El Rito
Open for the season. The campground operates spring through fall with dates weather-dependent, typically May 1 through October 1. All sites are first-come, first-served with no reservations required and no fee. No potable water or restrooms available.
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 Prescribed Fire Activity and Plans
The following prescribed fires are tentatively scheduled:NameNearby LocationPotential Start DateAcresInformationUnit G Pile BurnTurley MillPostponed74Press ReleaseLearn more about prescribed fires on Carson National Forest.
Forest Road 639South Road Restriction
Vehicles will be restricted on Forest Road 639South near Truchas, N.M., from October 1 at 6:00 a.m. to October 14 at 11:59 p.m. during a road improvement project. Work includes road reconditioning, drain dip construction and the removal or replacement of several culverts.Non-motorized access will…
About
El Rito Campground is a free, primitive campground located along El Rito Creek in the Carson National Forest, approximately 5 miles northwest of the small village of El Rito in northern New Mexico. At 7,600 feet elevation, the 11 campsites sit among pinon, cottonwood, spruce, juniper, and gambel oak, providing a scenic creekside setting that draws summer visitors. The campground is popular primarily for its fishing access. El Rito Creek supports brown trout in its lower reaches, while Rio Grande cutthroat trout can be found above Salvador Canyon. Day hiking is also available in the surrounding area. Wildlife in the area includes mule deer, squirrels, chipmunks, and raccoons, with occasional sightings of bears or mountain lions. This is a true primitive campground with no restrooms and no potable water. Campers must bring all their own water and be prepared for backcountry conditions. A group shelter with additional facilities is available by reservation for larger gatherings. Despite the lack of amenities, the campground sees heavy use during summer months due to its accessible location and quality fishing.
Directions
5 miles northwest of El Rito via NM 110 and FR 559
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | — |
| Toilets | No |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | — |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $0 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | — |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (575) 581-4554 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
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