Jemez Falls Campground
4.39341 reviews051 Woodsy Lane, P.O. Box 150, Jemez Springs, NM 87025, USA
Jemez Falls Campground
$10.00 - $20.00 / 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$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Standard Nonelectric $20.00 per night during peak season. First-come, first-served $20.00 during off-season. Reservation fees may include service fees ($8 online or app, $9 contact center, $3 in person).
About this campground
Nestled among towering Ponderosa Pines and wildflower-dotted meadows at 7,880 feet, Jemez Falls Campground invites you to escape into the heart of New Mexico's high country. This peaceful retreat features well-maintained paved roads that wind through the forest, convenient drinking water spigots throughout the grounds, and clean vault toilets for your comfort. During the camping season, friendly campground hosts are always nearby to help make your stay memorable and answer any questions about this mountain paradise.
The campground primarily supports tent and RV camping, with no specialized accommodations like group sites, cabins, or glamping options.
Historical SignificanceYour basecamp at Jemez Falls places you at the crossroads of ancient wonders and volcanic mysteries. Just a short drive away, the magnificent Valles Caldera National Preserve showcases one of the world's most stunning collapsed volcanic calderas, while the ancestral ruins of Bandelier National Monument tell the stories of the Puebloan people who called these mountains home for centuries. This campground serves as your gateway to exploring these remarkable landscapes that have shaped both the land and its people for millennia.
Weather and SeasonsSummer days here are a camper's dream, with warm sunshine filtering through the pine canopy while gentle mountain breezes keep temperatures comfortable. As evening approaches, the air takes on that crisp, refreshing quality unique to high elevations, perfect for gathering around the campfire. When afternoon monsoons roll through, they bring dramatic skies and the sweet scent of rain-soaked pine needles, though they occasionally invite mosquitos to join the party for a brief encore.
ElevationPerched at 7,880 feet above sea level, this mountain sanctuary offers a refreshing escape from lower elevation heat. The thin, pure air carries the scent of pine resin and wildflowers, while the elevation provides naturally cooler temperatures that make for comfortable days and sleeping-bag-worthy nights. You'll feel the gentle effects of the altitude as you explore, a reminder that you've truly ascended into the clouds of the Jemez Mountains.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering Ponderosa Pines create a natural cathedral above your campsite, their vanilla-scented bark and graceful branches providing both shade and shelter. Sun-drenched meadows burst with seasonal wildflowers, creating perfect spots for afternoon picnics or wildlife watching. The crown jewel of the area flows just beyond the campground—the East Fork Jemez Wild and Scenic River, whose crystal-clear waters tumble over ancient volcanic rocks, creating the melodic soundtrack to your mountain retreat.
Geological RegionThe campground rests on the gentle, rolling terrain of the Jemez Mountains, a volcanic wonderland where ancient eruptions have created a landscape of remarkable beauty. Massive Ponderosa Pines have claimed the shaded slopes while sunny meadows fill the spaces between, creating a patchwork of ecosystems. This unique geological setting, formed by millions of years of volcanic activity and erosion, provides the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures and quiet contemplation beneath the stars.
Campsite details
AccessibilityLoop 1 Site 2 is close to a drinking water tap and a wheelchair-accessible toilet. Accessibility features appear to be limited but present in specific areas.
Sites SizeCampsites are spacious and vary in size, accommodating multiple tents or RVs up to 40 feet. "Each camp spot is quite spaced out from your neighbors. You typically have a LOT of room compared to almost any other campground I've been to," noted one reviewer.
Sites PrivacySites offer significant privacy due to their spacing: "Each camp spot is quite spaced out from your neighbors." However, some users noted disturbances from noisy neighbors during their stay.
Total Campsites51 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid camping near vault toilets due to odor issues during windy conditions.
Best CampsitesLoop 4 sites are quieter with no generator restrictions.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
1:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 consecutive nights per visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 5 people per site, 2 vehicles including tow or RV.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of four loops with paved roads, tent sites, and RV accommodations.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 9 to October 14, peak season rates apply.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online or app.
Walk-in AvailabilityAvailable first-come, first-served during off-season from October 15 to November 9, 2025.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before the arrival date. $10 cancellation fee applies, and late cancellations may forfeit the first night's fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Jemez Falls Campground offers various recreational activities that capitalize on its scenic location. The main attractions include hiking, fishing, and nature viewing. Users also enjoy outdoor photography and exploring nearby attractions like Jemez Falls and the Valles Caldera National Preserve.
Hiking
Hiking is a major draw, with trails leading to Jemez Falls (a half-mile hike) and warm springs (approximately two hours each way). "Several close hiking trails: Down to the falls (40-minute hike one way), or to the warm springs," detailed one user. Trail conditions vary, with some routes described as challenging due to elevation changes.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available in the nearby East Fork Jemez Wild and Scenic River. Specific details about fish types or fishing conditions were not provided.Biking
Biking is mentioned as an enjoyable activity within and around the campground, though no dedicated biking trails were noted: "There is hiking, both easy and not as easy. Fishing the streams. Take a hike down in the canyon to Jemez Falls."Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a highlight, with opportunities to see deer, birds, and other local fauna: "The deer came right through our site. Close to home, so we will appreciate that in the future."Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire restrictions may apply during dry seasons. Dead wood from the forest can be used; cutting live trees is prohibited.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 7 AM
Hazards
General hazardsBear sightings common; food must be stored in approved containers. Occasional monsoon floods.
Active alertsCerro Pelado Area closure affects Trail 137 south of the East Fork Trailhead.
Weather forecast
74
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 27%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 4.4 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
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 available at Jemez Springs (15 miles away).
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 9, 2025 - October 14, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash dumpsters are available, but their maintenance has been inconsistent. Some users reported overflowing dumpsters and trash blowing around, posing both aesthetic and safety concerns in bear country.
Proximity to water featuresEast Fork Jemez Wild and Scenic River nearby; Jemez Falls is a half-mile hike.
Common complaintsVault toilets are sometimes not well-maintained, trash overflow issues, noise violations during quiet hours.
HostHosts are typically available during peak season and often patrol the grounds.
Campground Map
051 Woodsy Lane, P.O. Box 150, Jemez Springs, NM 87025, USA
Driving directionsFrom Albuquerque: Take Interstate 25 north for 12 miles; exit onto NM State Highway 550 northwest for approximately 20 miles then exit onto NM Highway 4. The campground is accessed off NM Highway 4, approximately 15 miles northeast of Jemez Springs.
There is paved access from the highway and paved internal roads to individual campsites. Trailers and RVs up to 40 feet are allowed.Nearby places
Jemez Springs (15 miles, approximately 20 minutes), Albuquerque (approx. 1.5 hours).
Nearby supplies
Jemez Springs offers basic supplies, but larger markets are available in Albuquerque (approx. 1.5 hours away).
Camper Reviews
4.4
341 reviews
Jemez Falls Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
With an average sentiment score of 4.202, Jemez Falls Campground is generally well-loved for its spacious campsites, beautiful scenery, and proximity to recreational activities. However, recurring complaints about inadequate restroom maintenance and noise from neighboring campers highlight some areas for improvement.
Review Summaries
Based on 341 reviews
What Campers Love
Campsites are spacious and well-spaced, offering privacy. The location is described as peaceful and scenic, with abundant Ponderosa Pines. Proximity to hiking trails and the falls is frequently...
Based on 341 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Frequent issues include poorly maintained vault toilets, overflowing trash bins, and inconsistent enforcement of campground rules. Noise disturbances and a lack of cell service have also been noted....
Based on 341 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own firewood as it is not sold on-site. Reserve early as spots fill quickly. Be prepared for no cellular service in some areas. Avoid camping near the restrooms to minimize exposure to...
Based on 341 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews are generally more positive during weekdays when the campground is less crowded. Complaints about noise and restroom cleanliness increase during busy weekends and holiday periods.
Based on 341 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Very pretty. I love the tall trees."
"Bathrooms were clean. Will definitely be returning!"
"Bring a good sweater, the nights we're much cooler than expected."
"Vault toilets are good. Water was...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site 28 in Loop 2 is near a trailhead, which may lead to privacy concerns: "Site 28 in Loop 2 had a trailhead right next to it, so you kind of feel you are walking through that site to get to the...
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Accessibility Features
Few reviews explicitly address accessibility, but Loop 1 Site 2 is noted for proximity to a wheelchair-accessible vault toilet and drinking water.
Based on 341 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed. Few reviews mention specific pet-related facilities or experiences.
Based on 341 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025