Rio Chama Campground, Small Group Sites
4.778 reviewsQuick Facts
6,410 ftPrice
Free
Booking
Walk-in Only
Sites
19 campsites
Season
Open from Mid April ...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
6,410 ftPrice
Free
Booking
Walk-in Only
Sites
19 campsites
Season
Open from Mid April ...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsRio Chama Campground, Small Group Sites
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
None. No fee is charged for camping.
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
Total Campsite Fees$0.00
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USFS
ProviderWhat Campers Say
4.77
Top-Rated
Based on 8 reviews
13 Google reviews
Most mentioned
cleanspacioushikingwater
"The Rio Chama Campground receives overwhelmingly positive reviews for its scenic beauty, cleanliness, and opportunities for activities like rafting and hiking. Visitors appreciate the 'unbeatable views' of the mountains and river, the cleanliness of the vault toilets, and the spaciousness of the campsites. However, some reviewers noted issues such as cow droppings near campsites and challenges accessing the site during rainy weather."
Fees & Passes at Rio Chama Campground, Small Group Sites
Free
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Prices verified August 10, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official reservation website.
Best Time to Camp at Rio Chama Campground, Small Group Sites
Experience the dynamic beauty of New Mexico's high country throughout the seasons at Rio Chama. Spring brings wildflower blooms and excellent fishing conditions as snowmelt feeds the river. Summer offers warm days perfect for river activities and cool, starlit evenings around the campfire. Fall transforms the riverside cottonwoods into a golden corridor, while crisp air makes for ideal hiking weather. Each season paints the landscape with its own unique palette, ensuring no two visits are ever the same.
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
- Operating Season: Open from Mid April through Late October.
About Rio Chama Campground, Small Group Sites
Escape to Rio Chama, a hidden gem nestled along the pristine waters of the Rio Chama Wild & Scenic River. This no-fee developed campground welcomes adventurers without the hassle of reservations, offering the perfect spontaneous getaway for families, groups, and RV enthusiasts alike. Wake up to the gentle sounds of the river just steps from your campsite, spend your days casting lines into crystal-clear waters, exploring scenic hiking trails, or simply relaxing by the water's edge. Whether you're seeking a weekend of outdoor recreation or a peaceful riverside retreat, Rio Chama provides an authentic camping experience where the river's rhythm sets the pace for your stay.
The Rio Chama Campground provides group camping opportunities with basic facilities. It is suitable for tent camping and can also accommodate smaller RVs (up to 20 feet). Dispersed camping is available along the gravel road leading to the campground.
Historical SignificanceThe Rio Chama corridor has served as a lifeline for centuries, witnessing the passage of ancient peoples, Spanish explorers, and frontier settlers. This storied waterway has long been recognized for its importance, earning designation as a Wild & Scenic River to preserve its natural and cultural heritage. Today's campers follow in the footsteps of generations who have found sustenance, recreation, and renewal along these banks, continuing a tradition of connection with this remarkable landscape.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dynamic beauty of New Mexico's high country throughout the seasons at Rio Chama. Spring brings wildflower blooms and excellent fishing conditions as snowmelt feeds the river. Summer offers warm days perfect for river activities and cool, starlit evenings around the campfire. Fall transforms the riverside cottonwoods into a golden corridor, while crisp air makes for ideal hiking weather. Each season paints the landscape with its own unique palette, ensuring no two visits are ever the same.
ElevationPerched at 6,410 feet above sea level, Rio Chama offers a refreshing mountain escape where the air is crisp and clear. This moderate elevation provides comfortable conditions for most visitors while delivering cooler temperatures than the desert lowlands—a welcome respite during summer months. The altitude enhances your camping experience with brilliant night skies perfect for stargazing and invigorating morning air that beckons you to explore.
Natural Features and SceneryThe campground showcases the raw beauty of northern New Mexico's river country, where the Rio Chama has carved a living corridor through the landscape. Towering cottonwoods and willows line the riverbanks, providing natural shade and habitat for diverse wildlife. The river itself shifts from peaceful pools perfect for fishing to lively riffles that sparkle in the sunlight. Surrounding hills and mesas frame distant vistas, while the immediate riverside environment creates an intimate natural sanctuary where eagles soar overhead and the evening light paints the canyon walls in warm hues.
Geological RegionSet within the dramatic terrain of the Colorado Plateau's southern reaches, Rio Chama occupies a fascinating geological crossroads. The river has sculpted its course through layers of ancient sedimentary rock, revealing millions of years of Earth's history in the surrounding cliffs and mesas. This unique positioning creates a diverse landscape where high desert meets mountain environments, resulting in the striking scenery and ecological richness that makes the Rio Chama valley such a compelling destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned in the source materials.
Sites SizeSites can accommodate smaller RVs up to 20 feet in length. The space at group sites is described as spacious by users.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site; some sites are more shaded and likely more secluded, while others are close together. A reviewer noted, 'Be choosy because the amount of shade you get will vary greatly from site to site.'
Total Campsites19 campsites
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
Reveal picks
Reserving a campsite
Groups
Two group sites are available, each equipped with two picnic tables and fire rings. User reviews describe the campsites as 'spacious' and note that some offer shade and privacy.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from Mid April through Late October.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo advanced reservations. Walk up only.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors to Rio Chama Campground can engage in several outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, river access, and picnicking. The campsite is also lauded as an ideal location for rafting and kayaking.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities include access to the Continental Divide Trail, which is a few miles from the campsite. User reviews highlight the area's natural beauty, such as picturesque mountain and river views.Fishing
Fishing is permitted in accordance with New Mexico Game & Fish Department regulations. Specific user reviews do not mention the quality of fishing.Boating
The campground is described as an excellent place for rafting, kayaking, and paddleboarding. One reviewer stated, 'Easy put-ins for rafts, kayaks, paddleboards.'Winter Activities
Winter activities are not applicable as the campground operates from May to December.Water Sports
Rafting, kayaking, and paddleboarding are popular water sports at the site.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire restriction apply.
Hazards
Weather at Rio Chama Campground, Small Group Sites
28
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 56%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 1.1 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
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Reveal forecast
Good to know
Trash and recyclingA trash bin is available on-site.
Campground Map
Driving directionsAt Jct. of SH 96 and US 84, travel 8 miles to FR 151, then travel on FR 151 12 miles to campground.
Forest Road 151 is not recommended for travel when wet.Reviews from booking and map sources
4.8
8 reviews
Rio Chama Campground, Small Group Sites is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
The Rio Chama Campground receives overwhelmingly positive reviews for its scenic beauty, cleanliness, and opportunities for activities like rafting and hiking. Visitors appreciate the 'unbeatable views' of the mountains and river, the cleanliness of the vault toilets, and the spaciousness of the campsites. However, some reviewers noted issues such as cow droppings near campsites and challenges accessing the site during rainy weather.
Review Summaries
Based on 8 reviews
What Campers Love
Scenic beauty, clean vault toilets, spacious sites, excellent river access for water sports, proximity to hiking trails, and a no-fee camping experience.
Based on 8 reviewsCommon Concerns
Cow droppings near campsites, wind exposure at less sheltered sites, and access challenges during or after rain due to the dirt road.
Based on 8 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive early on busy weekends like Memorial Day to secure a site. Bring your own water as none is available. Consider bringing tools to clear cow droppings if needed. Choose campsites carefully based...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Fall is particularly praised for its vibrant colors and cooler weather. Spring and summer reviews highlight the campground's popularity and challenges with securing a site on busy weekends.
Based on 8 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Amazing location! Easy put-ins for rafts, kayaks, paddle boards. Exceptionally clean vault toilets. Campsites with shade. Unbeatable views!!'
2. 'One of the most, if not THE MOST beautiful sites...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Some campsites are noted for their shade and proximity to the river, while others are described as less sheltered and closer together. No specific site numbers are mentioned.
Based on 8 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically addressing accessibility features are available.
Based on 8 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but they must be on a leash. No additional details about pet-friendly features are provided.
Based on 8 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated August 10, 2025
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