancient wonders of the Pajarito Plateau and the majestic Jemez Mountains. This beloved campground features three distinct camping loops, where families and outdoor enthusiasts can choose between the spontaneity of first-come, first-served sites or the peace of mind that comes with advance reservations. From your tent or RV, you'll wake to crisp mountain air and endless possibilities for discovery in north-central New Mexico's most treasured landscapes.
Juniper Family Campground accommodates a variety of camping types, including first-come, first-served individual campsites, reservable group sites, and seasonal access to certain loops.
Historical SignificanceStep into a living museum where over 11,000 years of human stories are etched into the landscape. Throughout Bandelier National Monument, ancient petroglyphs tell tales of the earliest inhabitants, while remarkably preserved cliff dwellings and intricate masonry walls stand as testaments to the ingenuity of the Ancestral Pueblo people who once called these canyons home. Every trail from the campground leads to archaeological treasures that connect you directly to this profound human legacy.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic beauty of high desert seasons at Juniper, where summer days bring warm sunshine perfect for hiking ancient trails, though fire restrictions often remind visitors of the area's precious ecosystem. Winter transforms the campground into a serene wonderland, with occasional snowfall dusting the piñon pines and creating a magical backdrop for your camping adventure. The region's characteristically dry climate means you'll enjoy mostly clear skies year-round, perfect for stargazing and outdoor exploration.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 7,300 feet above sea level, Juniper Family Campground offers a refreshing escape from lower desert heat. This elevated setting creates a unique microclimate where diverse plant and animal communities thrive, and where summer temperatures remain pleasantly cool even when the valleys below swelter. The thin mountain air adds an invigorating quality to every breath, while the elevation provides spectacular vantage points for sunset viewing and star-filled nights.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape that reads like chapters from Earth's dramatic story. The campground sits amid a stunning tapestry of rugged canyons and sprawling mesas, where fragrant piñon and juniper trees provide natural shade and shelter. As you explore higher elevations, watch the ecosystem transform before your eyes – from the hardy desert woodland into towering ponderosa pine forests, and finally into lush mixed conifer groves that whisper with mountain breezes. This vertical journey through life zones offers endless photographic opportunities and intimate wildlife encounters.
Geological RegionCamp atop the remarkable Pajarito Plateau, where ancient volcanic forces sculpted one of New Mexico's most extraordinary landscapes. Born from cataclysmic eruptions 1.6 and 1.4 million years ago, this geological wonderland within Bandelier National Monument showcases nature's raw creative power. The dramatic elevation range – from 5,340 feet in the canyon bottoms to 10,199 feet at the highest peaks – has carved out diverse ecosystems and created the spectacular mesa and canyon country that makes this region a geological treasure trove for curious minds and adventurous spirits alike.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible campsites are available in the campground, and paved roads on each loop make navigation easier for those with accessibility needs.
Sites SizeGroup sites can accommodate 10 to 20 campers with ample space for tents. Individual sites vary, with many sites suitable for larger RVs or trailers.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is generally limited due to the open nature of the sites, and shade is minimal.
Total Campsites55 campsites
Recommended CampsitesGroup campsites are ideal for large groups or families due to ample space and multiple facilities like bear lockers and picnic tables.
Best CampsitesGroup campsites are highly rated for their spaciousness and amenities.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
- Individual sites: 1:00 PM
- Group sites: 4:00 PM.
Check-out
11:30 AM.
Stay Limit
14 consecutive nights per visit, up to 28 nights annually.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Individual sites allow one RV/trailer
- group sites accommodate 10-20 campers.
Groups
Group sites are designed for tent camping and can accommodate 10 to 20 campers per site. Each site is equipped with picnic tables, fire rings with grills, and food lockers, and allows for one RV or trailer.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThree loops (Abert's Squirrel Loop, Black Bear Loop, Coyote Loop) with a mix of paved pull-in and pull-through sites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round with seasonal closures of specific facilities like Coyote Loop (Nov 1 - Mar 1).
Reservation PlatformsReservations available on Recreation.gov, via app, or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability for Abert’s Squirrel Loop campsites. Pay at self-pay kiosk or Visitor Center during business hours.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before the arrival date online or via the contact center. Late cancellations incur a $10 fee plus the first night's recreation fee. Changes to reservations outside the original dates incur a $10 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
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Juniper Family Campground provides access to recreational activities such as hiking, wildlife viewing, and evening ranger programs. Two trails are accessible directly from the campground: the Frey Trail, leading to Frijoles Canyon and the Visitor Center, and the Tyuonyi Overlook Trail, offering stunning mesa-top views. From mid-May to mid-October, the Frijoles Canyon shuttle system connects campers to additional attractions and trailheads.
Hiking
The campground connects to over 70 miles of hiking trails, including the Frey Trail to Frijoles Canyon and the Tyuonyi Overlook Trail, which is a short 3/4-mile hike offering breathtaking views of an ancestral Pueblo village.Wildlife viewing
The park is home to over 55 species of mammals, including mule deer, black bears, and mountain lions, as well as diverse bird species such as Steller's jays and canyon towhees.Cultural and Educational Programs
Interpretive ranger programs are offered at the Visitor Center during the day and at the campground amphitheater during summer evenings.Winter Activities
Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing opportunities are available in the park.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding are not mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire restrictions are common during summer months; gathering firewood is prohibited; firewood is available for purchase on-site.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM - 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential danger from black bears and mountain lions; fire risks during dry summer months; limited shade in campsites.
Active alertsSeasonal water availability at RV dump station; fire restrictions during hot and dry periods.
Weather forecast
62
°F
Aug 24
Sunday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 80%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 0.9 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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
Closest hospital and emergency services are in Los Alamos, approximately 5 miles from the campground. Ranger station assistance is available within Bandelier National Monument.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1 - December 31 (peak season pricing applies year-round).
Trash and recyclingBear lockers are provided to store waste securely, but further information on organized trash and recycling facilities is missing.
Proximity to water featuresNo nearby lakes or rivers; water available at potable spigots within each loop.
Common complaintsLight outages in comfort stations; limited shade in campsites; no shower facilities.
HostSummer camp host presence; hosts offer assistance with campground rules and local information.
Campground Map
15 Entrance Rd, Los Alamos, NM, 87544
Driving directionsFrom Santa Fe (approx. 1-hour travel time): Take Highway 84/285 (Saint Francis Drive) north toward Los Alamos. Merge right onto NM 502 to Los Alamos. Exit onto NM 4 toward White Rock. Continue for 12 miles, passing through White Rock. Bandelier's entrance is on the left. Turn right onto Campground Rd and follow signs to Juniper Campground. From Taos (approx. 1.5-hour travel time): Take NM 68 south, in Espanola turn onto Fairway, then Highway 84/285. Merge onto NM 502 to Los Alamos, exit onto NM 4, continue for 12 miles. Turn right onto Campground Rd and follow signs to Juniper Campground.
The campground can be accessed via paved roads through major highways (NM 502 and NM 4). Seasonal closures may impact facilities (e.g., RV water dump station closed mid-October to mid-April).Nearby places
Los Alamos (approx. 5 miles), White Rock (approx. 12 miles), Santa Fe (approx. 40 miles), Taos (approx. 90 miles).
Nearby supplies
Closest groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Los Alamos and White Rock, approximately 5-12 miles away.
Camper Reviews
0.0
5 reviews
Juniper Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the spaciousness, cleanliness, and functionality of Juniper Campground, with particular praise for the group sites and accessible trails. Common concerns include issues with lighting in restrooms and the lack of showers.
Review Summaries
Based on 5 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciated the 'spacious campsites,' 'toasty warm bathrooms,' and 'plenty of room for tents and vehicles.' The ranger talks and interpretive programs were also well-received.
Based on 5 reviewsCommon Concerns
Issues with interior lighting in restrooms were frequently mentioned. Some visitors found it inconvenient that there were no showers available.
Based on 5 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend attending evening ranger programs and booking group campsites for larger gatherings. Making reservations ahead of arrival is advised due to unreliable cell service.
Based on 5 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer months are noted for ranger programs and shuttle availability, while winter sees limited access to certain campground loops.
Based on 5 reviewsCamper Quotes
'We were particularly impressed with the large size of the 2 bear boxes.' - KAREN W
'Plenty of space in the bear boxes, enough tables for all of us, and flat areas for multiple tents!' - CELINA...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Group sites have been highly praised for their spaciousness and suitability for large gatherings. 'The two group campsites...have been excellent bases for exploring trails.' - MARK S
Based on 5 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible campsites and paved pathways make the campground user-friendly for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 5 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but restricted to the campground, picnic area, and parking lots only. They must be leashed at all times and are not permitted on hiking trails.
Based on 5 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025