Jacks Creek Group Area
4.8020 reviewsJacks Creek Group Area, Pecos, NM 87552, USA
Jacks Creek Group Area
$50.00 - $50.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The nightly rate for group standard nonelectric sites is $50 during peak season (May 13 - October 20, 2025). Fees may vary due to additional...
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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
ProviderAbout this campground
Perched high in the mountains where the air is crisp and the stars shine brightest, Jack's Creek Group Area beckons families and friends seeking the perfect basecamp for their mountain adventures. This thoughtfully designed campground features two spacious group units, each welcoming up to 40 guests with paved roads and accessible facilities that ensure everyone can join the mountain magic. Whether you're planning a multi-generational family reunion or organizing an outdoor recreation event, Jack's Creek provides the ideal setting where memories are made around campfires and laughter echoes through the pines.
Jack's Creek Group Area accommodates large groups with two reservable group sites. The campground caters to tent and primitive camping but does not support RV hookups, cabins, or glamping options.
Historical SignificanceJust beyond the campground's peaceful groves lies a treasure trove of American history at Pecos National Historical Park. Here, centuries of stories converge—from ancient Pueblo peoples who first called these mountains home, to Spanish conquistadors seeking golden cities, to Civil War soldiers defending a remote frontier, and finally to 19th-century ranchers who carved out lives in this rugged landscape. Your camping adventure becomes part of this continuing narrative, connecting you to generations of people who have found sustenance and solace in these sacred mountains.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Jack's Creek with its own dramatic brush. Summer days bring gentle mountain warmth perfect for hiking and exploration, while crisp evenings remind you why you packed that extra layer. As autumn arrives, the temperature dips and mornings might greet you with frost on your tent. Winter transforms the landscape into a snow-dusted wonderland, though freezing temperatures and potential road closures mean this season is best left to the well-prepared. Spring emerges slowly at this elevation, with wildflowers pushing through patches of lingering snow.
ElevationAt 8,000 feet above sea level, Jack's Creek exists in that sweet spot where the air is refreshingly thin and the views stretch endlessly. Here, mountain breezes carry the scent of pine and wildflowers, offering natural air conditioning even on summer's warmest days. Visitors ascending from lower elevations should plan to take it easy their first day, allowing their bodies to adjust to the altitude while soaking in the spectacular mountain vistas that surround the campground.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to golden sunlight filtering through a cathedral of towering fir trees and quaking aspens that shimmer in the slightest breeze. Jack's Creek sits like a jewel in the crown of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, where dense forests give way to glimpses of soaring peaks and pristine alpine lakes. Each autumn, the aspens burst into flame-colored brilliance, creating a photographer's paradise. Wildlife enthusiasts will delight in spotting elk grazing in nearby meadows, mule deer tiptoeing through camp at dawn, and if you're particularly fortunate, the majestic silhouette of a bald eagle soaring overhead. The adjacent Pecos Wilderness beckons with its untamed beauty, offering endless exploration just steps from your campsite.
Geological RegionJack's Creek rests at the dramatic threshold where the ancient Sangre de Cristo Mountains meet the vast Pecos Wilderness—a breathtaking convergence of 160,000 acres of pristine mountain terrain. These peaks, carved by millennia of wind, water, and ice, create a landscape of stunning diversity. Crystal-clear mountain lakes mirror the sky in their depths, while the legendary Pecos River begins its journey here, tumbling from high alpine springs. The campground itself is embraced by a protective forest of stately firs and dancing aspens, creating a natural amphitheater that showcases one of New Mexico's most spectacular mountain ecosystems.
Campsite details
AccessibilityGroup site B is wheelchair accessible, and the roads and parking areas are paved, making it easier for individuals with mobility challenges.
Sites SizeSites are spacious, accommodating multiple tents with enough room for large groups.
Sites PrivacyThe campground offers a balance of privacy and open space, with enough shade from trees and areas for sunlight.
Total Campsites2 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose Group B for accessibility and proximity to forest trails. Arriving early during weekdays can provide better site selection.
Best CampsitesGroup site B has been praised for its accessible setup and clean facilities.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in is typically at 11:00 AM local time.
Check-out
Check-out is typically by 12:00 PM local time.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each group site accommodates up to 40 guests.
Groups
Two group units are provided, accommodating up to 40 people each. Group B is accessible for individuals with disabilities.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features two group sites (Group A and Group B) with accessible facilities and paved roads.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from mid-April to mid-November. Peak season dates (May 13 - October 20, 2025) are reservable.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online through Recreation.gov or via their app.
Walk-in AvailabilityThis campground operates based on reservations and is not mentioned as having walk-up availability.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before the scheduled arrival date for a refund minus a $10 cancellation fee and any reservation fees. Late cancellations (within 14 days of arrival for group sites) will forfeit the first night's recreation use fee.
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
Visitors to Jack's Creek Group Area can enjoy a host of recreational activities including hiking, fishing, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. The surrounding area offers access to a variety of hiking trails, including the popular Jack's Creek Trail #257. Fishing is also available in Jack's Creek, known for rainbow and brown trout. Nearby attractions provide additional opportunities for outdoor activities.
Hiking
The Jack's Creek Trail #257 spans 14.3 miles and is suited for experienced hikers and horseback riders. It offers challenging sections and leads to Pecos Baldy Lake, where camping and campfires (over 200 feet from water) are permitted.Fishing
Fishing at Jack's Creek is a popular activity, with opportunities to catch rainbow and brown trout. The creek is not regularly stocked, so natural fishing conditions prevail.Wildlife viewing
The campground is home to diverse wildlife including elk, mule deer, migratory birds, and bald eagles during the winter. The forested environment is ideal for wildlife observation.Winter Activities
During winter, visitors can spot bald eagles and other raptors, but no specific winter sports or activities were detailed.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or canoeing are not mentioned as options at this campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed, but visitors are encouraged to source firewood locally to avoid spreading tree pests.
- Quiet hours were not explicitly mentioned in the source materials.
Hazards
General hazardsHigh elevation poses risks for those acclimating from lower altitudes. Wildlife such as bears may require caution, and firewood transportation is discouraged.
Weather forecast
45
°F
Oct 10
Friday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 71%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 4.1 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 approximately 21 miles away in Pecos, including local medical facilities and police services.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 13 - October 20, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash collection services are available at the campground, but no information about recycling facilities was provided.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to Jack's Creek, known for fishing opportunities including rainbow and brown trout.
Common complaintsSome users mentioned water outages and seasonal access challenges. One user criticized the layout, describing it as 'a stockade with camping in the parking lot.'
HostThe campground host patrols the area regularly and is available to answer questions. Users have praised the host for their friendliness and helpfulness.
Campground Map
Jacks Creek Group Area, Pecos, NM 87552, USA
Driving directionsTake I-25 east from Santa Fe, New Mexico, and travel approximately 18 miles. Take the Glorieta/Pecos exit. Take State Highway 50 approximately five miles to Pecos. At the four-way stop, turn left onto State Highway 63. Travel north on 63 to the Jack's Creek Campground area. The campground is about 21 miles north of Pecos.
All roads leading to Jack's Creek Group Area are paved, making it accessible for low-clearance vehicles. Seasonal considerations include high elevation travel and potential hazards during rainy seasons.Nearby places
Pecos (21 miles, approximately 30-minute drive), Santa Fe (50 miles, approximately 1-hour and 10-minute drive), Albuquerque (approximately 2 hours).
Nearby supplies
The town of Pecos, located 21 miles south of the campground, offers groceries, fuel, and basic supplies.
Camper Reviews
4.8
20 reviews
Jacks Creek Group Area is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, reviews for Jack's Creek Group Area are overwhelmingly positive, with an average sentiment score of 4.79, highlighting its cleanliness, stunning views, and helpful staff.
Review Summaries
Based on 20 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive reviews emphasize the clean and well-maintained facilities, spacious sites, excellent hiking opportunities, and friendly campground hosts. Many visitors appreciated the serene and...
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Common Concerns
Some users mentioned the lack of showers and limited amenities such as no RV hookups or cell service. One reviewer noted that access to water and hiking might be easier at other Pecos campsites.
Based on 20 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive early during peak seasons to secure a good spot. Be prepared for the lack of showers and bring all necessary supplies since there is no camp store. Group B is recommended for accessibility.
Based on 20 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer and fall appear to be the most popular seasons to visit, with visitors praising the moderate temperatures and golden foliage of aspens in the fall. Winter visitors noted opportunities for...
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Camper Quotes
"The restrooms are the cleanest in whole Pecos by far." "It’s just a small piece of heaven on earth!" "Spectacular views and stunning, clean campgrounds." "We have been going to the Jack's Creek...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Group Site B is frequently praised for its accessibility and clean facilities. One reviewer stated, "Clean, beautiful location with a surprise find in the woods nearby." Another mentioned, "Didn’t...
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Accessibility Features
Reviewers highlighted the accessibility of Group B and the presence of paved roads that accommodate low-clearance vehicles. Vault toilets were also noted as convenient and accessible.
Based on 20 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcome at the campground, and several reviewers mentioned bringing their dogs. "The dogs loved it!" is a direct quote from one user review.
Based on 20 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025