Panchuela
4.3515 reviewsPanchuela
$5.00 - $5.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$5.00
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
Tent sites and shelter sites are priced at $5.00 per night during peak season (mid-May to late November). Fees do not include taxes or discounts.
About this campground
Tucked away at 8,300 feet in the Santa Fe National Forest, Panchuela Campground offers an intimate escape where the melodic whispers of Panchuela Creek set the rhythm for your mountain adventure. This charming walk-in campground serves as your gateway to the pristine Pecos Wilderness, where anglers cast lines into crystal-clear waters and hikers discover trails that wind through some of New Mexico's most breathtaking backcountry.
Panchuela Campground supports tent camping with both primitive and shelter-equipped sites, offering a mix of options for different preferences. RVs and group-specific accommodations are not supported.
Historical SignificanceHistory echoes through these mountains, where rustic Forest Service cabins still shelter rangers who protect this wilderness heritage. Just 50 minutes down winding mountain roads, the Pecos National Historical Park preserves layers of human stories—from ancient Pueblo ruins to Civil War battlefields—offering a fascinating day trip that connects centuries of Southwestern culture.
Weather and SeasonsHere in the embrace of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, summer nights carry a refreshing mountain chill that calls for cozy campfires and warm sleeping bags. When autumn arrives, the landscape transforms into a living masterpiece as aspens paint the hillsides in brilliant shades of gold, creating a photographer's paradise and drawing leaf-peepers from across the Southwest.
ElevationPerched at 8,300 feet above sea level, this mountain sanctuary delivers the crisp, pine-scented air and panoramic vistas that make the Sangre de Cristo range legendary. The elevation creates a natural air conditioning system, offering welcome relief from summer heat while treating visitors to spectacular sunrise and sunset displays across the surrounding peaks.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to the gentle symphony of Panchuela Creek as it tumbles over smooth stones, while towering conifers and shimmering aspens create a natural cathedral overhead. This pristine wilderness corridor serves as a living room for the mountains' most majestic residents—graceful mule deer graze in meadow clearings, bugling elk announce the changing seasons, and the occasional black bear reminds visitors they're guests in a wild and wonderful ecosystem.
Geological RegionPositioned at the doorstep of the legendary Pecos Wilderness within Santa Fe National Forest, where ancient geological forces sculpted dramatic peaks and carved deep valleys that today offer endless exploration opportunities
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible features include vault toilets, drinking water spigots, and walkways. However, information specific to campers with disabilities is not detailed.
Sites SizeThe campsites are described as spacious with enough room for tents and additional gear. "We only brought one tent, but there was a second flat area that would accommodate another." - Laura M (8/12/2021).
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site. "Site #5 is the most secluded," while "Site #4 offers good privacy," according to user reviews.
Total Campsites6 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite #5 is the most secluded but farthest from parking, approximately 100 yards away. Wheelbarrows are available for transporting gear.
Best CampsitesSites along Panchuela Creek are considered highly desirable due to the soothing proximity to water (sites #1, #2, and #5).
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 nights per visit.
Groups
No designated group sites are available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutWalk-in campground with six units. Four campsites are situated near Panchuela Creek.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen mid-May through mid-November.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are available as walk-in only. No horse trailers allowed, and parking is limited to one vehicle per reservation.
Cancellation PolicyReservation changes or cancellations can be made ahead of arrival date. A $10 fee applies for changes involving different dates. Late cancellations incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's use fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Panchuela Campground is an excellent base for outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The nearby Panchuela Trailhead provides access to the expansive Pecos Wilderness trail system. Fishing is a highlight, with opportunities at Cowles Fishing Pond, the Pecos River, and Panchuela Creek. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot deer, elk, songbirds, raptors, and even black bears.
Hiking
Hiking is a major activity, with trails originating from the Panchuela Trailhead and nearby Winsor Trailheads, offering scenic views and access to the Pecos Wilderness. "Nice hike, a little less than 3 miles one way, to the caves on Cave Creek." - Mary D (8/27/2021)Fishing
Fishing is popular along Panchuela Creek, the Pecos River, and at Cowles Fishing Pond. "We caught and released a couple of tiny trout here, but since they don't stock that far up, it's not as good as the fishing just down the road in the Pecos River." - Laura M (8/12/2021)Wildlife viewing
Wildlife spotted in the area includes deer, elk, songbirds, raptors, and the occasional black bear. "Dozens of happy hummingbirds, and a stoat even joined us for our morning coffee." - Samuel I (6/7/2021)Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire rings and fire grills are provided at campsites.
Hazards
General hazardsRain may cause pooling in shelters, muddy conditions, and drainage issues; black bears have been spotted occasionally.
Weather forecast
65
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 33%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 4.3 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
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 13-November 24
Trash and recyclingTrash bins are located at the parking lot, close to the vault toilets.
Proximity to water featuresFour campsites are located along Panchuela Creek, suitable for creekside relaxation and fishing.
Common complaintsIssues with rain drainage and muddy conditions within shelters were noted, particularly at site #1. Some reviewers cited lack of proper grading and proximity of fire rings to tent areas.
HostMultiple reviewers praised the helpfulness of hosts such as Jim and Terrance. Hosts maintain cleanliness and assist visitors.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom the town of Pecos, head north on NM-63 for 19 miles. Make a slight left onto Windsor Road and stay on it for .2 miles, then make a right onto Pachuela Road and follow it for 1.5 miles and you will arrive at the parking area. Panchuela Road is a single lane road with pull-outs, please follow speed limit and watch out for horseback riders and pedestrians.
The single-lane Panchuela Road includes pull-outs for vehicles. Drivers should be cautious of potholes, horseback riders, and pedestrians.Camper Reviews
4.4
15 reviews
Panchuela is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the scenic beauty, cleanliness, and the helpfulness of the site hosts. Campers frequently note the tranquility of the creek-side sites and the opportunities for hiking and fishing. Some critiques mention occasional maintenance issues with shelters and the impact of weather conditions.
Review Summaries
Based on 15 reviews
What Campers Love
Scenic views, creek-side sites, clean facilities, friendly and helpful campground hosts, excellent hiking and fishing opportunities.
Based on 15 reviewsCommon Concerns
Maintenance issues with some shelters, muddy conditions during rain, and flies in certain seasons.
Based on 15 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring a wagon or handtruck for transporting gear. Sites #1, #2, and #5 are recommended for creek access, while Site #4 offers more privacy. Avoid heavy monsoon seasons if possible.
Based on 15 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Campers enjoy summer wildflowers, butterflies, and moderate temperatures but note cold nights and muddy conditions during monsoons. Fall brings golden foliage and cooler weather.
Based on 15 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The host was welcoming and helpful, the location clean, restrooms clean." - Meredith B (7/22/2021). "None of the pictures actually do this site justice; it’s even better in person." - Sebastian V...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #1: Closest to the parking lot, next to the creek, described as charming but less shaded. Site #5: Most secluded and furthest from parking. Site #4: Offers privacy. Unit 1 Shelter has drainage...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews addressing accessibility features were provided.
Based on 15 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but no specific reviews mentioned pet-related experiences.
Based on 15 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025