Canjilon Lakes Campground
02 reviewsState Road 115, Building 358, Canjilon, NM 87515
Quick Facts
9,900 ftPrice
$5 - $10/night
Booking
First-Come
Sites
11 campsites
Season
Open Memorial Day we...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
Quick Facts
9,900 ftPrice
$5 - $10/night
Booking
First-Come
Sites
11 campsites
Season
Open Memorial Day we...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
Canjilon Lakes Campground
$5.00 - $10.00 / night
Campsite Fees
$10 per single site per night, $5 per extra vehicle, and $5 per vehicle per day for day-use.
Standard Site Fee$10.00
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
Total Campsite Fees$10.00
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USFS
Provider(575) 684-2489
What Campers Say
N/A
Limited Reviews
Based on 2 reviews
10 Google reviews
Most mentioned
locationlake
"The campground has received mixed reviews. While the fishing and scenic location were praised, some reviewers commented on the need for better maintenance and concerns about the surrounding forest's recovery."
Fees & Passes at Canjilon Lakes Campground
$5 - $10/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: Maximum stay is 14 consecutive days.
Cancellation: No reservations needed; cancellation policy does not apply.
Prices verified November 17, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Canjilon Ranger District website.
Best Time to Camp at Canjilon Lakes Campground
The rhythm of the seasons dictates life at Canjilon Lakes, with the campground welcoming visitors from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. Summer brings gloriously dry days and refreshingly cool nights perfect for campfire gatherings, while winter transforms the landscape into a snow-laden wonderland where temperatures plummet and the forest slumbers beneath a blanket of white.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: Summer (Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend).. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, weather-dependent.
- Current Alerts: No official alerts mentioned at this time.
About Canjilon Lakes Campground
Nestled deep within a pristine spruce forest, Canjilon Lakes Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts to discover its hidden world of crystalline lakes and babbling streams. This high-country retreat offers an escape where anglers cast lines into mirror-like waters, hikers traverse scenic trails, and bird-watchers delight in spotting rare mountain species among the towering evergreens.
The campground offers traditional camping opportunities, with a focus on tent camping. There are no RV or group-designated sites, and accommodations are primitive.
Historical SignificanceBeyond the campground's natural splendor lies a tapestry of cultural treasures waiting to be explored. Journey to the serene Monastery of Christ in the Desert, where ancient traditions meet dramatic canyon walls, or immerse yourself in the artistic legacy and prehistoric wonders at Ghost Ranch Living Museum and Ghost Ranch Conservation Center—each destination offering its own window into New Mexico's rich heritage.
Weather and SeasonsThe rhythm of the seasons dictates life at Canjilon Lakes, with the campground welcoming visitors from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. Summer brings gloriously dry days and refreshingly cool nights perfect for campfire gatherings, while winter transforms the landscape into a snow-laden wonderland where temperatures plummet and the forest slumbers beneath a blanket of white.
ElevationPerched at a breathtaking 9,900 feet above sea level, Canjilon Lakes delivers the quintessential high-altitude camping experience. Here, the air is crisp and thin, the sun feels closer, and spectacular vistas unfold in every direction—a true sky island where summer temperatures remain blissfully cool even as the valleys below swelter.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering spruce sentinels stand guard over this Carson National Forest gem, their emerald canopy sheltering a wonderland of three pristine alpine lakes connected by a meandering stream. When autumn arrives, the forest erupts in a symphony of gold and amber, while year-round, the melodic calls of mountain birds create nature's soundtrack. Each lake offers its own personality—from tranquil morning reflections to afternoon ripples perfect for fishing.
Geological RegionCarved into the heart of Carson National Forest at 9,900 feet, Canjilon Lakes occupies a spectacular pocket of the Southern Rockies where ancient geological forces created the perfect canvas for nature's artistry. Dense spruce forests cloak the mountainsides, while three jewel-like lakes and their connecting stream tell the story of glacial sculpting and countless seasons of snowmelt—a testament to the enduring power of water and time in this magnificent high-country landscape.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThere are no wheelchair-accessible toilets, and accessibility features are limited.
Sites SizeCampsites are laid out in a tight single loop, with space for small vehicles and tents. Pull-through sites are not suitable for large RVs.
Sites PrivacyThe campground’s layout in a tight single loop and dense spruce forest provides moderate privacy.
Total Campsites11 campsites
Recommended CampsitesVisitors seeking lake views should choose sites near Lower Canjilon Lake.
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
No specific time mentioned.
Check-out
No specific time mentioned.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 consecutive days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
No explicit guest limit mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground is arranged in a tight single loop.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, weather-dependent.
Reservation PlatformsNot applicable; reservations are not available.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served due to no reservation system.
Cancellation PolicyNo reservations needed; cancellation policy does not apply.
Amenities available
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Canjilon Lakes Campground provides a mix of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The campground is situated beside the 4-acre Lower Canjilon Lake, which is stocked with rainbow trout. Recreational opportunities extend to the Middle and Upper Canjilon Lakes nearby.
Hiking
The Canjilon Mountain Loop Trail offers a 12-mile hiking route suitable for both foot and horse traffic. Day hiking opportunities are also available.Fishing
Fishing is a key activity at Lower Canjilon Lake, which is stocked with rainbow trout. The lake is described as a good starting point for inexperienced anglers.Boating
Non-motorized boating is permitted on Lower Canjilon Lake, making it accessible for activities like canoeing.Wildlife viewing
Birdwatching is a popular activity, with the campground and surrounding lakes offering ample opportunities to view various bird species.Winter Activities
Winter activities are limited due to seasonal closures of Forest Road 129 from January to the end of April.Water Sports
Water sports are limited to non-motorized boating, such as canoeing or kayaking.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire rules not explicitly mentioned.
- Quiet hours are Silent hours not explicitly mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife, fallen trees, and challenging road conditions on unpaved sections.
Active alertsNo official alerts mentioned at this time.
Weather at Canjilon Lakes Campground
28
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 49%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 12.4 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
Powered by AI weather analysis
Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
Canjilon Ranger District (Temporarily closed), nearest general emergency services are likely in Cebolla or Abiquiu.
Good to know
Peak season datesSummer (Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend).
Trash and recyclingNo specific information is available about trash and recycling facilities. Users are likely required to pack out their trash.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is near Lower Canjilon Lake (4 acres). Middle and Upper Canjilon Lakes are located further along Forest Rt. 129.
Common complaintsUser reviews mention fallen or felled birch trees obstructing the campsite and a need for improved cleanliness.
HostNo host information provided.
Campground Map
State Road 115, Building 358, Canjilon, NM 87515
Driving directionsFrom Cebolla, NM, take US Rt. 84 south 3.5 miles to State Rt. 115 (Canjilon Lakes/Canjilon) signs. Turn left onto Rt. 115 and go 3.3 miles to Canjilon Lake sign (County Rt. 280). Turn left onto Rt. 280 and go 7.6 miles to Canjilon Lake sign (Forest Rt. 129). Turn left onto Rt. 129 (paved) and go 3.4 miles to campground on left. NOTE: County Rt. 280 becomes dirt after 3.2 miles at which time it becomes Forest Rt. 559.
Road access is mixed. Forest Road 129 is paved but partially seasonal, closed from January 1 - April 30. County Rt. 280 transitions to unpaved dirt after 3.2 miles, becoming Forest Rt. 559, which may pose challenges for certain vehicles.Nearby places
Cebolla: ~14.5 miles (~25 minutes), Abiquiu: ~12 miles (~20 minutes), Ghost Ranch: ~12 miles (~20 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, fuel, and other essentials are available in nearby towns such as Cebolla (~25 minutes) and Abiquiu (~20 minutes).
Reviews from booking and map sources
0.0
2 reviews
Canjilon Lakes Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground has received mixed reviews. While the fishing and scenic location were praised, some reviewers commented on the need for better maintenance and concerns about the surrounding forest's recovery.
Review Summaries
Based on 2 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive feedback highlights excellent fishing at Lower Canjilon Lake and the scenic beauty of the location. One reviewer noted, "Fishing was great."
Based on 2 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints include the campground's need for cleanup and the degraded state of the surrounding forest. One reviewer remarked that the area was "mostly fallen or felled birch trees."
Based on 2 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors are advised to bring their own water as there is no potable water available on site. Early arrivals may be necessary to secure the best sites, especially those near the lake.
Based on 2 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews suggest that the campground is best enjoyed in late spring through early fall, aligning with its seasonal opening. Visitors noted that the area might be less desirable during the pandemic due...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Fishing was great. Campgrounds need to be cleaned up." "The campground is mostly fallen or felled birch trees around which a tiny forest is trying to recover."
Based on 2 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
The two sites overlooking Lower Canjilon Lake are particularly noted for their views. The pull-through sites are not suitable for large RVs.
Based on 2 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews addressing accessibility were provided.
Based on 2 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No details about pet policies or experiences with pets were mentioned.
Based on 2 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 17, 2025
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