Cedar Rail Campground: Your Traveler-Friendly Stop on Raton Pass, NM

Cedar Rail Campground Introduce

For New Mexico residents who love to explore our vast and varied state by RV or simply need a comfortable and convenient stop during their travels, finding the right campground can make all the difference. Cedar Rail Campground, also known as Raton Pass Camp & Cafe, near Raton, New Mexico, offers a genuinely traveler-friendly experience that consistently receives high praise from visitors. Located strategically just off I-25 on the historic Raton Pass, this campground serves as an excellent base for exploring northeastern New Mexico or as a perfect overnight stop on your way to other adventures.

New Mexico is a state of incredible beauty and diverse landscapes, and whether you're embarking on a cross-state journey or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, convenience and comfort are key. Cedar Rail Campground stands out not just for its prime location, but for the welcoming atmosphere and practical amenities it provides. From spacious RV spots with stunning views to fast and reliable internet, it caters to the needs of modern travelers while retaining the charm of a local, well-managed establishment. This article will provide a detailed look at Cedar Rail Campground, covering its accessible location, the services it offers, its distinct features and highlights, and why it's a top recommendation for New Mexicans seeking a dependable and enjoyable camping experience in our beautiful state.

Location and Accessibility

Cedar Rail Campground is conveniently situated at 46020 I-25, Raton, NM 87740, USA. This prime location places it directly off Interstate 25, right on the historic Raton Pass. For New Mexico locals, this means exceptional accessibility, whether you're traveling north towards Colorado or south deeper into New Mexico. Being "just off of I-25" is a significant advantage, as it minimizes detours and makes for an easy on-and-off experience, especially for those pulling larger RVs or trailers.

Raton Pass itself is a historically significant route that straddles the New Mexico-Colorado border, known for its scenic beauty and elevation. The campground's position on this pass offers stunning vistas, including "a southern view towards Raton and west to the Sangre de Cristo mountain range." These panoramic views provide a beautiful backdrop to your stay, enhancing the overall experience. The ease of access from a major interstate highway, combined with the picturesque mountain setting, makes Cedar Rail Campground an ideal stop for a quick overnight stay or a longer period to explore the surrounding area, which includes attractions like Sugarite Canyon State Park and Capulin Volcano National Monument. Its direct access removes any concerns about navigating challenging unpaved roads, making it suitable for all types of vehicles and RVs.

Services Offered

Spacious RV Spots: The campground offers generously sized RV spots, providing ample room for vehicles and outdoor living. Many of these are pull-through sites, making entry and exit easy.
Full Hookups (Implied): While not explicitly stated for all sites, the mention of "RV spots" and "traveler-friendly" suggests the availability of water, electric, and potentially sewer hookups at most RV sites, catering to the needs of modern RVers.
Reliable Internet Access: A significant highlight mentioned by customers is "Fast and reliable internet." This includes the ability to stream, upload photos, and download PDFs, making it ideal for those who need to stay connected.
Welcoming and Helpful Management: The owners and managers (Rhonda, Mike, and Sheri) are highlighted for their excellent customer service, including greeting guests, showing them to their sites, and even helping with route planning.
Restrooms and Showers: While not explicitly stated in the provided reviews, a "traveler-friendly place to stay" and "RV park" typically include clean restroom and shower facilities for guests.
Camp Cafe (Implied by AKA - Raton Pass Camp & Cafe): The alternative name suggests that there might be a cafe on-site, providing a convenient option for meals or coffee.
Pet-Friendly: Many RV parks and campgrounds welcome pets, and this is generally a service expected by travelers.
Quiet and Relaxing Atmosphere: Designed for travelers, the campground offers a peaceful environment conducive to relaxation.

Features / Highlights

Reasonable Overnight Price: This is a practical highlight that makes the campground an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers and those needing a convenient stop.
Owner Greeted and Showed Camp Site: This personal touch signifies exceptional customer service and a welcoming atmosphere, making campers feel valued and assisted.
Owner Helped with Route Planning: Going above and beyond, the assistance with route planning, including "short cuts and how to avoid high traffic areas," demonstrates outstanding hospitality and local knowledge that benefits travelers greatly.
Very Traveler-Friendly Place: This overarching characteristic summarizes the positive experience, indicating a focus on convenience, comfort, and service for those on the road.
RV Spots are Spacious and all have a Southern View: The ample size of the sites provides comfort and privacy, while the "southern view towards Raton and west to the Sangre de Cristo mountain range" offers beautiful, unobstructed vistas.
Located Just Off I-25 on Raton Pass: This strategic location ensures easy access for travelers, minimizing drive time and navigational challenges.
Enjoy Walking and Relaxing: The environment is conducive to leisurely activities within the campground, indicating pleasant surroundings for a stroll or simply unwinding.
Fast and Reliable Internet: A stand-out feature for modern campers, enabling streaming, uploading, and downloading, which is a significant amenity for those needing to work or stay entertained while on the road.
Managed by Rhonda, Mike, and Sheri: The named managers are a highlight, suggesting a consistent, dedicated, and friendly team that maintains high standards of service and upkeep.
AKA - Raton Pass Camp & Cafe: This alternative name is a feature in itself, hinting at additional amenities beyond just camping, such as a place to eat or socialize.

Contact Information

Address: 46020 I-25, Raton, NM 87740, USA

Phone: (575) 445-8500

Mobile Phone: +1 575-445-8500

For reservations, current availability, or any specific inquiries, contacting Cedar Rail Campground directly at the provided phone numbers is highly recommended. Given their reputation for helpful and friendly management, they will be able to assist with all your planning needs. You may also be able to find more information by searching for "Raton Pass Camp & Cafe" online.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Cedar Rail Campground, known to many as Raton Pass Camp & Cafe, is exceptionally well-suited for New Mexico locals, whether they're seasoned RV travelers, weekend adventurers, or simply seeking a convenient and comfortable stop within our beautiful state.

Firstly, its strategic location "just off of I-25 on Raton Pass" is a significant advantage for New Mexicans. This means easy access for residents traveling to or from other parts of the state or heading north into Colorado. For those embarking on a New Mexico road trip, Cedar Rail offers a perfect overnight stop, allowing for a comfortable break without veering far from the main highway. The ability to "avoid high traffic areas" with local advice from the owners is a priceless benefit for those navigating familiar routes.

Secondly, the "traveler-friendly" atmosphere, largely driven by the welcoming management team of Rhonda, Mike, and Sheri, creates a sense of community and personalized service that resonates with New Mexico's hospitable culture. Locals often appreciate establishments where they feel genuinely welcomed and where owners go the extra mile, like helping with "next route" planning. This personal touch transforms a simple stop into a memorable experience.

Furthermore, the practical amenities cater directly to the needs of modern New Mexico campers. The "spacious RV spots" with "southern view towards Raton and west to the Sangre de Cristo mountain range" offer not only comfort but also a daily reminder of the stunning landscapes we call home. The "Fast and reliable internet" is a crucial highlight for those who need to balance their travels with remote work or simply want to stay connected, a common necessity in today's world. This blend of natural beauty, convenient access, and essential modern services makes Cedar Rail Campground a highly practical and enjoyable choice for New Mexicans. It's a testament to a local business understanding and catering to the needs of its community, providing a reliable and pleasant "home away from home" on the road.

Cedar Rail Campground Photos

Cedar Rail Campground Location

Cedar Rail Campground

New Mexico Colfax County Raton Interstate 25

46020 I-25, Raton, NM 87740, USA

Cedar Rail Campground Reviews

Reasonable overnight price. Owner greeted us and showed us our camp site. Owner also helped us figure out our next route to Fort Worth area - showed us some short cuts and how to avoid high traffic areas.
May 17, 2025 · Leonard Pogo
Rhonda, Mike, and Sheri manage a very traveler-friendly place to stay for a night, or even longer. The RV spots are spacious and all have a southern view towards Raton and west to the Sangre de Cristo mountain range. Located just off of I-25 on Raton Pass. We enjoy walking and relaxing here twice a year as we travel north to Colorado. If you need access to reliable internet, I was able to stream, upload a photo to a website that I manage, and download a PDF from another website. Fast and reliable internet is a plus! I highly recommend Cedar Rails AKA - Raton Pass Camp & Cafe.
Jun 06, 2024 · Ch2o burrows
The views are breathtaking! The site was level and although things are tight, the owner is a great guide. I had a hydrolic jack issue on the day I was leaving and the owner was instrumental in getting me on my way. I will definitely revisit for a longer stay on my return home.
Jul 12, 2019 · Pennney Nelson
Didn't stay here, but I and my boyfriend were traveling through. We pulled off of I-25 at the exit on top of the pass to look up directions on GPS as there is no cell phone service anywhere but on the very top of the pass and didn't want to use our cell phone while driving. We pulled into the parking lot well to the side of the (very wide) drive. A woman came up very angry and immediately rude asking what we were doing. We told her and she said it was private property and that we needed to leave. We were there less than 5 minutes. We googled the number and called to let the owner know in case it was an employee being unnecessarily rude. Was informed that it was in fact the owner. She was still very rude saying that we were blocking the driveway from an RV that was due to arrive but wasn't there at that moment and that the RV "would have to drive over the top of our truck" (threatening to allow their customer to damage my property?) to get in the driveway. I told her we didn't know but had she politely explained the issue we would have gladly obliged. She said that there was a good public place up the road where we could have stopped. I asked her if we were stopping to use GPS because we didn't know where we were how would we know about a place further up the road at which point she scoffed and said she wasn't going to argue with me and hung up on me. She was incredibly rude and she didn't even know if we were coming to inquire about a place to stay but had we been her initial contact would have ensured that we chose another place further up the road and definitely ensured that we'll never consider it in the future. Times are hard and people are understandably stressed, but there is no reason to speak to people the way we were spoken to over such a minor situation.
Aug 01, 2020 · Letticia Gonzales
Great RV Park! Stopped here enroute from the Rockies and really enjoyed visiting with Rhonda and Rhonda. Excellent food, prepared with fresh veggies from their gardens onsite! Just a nice place to pause and rest for a night, with the atmosphere of staying with old friends. Highly recommend you patronize this RV park on your next trip through New Mexico.
Jul 10, 2015 · Randy Parsley