Cedro Peak Camping Sites - Robin And Jay
4.5726 reviews11776 HWY 337, Sandia Ranger District, TIJERAS, NM, 87059, USA
Cedro Peak Camping Sites - Robin And Jay
$60.00 - $175.00 / 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$175.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Group standard nonelectric sites cost $60-$150 depending on occupancy. Rates include $60 for 1-50 people, $80 for 51-75 people, $100 for 76-100 people, $125 for 101-125 people, and $150 for 126-150 people. There is a $10 non-refundable reservation fee.
About this campground
Nestled in the southern reaches of the Sandia Ranger District, Cedro Peak's Robin and Jay camping sites offer a welcoming retreat for groups seeking adventure together. These thoughtfully designed, fully accessible campsites have become beloved gathering spots where families reunite, friends celebrate milestones, and outdoor enthusiasts establish their basecamp for exploring New Mexico's high desert wonders. With spacious layouts that comfortably accommodate large parties and events, these twin sites provide the perfect blend of wilderness immersion and modern accessibility.
Cedro Peak Camping Sites caters primarily to group camping, with two large sites: Jay and Robin. Primitive camping elements are integrated due to the lack of water and electricity hookups.
Weather and SeasonsAt 7,400 feet, Cedro Peak offers a refreshing escape from lower desert heat, where warm summer days give way to crisp, star-filled evenings that call for campfire stories and cozy sleeping bags. From late spring through early autumn, the high desert climate creates ideal camping conditions with comfortable temperatures and minimal precipitation. As evening falls, temperatures can drop significantly, reminding visitors they're camping more than a mile above sea level. While peak season runs from May through October, adventurous souls should note that winter conditions remain undocumented, leaving the colder months as an unexplored frontier.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 7,400 feet above sea level, these campsites offer the rare combination of accessibility and alpine atmosphere. This elevation places visitors in the sweet spot of New Mexico's vertical landscape—high enough to escape the desert floor's intensity, yet still comfortably below the treeline where mountain meadows meet forest canopy.
Natural Features and SceneryA living tapestry of ponderosa pines towers overhead, their vanilla-scented bark and needle-carpeted floor creating nature's own aromatherapy. Interspersed with hardy piñon and juniper trees, the forest opens to reveal breathtaking panoramas of the Sandia and Manzano Mountains stretching across the horizon. These dual mountain ranges frame spectacular sunrises and sunsets, painting the sky in brilliant oranges and purples that photographers dream about. The diverse forest ecosystem attracts abundant wildlife, from chattering stellar jays to curious mule deer that might wander through camp at dawn.
Geological RegionThe Manzanita Mountains cradle these campsites in their ancient embrace, where millions of years of geological drama have sculpted an arid yet surprisingly lush landscape. At 7,400 feet, visitors find themselves in a unique transition zone where piñon-juniper woodland meets ponderosa forest, creating a diverse ecosystem rarely found at such accessible elevations. The rolling, hilly terrain tells stories of volcanic activity and erosion, while exposed rock formations offer glimpses into the Earth's dynamic past. This high desert environment challenges typical desert stereotypes, offering instead a complex tapestry of microclimates and ecological niches.
Campsite details
AccessibilityHandicap-accessible ramps and parking are available, as well as fully accessible group campsites.
Sites SizeTwo group campsites are large with ample parking spaces: Jay can accommodate up to 100 people and 27 vehicles; Robin can accommodate up to 150 people and 41 vehicles.
Sites PrivacyThe campground is noted for providing privacy, with tents spaced far apart, as mentioned in user reviews.
Total Campsites2 campsites
Recommended CampsitesUse east road for access to avoid vehicle damage; west road is steep and rocky.
Best CampsitesRobin is ideal for larger groups; accommodates up to 150 people with more vehicle capacity. Jay offers a circular turnaround, suitable for small travel trailers.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Regular check-in starts at 12:00 PM.
Check-out
Regular check-out at 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
- Maximum stay of 14 nights
- minimum stay of 2 nights required.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Jay accommodates up to 100 people
- Robin accommodates up to 150 people.
Groups
Jay can accommodate up to 100 people and 27 vehicles, while Robin can handle up to 150 people and 41 vehicles. Rates vary based on occupancy.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutRobin and Jay sites are group sites with paved access roads, grill areas, and covered picnic pavilions.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 15 to September 30. Peak season dates align with this period.
Reservation PlatformsReservations made via recreation.gov or by calling 877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityReservations required for group campsites; walk-up availability not applicable.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations possible with a $10 fee. Late cancellations (less than 14 days before check-in) forfeit the first night's fees. Reservation modifications cost $10 unless extending or shortening existing dates.
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
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Cedro Peak Camping Sites offers a wide range of outdoor activities, particularly for groups and enthusiasts of biking, hiking, and OHV trails. The campground is well connected to over 80 miles of single-track and equestrian trails suitable for mountain biking, hiking, and horseback riding. Wildlife viewing is also highlighted, with the chance to observe mountain lions and coyotes. The site is ideal for outdoor games and gatherings due to its spacious design.
Hiking
Hiking trails connect well with the camping area and provide expansive views of the surrounding mountains, including the Sandia and Manzano ranges. Trails cater to intermediate to advanced levels.Biking
Mountain biking trails are a major highlight, accommodating intermediate to advanced riders. Trails offer expansive views and connect with off-road and equestrian paths.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities include coyotes and mountain lions. User reviews like 'beware of mountain lions' and 'hearing the coyotes' reflect the rich biodiversity.Winter Activities
No notable winter activities like cross-country skiing or snowshoeing are documented.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not offered.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings; no firewood supplied on-site.
- Quiet hours not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife such as bears, rattlesnakes, and mountain lions. User reviews mention treacherous road conditions on the west loop.
Weather forecast
78
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 35%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 12.8 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
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
Sandia Ranger District Office (505-281-3304) for inquiries; nearest hospital and police services are in Albuquerque.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 15 - September 30
Trash and recyclingBear-proof trash receptacles are available at the site, encouraging visitors to use proper containers for food and garbage to avoid wildlife issues.
Proximity to water featuresNo nearby bodies of water accessible from the campground.
Common complaintsUser reviews note lack of water and electricity, steep road conditions on west side, and recent forest management affecting campsite layouts. Pit toilets occasionally out of order.
HostSandia Ranger District available for inquiries at (505) 281-3304, Monday-Friday 8 AM - 4:30 PM.
Campground Map
11776 HWY 337, Sandia Ranger District, TIJERAS, NM, 87059, USA
Driving directionsFrom Albuquerque: Drive east on I-40 to Exit 175. Drive south for approximately 4 miles on State Highway 337 (James McGrane Memorial Highway). Look for the Juan Tomas/242 sign on the east side of the road. Turn left and follow the road until you reach Forest Road 252. Turn left and follow the road for about one mile. Follow the directional signs to Cedro Peak Camping Sites - Robin and Jay. From Edgewood: Use Exit 175 off I-40. At the bottom of the ramp, turn left and go to the light. Turn right at the light onto 333/Old Route 66. Continue until you reach the light at the intersection of State Road 333/66 and State Road 337. Turn left and continue on State Highway 337 for approximately 4 miles. Look for the Juan Tomas/242 sign on the east side of the road. Turn left and follow the road until you reach Forest Road 252. Turn left and follow the road for about one mile.
Accessible by paved roads up to State Highway 337 and Forest Road 252. User reviews indicate that the west road can be treacherous with steep inclines and large boulders; 4-wheel drive may be necessary.Nearby places
8 miles south of Albuquerque (approximately 20 minutes), near Edgewood.
Nearby supplies
Supplies can be obtained in Albuquerque, approximately 8 miles away, or Edgewood.
Camper Reviews
4.6
26 reviews
Cedro Peak Camping Sites - Robin And Jay is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews frequently praise the campground's cleanliness, spaciousness, and suitability for large gatherings or group camping events. However, some concerns include the lack of water and electricity, rugged roads, and recent forest management efforts.
Review Summaries
Based on 26 reviews
What Campers Love
Common positive sentiments include 'clean and quiet,' 'perfect for group gatherings,' 'friendly staff,' and 'great access to trail systems.'
Based on 26 reviewsCommon Concerns
Criticisms focus on the lack of functional water facilities, steep and rugged roads requiring high-clearance vehicles, and occasional maintenance disruptions.
Based on 26 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Tips from users include following the east road for better vehicle access, bringing sufficient water supplies, and utilizing covered picnic shelters for comfort.
Based on 26 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Positive seasonal trends highlight the facility's usability during summer and autumn due to pleasant weather and accessibility. Winter reviews note occasional closures.
Based on 26 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Bathrooms are on east side as well.' - Mitzi Ray. 2. 'Nice group campground with covered tables and clean restrooms.' - Steve Punko. 3. 'Beware of mountain lions.' - Daniel Walters. 4. 'Fantastic...
Based on 26 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Jay site praised for being convenient for trailers and small RVs; Robin site described as larger with more capacity, ideal for massive group events.
Based on 26 reviewsAccessibility Features
Facilities include accessible ramps and parking. User review mentions 'plenty of parking including handicap accessible ramps.'
Based on 26 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025