Upper / Lower Lagunitas Campgrounds

Open

The upper campground is open year-round. The lower campground and restrooms operate seasonally from spring through fall, with exact dates weather-dependent. Restrooms anticipated to open by May 23, 2026. Roads are not plowed in winter. No potable water available; campers must bring their own water supply.

Carson National Forest

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…

Carson National Forest

Offices Closed July 3

All Carson National Offices are closed on federal holidays, including in observance of Independence Day on July 3 and the Fourth of July weekend. Some services are available online:Firewood PermitsCampground ReservationsCurrent Fire Restrictions

Carson National Forest

Closed: Supervisor's Office (Taos) June 30 and July 1

The Supervisor's Office in Taos is closed to public services the week of June 29, 2026, due to unplanned staffing issues. We apologize for the inconvenience.Some services are available online:Firewood PermitsCampground ReservationsCurrent Fire Restrictions

About

Upper/Lower Lagunitas Campgrounds occupy a spectacular setting at 10,400 feet elevation in the Carson National Forest, positioned adjacent to the breathtaking Cruces Basin Wilderness. The campgrounds offer 12 sites split between upper and lower areas, shaded by spruce-fir and aspen forests that provide welcome relief from summer heat. The location is ideal for backcountry recreation, with direct access to alpine lakes, fishing, and hiking trails into the wilderness. This is a true primitive camping experience with vault toilet facilities but no potable water; campers must bring all drinking water. The remote setting and light usage make it an excellent choice for solitude seekers. Access requires a 26-mile drive northwest from Tres Piedras via US 64 and Forest Road 87. The upper campground remains accessible year-round, though winter visitors should note that roads are not plowed and conditions can be challenging at this elevation. The lower campground and restrooms operate seasonally, typically spring through fall depending on weather conditions.

Directions

26 miles northwest of Tres Piedras via US 64 and Forest Road 87.

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) 758-8678

Cell Service

AT&T None
Verizon None
T-Mobile None

Photos

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