Paliza
Open weekends only (Friday through Sunday) from May through mid-October. Reservations required via Recreation.gov starting in 2026. Stage 1 Fire Restrictions are in effect through September 30, 2026. No potable water 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…
Emergency Stage II Fire Restrictions
Order Number:03-10-00-26-06U.S. Department of Agriculture, U.S. Forest ServiceSanta Fe National Forest Emergency Stage II Fire RestrictionsPROHIBITIONS Pursuant to 16 U.S.C § 551 and 36 C.F.R § 261.50(a), the following are prohibited on all National Forest System lands (NFS) in the Santa Fe…
Temporary Area Closure Order for McCauley Springs Fire
U.S. Department of Agriculture, U.S. Forest Service Santa Fe National ForestJemez Ranger DistrictTemporary Area Closure Order for McCauley Springs FirePROHIBITIONSPursuant to 16 U.S.C. § 551 and 36 C.F.R. § 261.50 (a) and (b) the following is prohibited on the National Forest System (NFS) lands…
About
Paliza Campground occupies a forested hilltop in Lower Paliza Canyon, surrounded by ponderosa pines and sandstone cliffs. Originally a 1930s Civilian Conservation Corps base camp, remnants of that era including log lean-tos and Adirondack shelters with rock fireplaces remain within the campground. A small stream runs alongside the property, and the Jemez Valley spreads out below. The campground offers 30 sites, five featuring historic shade shelters. Each site has a picnic table and campfire ring with grill. Vault toilets are available but campers must bring their own water. The campground is designated as reduced-impact, requiring users to pack out trash during the off-season. Dogs are welcome but must remain leashed. Nearby attractions include the town of Ponderosa with its vineyards and winery, the Jemez Pueblo, and the Walatowa Visitor Center. The Cerro Pelado Scenic Overlook is 11 miles away, offering views of an ancient volcanic crater. Numerous hiking, mountain biking, and OHV trails surround the campground.
Directions
From the town of Ponderosa, New Mexico, travel 5 miles northeast on Forest Road 10 to the campground.
Location
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $15 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 35ft |
| Max Trailer Length | 35ft |
| Big Rig Friendly | — |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (505) 438-5300 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
Photos
Community Posts
No posts yet. Be the first to share your experience!