Elephant Rock Campground
4.57100 reviewsElephant Rock Campground
$22.00 - $22.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$22.00
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
Nightly rates for the standard nonelectric sites are $22. Peak season rates apply between May 23 and September 11, and first-come, first-served policies apply during off-peak seasons. Additional fees include an $8 reservation fee online, $9 if booked through the contact center, and $3 if made in person.
About this campground
Discover your mountain sanctuary at Elephant Rock Campground, where 20 thoughtfully designed single campsites await beneath a canopy of towering evergreens. Perched at 8,400 feet in the heart of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, this hidden gem invites you to wake up to the whisper of wind through ponderosa pines and the gentle rustling of aspen leaves. Each site comes complete with its own fire ring for evening storytelling, a sturdy picnic table for memorable meals, and a level tent pad for restful nights under star-filled skies. Fresh mountain water flows from convenient spigots throughout the campground, while well-maintained vault toilets ensure comfort during your stay. Whether you're seeking adventure in nearby Red River and Questa or simply yearning for a peaceful retreat among the firs and spruces, Elephant Rock serves as your perfect basecamp for mountain memories.
Elephant Rock Campground primarily accommodates tent and small RV camping. No cabins or glamping options are available.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the magic of high-altitude camping from late May through early September, when Elephant Rock truly comes alive. Summer days greet you with brilliant sunshine and temperatures perfect for hiking and exploring, while evenings invite you to bundle up around the campfire as mountain air brings refreshing coolness. The campground's prime season runs from May 23 through September 11, offering ideal conditions for outdoor enthusiasts. As autumn approaches, golden aspens paint the landscape before winter transforms the area into a snow-blanketed wonderland, closing the campground until spring's return.
ElevationAt 8,400 feet above sea level, Elephant Rock Campground offers a true high-country experience that refreshes both body and spirit. This elevation gifts campers with naturally air-conditioned summers, where daytime temperatures rarely climb uncomfortably high, and nights require a cozy sleeping bag or extra blanket. The thin mountain air adds an extra sparkle to already brilliant stars, while winter months transform the landscape into a pristine snowscape that closes the campground but creates a winter wonderland for those who venture into the surrounding forest.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living postcard where majestic ponderosa pines stretch skyward, their vanilla-scented bark telling stories of centuries past. The campground's natural amphitheater showcases a stunning diversity of trees – from quaking aspens that shimmer gold in autumn to stately firs and spruces that provide year-round emerald beauty. Artfully placed stone terracing throughout several campsites creates intimate spaces that blend seamlessly with the mountain landscape. The melodic murmur of the nearby Red River provides a natural soundtrack to your stay, while the encompassing Sangre de Cristo Mountains paint dramatic backdrops for sunrise coffee and sunset contemplation.
Geological RegionNestled within the vast expanse of Carson National Forest, Elephant Rock Campground claims its place in the legendary Sangre de Cristo Mountains of northern New Mexico. This geological wonderland showcases nature's architectural mastery through ancient rock formations and forest ecosystems that have evolved over millennia. The campground's distinctive stone terracing reflects the area's rich geological heritage, while the diverse forest community of ponderosa pines, aspens, firs, and spruces tells the story of elevation changes and microclimates unique to this mountain sanctuary. Here, where the high desert meets alpine environments, campers witness firsthand the dramatic transitions that make the Sangre de Cristo range one of the Southwest's most treasured landscapes.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe Fawn Lakes Trail, located 0.3 miles from the campground, meets accessibility guidelines. Campsites have terraced designs that may accommodate some accessibility needs.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious, with 'plenty of room to move around,' and suitable for trailers up to 25 feet. Larger rigs may encounter difficulties due to narrow access roads and boulder placements.
Sites PrivacyThe sites are well-spaced, providing privacy. Reviews noted 'not stacked on top of one another' and 'nicely spaced.'
Total Campsites20 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor privacy and good views, sites 15, 16, and 17 are ideal. Site 12 is spacious and suitable for families.
Best CampsitesSites 6, 15, 16, 17, and 18 are frequently recommended for their spaciousness and scenic location.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Groups
No group sites are explicitly mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of a single loop that meanders up a hillside. Some sites feature stone terracing.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season: May 23 - September 11 (reservable); September 12 - September 30 (first-come, first-served). The campground is closed from October to May 7.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityDuring the first-come, first-served season (September 12 to September 30), campers must book sites in person. Walk-up availability is not guaranteed during peak season due to high demand.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made any time prior to the scheduled arrival date. Late cancellations (starting from midnight a day before check-in) incur a $10 fee plus forfeiture of the first night's fee. Changes outside of the original reservation dates also carry a $10 change fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Elephant Rock Campground offers a range of recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy fishing in the Red River and Eagle Rock Lake, hiking on nearby Fawn Lakes Trail, and exploring scenic roadside stops. Wildlife viewing is popular, with chipmunks, squirrels, birds, and deer frequently sighted. Biking and other day trips, such as exploring the Enchanted Circle, are also available.
Hiking
The Fawn Lakes Trail, located just 0.3 miles from the campground, meets accessibility guidelines. Hiking enthusiasts also venture into the 'surrounding high country,' with trails offering varied difficulty and scenic views.Fishing
Fishing is a highlight due to the well-stocked Red River across the road and nearby Eagle Rock Lake. Reviewers mentioned 'great fishing opportunities.'Biking
Biking is a common activity, with one review stating, 'Did some biking and just base camped here.'Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a popular activity. Visitors reported seeing chipmunks, squirrels, birds, and deer.Winter Activities
Winter camping may be possible, but facilities are limited. Free camping is available during the off-season, provided visitors leave their vehicles along the highway and walk in.Water Sports
Limited to fishing as no other water-based recreational activities were specified.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed but must comply with fire safety regulations.
- Quiet hours are enforced but specific times are not mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsFrequent bear activity necessitates strict food storage rules. Large RVs may face difficulty navigating the access roads due to steep inclines and tight turns.
Weather forecast
66
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Moderate rain showers
Precipitation: 3.9%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 57%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 9.7 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Very Light Rain - (3.90% chance)
Slight drizzle possible
Moderate rain showers
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
Closest emergency services are in Red River (about 3 miles away). This includes a police department and basic medical facilities. For larger emergencies, Taos (approximately 36 miles away) may have better-equipped hospitals.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23 - September 11.
Trash and recyclingNo specific recycling facilities were mentioned. General trash disposal is available, and the campground is described as clean and organized.
Proximity to water featuresThe Red River flows near the campground but is not directly accessible. Eagle Rock Lake is also nearby for fishing.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include noise from Highway 38 and occasional overcrowding during peak season.
HostCamp hosts Alan and Cara generally receive positive reviews for their friendliness and helpfulness, although some visitors report intrusive behavior during certain seasons.
Campground Map
Driving directionsThe campground is located 12 miles east of Questa, New Mexico via NM highway 38 or 3 miles west of Red River, New Mexico via NM highway 38.
Elephant Rock Campground is conveniently located right off NM Highway 38, making it easily accessible. The road access is paved, ensuring smooth travel. The campground is accessible through a loop configuration that is steep in places, but manageable for most vehicles. Large RVs over 26 feet may face difficulty navigating the drop-offs and tight turns.Nearby places
Questa (12 miles, approximately 20 minutes), Red River (3 miles, approximately 5 minutes), Taos (36 miles, approximately 60 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies like groceries and camping essentials are available in Red River, just 3 miles away. Additional options for supplies exist in Questa.
Camper Reviews
4.6
100 reviews
Elephant Rock Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground is widely praised for its cleanliness, scenic beauty, and friendly hosts. However, road noise and occasional overcrowding during peak times are noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 100 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive experiences include 'clean bathrooms,' 'spacious campsites,' 'friendly camp hosts,' and the availability of potable water and firewood.
Based on 100 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common issues include road noise from the nearby highway, lack of showers, occasional challenges with cell service, and some noise from other campers.
Based on 100 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring cash or checks for payment, as no cards are accepted. Arrive early for first-come, first-served sites. Larger RVs may struggle with the access roads.
Based on 100 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season, with campers enjoying cool temperatures and the surrounding natural beauty. Winter camping is possible but less convenient due to limited facilities.
Based on 100 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Great campsite in Red River, NM. The camp hosts were excellent. The vault toilets are clean.' (Chris Cordes, 2020)
2. 'Beautiful mountains, fresh air, and 2 lakes with Red River up the road make...
Based on 100 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #12 is spacious and private but close to the highway, leading to some noise. Site #11 offers seclusion and wildlife viewing, but poor drainage during rain. Sites #6, 17, and 18 are highly...
Based on 100 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
The terraced design of campsites aids accessibility, but narrow roads and steep entries may pose challenges for some visitors.
Based on 100 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and several reviews mention enjoyable experiences with dogs. However, one review noted noise from multiple dogs at a neighboring site.
Based on 100 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025