Camping at Rio Chama Campground
Rio Chama Campground, nestled along the Rio Chama Wild and Scenic River in the Santa Fe National Forest, sits at an elevation of approximately 7,200 feet and is nestled inside a grove of Pinyon Pine, Juniper, and Cottonwood. Known for its riverside ambiance, the area is popular among campers, anglers, and paddlers. The campground is a launch point for river trips down the Rio Chama, providing easy access to the river for fishing, rafting, and kayaking. Visitors will find 18 campsites, each equipped with picnic tables and fire pits, accommodating both tents and small-to-mid-size RVs.
Forest Road 151 leads to this campground along firm-packed dirt, suitable for any vehicle, though in wet conditions it can get muddy. The town of Abiquiu, located about 27 miles to the southeast, provides the nearest fuel and supplies.
Rio Chama Campground gets packed during the weekends in Summer. You’re best bet is to get here between Monday to Thursday. If you get shut out of a campsite, there are a couple of other popular boondocking areas along the same Forest Road.