Hopewell Lake Campground
4.1465 reviewsHopewell Lake Campground
$24.00 - $125.00 / 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$125.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees vary per site type: Standard Nonelectric sites are $24 per night, Group Shelter Nonelectric is $100 per day, Group Standard Nonelectric is $125 per day, and Equestrian Nonelectric sites are $24 per night.
About this campground
Nestled high in the clouds at 9,500 feet, Hopewell Lake Campground beckons adventurers to discover its crystalline waters and mountain serenity in the heart of Carson National Forest. This alpine sanctuary invites you to cast a line for trout at dawn, paddle across mirror-still waters, or explore winding trails on foot or horseback while breathing in the crisp mountain air that defines life above the treeline.
Hopewell Lake Campground provides a range of camping options including standard non-electric sites, group sites, and equestrian sites.
Historical Significancenull
Weather and SeasonsExperience the refreshing embrace of true mountain weather, where summer days offer perfect respite from lowland heat and evenings require a cozy campfire and warm layers as temperatures dip to a crisp 40°F. While winter transforms this landscape into a snow-laden wonderland, the sweet spot for camping unfolds during mid-summer months, when wildflowers bloom and the lake sparkles under endless blue skies.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 9,500 feet above sea level, this sky-high retreat offers the rare chance to camp among the clouds. The thin mountain air adds an invigorating edge to every activity, though newcomers to altitude should take it easy their first day and stay well-hydrated as they acclimate to this lofty paradise.
Natural Features and SceneryA tapestry of towering conifers and shimmering aspens creates a natural amphitheater around this 14-acre mountain jewel. Though crafted by human hands, Hopewell Lake has matured into a seamless part of the landscape, its waters reflecting the surrounding forest canopy and offering sanctuary to rainbow and brown trout. Dappled sunlight filters through the partial shade, creating an ever-changing play of light and shadow across your campsite.
Geological RegionSet within the majestic expanse of Carson National Forest, this high-altitude haven showcases the dramatic beauty of New Mexico's northern mountains. At 9,500 feet, the campground occupies a unique ecological niche where hardy conifers mingle with dancing aspens, creating a diverse forest ecosystem that thrives in the thin mountain air and showcases the rugged splendor of the Southern Rockies.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility options are limited but include equestrian-specific accommodations like horse corrals and water troughs. Some reviews mention issues with accessibility for certain groups, such as tent campers due to limited level ground.
Sites SizeThe campground features spacious campsites with varying sizes. "Lots of room for most rigs" (Review by J.M.).
Sites PrivacySpaces between sites provide some level of privacy, though user reviews highlight variability: "Nice campground with somewhat private spaces" (Review by Erin Semler).
Total Campsites31 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites further from communal areas for privacy, such as Site 25, or equestrian sites if traveling with horses.
Best CampsitesSite 25 is noted for beautiful views. Sites surrounded by trees provide privacy.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
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Check-out
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Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 nights within a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
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Groups
Group sites are available for reservation and accommodate larger parties. Rates are $100/day for the group shelter and $125/day for group overnight use.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampground consists of 31 sites, some reservable and some first-come, first-served. Sites accommodate tents, RVs, and equestrian setups.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season is May 16 to September 14 annually, weather permitting.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online at Recreation.gov or by contacting the facility directly.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites are first-come, first-served and must be booked in person on-site.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before the check-in date for a refund minus a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations may incur additional penalties, such as forfeiting the first night's recreation 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
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts with activities like hiking, fishing, canoeing, and horseback riding. The Continental Divide Trail runs through the campground, offering hikers breathtaking views.
Hiking
Hiking is one of the highlights of the campground, with trails such as the Continental Divide Trail traversing the area. "Hiked the few trails that were available and had a restful weekend" (Review by Mary W).Fishing
Fishing is frequently enjoyed at Hopewell Lake, stocked regularly with rainbow and brook trout. However, recent reviews note challenges with moss in the lake affecting fishing quality: "The lake is full of moss, and no one was catching anything" (Review by Veronica Lucero).Boating
The 14-acre lake is suitable for canoeing and non-motorized boating activities.Wildlife viewing
The campground offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, including elk, deer, and grouse. "Saw elk and wild turkeys" (Review by Scott Shumaker).Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned in the source material.Water Sports
Canoeing is the primary water sport available at Hopewell Lake.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires must be contained in designated ground-level fire rings.
- Quiet hours are null
Hazards
General hazardsFrequent bear activity requires strict adherence to food storage rules. The high altitude poses challenges for visitors not acclimated.
Active alertsCurrently (May 2024), there is no water available on-site; visitors must bring their own water.
Weather forecast
51
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 60%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 4.1 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
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Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16 - September 14
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities include dumpsters and bear-proof trash cans, though some cans are non-functional. "The small brown-metal bear-proof trash cans are screwed shut" (Review by A Smith).
Proximity to water featuresHopewell Lake is within walking distance of the campground, offering fishing and canoeing opportunities.
Common complaintsWater unavailability is a recurring issue. Bathrooms are occasionally poorly maintained, and some visitors have reported host-related disputes.
HostCampground hosts are provided but opinions vary. Some reviewers noted helpful hosts, while others reported issues like unregulated rules and unhelpful attitudes.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Taos, New Mexico, take U.S. 64 about 40 miles west. The campground is on the south side of the road.
The campground is accessible via U.S. 64, a paved highway; no specific seasonal closures or challenging terrain were noted.Nearby places
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Nearby supplies
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Camper Reviews
4.1
65 reviews
Hopewell Lake Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Hopewell Lake Campground range widely, with positive sentiments emphasizing its natural beauty, spacious sites, and abundant recreational opportunities. However, recurring issues include water unavailability, cleanliness of restrooms, and inconsistent campground management.
Review Summaries
Based on 65 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects mentioned by users include the campground's scenic location at 9,500 feet elevation, spacious sites, proximity to the Continental Divide Trail, excellent wildlife viewing, and...
Based on 65 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include the frequent absence of potable water, poorly maintained restrooms, unregulated generator use, and issues with campground hosts. "Restrooms were dirty and fly infested" (Review by...
Based on 65 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend bringing sufficient water and supplies due to frequent water outages, visiting during weekdays to avoid crowds, and reserving sites in advance due to high demand.
Based on 65 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer months are generally preferred for camping due to cooler temperatures and active wildlife. Winter and transitional seasons tend to be less popular due to closures and limited amenities.
Based on 65 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The camp grounds are heavenly. Lots of room for most rigs" (Review by J.M.), "Campsites sat empty while campers drove around trying to find a spot" (Review by Girl Scout).
Based on 65 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews illustrate mixed experiences, with some praising site privacy and spacing, while others criticize uneven ground and lack of level space.
Based on 65 reviewsAccessibility Features
Some reviews highlight limited accessibility options, particularly for tent campers due to uneven or sloped areas.
Based on 65 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, with some users expressing concerns over off-leash animals managed by the campground host. "Camp Host walking around with her dog off-leash" (Review by Ronald N).
Based on 65 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025