Closed

Closed for the season. Carson National Forest campgrounds typically reopen in spring as temperatures warm and snow melts.

Fireworks, Explosives and Sparks Restrictions

To prevent fires and for public safety order 03-00-23-001 prohibits to 1) possess, discharge, or use any kind of firework or other pyrotechnic devices; 2) use explosives; or 3) operate an internal or external combustion engine without a spark arresting device in effective working order.

Motor Vehicle Order Road Restrictions

The purpose of this Order is for the protection of public health and safety and prohibits: Using any type of vehicle that does not comply with an applicable state law.Using a road for commercial hauling without a permit or written authorization.Operating a vehicle in violation of speed, load,…

Cannabis Possession Prohibited

Order 03-00-00-21-002 prohibits possessing, storing, or transporting a cannabis plant, any part of a cannabis plant, or any substance derived from a cannabis plant within the Southwestern Region National Forests in the State of New Mexico and the National Grasslands in the states of Texas and…

Current Fire Restrictions and Related Prohibitions

A list of temporary fire restrictions subject to daily changes.

Currently Impassable Trails and Trail Sections

A list of trails and trail sections not currently recommended for travel.

Valle Vidal Annual Closures

Annual seasonal closures in the Valle Vidal for the protection of one of New Mexico’s largest elk herds.

Valle Vidal Camping Restrictions

To protect wildlife habitat, camping on or within a half mile of Forest Service roads, or within 100 yards of natural waters or within 300 yards of constructed waters is prohibited in Valle Vidal.

Possession of Domestic Sheep or Goats

To protect bighorn sheep from disease, possessing, storing or transporting any domestic goat or sheep within Wilderness Areas in the Carson NF is prohibited.

Annual Summer Closure of Wheeler Peak, Williams Lake, and Surrounding Area

The following will be closed at a 2026 future date for a week for traditional purposes: Williams Lake (#62), Wheeler Summit (#67), Wheeler Peak (#90) between La Cal Basin and Wheeler Peak, Lost Lake (#91) between Horseshoe Lake and Wheeler Peak.

Seasonal Road Closures

Effective Jan. 1 until May 1 in most cases. See below for details. Closures are intended to protect wintering and calving habitat for big game as well as protecting soil and watershed.

Timber Harvest in Progress Near Pot Creek, Taos

Practice caution on Forest Roads 115A, 115B and 476 with ongoing timber harvest and forest restoration activities, including the use of heavy machinery.

Collapsed Bridge on the West Fork Santa Barbara Trail (#25)

A bridge over the Middle Fork Rio Santa Barbara in the Pecos Wilderness has collapsed. It's located on the West Fork Santa Barbara Trail (#25).

Douglas-Fir Tussock Moth Outbreak

Effects of the outbreak are visible to the south of Taos, N.M., especially near Pot Creek and along Forest Road 476. Proceed with caution when around them, contact can cause symptoms.

Capulin Trail and Related Road Access Closed to Vehicles

The Capulin Trail (#494), as well as a portion of Forest Road 10AA, is temporarily closed to vehicles (motorcycles, ATVs and e-bikes, classes 1-3). For background on the closure, read the news release.

Occupancy and Use

Covers stay limits, alcoholic beverages, parking and public nudity.

Fawn Lakes Drained

Heavy spring runoff in 2019 broke the dam and damaged the sidewalk, pullouts and pier. Forest staff are working with partners to identify funding and options for the future of fishing in this area.The adjacent campground remains open for the spring and summer seasons.

About

Cedar Springs Campground is situated in the Carson National Forest at an elevation of over 7,000 feet, offering visitors a peaceful mountain camping experience. The campground is surrounded by pristine forestry and provides access to clear-cut hiking and biking trails, as well as areas set aside for horseback riding. The location provides opportunities to explore acres of national forest land in a high-elevation setting with crisp, fresh mountain air. The campground is located near Blanco, New Mexico, in Rio Arriba County, and serves as a base camp for exploring the diverse landscapes of Carson National Forest. Like most campgrounds in the Carson National Forest, Cedar Springs operates seasonally and typically reopens in the spring as temperatures warm and snow melts. Visitors should be prepared for cooler temperatures at this elevation and come equipped for primitive camping conditions typical of Forest Service campgrounds in this region. The high-elevation forest setting offers a quiet escape with opportunities for forest recreation activities.

Directions

From Blanco, NM, take US Highway 64 west for approximately 8 miles, passing through Jicarilla Apache Nation land. After crossing a metal cattle guard, you'll enter Carson National Forest. Continue for about 5 miles, following signs to Cedar Springs Campground. The campground is accessible via dirt roads; conditions can vary, so a high-clearance vehicle is recommended.

Amenities

Water
Fires Allowed
Toilets Yes
Dump Station
Wifi No
Pets Allowed Yes
Showers No
Electric Hookups No
Water Hookups No
Sewer Hookups No
Camp Store No
Price $0

Vehicle

Max RV Length
Max Trailer Length
Big Rig Friendly
Pull Through Sites

Cell Service

AT&T None
Verizon None
T-Mobile None

Community Posts

No posts yet. Be the first to share your experience!