Fawn Lakes Campground

For New Mexicans eager to escape the bustle and immerse themselves in the serene beauty of the Carson National Forest, Fawn Lakes Campground offers a quiet and accessible retreat right on the banks of the Red River. Nestled just a short drive from the charming town of Red River, this campground provides a back-to-basics camping experience that prioritizes peace, natural beauty, and affordability. It's a cherished spot for locals who appreciate the tranquility of a riverside setting, the convenience of nearby town amenities, and the opportunity for outdoor recreation without a hefty price tag.

Fawn Lakes Campground is more than just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent; it's an invitation to unwind amidst the picturesque landscape of northern New Mexico. With the soothing sounds of the Red River flowing nearby and the majestic ponderosa pines offering partial shade, it's an ideal setting for those looking to disconnect and recharge. While it maintains a rustic charm, offering essential facilities, its appeal lies in its simplicity and the direct access it provides to the natural wonders of the region. Whether you're an angler, a hiker, or simply someone seeking a quiet spot to enjoy the crisp mountain air, Fawn Lakes Campground is a local favorite that delivers a genuine New Mexico outdoor adventure.

Fawn Lakes Campground boasts a prime location in northern New Mexico, offering both a sense of peaceful seclusion and convenient access to the popular resort town of Red River. The campground's address is Red River, NM 87558, USA. It is situated within the Carson National Forest, one of several campgrounds nestled along the scenic canyons carved by the Red River. This strategic position places it between Questa and Red River, making it easily reachable for New Mexico residents.

Accessibility to Fawn Lakes Campground is straightforward. It’s located approximately 3 miles west of the town of Red River, directly off NM-38. This means campers can quickly transition from the amenities of town to the natural setting of the campground. The campsites themselves are generally level, which is a significant advantage for both tent campers and those bringing RVs or trailers. While the campground offers a quiet escape, the proximity to the highway means there can be some road noise, which the sound of the Red River often helps to mitigate. The combination of easy access from a well-maintained state highway and its close distance to a lively mountain town makes Fawn Lakes Campground a highly convenient choice for New Mexicans seeking an efficient and enjoyable outdoor getaway.

Fawn Lakes Campground provides a set of essential services designed to facilitate a comfortable, yet rustic, camping experience. While it focuses on a more traditional camping style, certain amenities are available to meet basic needs.

• Family Overnight Sites: The campground features 18 family overnight sites, of which three are designated as tent-only sites. These sites are generally level, accommodating various camping setups from tents to RVs.
• Vault Toilets: Pit toilets (also known as vault toilets) are available within the campground, providing basic restroom facilities. It's a good practice for campers to bring their own toilet paper.
• Drinking Water: Pressurized drinking water is provided at the campground. While available, it's often from a central spigot, and visitors should be prepared to fill containers rather than having direct hookups at each site.
• Firewood for Purchase: Firewood is typically available for purchase from the campground host, ensuring campers can enjoy campfires (always check for current fire restrictions and bans).
• Campground Host: A campground host is usually on-site, offering a friendly presence and assistance to campers.

It is important to note that Fawn Lakes Campground operates without water or electric hookups at individual sites, nor does it have a dump station on-site. However, an RV dump station is conveniently located within 1 mile of the campground, in or near the town of Red River, providing an easy solution for waste disposal.

Fawn Lakes Campground, despite its basic amenities, offers several compelling features and highlights that make it a popular choice for campers in New Mexico.

• Riverside Serenity: A significant highlight is its location directly on the Red River. Many campsites are positioned right along the riverbank, allowing campers to enjoy the soothing sounds of the flowing water and easy access for fishing. This direct river access is a major draw for those seeking a tranquil and picturesque setting.
• Fishing Opportunities: The Red River, adjacent to the campground, is a well-stocked and excellent spot for fishing, particularly for trout. Two small fishing lakes were historically within a short walk, though recent reports indicate these lakes have been dredged and are currently rundown, with bridges out in that area. Campers should temper expectations regarding the "Fawn Lakes" themselves and focus on the Red River for fishing.
• Proximity to Red River Town: The campground is very close to the town of Red River (approximately 3 miles away), offering convenient access to groceries, gas, showers, laundry facilities, cafes, and other services that might not be available at the campground itself. This blend of wilderness feel with nearby town conveniences is highly valued.
• Affordable Nightly Rates: With nightly rates around $22, Fawn Lakes Campground provides a highly affordable camping option, making it accessible to a wide range of budgets.
• Level Campsites: Reviewers often note that the sites are level, which is beneficial for both tent campers and those parking RVs or trailers, ensuring an easier setup.
• Natural Surroundings: The campground is enveloped by the beautiful ponderosa pine forest of the Carson National Forest, providing partial shade and a classic mountain forest atmosphere.
• Hiking Trail Access: While specific trails directly from the campground might be limited, the Columbine Trailhead is within 4 miles, offering access to more extensive hiking opportunities in the Columbine-Hondo Wilderness area.

While the natural beauty and affordability are significant draws, potential visitors should be aware of past reports of thefts at the campground, making it essential to secure belongings. Additionally, the condition of the "Fawn Lakes" themselves is currently poor, so the primary water attraction remains the Red River.

For direct inquiries and information regarding Fawn Lakes Campground, the primary contact details are as follows:

Address: Red River, NM 87558, USA

Phone: (575) 586-0520

Mobile Phone: +1 575-586-0520

It is always recommended to call ahead, especially during peak seasons, to inquire about site availability, current conditions, and any specific rules or advisories. As this is a campground within the Carson National Forest, general information about forest regulations, fire restrictions, or other nearby attractions can also be obtained through the U.S. Forest Service.

For broader information about Carson National Forest, you can typically reach the Questa Ranger District office, which manages this area. While the main phone numbers provided above are likely for the campground host or a direct local contact, the Forest Service office can offer comprehensive details.

Carson National Forest Headquarters:

Phone: (575) 758-6200

Website: fs.usda.gov/carson (It’s advisable to check the official Forest Service website for the most up-to-date information on fire restrictions, road closures, and general campground alerts, especially before and during your visit.)

For New Mexicans seeking a quintessential mountain camping experience that balances rustic charm with convenient access, Fawn Lakes Campground is an exceptionally suitable choice. Its quiet location right on the Red River provides a soothing backdrop for relaxation and a prime spot for fishing enthusiasts. The affordability of the nightly rate makes it an excellent option for families and individuals looking to enjoy the outdoors without a significant financial burden.

The campground’s proximity to Red River town is a major advantage for locals. You can enjoy the peace of nature, yet easily drive a few miles to resupply groceries, grab a meal, or access amenities like showers and laundry facilities. This blend of remote feel and urban convenience is a rare find. While it's important to be mindful of securing belongings and note the current condition of the namesake "lakes," the primary draw remains the beautiful river and the surrounding Carson National Forest. It's a place where you can truly unwind, breathe the fresh mountain air, and reconnect with nature, all within a reasonable drive from many parts of New Mexico. Fawn Lakes Campground truly offers a slice of authentic New Mexico wilderness, making it a perfect spot for locals to create lasting outdoor memories.

Fawn Lakes Campground

Red River, NM 87558, USA