Holy Ghost Group Area
02 reviewsHOLY GHOST GROUP AREA, PECOS, NM, 87552, USA
Holy Ghost Group Area
$50.00 - $50.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Facility rates in peak season are $50 per night for the Group Standard Area with no electric hookups. Additional fees include an $8 reservation fee...
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Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$50.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$50.00
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Recreation.gov
Provider(505) 757-6121
About this campground
Tucked away in the enchanting Holy Ghost Canyon, this peaceful retreat in the Santa Fe National Forest offers the perfect escape for those seeking tranquility beside the babbling waters of Holy Ghost Creek. Whether you're planning a group adventure at the secluded site nestled at the campground's far end or seeking solitude at one of the individual tent sites below, you'll find yourself immersed in nature's embrace. Days here unfold with endless possibilities – cast a line for native trout, explore winding trails on foot or horseback, or simply lose yourself in the canyon's serene beauty.
Holy Ghost Campground caters to a range of camping preferences, from group sites to individual, first-come, first-served tent sites. It does not provide RV hookups or glamping options.
Historical SignificanceJust a short drive away, the remarkable Pecos National Historical Park invites you to step back through centuries of human history. Wander among ancient archaeological ruins that whisper stories of indigenous peoples, explore 19th-century ranch buildings that echo with tales of frontier life, and stand on grounds where Civil War battles once raged. This rich tapestry of cultural heritage adds profound depth to your camping experience in the heart of New Mexico.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms the canyon into a botanical wonderland, where wildflowers paint the landscape in brilliant hues against a backdrop of typically dry, sunny days. As autumn gives way to winter, the campground takes on a magical quality when snow blankets the forest floor and temperatures dip below freezing, creating a pristine wonderland for those brave enough to venture into the cold. The changing seasons each bring their own charm to this mountain sanctuary.
ElevationPerched high in the majestic Sangre de Cristo Mountains, the campground offers that crisp mountain air and cooler temperatures that provide welcome relief from lower elevations. Though the exact elevation remains one of the canyon's mysteries, you'll feel the altitude in every refreshing breath and spectacular vista.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a cathedral of towering ponderosa pines and fragrant firs, where shafts of sunlight filter through the canopy to dance on the forest floor. Young aspens add their shimmering leaves to the mix, creating a dynamic interplay of textures and colors. Holy Ghost Creek serves as the campground's liquid lifeline, its gentle murmur providing a constant soundtrack to your stay. When summer arrives, the understory explodes with wildflowers – Indian paintbrush, lupines, and columbines – transforming the forest into nature's own gallery. Mountain vistas peek through the trees, reminding you of the grandeur that surrounds this hidden gem.
Geological RegionHoly Ghost Canyon carves its way through the ancient Sangre de Cristo Mountains, creating a dramatic landscape where geological forces have sculpted a perfect haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The canyon walls rise protectively around the campground, clothed in dense forests of ponderosa pine and Douglas fir, while pioneering aspens stake their claim in sunny clearings. This unique geological setting creates diverse microclimates that support everything from delicate summer wildflowers to hardy mountain vegetation, making each visit a lesson in the powerful forces that shaped this remarkable landscape.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe group campsite is accessible and includes features like a covered pavilion and accessible vault toilets. Roads leading to the campsite can be narrow, requiring cautious driving.
Sites SizeGroup campsite accommodates up to 40 people; individual sites are grassy with space for tents.
Sites PrivacyThe group site offers privacy, located at the far end of the campground. Individual sites are nearby but separated.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesGroup site offers privacy at the far end of the campground. For individual sites, close proximity to Holy Ghost Creek enhances natural ambiance.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Group site accommodates up to 40 people.
Groups
The group site accommodates up to 40 people and features amenities such as a covered pavilion, large grill, and fire pit.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutGroup site is at the far end of the campground, while individual sites are located in the main section below, offering grassy tent pads, tables, and fire rings.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 13, 2025, and closes October 20, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov website or mobile app, contact center, or in-person.
Walk-in AvailabilityIndividual campsites in the main campground are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's recreation use fee if canceled less than 14 days before arrival. Late cancellations after midnight on check-in day are not possible through My Reservations.
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
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The Holy Ghost Campground is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Activities include hiking, horseback riding, and fly-fishing. The network of trails, including Holy Ghost Trail #283, offers a connection to over 350 miles of trails in the Pecos Wilderness, making it popular among hikers and horseback riders. Anglers can enjoy fishing for rainbow and brown trout in Holy Ghost Creek, which is regularly stocked.
Hiking
Hiking is a major activity, with a trailhead at the campground accessing a 350-mile trail network in the Pecos Wilderness. Holy Ghost Trail #283 runs along Holy Ghost Creek for 4.2 miles and connects to Winsor Trail #254, providing access to multiple lakes and the Skyline Trail.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available along Holy Ghost Creek, which supports rainbow trout and brown trout. The creek is regularly stocked by New Mexico Game and Fish.Wildlife viewing
The lush forest setting and Holy Ghost Creek provide opportunities for observing a variety of wildlife and bird species.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned.Water Sports
No non-motorized water sports are explicitly described.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfire rings with grills are provided. Visitors are urged to obtain firewood locally and burn it on-site to prevent invasive pests.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly stated.
Hazards
General hazardsNarrow and steep road access poses challenges. Endangered plant habitats require care to avoid disturbance. Wildlife may be present.
Weather forecast
46
°F
Oct 10
Friday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 78%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 5.7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
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 are not explicitly listed, but Pecos, 22 miles south, may provide access to hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 13, 2025 - October 20, 2025
Trash and recyclingBear-proof trash bins are provided for trash collection. There is no mention of recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresHoly Ghost Creek flows alongside the campground, providing scenic and recreational value.
Common complaintsReviews mention rocky, slanted ground for tents, broken water pump issues, and narrow/deteriorating access road conditions.
HostCampground hosts regularly patrol the area and are available for camper assistance.
Campground Map
HOLY GHOST GROUP AREA, PECOS, NM, 87552, USA
Driving directionsFrom Santa Fe, take I-25 east approximately 18 miles to the Glorieta/Pecos Exit. Take NM Highway 50 to Pecos, approximately 5 miles. At the 4-way stop, turn left onto NM Highway 63 and travel approximately 14 miles north to Forest Road 122. Take Forest Road 122 approximately 4 miles to the campground. The group campground is located behind the locked gate at the very end of the campground.
The road to the campground is narrow and features one lane with designated pull-outs. Visibility can be limited due to curves, and the road might become impassable over time without maintenance, as mentioned in user reviews.Nearby places
Pecos (22 miles south, ~45-minute drive), Santa Fe (46 miles southwest, ~50-minute drive)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are likely in Pecos, NM, located 22 miles south of the campground.
Camper Reviews
0.0
2 reviews
Holy Ghost Group Area has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the picturesque surroundings and accessibility of trails and fishing spots. The group's site privacy and the sound of Holy Ghost Creek are appreciated. However, issues with the road condition and water availability have been raised.
Review Summaries
Based on 2 reviews
What Campers Love
"The creek runs through it and the sound is beautiful," said one user. Another mentioned "the site is beautiful and well maintained."
Based on 2 reviewsCommon Concerns
Users noted broken water pumps and rocky, slanted grounds. "The road was probably the worst I have ever been on," one user stated.
Based on 2 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring sufficient water as the pump is unreliable. Drive cautiously due to narrow roads with limited visibility. Choose a spot near the creek for its soothing sound.
Based on 2 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is most vibrant in the summer due to blooming wildflowers, but visitors should bring water and prepare for the narrow road conditions year-round.
Based on 2 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The ground tends to be pretty rocky, bumpy, and slanted," noted a camper. "Children can play in the creek easily," another reviewer mentioned.
Based on 2 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site 1, Loop HOLY, received a 4/5 rating but was criticized for the road condition.
Based on 2 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews about accessibility features from disabled users were found.
Based on 2 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific user feedback about pet policies or experiences.
Based on 2 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025