El Porvenir Campground
4.3317 reviewsQuick Facts
Price
$8/night
Booking
First-Come
Sites
13 campsites
Season
May 1 - Dec 31 (seas...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
Price
$8/night
Booking
First-Come
Sites
13 campsites
Season
May 1 - Dec 31 (seas...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsEl Porvenir Campground
$8.00 - $8.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The fee is $8.00 per vehicle. Seniors and Access Pass holders receive a 50% discount on single-unit campsites.
Standard Site Fee$8.00
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$8.00
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USFS
ProviderWhat Campers Say
4.33
Recommended
Based on 17 reviews
55 Google reviews
Most mentioned
cleanhiking
"El Porvenir Campground receives mixed reviews, with many highlighting its natural beauty, excellent hiking trails, and secluded atmosphere. However, some have noted issues such as the lack of potable water, poorly maintained roads, and occasional noise from neighboring campers. The campground's recovery from recent wildfires is a recurring topic in user reviews."
Fees & Passes at El Porvenir Campground
$8/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Prices verified November 17, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Santa Fe National Forest website.
Best Time to Camp at El Porvenir Campground
Experience the dramatic seasonal transitions of this mountain paradise, where winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland with freezing temperatures and snow-dusted pines. As spring emerges, the campground awakens to perfect camping conditions, offering visitors clear azure skies and comfortable temperatures from late May through early October. These pristine months deliver minimal rainfall and endless opportunities for hiking, stargazing, and outdoor exploration in one of New Mexico's most reliably beautiful weather patterns.
Best
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm days. Most facilities open. Reserve ahead.
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
- Operating Season: May 1 - Dec 31 (seasonal closure applies, currently closed for post-fire danger).
- Current Alerts: Closed due to post-fire danger.
About El Porvenir Campground
Nestled in the heart of a pristine mixed conifer forest, El Porvenir Campground beckons adventurers to discover its tranquil beauty along the babbling waters of Beaver Creek. This intimate mountain retreat features 13 thoughtfully spaced campsites, each equipped with sturdy picnic tables, fire rings, and grills for memorable evenings under the stars. While embracing a back-to-nature experience with vault toilets and bear-proof storage facilities, the campground intentionally forgoes modern amenities like running water and utility hookups, inviting campers to disconnect and immerse themselves in the raw beauty of the wilderness at the base of majestic Hermit's Peak.
El Porvenir Campground caters to campers seeking primitive, tent, and RV camping experiences. With its remote and rustic setting, it is ideal for those who appreciate a back-to-nature atmosphere.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal transitions of this mountain paradise, where winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland with freezing temperatures and snow-dusted pines. As spring emerges, the campground awakens to perfect camping conditions, offering visitors clear azure skies and comfortable temperatures from late May through early October. These pristine months deliver minimal rainfall and endless opportunities for hiking, stargazing, and outdoor exploration in one of New Mexico's most reliably beautiful weather patterns.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to the gentle melody of Beaver Creek as it winds through towering ponderosa pines and Douglas firs, creating a natural symphony that defines the El Porvenir experience. The campground serves as your gateway to one of New Mexico's most breathtaking natural landmarks - Hermit's Peak - whose dramatic silhouette dominates the horizon and calls to hikers seeking panoramic vistas. As one enchanted visitor shared, 'The Hermit's Peak hike offers one of the most beautiful landscapes in New Mexico,' a testament to the awe-inspiring scenery that surrounds this forest sanctuary where cool mountain breezes carry the scent of pine and adventure.
Geological RegionTucked into the diverse ecosystem of the Santa Fe National Forest, El Porvenir Campground occupies a special place where mountain meets creek in perfect harmony. This mixed conifer forest environment showcases the geological diversity of northern New Mexico, where ancient volcanic formations like Hermit's Peak rise dramatically from the surrounding landscape. The presence of Beaver Creek has carved a lush riparian corridor through the forest, creating a unique microclimate that supports diverse wildlife and vegetation, making this corner of the Santa Fe National Forest a living classroom of natural history and geological wonder.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground does not explicitly highlight ADA-compliant features. Accessibility reviews from users are lacking.
Sites SizeCampsites are varied in size, accommodating tents, back-in RVs, and at least one pull-through space. Users note the presence of 13 camping units.
Sites PrivacySites are described as secluded and away from the roadway, offering a primitive and remote experience. However, noise can arise if large family groups combine sites.
Total Campsites13 campsites
Best Campsites
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Reserving a campsite
Groups
Group-specific camping areas are not explicitly indicated.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Open and Closed SeasonMay 1 - Dec 31 (seasonal closure applies, currently closed for post-fire danger).
Walk-in AvailabilityThe campground operates on a first-come-first-served basis, with user reviews indicating availability of sites even during high season.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
El Porvenir Campground offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. Notable trails include the challenging Hermit's Peak trail and the scenic Beaver Creek trail. These trails lead campers through the beauty of New Mexico's landscapes, including verdant forest canopies and green groundcover recovering from recent fires.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are a major highlight, with the Hermit's Peak trail being described as 'moderate to hard' and challenging even for physically fit individuals. The Beaver Creek trail offers a scenic and less demanding option. User reviews consistently praise the trails as 'outstanding' and 'beautiful.'Fishing
Fishing is possible in the nearby Beaver Creek and other local streams. Specific details about the types of fish available are not provided.Wildlife viewing
The forest's natural setting provides ample opportunities for wildlife viewing, though specific species are not mentioned.Winter Activities
Winter-specific activities such as snowshoeing or cross-country skiing are not described, though the campground closes for the season when heavy snowfall occurs.Water Sports
Water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding are not supported, as there are no large bodies of water nearby.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 7 AM
Hazards
General hazardsPost-fire hazards include charred trees, loose groundcover, and subsidence, as noted in reviews.
Active alertsClosed due to post-fire danger.
Weather at El Porvenir Campground
29
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 67%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 1.7 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
Weather History
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Detailed 7-Day Forecast
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Reveal forecast
Good to know
Trash and recyclingBear-proof trash bins are available, and visitors are encouraged to pack out their trash and recycle. However, no recycling facilities are explicitly mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresLocated next to Beaver Creek.
Common complaints"No water spigots for campers," "road up to camp is horrible," and issues with maintenance were recurring complaints.
Campground Map
Driving directions15 miles from Las Vegas on Highway 65 and Forest Road 261.
The roads to the campground are noted as narrow in user reviews, and there are mentions of potholes and possible issues with tree overgrowth. The route is paved but may require caution.Reviews from booking and map sources
4.3
17 reviews
El Porvenir Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
El Porvenir Campground receives mixed reviews, with many highlighting its natural beauty, excellent hiking trails, and secluded atmosphere. However, some have noted issues such as the lack of potable water, poorly maintained roads, and occasional noise from neighboring campers. The campground's recovery from recent wildfires is a recurring topic in user reviews.
Review Summaries
Based on 17 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praise the 'beautiful setting,' 'clean and stocked vault toilets,' and the 'challenging and rewarding' hiking trails, particularly Hermit's Peak. The campground's remote and primitive...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include 'no potable water,' 'poorly maintained roads' with 'large potholes,' and a lack of maintenance in some areas. Some guests found the campground noisier compared to others,...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring potable water as none is available on-site. Be prepared for a remote experience with no cell service. Check road conditions before visiting, as they can be narrow and poorly maintained....
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is open from May to December, with most positive reviews coming from the fall season, as visitors enjoy 'fall colors' and 'cool nights.' The campground is closed in winter due to snow...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'The Beaver Creek trail was simply beautiful, and the Hermit's Peak trail was long and challenging.' — Cheryl McBay
2. 'The campground and scenery were much less than at Black Canyon, but the...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
The campground features 13 sites, with at least one pull-through site. Specific favorable sites are not identified, but users have mentioned that the campground is better suited for tents and smaller...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific accessibility reviews are available. The rugged and primitive nature of the campground may pose challenges for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 17 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet policies are not explicitly mentioned in official sources or user reviews.
Based on 17 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 17, 2025
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