Paliza Group Campground

Star4.23
36 reviews

Quick Facts

6,739 ft

Price

$75 - $100/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Open mid-May through...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Opens Santa Fe National Forest - Jemez Ranger District site

Official Website
Get Directions

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 Group Campground
$75.00 - $100.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Group Standard Nonelectric sites are priced at $75.00 and $100.00 per night during peak season (May 10 - September 30). Additional fees apply for...
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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$100.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider
575-829-3535
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What Campers Say

4.23

Satisfactory

Based on 36 reviews

36 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanspaciouswell-maintainedsites

Some mention

cell service

"User reviews of Paliza Group Campground are generally positive, highlighting its cleanliness, spacious sites, and suitability for group events. Some complaints focus on the lack of water and perceived hostility among staff."

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Campground Map

Paliza Group Campground

35.6972, -106.6342

Driving directionsFrom the town of Ponderosa, New Mexico, travel 5 miles northeast on Forest Road 10 to the campground.
The campground is accessed via Forest Road 10, which is described as a scenic drive. The road climbs in elevation and transitions from riparian trees to towering ponderosa pines. It is mentioned as remote and potentially challenging without GPS.
Nearby places
Ponderosa, NM (5 miles, approx. 10 minutes)
Rio Rancho, NM (~40 minutes)
Albuquerque, NM (~60 minutes).
Nearby supplies
According to user reviews, the closest market for supplies such as ice is approximately 40 minutes away.

Best Time to Camp at Paliza Group Campground

Summer(Jun-Aug)
3.5 / 5

Open and peak season May–Sept; scenic but reviewers note it can be hot during summer.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Autumn 'transforms the forest into crimson and gold'—excellent seasonal foliage and cooler temps.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.5 / 5

Opens mid-May; late-spring visits likely pleasant though peak wildflower season is summer.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground closed outside mid-May to mid-October; winter visits not applicable.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: May 10 - September 30.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open mid-May through mid-October. Peak season pricing applies from May 10 - September 30.

About Paliza Group Campground

Nestled within the enchanting Santa Fe National Forest, Paliza Group Campground welcomes outdoor enthusiasts to two thoughtfully designed camping areas—the tranquil Owl Loop and the scenic Red Tail Loop. This pristine group campground combines the comforts of modern amenities with the raw beauty of New Mexico's high country, where towering pines frame dramatic views of ancient mesas and weathered sandstone cliffs. Each site comes equipped with sturdy picnic tables and fire rings perfect for evening gatherings, while well-maintained vaulted toilets ensure comfort during your wilderness retreat.
Paliza Group Campground is designed for group camping, offering both walk-in and drive-in sites. It features loops specifically tailored to accommodate large gatherings.
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Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
1:00 PM
Stay Limit
No maximum stay limit is explicitly stated.

Amenities available

Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Group Sites

Activities you can enjoy

Paliza Group Campground offers recreational opportunities such as hiking, birding, camping, and picnicking. Nearby attractions provide additional options like fishing, scenic drives, and exploring hot springs.
HikingThe campground is near the Jemez National Recreation Area, which provides opportunities for scenic day hikes in a variety of landscapes, including mesas and riparian zones.
FishingFishing is available on the nearby San Antonio Creek, which has multiple fishing spots.
BikingBiking is listed as an activity, but no specific trails or difficulty levels are mentioned.
Wildlife viewingWildlife such as bears, deer, and elk are common in the area. Reviewers note the importance of securing food to avoid wildlife disturbances.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include wildlife (bears, deer, elk) and poison ivy. User reviews suggest storing food securely in vehicles overnight.
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 Group Campground

Reviews

4.2
36 reviews
Satisfactory
Satisfactory
Paliza Group Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of Paliza Group Campground are generally positive, highlighting its cleanliness, spacious sites, and suitability for group events. Some complaints focus on the lack of water and perceived hostility among staff.
Review Summaries
Based on 36 reviews

What Campers Love

Common praise includes the well-maintained facilities, clean vault toilets, spacious and private sites, and scenic beauty of the surrounding area. The large pavilion and picnic area are emphasized as...
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Based on 36 reviews

Common Concerns

Users report issues such as the lack of water and challenges with staking tents in hard ground. One review mentioned a negative interaction with staff, alleging discriminatory behavior.
Based on 36 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring sufficient water supplies, as there is none on-site. Use durable stakes or tools for setting up tents. Secure food to prevent attracting wildlife. Campers also recommend arriving early to...
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Based on 36 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Peak season experiences are generally positive, with reviewers appreciating the clean facilities and scenic environment. However, some note that it can be hot during summer months as the campground...
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Based on 36 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Toilets clean and well-stocked, no water or electricity. Great flat areas to camp with parking, pavilion gathering area is large." - Dharma Fuller. "Love the new policy of no generators in certain...
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Based on 36 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Sites in the Owl Loop are popular for their capacity for large gatherings and accessibility features. Sites 23-30 are noted for their generator-free policy, offering a quieter experience.
Based on 36 reviews

Accessibility Features

Reviews highlight the campground's wheelchair-accessible features, including ramps and accessible vault toilets.
Based on 36 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No specific reviews about pets were highlighted; policies regarding pets are unclear in the available data.
Based on 36 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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