Upper La Junta Campground
05 reviewsUpper La Junta Campground
$6.00 - $12.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$12.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Campsite fees are $12/night, which include parking for one vehicle. Extra vehicles are $6/night. Seniors or Access pass holders pay $6/night. Day-use parking is $6/day.
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About this campground
Nestled in the heart of Carson National Forest, Upper La Junta Campground offers an intimate escape with just 8 secluded units perfect for those seeking tranquility and adventure. This hidden gem has become a beloved waypoint for motorcyclists touring the scenic mountain roads, while anglers are drawn to its prime fishing access. As one visitor, David A, enthusiastically shared in 2021, this 'beautiful developed campsite' combines rustic charm with essential amenities including vault toilets, creating the ideal balance between wilderness immersion and comfort. The campground's proximity to winding trails and babbling creeks makes it a natural basecamp for explorers ready to discover the forest's secrets.
Upper La Junta Campground offers dispersed camping with developed campsites. It caters to tent campers and appears to accommodate group camping, though RV camping is also popular.
Weather and SeasonsUpper La Junta transforms with the seasons, offering visitors a different experience throughout the year. Winter brings a crystalline wonderland where temperatures plunge below freezing and snow blankets the landscape in pristine white. As spring emerges, the forest awakens with new life and warming days. Summer rewards campers with stretches of brilliant blue skies and pleasantly moderate temperatures ideal for hiking and fishing. Fall paints the surrounding forest in golden hues while crisp air hints at the approaching winter. Pack layers and be prepared for mountain weather's delightful unpredictability.
Natural Features and SceneryThe campground's greatest treasures lie in its pristine natural surroundings, where small mountain creeks dance over rocks and fallen logs, creating the perfect habitat for native trout. These crystal-clear waters invite quiet contemplation or exciting catch-and-release fishing adventures. The landscape unfolds in waves of wild grasses that sway in mountain breezes, sometimes growing tall enough to brush against your knees as you explore. This untamed beauty creates a photographer's paradise and offers endless opportunities for wildlife watching and peaceful reflection.
Geological RegionSituated within the majestic Carson National Forest, Upper La Junta Campground rests in a region shaped by millennia of geological forces. The surrounding landscape tells the story of ancient mountains and patient streams that carved their paths through the terrain. Small creeks meander through the area, their cool waters supporting thriving trout populations and creating riparian corridors that burst with life. This pristine ecosystem represents the best of New Mexico's high country, where forest meets stream in perfect harmony.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not detailed in the available information.
Sites Size'8 units with fishing access.' The sizes of individual campsite areas are not explicitly described.
Sites PrivacySpecific privacy details are not available, though user reviews mention 'grass was a bit high at most of the sites,' which could impact privacy.
Total Campsites8 campsites
Recommended Campsites"There's a small creek with trout just a few feet from some of the sites" (David A, 2021-08-15).
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Camping is limited to 14 days within any 45-day period.
Groups
While specific group camping features are not detailed, one user review mentions, 'Whether you're solo camping or with 27 people, you'll find a spot.'
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layout"Once you turn on 76, you'll be met with some developed camping areas that are nice" (phutto505, 2019-07-21).
Open and Closed SeasonForest Road 76 is closed to vehicles Jan. 1 - Apr. 30.
Walk-in Availability"I was the only one staying there in late July" (Review by David A, 2021-08-15).
Amenities available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Upper La Junta Campground provides a range of outdoor activities, including fishing, hiking, and picnicking. It is also noted for being popular among motorcyclists, and offers opportunities for off-road vehicle exploration.
Hiking
Hiking is available in the form of day hikes, as indicated by authoritative sources. User reviews also mention 'many trails you can explore.'Fishing
Fishing access is highlighted as a key feature of the campground, with one user noting the presence of 'a small creek with trout just a few feet from some of the sites.'Winter Activities
Winter activities are not specified, but the campground's location in the Carson National Forest may make it accessible for snow-based recreation during winter months. Note that Forest Road 76 is closed to vehicles from January 1 to April 30, which could impact accessibility.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding are not mentioned for Upper La Junta Campground.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire safety concerns raised in user reviews.
Hazards
General hazardsFire hazards mentioned in user reviews: "It was so beautiful, but now it is on fire! It's all those people with RVs. They don't take care" (2020-10-26).
Weather forecast
52
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Moderate drizzle
Precipitation: 0.8%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 98%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 4.1 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Very Light Rain - (0.80% chance)
Slight drizzle possible
Moderate drizzle
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
Good to know
Trash and recyclingUser reviews mention that 'there are dumpsters close to most camp sites,' indicating basic trash disposal facilities, though recycling availability is unclear.
Proximity to water featuresNearby creek with trout fishing access.
Common complaintsGrass being high at most sites is a recurring concern (David A, 2021-08-15). Also, fire concerns raised by users.
Campground Map
Driving directions4 miles northeast of Tres Ritos via FR 76. "Take the Taos High Road scenic byway for a gorgeous drive" (per user review)
Forest Road 76 is closed to vehicles Jan. 1 - Apr. 30 annually. "Roads are decent enough in most areas for a passenger vehicle" (Review by Alisha B, 2021-05-31). "Zero service for cell phones once on 76" (Review by phutto505, 2019-07-21).Camper Reviews
0.0
5 reviews
Upper La Junta Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User sentiment around Upper La Junta Campground is overwhelmingly positive, with campers praising its natural beauty, clean restrooms, and developed campsites. Some reviews highlight issues such as high grass at campsites and fire risks caused by larger crowds.
Review Summaries
Based on 5 reviews
What Campers Love
Users frequently praise the campground for its scenic beauty and accessibility. Direct quotes include 'Location was beautiful,' 'Beautiful campground,' and 'Once you turn on [Forest Road] 76, you'll...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include 'grass was a bit high at most of the sites' and concerns about fire risks due to RV campers, expressed in the quote: 'It was so beautiful, but now it is on fire! It's all those...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Recommendations from user reviews include taking the Taos High Road Scenic Byway when traveling from Santa Fe for 'a gorgeous drive,' and bringing necessary supplies due to the lack of cell service...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
User reviews suggest that late summer and fall (July through October) may be ideal times for visiting, as there is less crowding and favorable weather conditions. One review notes being 'the only one...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
Examples include 'Great for off-road vehicles, many many trails you can explore,' 'Upper La Junta will always be on areas for considering when looking for a place to camp,' and 'zero service for cell...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific details about campsites include proximity to a creek with trout. No site numbers are mentioned.
Based on 5 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility-specific reviews are not available.
Based on 5 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet-specific reviews are not available.
Based on 5 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025