Sugarite Canyon
00 review211 Hwy 526, Raton, New Mexico, 87740, United States
Sugarite Canyon
$10.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$10.00
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 $10 per night for primitive sites to under $20 for full hookup sites, as per user reviews.
About this campground
Discover your perfect mountain escape at Sugarite Canyon State Park, where two distinct campgrounds—Lake Alice and Soda Pocket—offer everything from rustic tent sites to modern RV hookups. Nestled among verdant forests and crystalline mountain lakes, this outdoor paradise beckons anglers casting for their next catch, hikers seeking scenic trails, and nature lovers yearning for wildlife encounters. Whether you're pitching a tent under towering pines or settling your RV beside a babbling stream, you'll find yourself immersed in one of New Mexico's most enchanting natural sanctuaries.
Sugarite Canyon caters to a variety of camping preferences, from primitive sites to RV hookups.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time at Sugarite Canyon, where the echoes of pickaxes and coal cars still whisper through the mountain air. This scenic parkland once thrived as a bustling coal mining community, and today's visitors can explore fascinating remnants of that industrial past along historic trails. Weathered mine entrances, rusted equipment, and interpretive markers tell the story of the hardy souls who carved their living from these mountains. History enthusiasts will find themselves captivated by the park's transformation from industrial powerhouse to natural refuge—a testament to nature's remarkable ability to reclaim and restore.
Weather and SeasonsExperience nature's full spectrum at Sugarite Canyon, where each season paints the landscape with its own dramatic palette. Winter transforms the park into a snow-dusted wonderland, with crystalline mornings perfect for spotting wildlife tracks in fresh powder. As spring arrives, the mountains burst to life with wildflowers and rushing streams. Summer brings those perfect camping days—warm sunshine filtered through pine boughs, cool mountain breezes, and afternoon thunderstorms that roll through the canyons with spectacular displays. Plan your visit knowing that at 8,000 feet, even summer nights require a cozy campfire and warm sleeping bag.
ElevationPerched at a breathtaking 8,000 feet above sea level, Sugarite Canyon offers a true high-altitude camping experience. This lofty elevation creates a unique microclimate where cool mountain air mingles with warm sunshine, fostering lush meadows and dense forests that seem impossibly green against the southwestern sky. The thin mountain air adds an invigorating quality to every hike, while the elevation ensures comfortable temperatures even during summer's peak, making it an ideal retreat from the desert heat below.
Natural Features and SceneryPrepare to be mesmerized by Sugarite Canyon's stunning natural amphitheater, where towering canyon walls frame emerald forests and sapphire lakes. Wildflower meadows explode with color each summer, while ancient pines and aspens create a living cathedral overhead. Wildlife viewing reaches extraordinary heights here—majestic elk bugle across misty valleys, black bears amble through berry patches, and clever foxes dart between shadows. Lucky visitors might spot wild turkeys strutting through camp or catch the flash of a golden eagle soaring above the canyon rim. Lakes Maloya and Alice serve as jeweled centerpieces, their mirror-like surfaces reflecting sky and forest while offering premier fishing and peaceful paddling.
Geological RegionStraddling the Colorado-New Mexico border in the magnificent northeast highlands, Sugarite Canyon showcases the dramatic geology of the southern Rocky Mountains. This remarkable landscape tells a story written in stone—ancient seas, volcanic upheavals, and millennia of erosion have sculpted a wonderland of soaring canyon walls, hidden valleys, and pristine alpine lakes. The park's unique position creates a biodiverse crossroads where northern and southern ecosystems merge, resulting in an extraordinary variety of plant and animal life. From the remnants of historic mining operations to the untouched wilderness beyond, this geological gem offers visitors a chance to explore one of the Southwest's most captivating mountain environments.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo detailed information about accessibility for campers with disabilities is provided in the available sources.
Sites SizeUser reviews indicate a mix of spacious sites, particularly at Soda Pocket, and more compact sites at Lake Alice, which may be close together.
Sites PrivacyReviews are mixed regarding privacy. Tent sites at Lake Alice are noted as somewhat secluded due to trees and brush, while other reviews suggest closer proximity between sites, leading to potential noise issues.
Total Campsites40 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose campsites near vault toilets and water spigots in Lake Alice or higher-altitude sites in Soda Pocket for better views. Larger sites like #16 are suitable for group camping.
Best CampsitesCampsite #4 at Lake Alice and sites #2, #3, and #16 at Soda Pocket are highly recommended by users for their size, views, and proximity to wildlife.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive nights allowed is not specified.
Groups
There are no specific details available about group camping sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampgrounds are spread out and include Lake Alice with shaded tent sites and Soda Pocket on higher altitudes with spectacular views.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round, but bear activity, weather conditions, and accessibility may vary seasonally.
Reservation PlatformsReservations may be made by contacting the park directly or using cash/check at the honor system pay station.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-serve options are available, but limited availability may require early arrival, as noted by users.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policies are not specified.
Amenities available
Showers
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Sugarite Canyon offers diverse recreational opportunities. Official information highlights activities such as boating, canoeing, hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. User reviews also emphasize the abundance of wildlife, including sightings of elk, black bears, deer, foxes, turkeys, and a variety of birds like goldfinches and bluebirds. The park's lakes are often praised for fishing and scenic beauty, though swimming is prohibited.
Hiking
The park features diverse hiking trails, some of which are described as stunning and remote. Trails offer opportunities to explore the canyon and its historical sites, including remnants of a mining town. The scenery includes wildflowers and views of wildlife. Reviews suggest some trails are challenging, while others are easier.Fishing
Fishing is available at Lake Maloya and Lake Alice. User reviews frequently mention catching trout and bass. Lake Maloya, in particular, is described as ideal for fishing, with opportunities for paddle boating as well.Biking
Mountain biking is supported within Sugarite Canyon, although specific trail details are not provided.Boating
Boating and canoeing are facilitated at Lake Maloya. Visitors also mentioned paddle boating and sailing as recreational options.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a highlight of Sugarite Canyon. Visitors have reported sightings of elk, deer, black bears, turkeys, foxes, and numerous bird species. The park's remoteness enhances these opportunities.Cultural and Educational Programs
Interpretive programs and historical insights are available. One user review specifically praises a park volunteer for delivering an engaging presentation on the park's history.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned, but the remote nature of the park and seasonal conditions could support snowshoeing or other winter recreation.Water Sports
Water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding are possible at Lake Maloya, as mentioned in user reviews.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfire use may be restricted due to wildlife considerations and seasonal conditions. Fire rings are provided at tent sites.
- Quiet hours are Likely enforced, but specific times are not detailed.
Hazards
General hazardsBear activity is prevalent and requires precautions. Wild animal sightings include cougars and foxes. Steep dirt roads within the park may pose challenges for RVs or trailers.
Active alertsBoil water advisory in effect, as per user reviews. Seasonal closures or accessibility challenges are likely during winter.
Weather forecast
54
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Heavy rain
Precipitation: 21.3%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 79%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 14.7 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Light Rain - (21.30% chance)
Light rain expected
Heavy rain
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 Raton, just 6 miles away, which includes hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season dates are not explicitly mentioned but could align with summer months due to increased visitation.
Trash and recyclingBear-proof trash and recycling bins are located near vault toilets, as noted by multiple user reviews.
Proximity to water featuresClose to lakes Maloya and Alice, ideal for fishing and canoeing. Both lakes serve as water reservoirs and swimming is not allowed.
Common complaintsLimited cell service and internet availability. Some user reviews cite steep roads to certain campgrounds, lack of guidance, and isolated incidents of perceived hostility from other campers.
HostHosts are frequently praised for maintaining cleanliness and assisting campers. Notable hosts include James and Cheryl Ward at Lake Alice, and others have been described as friendly but occasionally intrusive.
Campground Map
211 Hwy 526, Raton, New Mexico, 87740, United States
Driving directionsTake exit 452 on Interstate 25, travel east on State Highway 72 for 4 miles to its intersection with State Highway 526, travel north on State Highway 526 for 2 miles to the park entrance.
The driving route to Sugarite Canyon State Park is straightforward from Interstate 25, but local roads (State Highway 526) leading to the park entrance are likely paved and manageable. Some user reviews mention steep dirt roads within the park (e.g., leading to Soda Pocket Campground) that may require caution; seasonal conditions like snow or slush could impact accessibility.Nearby places
Raton: 6 miles (approx. 10 minutes). Colorado Springs: 150 miles (approx. 2 hours 20 minutes). Santa Fe: 170 miles (approx. 2 hours 40 minutes). Las Vegas, NM: 100 miles (approx. 1 hour 40 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Raton, 6 miles away. Ice is sold at the Visitor Center for $3 per 10 lb bag, as mentioned in user reviews.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Sugarite Canyon has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Sugarite Canyon are overwhelmingly positive, describing it as a beautiful and serene park ideal for fishing, hiking, and camping. The remoteness and lack of cell phone reception are viewed both positively and negatively.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Clean and well-maintained facilities, abundant wildlife, scenic views, excellent fishing, and friendly camp hosts are frequently highlighted.
Common Concerns
Distance of showers from certain campgrounds, lack of clear signage and guidance, steep and rough roads to some sites, and occasional unfavorable interactions with other campers are noted.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Book early due to limited sites. Bring cash as cards are not accepted on-site. Be prepared for wildlife encounters and carry bug spray for mosquitoes.
Seasonal Insights
Spring and summer receive the most favorable reviews for their lush greenery and wildlife activity. Fall is noted for cooler weather and fewer bugs.
Camper Quotes
1. "No crowds, a sudden storm followed by a beautiful sunset over dramatic landscapes." 2. "Bear prevention a must! They provide big lockers to put your food and soaps." 3. "The camp sites are...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Soda Pocket Campground is praised for its stunning views and spacious sites (e.g., site #16). Lake Alice sites are mentioned as smaller and closer together, but scenic.
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility features for those with disabilities.
Pet-Friendly Features
The park is pet-friendly, but leashes are required. One user review mentions the presence of skunks, suggesting caution when camping with pets.
Last updated August 10, 2025