Trout Lakes Campground

4.20

27 reviews

FishingSummer Destination

Quick Facts

9,429 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

12 campsites

Season

Spring through Fall ...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Opens Carson National Forest site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

9,429 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

12 campsites

Season

Spring through Fall ...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Opens Carson National Forest site

Official Website

Get Directions

Trout Lakes Campground

$0.00 - $0.00 / night

Campsite Fees

No fees are charged for camping at Trout Lakes Campground.

Standard Site Fee$0.00

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

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What Campers Say

4.20

Satisfactory

Based on 27 reviews

24 Google reviews

Most mentioned

quietpeaceful

"User reviews highlight the peaceful and scenic nature of the campground, its appeal for fishing, and the quiet atmosphere. However, some complaints include the hazardous access roads and poorly maintained restrooms."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Trout Lakes Campground

36.6043, -106.3738

Driving directions11 miles northeast of Cebolla via US 84 and FR 125

The access road to Trout Lakes Campground is challenging. It is graveled for three miles from U.S. Highway 84, but the remaining section is ungraveled, becoming slick and hazardous when wet. Monsoon rains render the road impassable. High clearance vehicles and four-wheel drive are recommended. Large RVs or camper trailers are allowed but discouraged due to road conditions.

Nearby places

Cebolla (11 miles)

Best Time to Camp at Trout Lakes Campground

Each season paints Trout Lakes with its own distinctive palette. Spring awakens the landscape as winter's grip loosens, though opening dates dance with nature's whims and weather patterns. Summer settles in with gentle, temperate days perfect for casting lines at dawn and stargazing by night. Autumn's arrival transforms the campground into a natural amphitheater of color, with crisp air that makes morning coffee taste even better and evenings around the campfire more magical. As winter approaches, heavy snows gradually close the curtain on accessibility, allowing the wilderness to rest in pristine silence until the cycle begins anew.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Summer is a prime season for peaceful camping, though monsoon road issues can affect access.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Autumn highlighted for golden aspen and especially beautiful scenery.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.0 / 5

Spring opens as snow melts but dates vary; doable but dependent on weather and road conditions.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Campground/road closed to motorized travel Jan 1–Apr 30; seasonal closure limits winter use.

Planning Tips

Operating Season: Spring through Fall (specific dates dependent on weather). Forest Road 125 is closed to motorized travel from January 1 to April 30.

About Trout Lakes Campground

Escape to the serene wilderness of Trout Lakes Campground, where three pristine alpine lakes await your fishing line and the forest whispers stories of solitude. This hidden gem in the backcountry offers 12 intimate primitive campsites, perfectly sized for tent adventurers and small camper enthusiasts seeking an authentic connection with nature. As summer unfolds its peaceful embrace, you'll discover why this tranquil retreat has become a sanctuary for those who prefer their camping experiences untouched by crowds. When autumn arrives, the surrounding aspen groves burst into a breathtaking display of golden flames, creating a photographer's paradise and memories that linger long after the campfire's last ember fades.

The campground offers primitive camping with 12 campsites. It is geared towards tent camping and small camper/trailers. It is a no-fee site, making it especially attractive for budget-conscious campers.

Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Trout Lakes with its own distinctive palette. Spring awakens the landscape as winter's grip loosens, though opening dates dance with nature's whims and weather patterns. Summer settles in with gentle, temperate days perfect for casting lines at dawn and stargazing by night. Autumn's arrival transforms the campground into a natural amphitheater of color, with crisp air that makes morning coffee taste even better and evenings around the campfire more magical. As winter approaches, heavy snows gradually close the curtain on accessibility, allowing the wilderness to rest in pristine silence until the cycle begins anew.

Natural Features and SceneryThree mirror-like lakes form the heart of this wilderness sanctuary, each offering its own fishing secrets and reflective morning vistas. Towering conifers stand sentinel around the water's edge, their evergreen presence creating a natural cathedral that filters sunlight into dancing patterns. Interspersed among the pines, graceful aspen trees shimmer in the slightest breeze, their leaves creating nature's own wind chimes. This harmonious blend of water and forest creates an atmosphere so tranquil that even the busiest minds find peace, while the picturesque scenery provides endless inspiration for artists, photographers, and anyone who appreciates nature's masterful design.

Geological RegionNestled within the expansive embrace of Carson National Forest, Trout Lakes Campground occupies a special corner where water, stone, and forest converge in perfect harmony. The three lakes that define this backcountry haven are cradled by terrain shaped over millennia, surrounded by stands of stately conifers and delicate aspen that have adapted to thrive in this unique ecosystem. This serene pocket of wilderness represents the Carson National Forest at its most intimate, offering visitors a chance to experience the raw beauty and ecological diversity that makes this region a treasured destination for those seeking authentic outdoor experiences.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Walk-in AvailabilitySites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Site SizeSites are suited for tents and small campers or trailers.

PrivacyThe campground is described as quiet and not heavily crowded, suggesting a good level of privacy.

Total Campsites12 campsites

Amenities available

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

The campground offers recreational activities such as fishing, hiking, and OHV camping. Its peaceful surroundings and access to three lakes make it an ideal spot for fishing enthusiasts. Additionally, activities like day hikes and backpacking on trails like the Hidden Lake Trail are available. Wildlife viewing and scenic photography are popular due to the picturesque setting.

HikingDay hikes and backpacking opportunities are available, including the Hidden Lake Trail.

FishingFishing is a primary attraction of Trout Lakes Campground, with access to three lakes. User reviews praise the campground as a great fishing destination.

Wildlife viewingOpportunities for wildlife viewing and enjoying scenic beauty are abundant due to the tranquil forested surroundings.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsThe access road is hazardous when wet, and monsoon rains make it impassable. High-clearance vehicles and four-wheel drive are recommended. The road condition discourages large RVs or camper trailers.

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Trout Lakes Campground

Reviews

4.2

27 reviews

Satisfactory

Trout Lakes Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews highlight the peaceful and scenic nature of the campground, its appeal for fishing, and the quiet atmosphere. However, some complaints include the hazardous access roads and poorly maintained restrooms.

Review Summaries

Based on 27 reviews

What Campers Love

The campground is praised for its peaceful environment, scenic beauty, and excellent fishing opportunities. One user described it as 'My favorite fishing hole in northern New Mexico,' while another...

Based on 27 reviews

Common Concerns

Key issues raised by users include the hazardous road conditions leading to the campground, particularly when wet, and the lack of maintenance of the restroom facilities. One user stated, 'The...

Based on 27 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers are advised to be cautious of the road conditions, especially during or after rain, as it can become extremely slick and hazardous. High-clearance and four-wheel-drive vehicles are...

Based on 27 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The most favorable seasons for camping are spring through fall; however, road conditions during the monsoon season can hinder accessibility. Autumn is noted for its particularly beautiful scenery as...

Based on 27 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'My favorite fishing hole in northern New Mexico. I love to camp here so beautiful... however rough road conditions are a risk so be prepared.' 2. 'Awesome place to camp, not too many people very...

Based on 27 reviews