Cabresto Lake Campground

About

Cabresto Lake Campground offers a secluded high-elevation camping experience in the Carson National Forest, surrounded by the peaks of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The four semi-dispersed sites sit at 9,500 feet on a level ridge with views of the 15-acre Cabresto Lake below. This is primitive camping with a single vault toilet and no potable water, so campers must pack in all water and supplies. The campground serves as a basecamp for hiking into the Latir Peak Wilderness via the Lake Fork Trail, which departs from the shared parking area. A 4-mile trail leads to Heart Lake for those seeking backcountry solitude. Anglers are drawn to Cabresto Lake as one of New Mexico's few brook trout fisheries. Non-motorized boats such as single kayaks and inflatables are allowed, though reaching the shore requires navigating a steep slope from the parking area. Access requires driving 5 miles northeast of Questa on Forest Road 134, then 2 miles north on Forest Road 134A. The final 2 miles are on a primitive road unsuitable for low-clearance vehicles or large RVs. The campground operates first-come, first-served with no reservations.

Directions

5 miles northeast of Questa on Forest Road 134, then 2 miles north on Forest Road 134A. The last 2 miles on Forest Road 134A are on a primitive road unsuitable for low-clearance vehicles.