Cochiti Campground
4.2391 reviews82 DAM CREST RD, PENA BLANCA, NM, USA, 87041
Cochiti Campground
$15.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$15.00
Hookup Site Fee$20.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $15 for non-electric sites to $20 for sites with electric hookups during peak season. Additional reservation fees of $8-$9 apply depending on booking method.
About this campground
Discover your perfect escape at Cochiti Campground, where four uniquely charming loops await your arrival. Whether you choose the fragrant Juniper loop, the wildlife-rich Elk Run, the playful Ringtail Cat, or the serene Buffalo Grove, you'll find yourself immersed in the natural beauty of the Cochiti Recreation Area. Modern conveniences blend seamlessly with the wilderness experience—enjoy electric and water hookups at select sites, pristine bathroom facilities, and breathtaking panoramic views of the shimmering Cochiti Lake stretching before you.
Cochiti Campground offers tent camping, RV camping with electric and water hookups, and non-electric sites. Loops are divided into Juniper (electric), Elk Run and Ringtail Cat (non-electric), and Buffalo Grove (electric and water).
Historical SignificanceCamp on sacred ground within the Pueblo de Cochiti Indian Reservation, where centuries of Native American heritage meet modern engineering marvels. The impressive Cochiti Dam, standing as one of America's largest earth-fill dams, serves as both a testament to human ingenuity and a guardian of the reservoir's pristine waters. This land tells stories of ancient peoples and contemporary achievements, creating a camping experience rich with cultural depth.
Weather and SeasonsBask in the glory of high desert camping, where warm, sun-drenched days give way to refreshingly cool evenings. The region's signature low precipitation means you'll likely wake to crystal-clear skies and endless visibility—perfect for stargazing adventures and sunrise photography. Peak season brings ideal conditions for outdoor enthusiasts seeking that perfect balance of comfortable temperatures and pristine weather.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 5,343 feet above sea level, this high desert sanctuary offers the best of mountain camping without the extreme altitudes. The elevation gifts campers with crisp, clean air and those legendary cool nights that make sleeping under the stars an unforgettable experience. Pack layers—the desert's daytime warmth transforms into evening coolness that calls for cozy campfire gatherings.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a landscape where the rugged Jemez Mountain foothills cascade into expansive high desert vistas. Ancient juniper and piñon trees dot the terrain, their twisted branches telling tales of centuries past while filling the air with their distinctive fragrance. Mixed grasslands sway in the gentle breeze, creating a living tapestry that changes with each season. Keep your camera ready for incredible wildlife encounters—majestic osprey soar overhead, deer graze at dawn, clever coyotes patrol at dusk, playful river otters splash near the water's edge, cottontail rabbits dart between the sagebrush, and if you're lucky, you might spot a black bear ambling through the distance.
Geological RegionExperience the dramatic transition zone where the ancient Jemez Mountains meet the high desert floor. This geological wonderland showcases nature's artistry through weathered rock formations, expansive mesas, and rolling hills adorned with hardy juniper and piñon forests. The mixed grasslands create a mosaic of textures and colors that shift with the seasons, offering photographers and nature lovers an ever-changing canvas of southwestern beauty.
Campsite details
AccessibilityIncludes handicapped showers with benches and handheld fixtures. However, the facility does not meet formal accessibility standards.
Sites SizeSome sites are described as large; "Sites are huge" (User Review by Lewis P).
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies; Buffalo Grove Loop is noted for unlevel terrain, while Ringtail Cat Loop offers slightly more secluded sites. "Sites are set a bit away from each other along the road.. nicer setup than just rows of campsites" (User Review by Jody J).
Total Campsites80 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBuffalo Grove Loop is ideal for electric and water hookups. Ringtail Cat Loop offers tranquil, non-electric sites with covered picnic tables.
Best CampsitesSites in Buffalo Grove Loop were frequently praised for their scenic lake views and spacious layout. Site 57 is particularly noted as a level back-in site with stunning views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
3:00 PM
Check-out
2:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum Consecutive Stay: 14 nights during a single visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
No explicit guest limit per site specified.
Groups
Group site descriptions are unavailable.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutFour distinct loops: Juniper (electric hookups), Elk Run (non-electric), Ringtail Cat (non-electric), Buffalo Grove (electric and water hookups).
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from March 1 to November 30 for reservations. Closed during the off-season for reservations (December 1 to February 28).
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov online, via mobile app, or contacting the call center.
Walk-in AvailabilityTransition periods between reservations and first-come-first-served availability were described as stressful by users. Some users have highlighted management challenges during these periods.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies for reservations canceled any time before the scheduled check-in date. Late cancellations incur an additional fee equal to the first night's recreation use fee. Modifications to reservations cost $10.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
A wide range of activities is available at Cochiti Campground, including hiking, fishing, paddling, biking, and wildlife viewing. The lake's swim beach is ideal for families during the day-use season (April 15th to October 15th). Wildlife such as deer, coyotes, and river otters are spotted near the eastern side of Cochiti Lake.
Hiking
User reviews highlight proximity to Tent Rocks National Monument, which provides fascinating geological formations. "Nice trails" (User Review by Treasa H).Fishing
Fishing is permitted with species such as bass, crappie, walleye, pike, catfish, sunfish, and trout available. "Great views of the lake" (User Review by Mark S).Swimming
The swim beach is family-friendly and open from April 15th to October 15th. Note: Pets are not allowed at swimming areas as per one user review.Biking
No specific trails are mentioned, but terrain allows for recreational biking.Boating
Boating activities such as paddling, windsurfing, and sailing are supported. The paved road and concrete lanes make boat launching easy. "Kayaking on the reservoir was beautiful" (User Review by Laurie B).Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities include deer, coyotes, river otters, rabbits, beavers, and occasional bears. "Beautiful views from almost any campsite" (User Review by Marjorie R).Beach activities
The swim beach area is ideal for relaxation and sunbathing during the open season. Pets are prohibited in beach areas.Winter Activities
Winter camping may involve experiencing cold temperatures with fewer crowds. No specific activities are described.Water Sports
Activities like kayaking and canoeing are popular due to the quiet lake environment.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Wood campfires are prohibited; grills and contained fires are allowed.
- Quiet hours from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife encounters (bears, coyotes), high temperatures during summer, and uneven terrain that may require leveling RVs.
Weather forecast
88
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 28%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 3.1 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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
Closest hospital in Santa Fe, NM (approximately 35 miles away). Local police station and Cochiti Pueblo ranger services available in Pena Blanca.
Good to know
Peak season datesMarch 1 to November 30.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available but can be problematic. One review noted, "Garbage dumpster...filled and overflowing when we arrived and was like that for several days" (User Review by William H).
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Cochiti Lake with a swim beach and boat ramp. Fishing opportunities are abundant.
Common complaintsFrequent complaints include unlevel campsites, cleanliness issues in bathrooms, and management challenges during reservation transitions. Several users reported broken water spigots and high water pressure.
HostCampground attendants are available on-site.
Campground Map
82 DAM CREST RD, PENA BLANCA, NM, USA, 87041
Driving directionsFrom Albuquerque, New Mexico, take Interstate 25 north to exit 259. Turn west on State Route 22 and proceed through Pena Blanca to the park office and recreation area.
Accessible via paved roadways from Interstate 25 and State Route 22. Road conditions are suitable for all vehicle types year-round.Nearby places
Albuquerque (40 miles, approximately 50 minutes), Santa Fe (35 miles, approximately 45 minutes), Los Alamos (45 miles, approximately 1 hour).
Nearby supplies
A gas station with limited food and necessities is available near the campground entrance. Major grocery stores are located in Santa Fe and Albuquerque.
Camper Reviews
4.2
91 reviews
Cochiti Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User sentiment is mixed, giving the campground an average rating of 4.08/5. Positive aspects include scenic views, quiet environment, and clean facilities. Negative aspects often involve maintenance issues and unlevel sites.
Review Summaries
Based on 91 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive user reviews emphasize cleanliness, tranquility, scenic views of the lake, and helpful staff: "Beautiful campground. Lots of room between sites." (User Review by Richard L).
Based on 91 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints include maintenance issues like overflowing dumpsters, dirty showers, and closures of restrooms. "Renovated women’s shower has a hose attached to the shower head since the shower head was...
Based on 91 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend bringing a 100-foot hose for Juniper loop water spigots, checking water pressure before connecting, and visiting nearby attractions like Tent Rocks National Monument.
Based on 91 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Peak season (March 1 - November 30) sees higher activity but also maintenance concerns due to crowds. Off-season offers quieter stays with fewer visitors.
Based on 91 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Shower floors were very dirty" (User Review by James V); "Sites are huge" (User Review by Lewis P); "Bathrooms were clean" (User Review by Dennis L).
Based on 91 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews highlight unlevel terrain at Buffalo Grove Loop ("Site was pretty nice" - User Review by James V); scenic views at Ringtail Cat Loop; clean sites at Elk Run Loop.
Based on 91 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features include handicap-equipped showers but fall short of formal standards. "Campground does not meet accessibility standards" (Authoritative Source).
Based on 91 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed at campsites but prohibited at swim beach areas. "While leashed pets are allowed at the campground, they are not allowed at the swimming beach" (User Review by Christopher M).
Based on 91 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025