Canjilon Lakes Campground
02 reviewsState Road 115, Building 358, Canjilon, NM 87515
Canjilon Lakes Campground
$5.00 - $10.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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
$10 per single site per night, $5 per extra vehicle, and $5 per vehicle per day for day-use.
About this campground
Nestled deep within a pristine spruce forest, Canjilon Lakes Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts to discover its hidden world of crystalline lakes and babbling streams. This high-country retreat offers an escape where anglers cast lines into mirror-like waters, hikers traverse scenic trails, and bird-watchers delight in spotting rare mountain species among the towering evergreens.
The campground offers traditional camping opportunities, with a focus on tent camping. There are no RV or group-designated sites, and accommodations are primitive.
Historical SignificanceBeyond the campground's natural splendor lies a tapestry of cultural treasures waiting to be explored. Journey to the serene Monastery of Christ in the Desert, where ancient traditions meet dramatic canyon walls, or immerse yourself in the artistic legacy and prehistoric wonders at Ghost Ranch Living Museum and Ghost Ranch Conservation Center—each destination offering its own window into New Mexico's rich heritage.
Weather and SeasonsThe rhythm of the seasons dictates life at Canjilon Lakes, with the campground welcoming visitors from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. Summer brings gloriously dry days and refreshingly cool nights perfect for campfire gatherings, while winter transforms the landscape into a snow-laden wonderland where temperatures plummet and the forest slumbers beneath a blanket of white.
ElevationPerched at a breathtaking 9,900 feet above sea level, Canjilon Lakes delivers the quintessential high-altitude camping experience. Here, the air is crisp and thin, the sun feels closer, and spectacular vistas unfold in every direction—a true sky island where summer temperatures remain blissfully cool even as the valleys below swelter.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering spruce sentinels stand guard over this Carson National Forest gem, their emerald canopy sheltering a wonderland of three pristine alpine lakes connected by a meandering stream. When autumn arrives, the forest erupts in a symphony of gold and amber, while year-round, the melodic calls of mountain birds create nature's soundtrack. Each lake offers its own personality—from tranquil morning reflections to afternoon ripples perfect for fishing.
Geological RegionCarved into the heart of Carson National Forest at 9,900 feet, Canjilon Lakes occupies a spectacular pocket of the Southern Rockies where ancient geological forces created the perfect canvas for nature's artistry. Dense spruce forests cloak the mountainsides, while three jewel-like lakes and their connecting stream tell the story of glacial sculpting and countless seasons of snowmelt—a testament to the enduring power of water and time in this magnificent high-country landscape.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThere are no wheelchair-accessible toilets, and accessibility features are limited.
Sites SizeCampsites are laid out in a tight single loop, with space for small vehicles and tents. Pull-through sites are not suitable for large RVs.
Sites PrivacyThe campground’s layout in a tight single loop and dense spruce forest provides moderate privacy.
Total Campsites11 campsites
Recommended CampsitesVisitors seeking lake views should choose sites near Lower Canjilon Lake.
Best CampsitesTwo campsites with views of Lower Canjilon Lake are highly recommended.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
No specific time mentioned.
Check-out
No specific time mentioned.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 consecutive days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
No explicit guest limit mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground is arranged in a tight single loop.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, weather-dependent.
Reservation PlatformsNot applicable; reservations are not available.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served due to no reservation system.
Cancellation PolicyNo reservations needed; cancellation policy does not apply.
Amenities available
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Canjilon Lakes Campground provides a mix of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The campground is situated beside the 4-acre Lower Canjilon Lake, which is stocked with rainbow trout. Recreational opportunities extend to the Middle and Upper Canjilon Lakes nearby.
Hiking
The Canjilon Mountain Loop Trail offers a 12-mile hiking route suitable for both foot and horse traffic. Day hiking opportunities are also available.Fishing
Fishing is a key activity at Lower Canjilon Lake, which is stocked with rainbow trout. The lake is described as a good starting point for inexperienced anglers.Boating
Non-motorized boating is permitted on Lower Canjilon Lake, making it accessible for activities like canoeing.Wildlife viewing
Birdwatching is a popular activity, with the campground and surrounding lakes offering ample opportunities to view various bird species.Winter Activities
Winter activities are limited due to seasonal closures of Forest Road 129 from January to the end of April.Water Sports
Water sports are limited to non-motorized boating, such as canoeing or kayaking.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire rules not explicitly mentioned.
- Quiet hours are Silent hours not explicitly mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife, fallen trees, and challenging road conditions on unpaved sections.
Active alertsNo official alerts mentioned at this time.
Weather forecast
66
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 40%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 9.6 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Mainly clear
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
Canjilon Ranger District (Temporarily closed), nearest general emergency services are likely in Cebolla or Abiquiu.
Good to know
Peak season datesSummer (Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend).
Trash and recyclingNo specific information is available about trash and recycling facilities. Users are likely required to pack out their trash.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is near Lower Canjilon Lake (4 acres). Middle and Upper Canjilon Lakes are located further along Forest Rt. 129.
Common complaintsUser reviews mention fallen or felled birch trees obstructing the campsite and a need for improved cleanliness.
HostNo host information provided.
Campground Map
State Road 115, Building 358, Canjilon, NM 87515
Driving directionsFrom Cebolla, NM, take US Rt. 84 south 3.5 miles to State Rt. 115 (Canjilon Lakes/Canjilon) signs. Turn left onto Rt. 115 and go 3.3 miles to Canjilon Lake sign (County Rt. 280). Turn left onto Rt. 280 and go 7.6 miles to Canjilon Lake sign (Forest Rt. 129). Turn left onto Rt. 129 (paved) and go 3.4 miles to campground on left. NOTE: County Rt. 280 becomes dirt after 3.2 miles at which time it becomes Forest Rt. 559.
Road access is mixed. Forest Road 129 is paved but partially seasonal, closed from January 1 - April 30. County Rt. 280 transitions to unpaved dirt after 3.2 miles, becoming Forest Rt. 559, which may pose challenges for certain vehicles.Nearby places
Cebolla: ~14.5 miles (~25 minutes), Abiquiu: ~12 miles (~20 minutes), Ghost Ranch: ~12 miles (~20 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, fuel, and other essentials are available in nearby towns such as Cebolla (~25 minutes) and Abiquiu (~20 minutes).
Camper Reviews
0.0
2 reviews
Canjilon Lakes Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground has received mixed reviews. While the fishing and scenic location were praised, some reviewers commented on the need for better maintenance and concerns about the surrounding forest's recovery.
Review Summaries
Based on 2 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive feedback highlights excellent fishing at Lower Canjilon Lake and the scenic beauty of the location. One reviewer noted, "Fishing was great."
Based on 2 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints include the campground's need for cleanup and the degraded state of the surrounding forest. One reviewer remarked that the area was "mostly fallen or felled birch trees."
Based on 2 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors are advised to bring their own water as there is no potable water available on site. Early arrivals may be necessary to secure the best sites, especially those near the lake.
Based on 2 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews suggest that the campground is best enjoyed in late spring through early fall, aligning with its seasonal opening. Visitors noted that the area might be less desirable during the pandemic due...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Fishing was great. Campgrounds need to be cleaned up." "The campground is mostly fallen or felled birch trees around which a tiny forest is trying to recover."
Based on 2 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
The two sites overlooking Lower Canjilon Lake are particularly noted for their views. The pull-through sites are not suitable for large RVs.
Based on 2 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews addressing accessibility were provided.
Based on 2 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No details about pet policies or experiences with pets were mentioned.
Based on 2 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025