Clear Creek Campground (Nm)
4.62108 reviewsPO Box 130, Cuba, NM, 87013, USA
Clear Creek Campground (Nm)
$20.00 - $75.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$75.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Facility rates vary by season and site type. Peak-season rates (May 9, 2025 - September 14, 2025) include $20/night for standard non-electric sites and $75/night for group sites. First-come, first-served availability is offered post-peak season with the same rates.
About this campground
Escape to Clear Creek Campground, where the whisper of mountain breezes through towering ponderosa pines creates nature's perfect symphony. This pristine mountain retreat in New Mexico's Jemez Mountains offers modern amenities wrapped in wilderness tranquility—featuring paved RV pads that welcome travelers seeking comfort, while fire rings invite evening storytelling under star-filled skies. Each thoughtfully spaced site provides a private sanctuary complete with picnic tables for outdoor dining, while vault toilets and potable water ensure convenience without compromising the authentic camping experience. Just steps away, Clear Creek's gentle murmur and the vast San Pedro Parks Wilderness beckon adventurers to explore.
Clear Creek Campground caters to a variety of camping preferences, including tent camping, RV camping, and group sites. The facilities are designed to accommodate both small and large groups.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Clear Creek into a refreshing mountain oasis, where August afternoon showers dance across the peaks, painting rainbows and naturally reducing fire risk while filling the air with the scent of rain-kissed pine. As autumn arrives, the campground becomes a natural amphitheater for one of nature's most haunting performances—the ethereal bugling of elk echoing through crisp morning air. Winter occasionally dusts the landscape with snow, creating a wonderland for the hardy few. Temperature records reveal summer highs reaching a comfortable 36.2°C while nights cool to a refreshing 17.9°C, though winter visitors should prepare for the possibility of light snowfall transforming the forest into a crystalline paradise.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 8,600 feet above sea level, Clear Creek Campground offers a natural air conditioning system that provides blessed relief from lower elevation heat. This lofty position not only delivers refreshingly cool mountain temperatures but transforms each night into a cosmic theater, where the thin mountain air reveals constellations in stunning clarity rarely seen at lower elevations.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a living postcard where majestic ponderosa pines create cathedral-like canopies overhead, their vanilla-scented bark perfuming the mountain air. Clear Creek meanders through this forest sanctuary, its crystalline waters providing both a soothing soundtrack and refreshing respite. During fall, the campground transforms into nature's concert hall as bull elk announce their presence with haunting bugles that send shivers down spines. Summer brings a flutter of activity as hummingbirds zip between wildflowers, butterflies dance on warm breezes, and robins serenade from pine boughs. This verdant haven offers abundant shade and stunning forest vistas—a cool, green refuge from New Mexico's desert heat.
Geological RegionClear Creek Campground sits nestled within the ancient volcanic landscape of the Jemez Mountains, part of the expansive Santa Fe National Forest. This remarkable geological setting, dominated by towering ponderosa pine forests, tells a story millions of years in the making. The campground's strategic location along Clear Creek places visitors at the doorstep of the San Pedro Parks Wilderness, where pristine meadows and untouched forests showcase the raw beauty of New Mexico's high country.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground has paved RV pads, which provide easier access for individuals with mobility challenges. However, detailed accessibility features, such as ADA-compliant facilities, are not explicitly mentioned.
Sites SizeThe campsites are described as spacious and able to accommodate both tents and large RVs, including 25+ foot camper trailers. Some sites, such as Site 1, are large enough to fit a 38-foot 5th wheel.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites offer a good level of privacy, with most being well-spaced and surrounded by trees. User reviews highlight the peaceful and quiet environment.
Total Campsites12 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 12 is not tent-friendly, but offers RV amenities. Sites closer to Clear Creek, such as 1-8, are ideal for creek-side views and audible water sounds.
Best CampsitesSites 1-8 are located near Clear Creek; site 1 accommodates RVs up to 38 feet. Sites 2, 3, and 12 offer more privacy, while sites further back provide better shade.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
1:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay of 14 nights during a visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Varies by site type
- standard sites allow RVs and tents.
Groups
The group site can accommodate up to 70 people, making it suitable for family gatherings or other large events. However, the group area is described as less private compared to individual sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layout12 individual sites and one group site; RV pads are paved, and sites are dispersed for privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 9, 2025, and closes September 14, 2025, for reservations. Additionally, it operates on a first-come, first-served basis until November 17, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability is offered from September 15 - November 17, 2025.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies, along with forfeiture of the first night's fee for late cancellations. Late cancellations occur if changes are not made by midnight local time the day before check-in.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Clear Creek Campground offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, camping, and wildlife viewing. The nearby San Pedro Parks Wilderness provides scenic hiking trails suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers. Fishing opportunities are available in local streams and the San Gregorio Reservoir.
Hiking
The campground is located near the San Pedro Parks Wilderness, which offers easy and scenic day hikes. Trails have minimal grade increases, making them ideal for beginners. Notable attractions include the San Gregorio Lake, which requires a 15-minute drive and a one-mile hike to access.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are present in the local streams and at the San Gregorio Reservoir. However, some reviews noted that fishing spots are not within immediate proximity to the campground.Wildlife viewing
The campground offers ample opportunities for wildlife viewing. Visitors have reported sightings of deer, elk, hummingbirds, butterflies, and robins. In the fall, the sound of bugling elk adds to the natural experience.Winter Activities
Winter-specific activities are not detailed in the provided information, though the campground closes for reservations after mid-November.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding are not mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated metal fire rings unless prohibited by seasonal restrictions.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM - 7:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsYellow jacket nests, as mentioned in one user review, may pose a hazard, along with seasonal fire risks.
Weather forecast
72
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 29%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 3.4 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
Emergency services including hospitals, police stations, and ranger stations are likely available in Cuba, NM, approximately 11 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 9, 2025 - September 14, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash cans are available and are regularly maintained by the forest service staff and camp hosts. Recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresClear Creek runs behind sites 1-8. A small stream traverses the campground, and San Gregorio Lake is accessible with a 15-minute drive and 1-mile hike.
Common complaintsSome users noted yellow jacket issues, occasional loud campers in group sites, and a lack of cell service.
HostReviews frequently praise the host, Joe, for his attentiveness and friendliness. Other hosts like Sharon were noted in recent reviews for kindness.
Campground Map
PO Box 130, Cuba, NM, 87013, USA
Driving directionsFrom Cuba, New Mexico, travel 11 miles east of Cuba on New Mexico State Highway 126. The campground is located approximately 11 miles from Cuba where lodging, restaurants, and gas stations are available. The campground is approximately a one and a half hour drive from Albuquerque.
Clear Creek Campground is accessible via paved roads; however, one user review mentioned that approaching the area from the east led to a rough dirt route. Seasonal road conditions may vary.Nearby places
Cuba, NM (11 miles, approximately 15-minute drive)
Albuquerque, NM (approximately 1.5-hour drive).
Nearby supplies
Lodging, restaurants, gas stations, and basic supplies are available in Cuba, NM, approximately 11 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.6
108 reviews
Clear Creek Campground (Nm) is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Clear Creek Campground are overwhelmingly positive, emphasizing its cleanliness, peaceful atmosphere, and friendly camp hosts. The majority of visitors appreciate the well-maintained facilities and the natural beauty of the area.
Review Summaries
Based on 108 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviews frequently praise the cleanliness of the vault toilets, the spacious and private campsites, the helpfulness of the camp hosts, and the serene environment. One reviewer noted, 'The vault...
Based on 108 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some visitors expressed frustration about the lack of cell phone service, the absence of showers, and occasional noise from other campers in the group area. One review mentioned a 'yellow jacket...
Based on 108 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing all necessary supplies due to the remote location and lack of nearby amenities. It's also suggested to confirm site suitability for tents, as some sites are more...
Based on 108 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Spring and summer are the most popular times to visit, with reviews frequently mentioning the cool, green environment and occasional rain showers. Fall brings the sound of bugling elk, which enhances...
Based on 108 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
- 'The cleanest campsite outhouse I have ever used! (Didn't even smell!)' (Andrea Juarez Gutierrez)
- 'Joe, our campground host, treated us like old friends from the moment we met.' (Martinez...
Based on 108 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Reviewers provide detailed feedback on specific sites:
- Site 1: Spacious, fits a 38-foot 5th wheel, paved pull-in driveways.
- Site 6: Near a brook, suitable for hammocks, accommodates a 24-foot...
Based on 108 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features receive limited mention. Paved RV pads are helpful, but no reviews specifically discuss accommodations for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 108 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are mentioned positively, with one reviewer noting that the campground is a great place to bring pets. Specific pet-related amenities are not detailed.
Based on 108 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025