Vista Linda Campground

4.60

124 reviews

Scenic ViewsFishing

Featured in:RV Camping New Mexico Pet-Friendly Campgrounds New Mexico Family-Friendly Campgrounds New Mexico +1 more

Quick Facts

5,846 ft

Price

$10 - $20/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

13 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens US Forest Service - Santa Fe National Forest site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

5,846 ft

Price

$10 - $20/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

13 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens US Forest Service - Santa Fe National Forest site

Official Website

Get Directions

Vista Linda Campground

$10.00 - $20.00 / night

Campsite Fees

$10 per vehicle per night for single unit until 5/9/2025. Starting 5/9/2025, the fee increases to $20 per site per night.

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

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USFS

Provider

(575) 829-3535barbara.silva@usda.gov

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What Campers Say

4.60

Top-Rated

Based on 124 reviews

122 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewsscenerypeacefulclean

"User reviews generally praise the campground's scenic beauty, access to the Jemez River, and clean facilities. Some users complained about occasional noise from generators, inconsistent toilet maintenance, and overbearing behavior by camp hosts."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Vista Linda Campground

35.7155, -106.7215

Driving directionsFrom the Jemez Ranger Station go 5.6 miles south on State Highway 4.

Paved access from State Highway 4. The campground is accessible for vehicles, including RVs and trailers, up to 40 feet in length.

Nearby places

Jemez Springs, NM (5.6 miles, approx. 10 minutes)

Albuquerque, NM (approx. 75 miles, 1.5 hours)

Santa Fe, NM (approx. 95 miles, 2 hours)

Nearby supplies

Basic supplies, fuel, and groceries are available in Jemez Springs, NM, which is 5.6 miles away.

Best Time to Camp at Vista Linda Campground

Experience the canyon's ever-changing moods throughout the year at Vista Linda. Summer days warm the red rocks to a glowing ember, while evenings bring refreshing coolness that invites stargazing around the campfire. Winter transforms the landscape into a hushed wonderland, where snow may dust the canyon rims and create magical contrasts against the ruddy cliffs. For those seeking ideal conditions, spring awakens the canyon with wildflowers and flowing waters, while autumn paints the cottonwoods gold against the eternal red rocks.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

3.5 / 5

Warm summer days, cool evenings good for stargazing; can be crowded and hot daytime.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Top 13% in NM

Fall receives very positive reviews for comfortable temps and reduced crowds.

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.5 / 5

Top 4% in NM

Spring frequently called out as a best time: comfortable temps and high review sentiment.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.0 / 5

Open year‑round; winter offers excellent fishing but cold weather may deter some visitors.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Not explicitly stated.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open year-round.

About Vista Linda Campground

Tucked away in the breathtaking San Diego Canyon, Vista Linda Campground offers an intimate escape where towering red rock walls meet the gentle murmur of the Jemez River. This hidden gem welcomes adventurers year-round, serving as a gateway to some of New Mexico's most spectacular canyon country. Whether you're casting a line into the crystal-clear waters, exploring winding trails that reveal ancient geological wonders, or simply soaking in the dramatic mesa views from your campsite, Vista Linda promises an authentic connection with the Southwest's raw beauty.

Vista Linda Campground accommodates a range of camping preferences, including sites for tents, RVs, and trailers. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis and does not accept reservations.

Weather and SeasonsExperience the canyon's ever-changing moods throughout the year at Vista Linda. Summer days warm the red rocks to a glowing ember, while evenings bring refreshing coolness that invites stargazing around the campfire. Winter transforms the landscape into a hushed wonderland, where snow may dust the canyon rims and create magical contrasts against the ruddy cliffs. For those seeking ideal conditions, spring awakens the canyon with wildflowers and flowing waters, while autumn paints the cottonwoods gold against the eternal red rocks.

ElevationNestled at a comfortable canyon-floor elevation, Vista Linda sits in nature's perfect pocket where the climate remains moderate and the air stays crisp. This strategic positioning shields campers from extreme mountain conditions while still delivering that coveted high-country atmosphere.

Natural Features and SceneryVista Linda showcases nature's artistry at every turn, where ancient red rock sentinels stand guard over the sparkling Jemez River below. These magnificent formations, carved by millions of years of wind and water, create an ever-changing canvas of shadows and light throughout the day. The river's gentle presence adds life to the landscape, attracting wildlife and creating a soothing soundtrack for your canyon retreat. From your campsite, witness how the mesas frame perfect southwestern sunsets that paint the rocks in shades of crimson and gold.

Geological RegionSet within the remarkable San Diego Canyon, Vista Linda sits at the heart of a geological masterpiece millions of years in the making. The surrounding red rock formations tell the story of ancient seas, shifting sands, and volcanic upheavals that shaped this dramatic landscape. These layered canyon walls and sculpted mesas create a natural amphitheater that captures both sound and imagination, making every moment at Vista Linda feel like a front-row seat to Earth's grand performance.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

1:00 PM

Check-out

11:00 AM

Stay Limit

14-day maximum stay per reservation.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Allowed to have up to 2 vehicles per site, including tow vehicle or RV.

Groups

There are no group sites available. Each unit is designed for up to two vehicles and individual campers.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutThe campground contains 13 sites, some with shade structures and close proximity to the river. Sites are equipped with picnic tables, grills, and fire pits.

Reservation PlatformsReservation is not available online. Payment is made on-site through self-pay stations.

Walk-in AvailabilityThe entire campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis, with no reservation system.

Cancellation PolicyNo reservations required; first-come, first-served.

AccessibilityNo specific details about accessibility features for individuals with disabilities are provided.

Site SizeCampsites can accommodate tents, RVs, and trailers up to 40 feet in length. Some sites have pull-through capabilities.

PrivacySites are moderately spaced, with some offering shade structures or tree coverage for privacy, while others are more open.

Total Campsites13 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose sites 7 or 8 for proximity to the river and level ground. Site 13 is ideal for shade and river access. Sites with shade structures are recommended.

Amenities available

Potable water

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Vista Linda Campground offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The scenic red rock canyon and proximity to the Jemez River enhance the recreational experience.

HikingSeveral hiking trails are accessible from the campground. Some reviewers praised the variety of trails available within close proximity.

FishingThe Jemez River adjacent to the campground offers excellent fishing opportunities, particularly for rainbow trout. A valid state fishing license is required.

Wildlife viewingReviewers have noted abundant opportunities for wildlife viewing in the scenic San Diego Canyon.

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsBe cautious of overbearing camp hosts cited in some reviews, occasional loud generators, and road noise.

Fire PolicyCampfires are permitted within designated fire pits. Sites are equipped with pedestal charcoal grills and ground-level fire pits.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10 PM to 7 AM

Emergency ServicesEmergency services, including the nearest hospital and police, are located in Jemez Springs (approx. 5.6 miles).

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling bins are available on-site. Specific pickup schedules are not mentioned.

Water FeaturesAdjacent to the Jemez River, providing excellent fishing and the sound of running water for a relaxing ambiance.

Camp HostCampground host is present on-site. Some reviews mention helpful and friendly hosts, while others cite issues with overbearing behavior.

Weather at Vista Linda Campground

Reviews

4.6

124 reviews

Top-Rated

Vista Linda Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews generally praise the campground's scenic beauty, access to the Jemez River, and clean facilities. Some users complained about occasional noise from generators, inconsistent toilet maintenance, and overbearing behavior by camp hosts.

Review Summaries

Based on 124 reviews

What Campers Love

Users commonly highlight the breathtaking red rock scenery, access to the Jemez River for fishing, and the cleanliness of the sites. Several reviews mention the availability of shade structures and...

Based on 124 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints include occasional noise from nearby generators, lack of regular maintenance for the vault toilets, inconsistent availability of toilet paper, and some negative experiences with the...

Based on 124 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend bringing extra toilet paper and cash for the $10 fee. They suggest arriving early for the best sites, as the campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Bringing bug...

Based on 124 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring and fall receive the most positive reviews due to comfortable temperatures and reduced crowds. Winter offers excellent fishing opportunities, but cold weather may deter some visitors. Summer...

Based on 124 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Wonderful fishing access along the river as well." - Samantha Gruver. "Great spot to enjoy the stars." - Trypp Adams. "Spectacular views along the Jemez River made this a memorable visit." - Chuck...

Based on 124 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Users frequently recommend sites near the river for their scenic views and tranquility. Site 13 and sites 7–8 are particularly praised for their proximity to the river and good shade.

Based on 124 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific reviews address accessibility features or experiences from users with disabilities.

Based on 124 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Several reviews note encounters with barking dogs and highlight the pet policy requiring leashes. One user expressed concerns about loud dogs during their stay.

Based on 124 reviews

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