El Rito Campground--group Shelter
Open for the season, which typically runs May 1 through October 1. Reservations available through Recreation.gov. Check-in at 1:00 PM, check-out at 11:00 AM. Quiet hours 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
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…
Closure of Hopewell Lake Campground/Day Use Area, Portion of Continental Divide Trail
Rebabilitation of Hopewell Lake recreation facilities will prompt a closure beginning August 17, 2026. The following will be closed:Hopewell Lake CampgroundHopewell Lake Day Use AreaContinental Divide National Scenic Trail between Hopewell Lake Campground and Highway 64Forest Service Roads 356 and…
About
El Rito Campground Group Shelter is a reservable group site tucked along the banks of El Rito Creek in Carson National Forest at 7,600 feet elevation. The surrounding landscape features pinon, cottonwood, spruce, juniper, and gambel oak, with striking red cliffs visible across the creek. The shelter accommodates up to 75 people and includes a large covered structure with a pedestal grill, seven picnic tables (four at the shelter and three dispersed), and three campfire rings throughout the site. The site allows up to five RV trailers and offers ample space for tent camping. A vault toilet and trash receptacle are provided, but campers must bring their own drinking water as no potable water is available. Quiet hours are enforced from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM, and bands or DJ services are prohibited due to the shelter's proximity to nearby campgrounds and residences. The nearby creek offers fishing opportunities and a chance to cool off on hot days. Wildlife in the area may include mule deer, squirrels, chipmunks, and raccoons, with occasional bear or mountain lion sightings. Rock climbing areas exist nearby for experienced climbers with proper equipment.
Directions
From El Rito, travel approximately 5 miles northwest via NM 110 and Forest Road 559.
Location
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | — |
| Wifi | — |
| Pets Allowed | — |
| Showers | — |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | — |
| Price | $75 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | — |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (575) 581-4554 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Useful Links
| View on Recreation.gov | |
| Carson NF El Rito Campground |
Availability
Photos
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