Open

Open for the 2026 season. Vault toilets reopening by May 23. Stage 1 fire restrictions are in effect through September 30, 2026; campfires are allowed only in Forest Service-provided fire structures at developed sites. No potable water available; bring your own.

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.

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

Rio de Los Pinos Campground occupies a scenic stretch of the Rio de los Pinos in the remote western portion of Carson National Forest, just east of the New Mexico Game and Fish Recreation Area near the Colorado border. At 8,000 feet elevation, the campground is tucked into spruce-fir and aspen forest, offering a cool retreat and excellent trout fishing opportunities directly from camp. The campground has four developed campsites with vault toilets but no potable water. Dispersed camping is also permitted in the surrounding area when the developed sites are occupied. This is a primitive, lightly-used area best suited for self-sufficient campers seeking solitude and river access rather than amenities. The remote location and lack of services keep visitation low. Access requires navigating approximately 15 miles of mixed paved and forest roads southwest from Antonito, Colorado. The final stretch on Forest Road 284 may be rough and is not recommended for large RVs or trailers. Day hikes and backpacking trips into the surrounding high country are available from the campground.

Directions

From Antonito, CO: Head southwest on US 285 for approximately 3 miles, then turn west onto NM State Road 443. Follow SR 443 for approximately 8 miles, then turn onto Forest Road 284 and continue approximately 4 miles to the campground. Total distance is about 15 miles from Antonito.

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 $0

Vehicle

Max RV Length
Max Trailer Length
Big Rig Friendly No
Pull Through Sites

Contact

Phone +1 (575) 758-8678

Cell Service

AT&T None
Verizon None
T-Mobile None

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