Cimarron Canyon
00 reviewPO BOX 185, Eagle Nest, New Mexico, 87718, United States
Cimarron Canyon
$10.00 - $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
User reviews noted a fee of $10 per night for some campsites. No additional details provided about other fee structures.
About this campground
Nestled in the dramatic Cimarron Canyon, Tolby Campground offers an intimate riverside retreat where the soothing sounds of the Cimarron River create a natural soundtrack for your camping adventure. This charming small campground provides the perfect balance of modern conveniences and wilderness immersion, featuring well-maintained flush toilets and restrooms alongside direct access to pristine fishing spots and scenic hiking trails. Whether you're casting a line into the crystal-clear waters, exploring canyon trails, or simply relaxing to the melody of the river, Tolby delivers an authentic New Mexico outdoor experience with full handicap accessibility ensuring everyone can enjoy this natural wonderland.
The campground primarily supports tent and RV camping with some sites providing creekside access. Group camping and more luxurious options like cabins or glamping are not explicitly mentioned.
Historical SignificanceWhile the ancient stories of Cimarron Canyon remain untold in official records, the timeless landscape speaks volumes about the generations of travelers, traders, and nature enthusiasts who have found refuge in these canyon walls.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dynamic beauty of Cimarron Canyon through its distinct seasons at Tolby Campground. Winter transforms the canyon into a crystalline wonderland with freezing temperatures perfect for those seeking solitude and stark beauty. As spring unfolds, the landscape awakens with moderate temperatures ideal for hiking and wildlife watching. Summer brings warm days punctuated by refreshing afternoon rain showers that keep the canyon lush and the river flowing strong - the perfect conditions for fishing and streamside relaxation. The predominantly dry climate means more sunny days to explore this spectacular corner of New Mexico.
ElevationTucked away in the heart of the Southern Rockies, Tolby Campground's mountain setting provides that perfect high-country atmosphere where the air feels crisp and every breath rejuvenates your spirit.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering canyon walls rise dramatically on either side of Tolby Campground, creating an awe-inspiring natural amphitheater that frames your camping experience. The star of the show is the Cimarron River, which winds directly past many campsites, offering both a peaceful ambiance and excellent fishing opportunities just steps from your tent. Keep your binoculars handy - the canyon serves as a natural corridor for impressive large birds soaring overhead and delightful hummingbirds darting among the wildflowers. Just five miles away, the expansive Eagle Nest Lake provides additional recreational opportunities and stunning mountain vistas, making Tolby an ideal basecamp for exploring the region's diverse landscapes.
Geological RegionTolby Campground sits within the spectacular Cimarron Canyon, a geological masterpiece carved through the mountains of Northeast New Mexico. This steep-walled canyon showcases millions of years of Earth's history in its exposed rock layers, creating a dramatic backdrop that defines the camping experience. The Northeast region's unique position where the Great Plains meet the Rocky Mountains results in this stunning landscape of deep canyons, rushing rivers, and towering peaks that make every moment at Tolby feel like a page from an adventure novel.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground offers handicap-accessible areas, as noted in the facilities description.
Sites SizeThe campsites appear to be relatively small with limited space for some rigs, as one camper noted, "Spots are a little small so check to make sure your rig will fit."
Sites PrivacyPrivacy at campsites varies significantly. Interior sites are close to each other with limited barriers, as mentioned by one user: "The interior sites are very close to each other with little barriers if any between them." However, some sites along the riverbank offer a more secluded experience.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose creekside sites for scenic views and privacy; avoid interior sites due to lack of barriers and proximity to other campsites.
Best CampsitesUser reviews highlight creekside campsites, such as site 3, as popular choices.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in times are not specified.
Check-out
Check-out times are not specified.
Stay Limit
Stay limit information was not disclosed.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Exact guest limits per site were not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutSites are close together with little to no barriers between interior sites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round, though exact seasonal closures were not mentioned.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are first come, first served; no specific platforms noted.
Walk-in AvailabilityCampground operates on a first-come, first-served basis as noted in user reviews.
Cancellation PolicyReservations are first come, first served as noted in user reviews. Cancellation policies were not detailed.
Amenities available
Potable water
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground provides a variety of recreational activities including fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. Several activities such as boating, swimming, and cultural programs are not supported.
Hiking
Hiking trails within a short drive provide access to scenic areas. One camper commented, "It is a beautiful steep canyon with an amazing trail along a creek nearby to hike."Fishing
Fishing is a highlight, with the river being a premier trout venue. One user wrote, "My camper backed up to the edge of Cimarron River, a premier trout venue." However, another user noted that the river was too fast for fishing during their stay.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a popular activity, with campers citing sightings of birds and other animals. "Wildlife can be seen from campsites," noted one user.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Quiet hours prohibit generator use from 10 PM to 8 AM. Specific fire policies were not discussed.
- Quiet hours are from 10 PM to 8 AM as noted in user reviews.
Hazards
General hazardsDead cottonwoods result in reduced shade. Wildlife such as large birds can be seen, but no specific dangers were noted.
Active alertsBathrooms were closed temporarily (specific reasons not detailed).
Weather forecast
70
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 56%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 7.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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 emergency services are likely located in nearby Eagle Nest or Cimarron, though exact details are not provided.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak seasons not explicitly defined in the sources.
Trash and recyclingThe campground offers basic trash and recycling facilities, but their specifics regarding location and frequency of pickup are not detailed.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to the Cimarron River and is within five miles of Eagle Nest Lake.
Common complaintsRecurring complaints include close proximity of sites, lack of shade, traffic noise from the nearby highway, and occasional generator noise.
HostBob, the campground host, is described as friendly and attentive. User reviews also mention another host who provided firewood for a good price.
Campground Map
PO BOX 185, Eagle Nest, New Mexico, 87718, United States
Driving directionsFrom Northeast: Exit I-25 at Exit 446 South of Raton and take US 64, 50 miles to park. From Southeast: Exit I-25 at Exit 418, North of Springer, and take HWY 56 to Cimarron, turn left and take US 64, 15 miles to park. From West: Take US 64 from Taos, 35 miles to park. All campgrounds are off US 64; Tolby Campground is just east of milepost 288; Maverick and Ponderosa Campgrounds are just east of milepost 295.
All campgrounds are accessible from US 64. Specific locations like Tolby Campground are east of milepost 288, while Maverick and Ponderosa Campgrounds are east of milepost 295.Nearby places
Raton (50 miles), Springer (15 miles), Taos (35 miles)
Nearby supplies
Supplies are available within Eagle Nest or Cimarron, though specific options were not listed.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Cimarron Canyon has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Cimarron Canyon are generally positive, highlighting the tranquil and scenic setting, proximity to the Cimarron River, and the friendliness of the camp hosts. However, complaints about the noise from the nearby highway, the size and privacy of campsites, and the lack of showers are recurring themes.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Campers appreciate the scenic beauty, noting the 'beautiful location along the Cimarron River.' The camp hosts received consistent praise for their helpfulness and friendliness. Flush toilets and...
Show more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include the lack of showers, noise from the nearby highway, and small or closely-spaced campsites. One camper noted, 'The highway runs right next to the campground so there is...
Show more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend reserving shaded spots and creekside sites for a more enjoyable experience. "Our tent was only a few feet from it [the river]!" wrote one user. Another advised being prepared for...
Show more
Seasonal Insights
Summer and early fall are popular for their warmer temperatures and good fishing conditions, but the lack of shade can be an issue. Winter visits are less frequent, though some campers enjoy the...
Show more
Camper Quotes
"Beautiful location along the Cimarron River."
"Camp host was lovely and helpful."
"The highway runs right next to the campground so there is traffic noise."
"Flush toilets in restrooms but no...
Show more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 3 is highlighted as a preferred campsite by one user: 'Beautiful spot on river. Site 3.'
Accessibility Features
Handicap-accessible areas are mentioned in the facilities, but detailed user feedback is not available.
Pet-Friendly Features
No specific user reviews mention experiences or policies related to pets, but pets are allowed at the campground.
Last updated August 10, 2025