Agua Piedra Campground
4.4689 reviewsAgua Piedra Campground
$24.00 - $150.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$24.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$150.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $24 for a single site to $125-$150 for group shelters depending on the number of occupants (up to 50 or up to 100). Peak season rates apply from May 23 through September 11. First-come, first-served rates apply outside of the reservable season.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of Carson National Forest, Agua Piedra Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of mountain serenity and adventure. Here, the melodic rush of Rio Pueblo River provides the soundtrack to unforgettable camping experiences, while trails to the pristine Serpent Lake and dramatic Cordova Canyon promise day-long explorations. Whether you're seeking solitude at a single site, planning a family getaway at a double site, or organizing a memorable group gathering, this mountain haven offers shaded sanctuaries beneath towering spruce, fir, and aspen canopies.
Agua Piedra Campground offers diverse camping options including standard non-electric individual sites, larger double sites, and accessible group shelters. Sites vary in privacy and size, accommodating a wide range of campers.
Weather and SeasonsPerched at 8,100 feet, Agua Piedra offers a refreshing escape from summer heat, where crisp mountain air transforms evenings into natural air conditioning and daytime temperatures hover at that perfect hiking-weather sweet spot. July brings the drama of monsoon season, when afternoon thunderstorms roll across the peaks, filling the air with the scent of rain-soaked pine. As autumn approaches, wise campers pack extra layers for those first magical mornings when frost crystals dust the landscape like nature's glitter.
ElevationAt 8,100 feet above sea level, Agua Piedra Campground exists in that magical elevation where summer heat surrenders to mountain coolness. Here, evening campfires become gathering places not just for warmth but for stargazing under crystalline skies, while late-season visitors might wake to discover Jack Frost's delicate artwork adorning their tent fly.
Natural Features and SceneryAgua Piedra unfolds like a living postcard of New Mexico's high country, where ancient spruce and fir stand sentinel alongside shimmering aspens that dance in mountain breezes. The landscape pulses with life—from emerald meadows carpeted with wildflowers to the sparkling ribbon of Rio Pueblo weaving through the valley below. Every campsite offers its own window into this verdant mountain tapestry, where morning mist rises through the forest canopy and evening light transforms the scenery into pure gold.
Geological RegionCradled within Carson National Forest's embrace, Agua Piedra Campground sits at the confluence of natural wonders where Rio Pueblo meets Agua Piedra Creek. This 8,100-foot mountain sanctuary showcases nature's architectural brilliance through its diverse forest ecosystem—towering spruce and fir create cathedral-like groves while aspens add their signature shimmer. The elevation gifts campers with a natural climate control system, ensuring comfortable days and refreshingly cool nights that make sleeping under the stars an irresistible prospect.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes accessible group shelters, vault toilets, and flat tent pads in many individual campsites. Group shelter "A" is designed for up to 50 people, while shelter "B" accommodates up to 100.
Sites SizeThe campground offers a variety of site sizes ranging from single-family sites to large group shelters accommodating up to 100 people.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies across the campground; some sites are moderately spaced apart while others are clustered together. One user noted, "The campsites on the upper loop further east are a bit more private," while others complained about sites "stacked right on top of each other."
Total Campsites40 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSome sites are better suited for RVs than tents due to uneven ground (e.g., Site #24). The upper loop and sites on the east provide more privacy. Avoid sites like #26, which lack tent space.
Best CampsitesSite #21 has been praised for its view of wildflowers and proximity to a creek. The upper loop offers more privacy and isolation according to user feedback.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 consecutive nights year-round.
Groups
Two group shelters are available by reservation. Shelter "A" accommodates up to 50 people, while shelter "B" accommodates up to 100. Both shelters include accessible vault toilets, tables, and fire rings with grills.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutA mix of single, double, and group sites spread across loops. Some sites require climbing stairs.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 23 to September 11. Reservations start June 25 and end September 11. First-come, first-served access occurs before and after the peak season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov, via their website or mobile app.
Walk-in AvailabilityAvailable during first-come, first-served seasons; these sites must be booked in person and availability cannot be checked by phone.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies, along with forfeiture of the first night's fee for late cancellations. Late cancellations are defined as changes made after midnight the day before check-in for individual sites or within 14 days for group shelters.
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
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers diverse recreational activities including hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and streamside relaxation. The Rio Pueblo River provides fishing opportunities for rainbow trout, while hiking trails like Serpent Lake and Cordova Canyon are popular among visitors. Wildlife viewing is also a notable activity, with chipmunks and birds frequently seen. "The meadow at the top of the Indian Lake Trail was amazing," noted one visitor.
Hiking
Hiking is one of the most popular activities at Agua Piedra, with trails leading to Serpent Lake, Cordova Canyon, and Indian Lake. One reviewer said, "The hike up to Indian Lake is a MUST!!!" Another described the meadow at the top as "amazing." Trails vary in difficulty, and one user advised downloading maps ahead of arrival due to lack of cell service.Fishing
Fishing in the Rio Pueblo River is a favorite activity. The river is stocked with rainbow trout and includes an accessible dock. One user noted, "There is no good fishing area by the campsite, but you can fish in multiple places."Biking
Biking opportunities exist around the campground, with one reviewer mentioning it as a good activity. "Beautiful area. Good bicycling opportunities," noted a user.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is common, with chipmunks, birds, and occasional cows spotted. "Lots of cute chipmunks hiding out under the stairs at various campsites," as one user observed.Winter Activities
Winter activities were not explicitly mentioned, though the campground's altitude and location might suggest potential for snowshoeing or other winter recreation.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports were not mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted in designated fire rings at each site.
- Quiet hours are Enforced but inconsistently followed according to user feedback. No specific times provided.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include bears, steep stairs at some sites, and smelly sulfuric water at drinking faucets. Poison ivy has been reported at specific sites like #21.
Weather forecast
70
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 52%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 12.7 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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 are accessible at Taos, NM (25 miles away) or Espanola, NM (45 miles away).
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23 - September 11 (peak season).
Trash and recyclingTrash removal services are provided throughout the campground, but no recycling options were explicitly mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near Rio Pueblo and Agua Piedra Creek, offering fishing opportunities and scenic views.
Common complaintsComplaints include 'rude camp hosts,' issues with water smell and supply, and crowded campsites in certain loops.
HostReviews vary: 'Wonderful camp hosts' (2021) versus 'rude and unhelpful' (2017). Hosts are responsible for selling firewood and maintaining facilities.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Las Vegas, New Mexico, take State Highway 518 approximately 51 miles to the Agua Piedra Campground. From Penasco, New Mexico, travel east on State Route 75 about 5 miles, to an intersection. Turn right, onto State Route 518 (unmarked) and continue about 7 miles to campground entrance. From Taos, head south on NM-68. Turn Left onto NM-518 and stay on it for 23 miles. Agua Piedra Campground will be on your right.
Accessible via paved roads; however, the road near the campground can be 'washboardy,' with potholes requiring slow driving.Nearby places
Sipapu Ski Resort (3 miles), Vadito (5 miles), Penasco (17 miles), Taos (25 miles), Espanola (45 miles).
Nearby supplies
Sipapu Ski Resort (3 miles away) offers essentials like ice and cold drinks. Taos, NM (25 miles away) provides comprehensive services including groceries and fuel.
Camper Reviews
4.5
89 reviews
Agua Piedra Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of Agua Piedra Campground are highly mixed, with many praising the beautiful scenery, clean facilities, and hiking opportunities but noting issues such as rude camp hosts, overcrowded sites, and water quality concerns.
Review Summaries
Based on 89 reviews
What Campers Love
Highlights include clean vault toilets, stunning views, accessible hiking trails, and well-maintained grounds. "The restrooms were close and clean," and "Cleanest pit toilets I've ever had the...
Based on 89 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints often revolved around rude or unhelpful camp hosts, poor water quality (sulfuric smell), crowded campsites, and occasional noise disturbances. "The camp host was RUDE and not helpful at...
Based on 89 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend bringing your own drinking water due to the sulfuric smell, downloading maps before arrival due to lack of cell service, and reserving sites on the upper loop for more privacy. "Bring...
Based on 89 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Spring and early summer reviews emphasize the beauty of wildflowers and cooler temperatures. Late summer reviews highlight occasional noise disturbances, overcrowding, and inconsistent restroom...
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Camper Quotes
"Beautiful camp ground a few miles past Sipapu ski basin. Camping by near the stream and hiked 2.5 miles up to Indian lake." "The vault toilets were clean, and restocked regularly." "No hook-ups, but...
Based on 89 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews include notes like "Avoid #26, there is no place for a tent," and "Site #42 on a slope, not ideal for tent setup." Conversely, "Site #27 was a good site," and "Site #21 was...
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Accessibility Features
Accessible facilities include accessible group shelters and vault toilets. "Group shelter is private and the fireplace in the cabin is clutch," noted one user.
Based on 89 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet-specific sentiments were not widely discussed in the provided reviews.
Based on 89 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025