Cibola National Forest · Torrance County, New Mexico
Tree-shaded sites along the Red River. Starlit skies over the Sangre de Cristo foothills. A quiet place to breathe, wander, and come home to yourself.
Our Story
Red Canyon Campground rests along the Red River, where the Pecos National Forest meets the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. For decades, families, hikers, and anyone seeking a slower pace have found their way here — and kept coming back.
There are no loud engines or crowded lots. Just pine shade, the sound of moving water, and enough darkness at night to remind you how wide the sky really is. We don't do rush hour. We do river hour.
7,000ft
Elevation
Red
River Access
Year
Round access
The clearest way into the Universe is through a forest wilderness.
— John Muir
Camping Options
Whether you arrive with a full RV or a backpack, there's a place here with your name on it.
Shaded by mature pines and set close enough to the river to hear it overnight. Each site accommodates one tent with room for a small cooler and a camp chair. Fire rings and bear boxes provided.
Pull-through and back-in sites accommodate rigs up to 40 feet. Gravel pads, 30/50 amp electric hookups, and plenty of room to spread out. The river is just beyond the tree line.
What to Do
Cibola National Forest wraps around Red Canyon on every side. Hiking trails begin at the edge of the campground. The Red River runs through the property. Above the treeline, alpine lakes wait for those willing to climb.
Plan Your Visit
Trails range from gentle riverside walks to strenuous climbs above treeline. The Santa Fe National Forest trail system connects directly from here — bring a map and an early start.
The Red River runs right through the campground. Fly fishing for trout in summer, wading in the shallows any time of year. A New Mexico fishing license is required.
High desert air, zero light pollution, and a sky so clear it looks painted. Bring a blanket, a thermos of coffee, and an hour with nowhere else to be.
Elk graze the meadows at dawn. Hawks circle the thermals above the canyon. In autumn, aspen groves turn gold against the red rock. The forest is alive here — quietly, constantly.
Plan Your Visit
Cibola National Forest
Torrance County, NM 87061
United States
Monday – Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday – Sunday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Seasonal hours may vary
From I-25, take exit 215 toward Edgewood / Placitas. Follow NM-4 toward Cochiti Lake. The campground is signed off NM-4, approximately 45 minutes northwest of Albuquerque.
Spring and fall are our quietest, most comfortable seasons. Summer brings afternoon thunderstorms and cooler temperatures at elevation. Winter roads may require chains — call ahead.
Get in Touch
Whether you have a question about site availability, need directions, or just want to know what the river's doing this week — we're here.
Call Us
(150) 534-63900
info@explorenm.com
Address
Cibola National Forest
Torrance County, NM 87061
We'll get back to you within one business day.
Thank you — we'll be in touch soon.
