Tetilla Peak
4.1850 reviews82 DAM CREST RD, PENA BLANCA, NM, 87041, USA
Tetilla Peak
$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 per night for standard non-electric sites to $20 per night for standard electric hookup sites. Interagency Senior Annual and Lifetime Passes provide discounts on camping reservations.
About this campground
Perched high above Cochiti Lake, Tetilla Peak Recreation Area rewards adventurous souls with breathtaking panoramic vistas that stretch across the water to distant mountain peaks. This hidden gem remains blissfully uncrowded, offering a serene escape where pristine facilities meet peaceful solitude. While neighboring campgrounds buzz with activity, Tetilla Peak whispers its invitation to those seeking tranquility amid spectacular scenery.
Tetilla Peak includes accommodations for tent camping, RV sites with hookups, and non-electric sites. Group camping and other specialized accommodations are not available.
Historical SignificanceSet within the sacred lands of the Pueblo de Cochiti Indian Reservation, this campground serves as a gateway to both cultural heritage and geological wonder. Just a short drive away, the otherworldly spires of Tent Rocks National Monument rise from the earth like ancient sentinels, their cone-shaped formations telling a million-year story carved by volcanic eruptions and patient erosion.
Weather and SeasonsThe mesa-top location creates a dynamic weather experience that changes with the moods of the high desert. As one seasoned visitor, Marcia K, perfectly captures: 'Being up on a Mesa means gorgeous views but can be hot, breezy, windy, cold, wet, stormy, or perfect. Just depends on time of year.' Expect abundant sunshine paired with refreshing breezes, though the exposed elevation means weather can shift from balmy to brisk without warning, adding an element of adventure to every stay.
ElevationAt 5,343 feet above sea level, the campground occupies a dramatic perch in New Mexico's high desert realm. This elevated position brings crisp, clear air and those characteristic high-altitude conditions: brilliantly sunny days, cool nights, and winds that sweep unimpeded across the mesa, carrying the scent of piñon and sage.
Natural Features and SceneryRising 5,343 feet into the high desert sky, this mesa-top sanctuary showcases nature's artistry through aromatic piñon and juniper forests interspersed with golden grasslands. The landscape teems with wildlife—watch for deer grazing at dawn, coyotes calling at dusk, and the unexpected sight of river otters playing near the water's edge. Bears, beavers, and rabbits complete the cast of local residents, while four specially constructed osprey nesting platforms offer front-row seats to witness these magnificent fish hawks diving for their dinner.
Geological RegionNestled in the foothills of the majestic Jemez Mountains, Tetilla Peak exemplifies New Mexico's high desert ecosystem at its finest. The landscape tells an ancient story through its juniper and piñon-studded terrain, where hardy trees twist skyward from rocky soil and native grasses paint the spaces between in subtle shades of gold and green. This transitional zone between mountain and desert creates a unique environment where diverse ecosystems converge.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility standards are not met as per official notes. Some sites may require longer water and electric extensions.
Sites SizeSites vary in size from small to supersized. Reviews mention sufficient room for larger rigs, such as 27ft trailers.
Sites PrivacySites are generally close together, as noted in reviews: "Sites are pretty close in proximity" and "A great place for family and friends to gather since sites are close."
Total Campsites46 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites with lake views for scenery. Avoid sites with goathead weeds and steep drop-offs if traveling with children or pets.
Best CampsitesSites 11–16 are frequently mentioned for their views of the lake. Review by ODDIE: 'Sites 11 through 16 have views of the lake to partial views.'
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
3:00 PM
Check-out
2:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay of 14 nights during a visit, or 14 nights total within a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Exact guest limits per site are not specified, but sites are described as spacious and accommodating various setups.
Groups
Group camping is not supported at Tetilla Peak.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of two loops: Cholla Loop with 36 sites (electric hookups) and Coyote Loop with 10 non-electric sites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season: April 15 - October 15.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityUser reviews indicate limited walk-up availability and a preference for reservations due to the campground’s popularity. Review by John Foster: 'Got here early and nabbed a prime spot with views of the lake. No reservations so it first come first served.'
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made ahead of the arrival date for a $10 fee. Late cancellations (within 1 day of the arrival date for individual campsites) incur an additional charge of the first night's recreation fee. No-shows are charged $20 and forfeit the first night's fee.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Tetilla Peak offers a range of recreational activities including fishing, boating, hiking, and wildlife viewing. Visitors often praise the scenic views and quiet atmosphere of the lake and surrounding area.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available and provide scenic views. However, there is limited information regarding trail difficulty or length.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at Tetilla Peak, with species such as bass, crappie, walleye, catfish, sunfish, and pike. One review mentions "Fair fish at the lake."Swimming
Swimming areas exist, with some users highlighting small coves for dogs to swim and play. However, the lake does not have a designated beach and is noted as rocky.Boating
Boating activities are supported with a boat launch directly below the campground. This is a no-wake lake ideal for paddle and wind craft.Wildlife viewing
Visitors often see deer, coyotes, river otters, rabbits, beavers, and bears near the lake. Four osprey nesting platforms add bird-watching opportunities.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned in authoritative sources or reviews.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding are possible due to the no-wake policy at the lake.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Ground fires are not permitted due to safety and environmental concerns.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly detailed but user reviews describe the campground as quiet at night.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include goathead plants, steep drop-offs near some sites, and windy conditions. Review by Gina Eisler: 'Some of the sites have a pretty big drop off just beyond your picnic area.' Review by MaryTerese B: 'Be sure to inspect it for GOATHEADS.'
Active alertsWater spigots are temporarily turned off, and showers are temporarily closed.
Weather forecast
88
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 27%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 2.7 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Partly cloudy
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
The nearest emergency services are located in Pena Blanca, NM, 15 miles away. For inquiries, visitors can contact a Park Ranger at 505-465-0307.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 15 - October 15.
Trash and recyclingTrash bins are available but reportedly neglected at times, with user reviews mentioning bins being full and running low on supplies in the restrooms.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to Cochiti Lake, providing access to boating, fishing docks, and small swimming coves.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include potholes on the access road, lack of a host, cleanliness issues, proximity of campsites, and goathead weeds.
HostCampground hosts usually occupy the gatehouse but recent reviews report their absence. Review by Brian Borawski: 'No longer a gate attendant/host.'
Campground Map
82 DAM CREST RD, PENA BLANCA, NM, 87041, USA
Driving directionsFrom Albuquerque, New Mexico, take I-25 north to exit 264. Travel west on State Road 16 to the Tetilla Peak Recreation Area/La Bajada Village turnoff and follow the paved road into the recreation area.
Accessing Tetilla Peak requires traveling on a paved road from State Road 16. However, numerous user reviews warn about large and deep potholes on the final 12 miles of the access road. Review by John Serenita: 'The problem is the 12 miles of access road riddled with large & deep potholes. They don't care about maintaining it either. If you value your vehicle or RV avoid this park at the low rates.' Review by Tatyana Hellinger: 'Watch for the road that leads to park, once u off highway ,-potholes everywhere.'Nearby places
Santa Fe (30 miles, approximately 30-40 minutes), Albuquerque (45 miles, approximately 45 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Supplies such as groceries and gas can be found in Santa Fe (30 miles away) or Albuquerque (45 miles away). Several reviews mention the need to bring all supplies due to the remoteness of the area. Review by ODDIE: 'Oh be prepared to bring all of your supplies. Grocery and gas is 15 plus miles away on this side.'
Camper Reviews
4.2
50 reviews
Tetilla Peak is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews reveal mixed experiences, with some praising the quiet atmosphere, scenic views, and spacious sites, while others criticize poor road conditions, cleanliness issues, and lack of amenities.
Review Summaries
Based on 50 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include exceptional views of Cochiti Lake, spacious campsites, quiet surroundings, and opportunities for fishing, hiking, and boating.
Based on 50 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints focus on poor road conditions riddled with potholes, lack of staff presence for reservations, cleanliness issues in showers and bathrooms, and proximity of campsites.
Based on 50 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Tips include bringing extra water and electric extensions, avoiding sites with goat heads, and driving slowly on the access road due to large potholes. Visitors also recommend visiting during less...
Based on 50 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews highlight the campground's quiet atmosphere and sunny conditions, but mention issues with cleanliness and maintenance during peak season. Winter data is not available.
Based on 50 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. "Amazing sunsets and camping!" 2. "Quiet campground with beautiful views." 3. "Decent showers with hot water but needing new shower heads." 4. "Sites are close together; great for family...
Based on 50 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 2: Spacious for small trailers but windy conditions noted. Site 34: Mentioned with concerns about maintenance. Site 7: Issues with ant hills and weeds. Site 22: Clean showers noted, but shower...
Based on 50 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility standards are not met, and some sites require longer-than-normal electric and water connections.
Based on 50 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, with some reviewers mentioning coves near the lake for dogs to play and swim. Cochiti beach does not allow dogs, but Tetilla Peak provides pet-friendly spaces.
Based on 50 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025