Goat Hill Campground

Are you a New Mexico local seeking a serene escape where the sounds of a flowing stream lull you to sleep and the crisp mountain air invigorates your senses? Look no further than Goat Hill Campground in Red River, New Mexico. This charming US Forest Service campground offers a quintessential outdoor experience, perfectly suited for those who appreciate simplicity, natural beauty, and direct access to some of New Mexico's most beloved recreational opportunities. This guide is crafted to provide you with all the essential details about Goat Hill Campground, helping you plan your next memorable adventure in the Land of Enchantment.

For many New Mexicans, the mountains of the Carson National Forest represent an unparalleled haven for outdoor activities, from casting a line in a clear river to hiking through scenic trails. Goat Hill Campground embodies this spirit, providing a tranquil basecamp right on the banks of the Red River. Imagine setting up your tent or small RV just steps from the gushing waters, where the melodic sounds of the stream create a soothing backdrop to your entire stay. It’s a place where you can truly unplug from the demands of daily life and reconnect with nature.

We understand that local campers often look for campgrounds that offer both convenience and an authentic wilderness feel. This article will explore Goat Hill Campground's accessible location, its essential services, and the unique features that make it a favorite among those in the know. We'll also provide critical contact information to ensure you have all the necessary details to prepare for your peaceful retreat.

Goat Hill Campground is conveniently located near the vibrant mountain town of Red River, New Mexico, within the expansive Carson National Forest. Its address is simply Red River, NM 87558, USA. More specifically, it is situated along New Mexico State Road 38, approximately 3.5 miles east of Questa when approaching from the west, or a short drive from Red River if coming from the east. This prime roadside location makes it easily accessible for campers, including those towing small trailers or RVs, allowing for a straightforward journey to your campsite.

The campground's position right on the banks of the Red River is a significant draw, offering immediate access to the water. While it's considered a "small roadside campground," its accessibility doesn't detract from the feeling of being immersed in nature, thanks to the surrounding forest and the constant presence of the river. The area is part of the scenic Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway, indicating its presence in one of New Mexico's most picturesque regions. Visitors should be aware that the campground is first-come, first-served, so arriving earlier in the day, especially during peak seasons, is advisable to secure one of its limited sites.

Goat Hill Campground provides basic, yet essential, amenities designed for a comfortable and authentic camping experience in the national forest. It focuses on providing what you need to enjoy the natural environment without excessive frills:

• Campsites: There are six individual campsites available. These sites are often spacious enough to accommodate groups, as evidenced by reviews mentioning "9 adults, 4 children and 4 dogs" successfully camping on one site. Each site typically includes a picnic table and a fire ring.
• Vault Toilets: Basic restroom facilities in the form of vault toilets are available on-site, providing necessary convenience for campers.
• Garbage Service: Trash receptacles or dumpsters are provided for waste disposal, encouraging campers to keep their sites clean and help manage waste responsibly within the forest environment.
• No Drinking Water: It is crucial to note that Goat Hill Campground does not provide potable (drinking) water. Campers must bring their own water supply or have a reliable method for filtering/treating water from natural sources.
• No RV Hookups: As a US Forest Service campground, Goat Hill does not offer electric, water, or sewer hookups for RVs. It is ideal for tent camping or self-contained RVs and trailers.
• First-Come, First-Served: All campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Reservations are not accepted.
• Food Storage Order: Due to wildlife, particularly bears, in the area, a food storage order is typically in place. All food, cooking supplies, coolers, and personal hygiene products must be stored in a hard-sided vehicle or bear-resistant container. Campers are urged to keep a clean site to deter wildlife.

Goat Hill Campground shines through its natural attributes and prime location, offering several compelling highlights for campers:

• Riverside Camping: The most significant feature is its direct proximity to the Red River. Campers can enjoy the soothing "sounds of gushing waters" and have "easy access to the creek behind" their sites. This makes it perfect for those who love to fish, relax by the water, or simply enjoy the ambiance of a flowing stream.
• Excellent Fishing: The Red River is a popular spot for fishing, and being right on its banks provides immediate opportunities for anglers. Nearby Eagle Rock Lake also offers additional fishing options.
• Peaceful Atmosphere: Despite being a roadside campground, reviews consistently highlight its quiet and peaceful nature. The limited number of sites contributes to a less crowded and more tranquil experience, often with few other campers, as one review noted, "only one other camper arrived late in the evening and had left before I woke up."
• Proximity to Eagle Rock Lake: This nearby lake provides another recreational hub for fishing, picnicking, and possibly non-motorized boating, offering a change of scenery just a short distance from the campground.
• Access to Red River Town and Trails: The campground's location on NM 38 provides easy access to the town of Red River, with its amenities, shops, and restaurants. Additionally, the area offers various hiking opportunities, including trails that lead towards Red River or into the broader Carson National Forest. The Columbine Hondo Wilderness Area, with its extensive trail system, is also accessible nearby.
• Scenic Setting: Nestled in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, the campground is surrounded by the natural beauty of the Carson National Forest, providing picturesque views and a refreshing mountain environment.
• Spacious Sites: Reviews indicate that the sites are large enough to comfortably accommodate families and groups, along with their pets, making it suitable for communal camping.

For general inquiries about Goat Hill Campground, as it is managed by the US Forest Service, Carson National Forest, you can typically use the contact information for the Questa Ranger District:

Address: Red River, NM 87558, USA

Questa Ranger District Office:

Phone: (575) 586-0520 (This number is associated with the Carson National Forest Questa Ranger District, which manages Goat Hill Campground).

While a direct phone number for "Goat Hill Campground" itself isn't typically listed for first-come, first-served campgrounds, contacting the Questa Ranger District is the best way to get up-to-date information on fire restrictions, road conditions, site availability, and any food storage orders in effect. Keep in mind that campground operations are seasonal, usually from the Friday before Memorial Day to Labor Day.

For New Mexico locals, Goat Hill Campground represents an ideal and accessible option for a refreshing outdoor escape, particularly for those in Northern New Mexico and beyond. Its primary suitability stems from its genuine, no-frills camping experience that perfectly complements the independent spirit of outdoor enthusiasts in our state. It's not a bustling resort, but rather a peaceful sanctuary where the natural environment is the main attraction.

The immediate and easy access to the Red River is a significant draw, offering continuous opportunities for fishing, the soothing sounds of flowing water, and a direct connection to one of New Mexico's cherished waterways. This riverside setting, combined with the often quiet and uncrowded atmosphere, makes it perfect for individuals or families looking to truly unwind and reconnect with nature without the distractions of overcrowded sites.

Furthermore, its location within the Carson National Forest and close proximity to the town of Red River means that while you feel immersed in the wilderness, amenities and additional recreational opportunities are just a short drive away. Whether you're planning a fishing trip to Eagle Rock Lake, a hike along the numerous forest trails, or simply a weekend of relaxing by the campfire with loved ones (and even pets!), Goat Hill Campground provides the ideal base. Its first-come, first-served nature encourages spontaneous adventures, a trait many New Mexico outdoor lovers appreciate. In essence, Goat Hill Campground offers an authentic, accessible, and deeply satisfying camping experience that resonates with the natural beauty and tranquil appeal of our beloved New Mexico outdoors.

Goat Hill Campground

Red River, NM 87558, USA