Las Petacas Campground
3.6211 reviewsLas Petacas Campground
$3.00 - $8.00 / 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$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
"Fees vary by location and activity. Reservation fees are $8 for online reservations, $9 via contact center, and $3 in-person."
About this campground
Tucked away in a stunning canyon near the artistic mountain town of Taos, Las Petacas Campground offers an intimate escape where the Rio Fernando de Taos winds through towering trees. This peaceful retreat beckons anglers with promising fishing waters and nature lovers with its creek-side serenity. While the gentle sounds of the nearby road remind you that civilization isn't far away, the campground's tree-canopied sites provide a genuine connection with the high desert wilderness. Visitors often find themselves torn between exploring nearby Taos or simply relaxing by the babbling creek that defines this special place.
Las Petacas Campground is geared towards tent camping and smaller RVs, with no reservations allowed. It is not suitable for large trailers or RVs due to tight spaces and difficulty in turning around.
Weather and SeasonsLas Petacas transforms with the seasons, offering distinct experiences throughout the year. Summer months bring warm, sun-drenched days perfect for creek-side camping and evening stargazing under clear desert skies. As autumn arrives, the campground prepares for its winter slumber, typically closing in October as temperatures plummet and snow begins to dust the canyon walls. During the off-season, this high-altitude retreat experiences true mountain weather with frigid temperatures and occasional snow or rain, making the camping season all the more precious for those who time their visits right.
Elevationnull
Natural Features and SceneryThe magic of Las Petacas lies in its canyon setting, where ancient rock walls cradle a verdant oasis along the creek. Mature trees create a natural cathedral overhead, their branches filtering sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. The constant murmur of the creek provides nature's soundtrack, while the surrounding canyon walls paint dramatic backdrops that shift from golden to deep shadow as the day progresses. This pocket of green in the high desert offers surprising lushness, creating microclimates where wildflowers bloom and birds nest in the protective embrace of the canyon.
Geological RegionNestled within the rugged embrace of Carson National Forest, Las Petacas occupies a remarkable canyon carved by the persistent flow of the Rio Fernando de Taos. This geological wonder showcases the dramatic landscape of northern New Mexico, where water has sculpted rock over millennia to create intimate canyons and hidden valleys. The Rio Fernando de Taos, a prized fishing destination, has shaped not just the landscape but the very character of this campground, offering anglers direct access to its trout-filled waters while providing all visitors with the soothing presence of flowing water in an otherwise arid region.
Campsite details
AccessibilityInformation about accessibility features is not provided in the sources.
Sites SizeSites are described as 'small to average' and 'very oddly spaced.'
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is limited as sites are close together. One review mentions, 'not a lot of privacy, but good opportunity for community.'
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended Campsites"Sites next to the creek are recommended for those seeking a serene experience."
Best Campsitesnull
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Null
Check-out
Null
Stay Limit
Null
Guests Allowed Per Site
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Groups
Group sites are not mentioned in the data.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layout"Sites are noted to be close together, limiting privacy. User feedback highlights the tight layout and proximity to the camp road."
Open and Closed Season"User reviews indicate closures in winter and possibly starting October."
Reservation Platforms"Reservations are not applicable as the site is first-come, first-served."
Walk-in Availability"Site is available without reservation, on a first-come, first-served basis."
Cancellation Policy"Cancellation fees apply. A $10 cancellation fee is withheld along with the first night's fees if canceled close to the start date."
Amenities available
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Activities at Las Petacas Campground largely revolve around its natural surroundings, with fishing in the Rio Fernando de Taos being a primary feature. The sound of the creek and the wooded environment are also highlights for visitors.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are available in the nearby areas, though no specific trails or difficulty levels are mentioned in the provided data.Fishing
The campground offers good access to Rio Fernando de Taos for fishing. Specific details about fish species or quality were not provided.Winter Activities
The campground is closed during the winter season, as noted by several reviews.Water Sports
No non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding are mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
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- Quiet hours are null
Hazards
General hazards"User reviews indicate issues such as litter, drug activity, noise, and healthy ant populations."
Active alerts"Multiple user reviews mention closures, particularly in winter and October."
Weather forecast
77
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 25%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 3.7 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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
Good to know
Peak season dates"Likely peak season in summer based on user reviews and weather data."
Trash and recyclingSome user reviews note 'trash in the sites,' but no detailed information on trash and recycling facilities is provided.
Proximity to water features"Located next to Rio Fernando de Taos creek."
Common complaints"Frequent complaints include lack of privacy, proximity to the road, ants, and lack of maintenance. One user noted drug activity and litter."
Hostnull
Campground Map
Driving directions"4 miles southeast of Taos via US 64".
"The site is easily accessible from a major road (US 64), but user reviews note that the campground is close to the road, meaning noise and visibility of passing cars."Nearby places
"Taos, NM (4 miles southeast)."
Camper Reviews
3.6
11 reviews
Las Petacas Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
Las Petacas Campground receives mixed reviews. Positive aspects include its scenic setting and access to a creek, while negative feedback highlights maintenance issues, proximity to the road, and safety concerns.
Review Summaries
Based on 11 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviewers praised the beautiful creek, wooded environment, and quiet setting close to nature. One review noted, 'It's what I look for and expect when I go camping.'
Based on 11 reviewsCommon Concerns
Negative feedback includes litter, unmaintained sites, safety issues (e.g., reports of drug use and lack of ranger presence), and the campground's proximity to a busy road. 'I did not feel safe and...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Consider traveling in groups for safety, avoid camping here alone, and plan for the lack of amenities. Bring fly strips for the toilet area if you decide to visit.
Based on 11 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is closed during the winter season and appears overgrown and unkempt during slower seasons. Its best usability is likely spring through early fall.
Based on 11 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Beautiful little spot right outside of Taos with easy access for smaller rigs and tent camping.' 2. 'The sound of the creek is really nice, plus there's places to hike nearby.' 3. 'This place...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites are described as 'small to average' and very close together, with limited privacy and noise from the nearby road. They are not suitable for large RVs or trailers.
Based on 11 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews about accessibility features are provided.
Based on 11 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews related to pets or pet policies are provided.
Based on 11 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025