Lower Hondo Campground
Open for the spring through fall season. Closed seasonally during winter, weather dependent. No potable water on site. Stage 1 fire restrictions are currently in effect across Carson National Forest.
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…
Office Closures on Memorial Day
All offices will be closed May 25, 2026, in observance of the federal holiday, but national forests and grasslands remain open for your enjoyment.
Water Systems Out of Service at Some Recreation Sites
A list of water systems currently offline at recreation sites for seasonal water testing or longer term repairs.
Seasonal Road Restrictions
Seasonal road designations restrict vehicle use throughout the year on different Forest Service roads for different periods of time to protect wintering and calving habitat for big game as well as protecting soil and watersheds.
Gate Closure: Forest Road 476
The gate for Forest Road 476 off Highway 518 is closed during log hauling operations for the McGaffey Project Timber Harvest. It is expected to reopen in June.
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.
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.
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
Lower Hondo Campground is one of three small campgrounds along the scenic paved road (NM 150) leading to Taos Ski Valley in the Carson National Forest. Set in a shaded forest of spruce, fir, and aspen at a relatively high elevation, the campground offers a cool retreat from summer heat and convenient access to high-country recreation. The Rio Hondo runs nearby, providing fishing opportunities for trout. The campground serves as an access point for hiking into both the Columbine-Hondo Wilderness Study Area and the Wheeler Peak Wilderness, home to New Mexico's highest summit at 13,167 feet. The Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway passes through the area. This is a primitive campground with no fees and minimal facilities. A single vault toilet is provided, but there is no potable water, so campers must bring their own water supply. Picnic tables are available at each site. The campground typically experiences heavy use during summer months.
Directions
From Taos, take NM 522 north, then turn right onto NM 150 toward Taos Ski Valley. The campground is approximately 12 miles from Taos along NM 150.
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | — |
| Toilets | Yes |
| 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) 758-6200 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Photos
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