Paliza

Star4.74
74 reviews
PO BOX 150, Jemez Springs, NM, 87025, USA

Quick Facts

6,854 ft

Price

$15/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

100 campsites

Season

Peak season: May 9 t...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Opens Santa Fe National Forest site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Paliza
$15.00 - $15.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Camping fees are $15 per night for all site types (standard non-electric, tent-only non-electric, RV non-electric). Additional fees include $10 per...
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Standard Site Fee$15.00
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

4.74

Top-Rated

Based on 74 reviews

70 Google reviews

Most mentioned

peacefulcleanwell-maintained

"Paliza Campground is widely praised for its cleanliness, natural beauty, and tranquility. While camp hosts have received mixed reviews in the past, recent feedback indicates positive improvements."

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Campground Map

PO BOX 150, Jemez Springs, NM, 87025, USA

Paliza

PO BOX 150, Jemez Springs, NM, 87025, USA

Driving directionsFrom the town of Ponderosa, New Mexico, travel 5 miles northeast on Forest Road 10 to the campground.
The road to the campground is gravel and can be narrow and rough according to user reviews, particularly after rainstorms during the monsoon season. While the U.S. Forest Service website recommends high-clearance vehicles, some reviewers noted that this might be excessive.
Nearby places
Ponderosa (5 miles northeast), Jemez (11 miles)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies can be found in Ponderosa (5 miles away) and Jemez (11 miles away), including dining, shopping, and recreational opportunities.

Best Time to Camp at Paliza

Summer transforms Paliza into an outdoor paradise, with crystal-clear skies gracing nearly 80% of camping days. While mountain weather can surprise with the occasional afternoon shower or rare snowflake, these brief interludes only add to the adventure. Moderate breezes averaging 23 mph during cooler periods keep the air fresh and the pine trees whispering their ancient songs. The reliable sunshine and comfortable temperatures make summer the crown jewel of camping seasons here.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Peak season; described as an 'outdoor paradise' with clear skies ~80% of days.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
3.0 / 5

Quieter in early fall; campground remains open through late September (peak until Sep 26).

Spring(Mar-May)
2.0 / 5

Mostly closed until May 8; early spring quieter and limited access.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground listed out-of-season Sep 26–May 8; winter access limited.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: May 9 to September 26, 2025, and May 8 to September 14, 2026.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Peak season: May 9 to September 26, 2025, and May 8 to September 14, 2026. Out-of-season: September 26, 2025, to May 8, 2026.

About Paliza

Perched high above the Jemez Valley, Paliza Campground welcomes adventurers to a storied landscape where forest meets sky in the heart of the Santa Fe National Forest. This versatile mountain retreat accommodates everyone from solo tent campers to large RV groups, with thoughtfully designed single, double, triple, and group sites scattered throughout the pine-scented grounds. As part of the scenic Jemez Ranger District, Paliza offers the perfect basecamp for exploring one of New Mexico's most captivating wilderness areas.
Paliza Campground offers a variety of camping options, including tent and RV camping on single-family, double, and triple sites, as well as a group site accommodating up to 100 people.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Check-in time varies. Payments are required upon arrival using Scan and Pay.
Check-out
12 noon.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is limited to 14 nights.

Amenities available

Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Group Sites

Activities you can enjoy

Paliza Campground offers a range of recreational activities, including hiking, wildlife viewing, and mountain biking. The nearby Cerro Pelado Scenic Overlook provides striking views of an ancient volcanic crater. Off-road vehicle trails and numerous hiking and biking trails surround the campground, making it a hub for outdoor enthusiasts.
HikingThe campground is surrounded by hiking trails. Visitors can explore the Goblin Colony, an 'otherworldly bunch of hoodoos on the side of a steep hillside.' (Eric Haan, 2021)
BikingNumerous biking trails are available, catering to different skill levels.
Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing is a popular activity. The forested setting and proximity to natural features make the campground conducive to spotting local fauna.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsRoad conditions can worsen after heavy rains, particularly during monsoon season. Wildlife sightings, including cows, are possible. No water or electricity is available.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Paliza

Reviews

4.7
74 reviews
Top-Rated
Top-Rated
Paliza is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Paliza Campground is widely praised for its cleanliness, natural beauty, and tranquility. While camp hosts have received mixed reviews in the past, recent feedback indicates positive improvements.
Review Summaries
Based on 74 reviews

What Campers Love

Reviewers frequently highlight the campground's cleanliness, peaceful atmosphere, and well-maintained facilities. Comments include 'Very clean facilities and grounds well cared for' (Robert Childs,...
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Based on 74 reviews

Common Concerns

Some reviewers have noted issues with camp host behavior in the past, such as 'rude and confrontational' attitudes (Michelle Sanchez, 2021).
Based on 74 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring your own water, as there is no potable water on-site. The road to the campground can be challenging after rain, so high-clearance vehicles may be advisable.
Based on 74 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is busiest during the summer months, with quieter periods in early spring and late fall. Accessibility may decrease during monsoon season or winter.
Based on 74 reviews

Camper Quotes

'The vault bathrooms were within sight of our camp... cleaned daily, and equipped with comforting sensor lights.' (Patricia Thompson, 2024), 'The loop that has sites 23 to 29 is a generator-free...
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Based on 74 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Sites 23-29 are generator-free, adding to the tranquility. The group site (GS1) includes a large gazebo and multiple facilities for larger gatherings.
Based on 74 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible vault toilets and paved roads enhance the experience for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 74 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pet policies are not explicitly discussed in the reviews.
Based on 74 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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