Rio De Las Vacas Campground

For New Mexicans seeking a true escape into the serenity of nature, Rio De Las Vacas Campground in the Jemez Mountains offers an idyllic setting. This beloved campground, nestled within the Santa Fe National Forest, is renowned for its tranquil atmosphere, spacious sites, and the breathtaking beauty of its surroundings. It's the perfect destination for those looking to disconnect from the daily grind and immerse themselves in the pristine landscapes that define New Mexico's high country.

The experiences of local campers consistently highlight the exceptional quality of Rio De Las Vacas. As one reviewer, Jim & Sharon, enthusiastically shared, "We stayed midweek during May and it was perfect. This is a wonderful, quiet, secluded and very well maintained campground with clean toilets." They further praised the camp host, Steve, for doing a "GREAT job keeping this campground in tip-top shape," noting that "Camp sites are immaculate and spaces spread out with lots of privacy in wooded areas." This dedication to cleanliness and privacy is a significant draw for those seeking a peaceful retreat.

Another camper echoed this sentiment, describing it as "Such a lovely campground! A small stream... nice sized camp spots with a table and fire ring, clean toilets and garbage bins." The natural beauty and abundant wildlife are also frequently mentioned, with visitors reporting sightings of "several elk and quite a few deer nearby." The ease of access from major cities like Albuquerque also adds to its appeal, making it a convenient yet remote-feeling getaway. For New Mexicans, Rio De Las Vacas isn't just a campground; it's a testament to the state's natural grandeur and a cherished spot for quiet recreation.

Rio De Las Vacas Campground is conveniently located on NM-126 near Jemez Springs, NM 87025, USA, within the Santa Fe National Forest. This puts it at an elevation of 8,250 feet, offering a cool respite from New Mexico's summer heat and breathtaking views of the surrounding ponderosa pines and open meadows. Its placement within the Jemez Mountains provides a stunning backdrop for outdoor activities.

Accessibility to Rio De Las Vacas is relatively straightforward for most vehicles. From Albuquerque, it's approximately a one-and-a-half-hour drive, making it an easy day trip or weekend getaway for residents of the state's largest city. Specifically, from Cuba, New Mexico, you would travel approximately 11 miles east on New Mexico State Highway 126. The campground is located roughly 11 miles from Cuba, where essential services like lodging, restaurants, and gas stations are available.

While NM-126 is generally a well-maintained state highway, a portion of the road, particularly the section between Jemez Springs and Cuba, is unpaved (dirt/gravel/red clay) for about 9 miles. As one reviewer cautioned, this section "is NOT GOOD if it has rained," and can be "a narrow, twisting road that is an 'adventure' in dry times with a trailer or motor home." However, approaching from the Cuba side is noted as "not a problem." Visitors with RVs up to 37 feet in length and trailers up to 37 feet can typically access the campground, with sites often featuring paved parking pads. Despite the unpaved section, the general consensus is that the campground is very pleasant and accessible, drawing campers from across New Mexico looking to experience this unique side of the Jemez.

Rio De Las Vacas Campground provides a well-maintained selection of essential services, focusing on cleanliness and comfort for a rustic yet enjoyable camping experience in the Santa Fe National Forest.

• Campsites: The campground offers 15 spacious campsites. Sites 1-11 are typically reservable via Recreation.gov, while sites 12-15 operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Each site includes a picnic table, a fire ring with a grate, and often a paved RV pad and tent pad. They are "immaculate" and "spread out with lots of privacy in wooded areas," accommodating tents, trailers, and RVs (up to 37 ft max length).

• Vault Toilets: Clean and well-maintained vault toilets are available throughout the campground, ensuring basic sanitation needs are met. Reviewers consistently praise the cleanliness of these facilities.

• Potable Water: Drinking water is available from water spigots (hand pumps). While convenient, campers should note that this water cannot be hooked up directly to fill RVs/campers, requiring manual filling.

• Trash Collection: Garbage bins are provided for convenient waste disposal, contributing to the campground's overall cleanliness.

• Camp Host On-Site: The presence of dedicated and friendly camp hosts, like Steve and Joe mentioned in reviews, ensures the campground is well-managed, maintained, and provides a welcoming atmosphere for visitors. Firewood is also available for purchase from the camp host.

• No Cell Service: Campers should be aware that cell service is generally not available in the area, contributing to the secluded experience and allowing for a true digital detox.

• Affordable Fees: As of May 9, 2025, the fee is $20.00 per site, per night. Previously it was $10.00. America the Beautiful Interagency Pass holders (Senior and Access Passes) receive a 50% discount on single unit campsites.

Rio De Las Vacas Campground is rich with features and highlights that make it a compelling destination for New Mexico outdoor enthusiasts, offering a blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and a truly peaceful setting.

• Secluded and Quiet Atmosphere: This campground is celebrated for its tranquility, offering a "quiet, secluded" environment that allows campers to truly relax and enjoy nature without excessive noise or crowds. It’s an ideal spot for peaceful reflection.

• Beautiful Natural Setting: Nestled among tall ponderosa pines at 8,250 feet elevation, the campground boasts a "beautiful open meadow" and scenic views of the surrounding Jemez Mountains. The Rio de las Vacas stream runs alongside the east boundary of the campground, with some sites adjacent to the soothing sounds of the water.

• Abundant Wildlife Viewing: A major highlight is the frequent presence of wildlife. Campers regularly report seeing "several elk and quite a few deer nearby," especially during fall when elk bugling can be heard. This provides fantastic opportunities for nature photography and observation.

• Fishing Opportunities: The Rio de las Vacas stream itself offers fishing adjacent to camping sites. Additionally, local streams and the nearby San Gregorio Reservoir provide further fishing opportunities for anglers.

• Hiking and Nature Trails: The campground serves as a gateway to numerous hiking opportunities. The San Pedro Parks Wilderness, just north of the campground, offers easy and scenic day hikes. Trailheads like San Gregorio, Palomas, and Los Pinos are within driving distance, making it an "ideal backpacking destination for beginners and experienced backpackers alike."

• Impeccable Maintenance: The "immaculate" campsites and "clean toilets" are consistently praised, reflecting the dedication of the camp hosts to keeping the facilities in "tip-top shape."

• Star Gaze: With no cell service and minimal light pollution, Rio De Las Vacas is an excellent location for stargazing, offering unparalleled views of the New Mexico night sky.

For the most accurate and current information regarding Rio De Las Vacas Campground, including reservation availability, any temporary closures, fire restrictions, or road conditions, it is best to contact the U.S. Forest Service, specifically the Santa Fe National Forest which manages the campground.

Address: NM-126, Jemez Springs, NM 87025, USA (This is the specific location of the campground.)

Phone: (505) 438-5300 (This general number for the Santa Fe National Forest can direct you to the appropriate ranger district for Rio De Las Vacas, likely the Cuba Ranger District or Jemez Ranger District.)

For more direct inquiries, a specific number for the Cuba Ranger District, often associated with this area, is:Phone: (575) 289-3264

For reservations, which are available for sites 1-11:Website: Recreation.gov (Search for "Rio De Las Vacas Campground, Santa Fe National Forest")Phone: 1-877-444-6777 (National Recreation Reservation Service)

It is highly recommended to check the official Santa Fe National Forest website (fs.usda.gov/santafe) and Recreation.gov before planning your trip. These resources provide crucial updates on conditions, availability, and any necessary alerts to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit to this beautiful New Mexico campground.

For New Mexicans, Rio De Las Vacas Campground isn't just another camping spot; it's a quintessential high-country escape that perfectly encapsulates the natural beauty and tranquil spirit of their home state. Its close proximity to Albuquerque, coupled with the feeling of genuine seclusion once you arrive, makes it an ideal and accessible choice for a quick weekend getaway or an extended stay. The detailed reviews from fellow locals like Jim & Sharon, highlighting the "wonderful, quiet, secluded and very well maintained campground with clean toilets," speak directly to the values many New Mexicans hold dear in their outdoor pursuits: peace, cleanliness, and privacy.

The personal touch provided by dedicated camp hosts, who ensure "immaculate" sites and a welcoming atmosphere, further enhances the experience, fostering a sense of community and care that is truly appreciated. Beyond the well-kept facilities, the campground's natural highlights are a major draw. The opportunity to witness "several elk and quite a few deer nearby," hear the bugling of elk in the fall, or simply enjoy the soothing sounds of the Rio de las Vacas stream, offers a profound connection to New Mexico's rich wildlife.

Furthermore, the extensive hiking opportunities in the nearby San Pedro Parks Wilderness and the excellent fishing in the stream and San Gregorio Reservoir provide ample recreation for all interests. Rio De Las Vacas embodies the very essence of a New Mexico wilderness experience: pristine, welcoming, and teeming with natural wonders. It’s a place where locals can truly disconnect from the demands of modern life, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and create lasting memories amidst the stunning landscapes that only the Land of Enchantment can offer. For any New Mexican seeking a rejuvenating and authentic outdoor adventure, Rio De Las Vacas Campground is a must-visit destination.

Rio De Las Vacas Campground

NM-126, Jemez Springs, NM 87025, USA