Maverick Campground

Introduction / Overview

For New Mexico locals seeking a blend of natural beauty, tranquility, and convenient amenities, Maverick Campground in Ute Park stands out as an exceptional choice. Nestled within the stunning Cimarron Canyon State Park, this campground offers a serene escape amidst the rugged and picturesque landscapes of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Maverick Campground is renowned for its well-maintained facilities, friendly hosts, and prime location for outdoor activities, particularly fishing. It provides a welcoming environment for both seasoned campers and families looking to create lasting memories. Whether you're pulling in with a travel trailer or setting up a spacious tent, the campground strives to offer comfortable sites with essential amenities like picnic tables and fire rings. Visitors consistently praise the cleanliness of the restrooms and the helpfulness of the park hosts, ensuring a pleasant and worry-free stay. Maverick Campground truly embodies the spirit of New Mexico's state parks, offering a beautiful setting and a range of activities that encourage a deep connection with the outdoors.

Location and Accessibility

Maverick Campground is conveniently located in Ute Park, NM 87749, USA, placing it within the scenic Cimarron Canyon State Park. This puts it along US Highway 64, famously part of the "Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway," making it an easily accessible destination from various parts of New Mexico and beyond. The campground is situated on the eastern end of the Cimarron River within the canyon, offering stunning views of the forested canyon and rocky outcrops. It's approximately 10-15 minutes from the charming towns of Cimarron and Eagle Nest, which provide access to groceries, gas, and other necessities. The roads leading to and within Maverick Campground are generally well-maintained, accommodating a variety of vehicles including RVs and travel trailers. While some sites might require a bit of leveling, the accessibility for larger rigs is generally good, with sites capable of handling RVs and trailers between 15 and 45 feet in length. Its location within a state park means the infrastructure is typically more developed and reliable than dispersed camping areas, ensuring a smoother journey for most visitors. The scenic drive along Highway 64 through the Cimarron Canyon is an attraction in itself, setting the tone for the natural beauty awaiting campers at Maverick Campground.

Services Offered

• Campsites with Amenities: Maverick Campground offers 44 developed campsites, each equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring with a grill, perfect for outdoor cooking and gathering.
• Modern Restrooms: The campground provides clean, modern restrooms with flush toilets and sinks, offering a higher level of comfort than many primitive campgrounds. Note: Showers and hot water are generally not available.
• Potable Water: Potable water is available at five water hydrants throughout the campground, a significant convenience for all campers.
• RV and Tent Accommodations: Sites are designed to accommodate both RVs (with various lengths up to 45 feet) and tents, providing flexibility for different camping styles. While some sites can accommodate larger RVs, it's advised to check site-specific details when booking.
• Trash Receptacles: Designated trash receptacles are provided for waste disposal, encouraging campers to keep the area clean.
• On-site Hosts: Friendly and helpful campground hosts are typically present to assist campers, answer questions, and ensure a pleasant stay.
• Reservable Sites: Most sites at Maverick Campground are reservable up to six months in advance, providing the convenience of planning your trip ahead of time through online platforms.

Features / Highlights

• Exceptional Fishing Opportunities: Maverick Campground is a prime spot for anglers. The Cimarron River, known for its excellent trout fishing (including rainbow and brown trout), flows nearby. Additionally, gravel pit lakes within the campground area are stocked and offer convenient fishing access directly from some campsites.
• Beautiful Canyon Setting: Situated within the Cimarron Canyon State Park, the campground is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, including dense forests, rocky outcrops, and the flowing Cimarron River.
• Friendly & Welcoming Hosts: Consistent positive reviews highlight the helpfulness and friendliness of the park hosts, significantly enhancing the camping experience.
• Clean Facilities: The restrooms are noted for being consistently clean and well-maintained, a highly valued feature by campers.
• Wildlife Viewing: Located within the Colin Neblett Wildlife Management Area, the park offers amazing opportunities for wildlife viewing, including elk, deer, bear, and various bird species.
• Hiking and Equestrian Trails: The state park provides numerous trails for hiking and, in some areas, equestrian use, allowing campers to explore the surrounding wilderness.
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: The campground's amenities, maintained facilities, and opportunities for various activities make it a great destination for families.
• Proximity to Local Towns: Easy access to Cimarron and Eagle Nest means campers can quickly replenish supplies, dine out, or explore local history and attractions.

Contact Information

For reservations and inquiries about Maverick Campground, which is part of Cimarron Canyon State Park, you can reach out directly. The primary phone number for the park is (575) 377-6271. For those using a mobile device, the number is also accessible via +1 575-377-6271. Reservations for Maverick Campground are typically made through the New Mexico State Parks reservation system, often accessible via platforms like ReserveAmerica. It is highly recommended to check availability and book your site in advance, especially during peak seasons or holidays like the Fourth of July, as the campground can fill up quickly. For late arrivals, campers are advised to go directly to their reserved site and check in with the campground host or park office the following day. The physical address for the campground's general vicinity is Ute Park, NM 87749, USA, which places it firmly within Cimarron Canyon State Park. Before your visit, it's always wise to call and confirm any specific information about fire restrictions, road conditions, or other park alerts to ensure the best possible camping experience.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For New Mexicans, Maverick Campground offers an ideal blend of outdoor adventure and comfortable amenities, making it a highly suitable and cherished local destination. Its prime location within Cimarron Canyon State Park, along the scenic Enchanted Circle, means it's readily accessible for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation without extensive travel. The exceptional fishing opportunities in the Cimarron River and the convenient gravel pit lakes within the campground are a significant draw for local anglers, providing ample chances to reel in rainbow and brown trout. This caters directly to a beloved New Mexico pastime. Beyond fishing, the easily accessible hiking and equestrian trails, coupled with abundant wildlife viewing, ensure there's something for every outdoor enthusiast. The consistently clean modern restrooms and the presence of friendly, helpful park hosts elevate the camping experience beyond more primitive options, making it comfortable for families and less experienced campers alike. While popular, especially during holidays, the general tranquility and well-maintained environment speak to the quality of the state park system. For New Mexicans seeking a reliable, beautiful, and activity-rich campground where they can relax, fish, and connect with the stunning natural landscapes of our state, Maverick Campground provides an exceptional value and an unforgettable experience right in our backyard.

Maverick Campground

Ute Park, NM 87749, USA