Three Rivers Campground
4.6346 reviewsThree Rivers Campground, Lincoln National Forest, New Mexico
Three Rivers Campground
$15.00 - $15.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$15.00
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
The fee is $15 per night, which covers up to two vehicles per campsite.
About this campground
Nestled at the foot of southern New Mexico's most majestic peak, Three Rivers Campground offers an authentic wilderness escape where solitude meets adventure. This intimate rustic retreat features 12 thoughtfully spaced campsites, many sheltered by traditional ramadas that provide welcome shade from the high desert sun. Whether you're arriving with horses for the equestrian facilities, gathering your group for a memorable outdoor reunion, or seeking the perfect basecamp for exploring the legendary Three Rivers Trail (T44) and ancient petroglyph sites, this hidden gem delivers an experience that feels worlds away from civilization.
Three Rivers Campground caters to a range of camping preferences, including tent camping, RVs, and group camping.
Historical SignificanceJust 8.4 miles west lies one of North America's most remarkable archaeological treasures—the Three Rivers Petroglyph Site, where over 20,000 ancient rock carvings tell the stories of peoples who called this land home centuries ago. This extraordinary collection of Native American art transforms a simple day trip into a journey through time, offering campers a profound connection to the cultural heritage that permeates these sacred mountains. The proximity to this historic site makes Three Rivers Campground not just a place to sleep under the stars, but a gateway to understanding the deep human history of the American Southwest.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic dance of high desert seasons at Three Rivers, where each time of year paints the landscape in different moods. Winter transforms the campground into a crystalline wonderland, with temperatures dipping to a brisk 27°F and occasional dustings of snow creating magical mornings. As spring awakens the desert, cool breezes and temperatures climbing to 67°F make for perfect hiking weather. Summer brings warm, comfortable days peaking at 85°F—ideal for early morning adventures and lazy afternoon siestas under your ramada. Fall arrives with crisp air and golden light, as temperatures settle into that sweet spot between 43°F and 67°F, perfect for campfire gatherings under star-studded skies.
ElevationPerched at a comfortable 5,000 feet above sea level, Three Rivers Campground occupies a sweet spot in New Mexico's varied topography. While sitting lower than its high-altitude neighbors, this thoughtful elevation delivers the best of both worlds—refreshingly cool temperatures that provide relief from desert heat without the thin air challenges of higher camps. Here, you'll breathe easy while still enjoying those crisp mountain mornings and spectacular elevated views that make New Mexico camping so memorable.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the timeless beauty of New Mexico's high desert, where ancient Pinyon and Juniper trees frame breathtaking vistas of the Sacramento Mountain range and the pristine White Mountain Wilderness. The campground's strategic position offers front-row seats to nature's grand theater, with rugged peaks rising dramatically from the desert floor. Throughout the year, the landscape comes alive with the gentle sounds of water—from the seasonal melodies of Dry and Fall creeks after monsoon rains to the steady, reassuring flow of the Three Rivers, a rare year-round water source that has sustained life in this arid landscape for millennia.
Geological RegionThree Rivers Campground sits in one of New Mexico's most geologically fascinating regions, cradled at the base of the state's southern giant within the White Mountain Wilderness. This remarkable location showcases the dramatic uplift of the Sacramento Mountains, where ancient geological forces created towering peaks from prehistoric seabeds. The surrounding Pinyon-Juniper woodland represents millions of years of adaptation, creating a unique ecosystem where high desert meets mountain majesty. From your campsite, witness the raw power of geological time written across weathered cliff faces and sculpted canyons, while the towering presence of southern New Mexico's highest peak serves as a constant reminder of the Earth's incredible creative forces.
Campsite details
AccessibilityWheelchair-accessible vault toilets are available at the campground.
Sites SizeThe parking aprons are gravel, and RVs longer than 25 feet are not allowed.
Sites PrivacySeveral user reviews highlight the privacy offered by the campsites due to natural vegetation and adequate spacing.
Total Campsites12 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites with ramadas for shade and privacy. Sites near the trailheads provide easy access to hikes and streams.
Best CampsitesSeveral reviews highlight campsites with shade and privacy, while others mention sites with panoramic views. Sites with ramadas are particularly popular.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
- Self-service
- campers can arrive at any time.
Check-out
No specific check-out time mentioned.
Stay Limit
Stay limit 14 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Maximum of two vehicles per campsite
- exact guest limits not specified.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutSites are described as open but include ramadas for shade. Equine corrals are available for horse camping.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is open year-round.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservations can be made in advance; the campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Walk-in AvailabilityCampground operates on a self-service basis, allowing campers to arrive and choose a site. It remains open during holidays such as Memorial Day Weekend, and some sites may still be available even during busy periods.
Cancellation PolicyNo specific cancellation policy mentioned.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers opportunities for day hiking, horseback riding, and picnicking. Scenic trails connect to the White Mountain Wilderness.
Hiking
The Three Rivers Trail (T44) is a 6-mile trail accessible for both foot and horse travel, connecting to the White Mountain Wilderness. User reviews also describe various hiking options with serene streams and mountain views.Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Wildlife viewing
Campers report sightings of elk, deer, coyotes, and mustangs. The area is also noted for its bird-watching opportunities.Cultural and Educational Programs
The nearby Three Rivers Petroglyph Site features over 20,000 petroglyphs and a self-guided trail, providing a culturally enriching experience for visitors.Winter Activities
No winter activities are specifically listed.Water Sports
The campground does not support water sports such as kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire pits. Campers are advised to bring their own firewood.
- Quiet hours are No specific quiet hours are mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsThis is bear country, so proper food storage techniques are necessary. Wildlife such as coyotes, elk, deer, and even mountain lions have been spotted. Deadfall on trails may pose hazards to hikers and horseback riders.
Active alertsNo current alerts or advisories are noted in the source materials.
Weather forecast
83
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 23%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 9.7 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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
There are no explicit references to nearby emergency services. This field is marked as null.
Good to know
Peak season datesNo specific peak season dates mentioned.
Trash and recyclingNo specific information is provided about trash and recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located near Dry and Fall seasonal creeks and the year-round Three Rivers.
Common complaintsReviews mention unkempt bathroom facilities, loud generator noises, and occasional trash issues. Deadfall on trailhead T44 can hinder hiking and horseback riding.
HostThe campground host is described positively as polite, helpful, and business-like. One user expressed nostalgia for a previous host named John.
Campground Map
Three Rivers Campground, Lincoln National Forest, New Mexico
Driving directionsFrom US 54, 24 miles south of Carrizozo or 18 miles north of Tularosa, turn east onto Forest Road 579 at the sign that says Three Rivers Petroglyph Site and Campground for 13 miles (the last 7 miles are unpaved). The road is well marked to the campground. Alternatively, in Tularosa, NM, at the intersection of US Routes 54 and 70, take Route 54 north 17.2 miles to a Petroglyphs and Picnic Area sign (County Route B030). Turn right at the sign onto Route B030 and go 13 miles to the campground. Note: County Route B030 becomes gravel after 5.5 miles.
Access to the site and the roads throughout the campground are all well-maintained dirt roads. The unpaved sections are accessible by most vehicles and described as flat and manageable.Nearby places
Carrizozo (24 miles south, approximately 30 minutes), Tularosa (18 miles north, approximately 25 minutes)
Nearby supplies
No explicit details provided about nearby supplies. This field is marked as null.
Camper Reviews
4.6
46 reviews
Three Rivers Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, user reviews highlight the campground's serene and scenic environment, with its proximity to hiking trails, privacy, and the natural beauty of the surrounding wilderness. Some users also appreciated the clean campsites and the helpfulness of the camp host.
Review Summaries
Based on 46 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include beautiful mountain views, proximity to hiking trails and the Three Rivers Petroglyph Site, clean campsites, and the presence of horse corrals. Campers also praise the...
Based on 46 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Negative feedback focuses on unkempt vault toilets, lack of potable water, limited shade at some sites, and occasional disturbances from generators.
Based on 46 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own drinking water and firewood. Visit the nearby petroglyph site and wear sturdy shoes for the rocky terrain. Arrive in a high-clearance vehicle for easier travel on the dirt road.
Based on 46 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Users recommend visiting during warmer months for better weather. Some reviews note that the area is cooler than northern New Mexico and that spring water is consistently flowing.
Based on 46 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The campsite is clean and beautiful. The several trails go deep into the Sierra Blanca." - Sebastian Vargas. "Secluded, shaded, trails nearby, camp sites are not on top of each other." - Ray G....
Based on 46 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific feedback generally praises the ample space and privacy between sites. Some sites feature ramadas for added shade.
Based on 46 reviewsAccessibility Features
Wheelchair-accessible vault toilets are appreciated, but no additional accessibility features were specifically mentioned.
Based on 46 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific information on pet policies or experiences was provided.
Based on 46 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025