Amole Canyon Group Shelter
01 reviewCamino Real Ranger District, 15160 State Road 75, Penasco, NM 87553
Amole Canyon Group Shelter
$100.00 - $100.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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
Facility rates are $100 per night during peak season (May 1 - October 31). Rates do not include taxes, discounts, or incremental charges. Reservations are subject to additional cancellation and modification fees.
About this campground
Escape to the tranquility of Amole Canyon Group Shelter, where your large gathering can commune with nature in a private mountain sanctuary. This secluded retreat, nestled beside the Amole Canyon Day Use Area, welcomes groups of up to 100 adventurers seeking an authentic wilderness experience. Gather around the expansive group fire ring as stars emerge overhead, share meals at multiple picnic tables equipped with barbecue grills, and enjoy the simplicity of off-grid camping. While modern amenities include accessible vault toilets, this back-to-basics destination requires you to bring your own water and carry out all trash—a small price for the pristine wilderness that surrounds you.
The Amole Canyon Group Shelter primarily caters to group camping needs and does not include options for primitive, individual tent camping, or luxury accommodations.
Historical SignificanceStep into a landscape steeped in centuries of Native American heritage, where ancient traditions continue to thrive just beyond the forest's edge. A short 11-mile journey brings you to the living history of Picuris Pueblo, while the renowned Taos Pueblo—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—awaits just 20 miles away. These sacred communities have called northern New Mexico home for over a thousand years, offering visitors rare glimpses into enduring cultural practices, traditional architecture, and seasonal ceremonial events that connect the past to the present in profound ways.
Weather and SeasonsUnder New Mexico's famously clear skies—which grace the canyon 81% of the time—Amole Canyon offers a spectacular climate for outdoor enthusiasts. Summer emerges as the crown jewel of camping seasons here, when moderate mountain temperatures provide the perfect escape from valley heat and minimal precipitation ensures your adventures won't be dampened. Winter transforms the landscape with occasional dustings of snow, creating a serene wonderland for those hardy souls seeking solitude. The dry mountain air keeps you comfortable year-round, making every breath feel crisp and refreshing at this elevated retreat.
ElevationPerched at 8,400 feet in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Amole Canyon delivers the refreshing mountain experience your group craves. At this elevation, summer temperatures remain delightfully cool even when valleys below swelter, while the thin mountain air adds an invigorating quality to every outdoor activity. Panoramic views stretch across multiple mountain ranges, and the elevated perspective transforms ordinary sunrises and sunsets into extraordinary displays of color dancing across distant peaks.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering ponderosa pines create a natural cathedral around your group's basecamp, their vanilla-scented bark and whispering needles providing both shade and serenity. From your hillside perch, gaze down upon an untouched meadow that transforms with the seasons—from spring's wildflower tapestry to autumn's golden grasses. Wildlife thrives in this diverse ecosystem, where morning might bring elk grazing in the meadow or hawks circling overhead. Nearby trails beckon explorers to discover breathtaking vistas of the Rio Pueblo Valley and the surrounding peaks of Bear, Penasco, and Picuris Mountains—each offering its own rewards for those willing to venture forth.
Geological RegionThis remarkable woodland sanctuary showcases the diverse ecology of New Mexico's high country, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape of stunning contrasts. The ponderosa pine forest that embraces your campsite represents millions of years of evolution, thriving in the well-drained soils of this 8,400-foot plateau. Below, the pristine meadow tells its own geological story—a natural bowl carved by time and weather, now serving as a gathering place for wildlife and a stunning foreground to the mountain vistas beyond. The surrounding peaks stand as monuments to the region's volcanic past, their slopes hiding treasures from garnets to ancient fossils that speak to the eons of change that created this extraordinary landscape.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible vault toilets and picnic shelters are available, along with paved walkways providing ease of access to vital facilities.
Sites SizeThe site accommodates group camping for up to 100 people. Parking spots are either paved or gravel, with spaces for single vehicles or RVs.
Sites PrivacyThe campground offers privacy, as it is surrounded by tall ponderosa pine trees and overlooks a meadow. The solitude is further enhanced by the exclusive nature of the group facility.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesRecommended for organized groups such as scout troops or church camps. Visitors should bring sufficient water and supplies due to lack of services.
Best CampsitesSingle group shelter accommodating up to 100 people.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out by 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay of 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 100 guests allowed at group shelter.
Groups
Group camping accommodates up to 100 people with designated parking areas for up to 20 vehicles, including spots surfaced with gravel or pavement for RVs or trailers.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle group shelter with gravel and paved parking areas. Accommodates up to 20 vehicles, including RVs and trailers.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 1 to October 31, closed out of season. Reservations operate on a rolling 12-month basis.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov, including its website and contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up/first-come, first-served availability. Advance reservations required.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made any time before the scheduled arrival date. A $10 cancellation fee applies, along with forfeiture of the first night's recreation use fee for cancellations made within 14 days of arrival. Modifications outside original reservation dates incur a $10 change fee.
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
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Amole Canyon Group Shelter offers diverse recreational opportunities for visitors. Approximately 11 miles of non-motorized trails located in the Amole Canyon Day Use Area support activities such as hiking, mountain biking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. Trails are rated from easy to more difficult, with scenic views of the Rio Pueblo Valley, Bear Mountain, Penasco Mountain, and Picuris Mountain. The nearby motorized trail system also provides access to adventure enthusiasts.
Hiking
"There are approximately 11 miles of non-motorized trails located in the Amole Canyon Day Use Area. Here, visitors can enjoy sections of the nearby South Loop Trail, with views of the Rio Pueblo Valley, and nearby Bear Mountain and Penasco Mountain." Trails vary from easy to more difficult and include scenic viewpoints.Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Biking
Mountain biking is popular on the non-motorized trails. Trails offer a mix of easy to more difficult paths suitable for different skill levels.Wildlife viewing
The wooded environment and pristine meadow surrounding the campground create opportunities for wildlife viewing.Winter Activities
Winter activities include snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, supported by 11 miles of trails rated from easy to more difficult.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed only within the provided group-sized fire ring. Visitors must bring their own firewood and follow local fire regulations.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential wildlife hazards including bears; visitors should practice food storage safety. Limited cellphone service in the area.
Active alertsNo current warnings or advisories affecting the campground.
Weather forecast
76
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 29%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 6.7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Taos hospital located 15 miles away provides comprehensive emergency services.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 01 to October 31.
Trash and recyclingNo trash or recycling services are provided. Campers are required to pack out all trash generated during their stay.
Proximity to water featuresNo water features directly within the campground. Santa Barbara Trailhead offers world-class fly fishing 15 miles away.
Common complaintsUser reviews mention minor maintenance issues such as broken toilet seat hinges and damaged fencing. Lack of water and trash services requires visitors to bring their own resources.
HostNo information provided about campground hosts.
Campground Map
Camino Real Ranger District, 15160 State Road 75, Penasco, NM 87553
Driving directionsFrom State Road 68 in Ranchos de Taos, go south on 518 14.2 miles to the junction with National Forest System Road 703, go southeast on FSR703 approximately 0.4 mile to a gate locked with a coded padlock. The code will be provided to you in an email. Unlock the gate and proceed south into the group shelter parking area.
The campground is accessible via paved roads up to the junction with National Forest System Road 703, which leads to the facility. Road access is gated and requires a code for entry, provided upon reservation.Nearby places
7 miles to Penasco
7 miles to Sipapu Ski and Summer Resort
8 miles to Southern Methodist University Taos Campus
11 miles to Picuris Pueblo
15 miles to Taos
15 miles to Santa Barbara Trailhead
20 miles to Serpent Lake Trailhead and Jicarita Peak
20 miles to Taos Pueblo
30 miles to Rio Grande del Norte National Monument.
Nearby supplies
Basic supplies such as groceries, fuel, automotive services, and hardware stores are available 7 miles away in Penasco. Additional options including restaurants and a nationally ranked disc golf course are available at Sipapu Ski Resort, also 7 miles away.
Camper Reviews
0.0
1 reviews
Amole Canyon Group Shelter has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, the campground receives positive feedback for its privacy, cleanliness, and scenic beauty. Specific complaints include minor maintenance issues, such as a broken restroom seat hinge.
Review Summaries
Based on 1 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciate "Very private," "Beautiful," and "Clean restrooms," as well as the availability of dead wood for fires and clean charcoal grills. The scenic surroundings are favored for group...
Based on 1 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
"Men's toilet had one seat hinge broken" and "Split rail fence had a small section damaged where a tree had fallen across it" were noted as minor issues by reviewers.
Based on 1 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers are advised to pack sufficient water as there is no potable water available on-site. It's also recommended to keep a clean camp and store all food items securely to avoid attracting bears.
Based on 1 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground operates seasonally from May 1 to October 31. Winter activities such as snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are supported by nearby trails during the off-season, but the site is...
Based on 1 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Very private. Beautiful. Clean restrooms. Men's toilet had one seat hinge broken. Split rail fence had a small section damaged where a tree had fallen across it. Plenty of dead wood for fires....
Based on 1 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific campsite reviews are sparse, but campers appreciated the privacy and facilities at campsite: 1, Loop: A.
Based on 1 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible vault toilets and picnic shelters are appreciated by users. Paved paths make the campground suitable for individuals with mobility challenges.
Based on 1 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcomed at the campground. No explicit issues or restrictions for pet owners were noted in the reviews.
Based on 1 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025