Trampas Medio Campground

Hello, dedicated outdoor enthusiasts of New Mexico! Are you the kind of adventurer who truly appreciates the untouched beauty of the wilderness, where the soundtrack is the gurgling of a clear mountain stream and the views are framed by towering conifers? Then Trampas Medio Campground, nestled in the rugged and beautiful Carson National Forest near Truchas, is a destination you absolutely need to know about. This isn't a campground with all the bells and whistles; it's a dispersed camping area that offers a raw, authentic, and deeply rewarding experience for those prepared to embrace it.

Trampas Medio Campground is often described as a "lovely little campground" situated just below 9,000 feet, where the iconic Ponderosa pines begin to mingle with higher-altitude conifers. It's a place celebrated for its remoteness and its direct proximity to the famed Trampas Lakes hiking trailhead, making it an ideal basecamp for serious alpine exploration in Northern New Mexico. While recent years have seen some changes to the immediate area, the essence of its wilderness appeal remains strong, especially for those seeking to access the pristine Pecos Wilderness. This article will provide a detailed look at Trampas Medio Campground, offering crucial information on its location, the very basic services it provides, its unique highlights, and why, despite its challenges, it remains a suitable and highly sought-after destination for adventurous New Mexicans.

Trampas Medio Campground is located in the Carson National Forest, near Truchas, NM 87578, USA. It sits just below 9,000 feet in elevation, offering cooler temperatures and a distinctive high-altitude forest environment. The campground is notable for being "around a quarter mile north of the trailhead for the Trampas Lakes hike," making it an incredibly convenient starting point for one of New Mexico's most iconic wilderness trails. The Rio de Las Trampas gurgles nearby, adding a peaceful natural soundtrack to your stay.

However, it's crucial for prospective visitors to understand the accessibility of Trampas Medio. If approaching from the west, out of Truchas via Forest Road (FR) 639, be prepared for a "very rough route." This road is described as "fun for those that like wheeling" but potentially "a bit much for the unprepared." A crossover vehicle with good tires and a skilled driver might manage, but a standard street car like a Civic is not recommended. If coming from the north, accessing the western half of the campground requires a "stream crossing" that is also not advisable for a street car. This level of access underscores the remote nature of the campground and necessitates appropriate vehicle choice and driving skills. Despite these access challenges, its strategic location for reaching the beautiful alpine areas of Northern New Mexico, including Trampas Lakes and Hidden Lake, makes it a popular base camp, especially during peak seasons like the first weekend in June.

• Dispersed Camping: Trampas Medio is primarily a dispersed campground, meaning it offers a more primitive camping experience without the extensive amenities found in developed campgrounds.
• Picnic Tables: A "few picnic tables" are available at some sites, providing a convenient surface for meals and gear organization.
• Spots for Tents/Parking: Designated spots are available for parking vehicles and pitching tents. While not formally numbered campsites, areas are established by previous use.
• No Potable Water: Visitors must "bring your own water (or a filter)" as there is no potable water source provided at the campground. The Rio de Las Trampas is nearby, but any water collected from it must be filtered or treated.
• No Toilets/Vault Toilets: As a dispersed area, there are generally no developed restroom facilities like vault toilets or flush toilets directly within the campground. Campers must practice Leave No Trace principles for waste disposal.
• No RV Hookups: There are no electric, water, or sewage hookups, making it suitable for self-contained RVs or those who are accustomed to dry camping.

• Direct Trailhead Access: A primary highlight is its close proximity to the trailhead for the Trampas Lakes hike, offering direct access to a "beautiful alpine area of Northern NM."
• Remote Wilderness Feel: The campground provides a true sense of remoteness, perfect for those looking to escape crowds and immerse themselves in nature.
• Rio de Las Trampas: The "Rio de Las Trampas gurgling nearby" offers a soothing natural soundscape and a source of water (requiring filtration/treatment).
• High-Altitude Environment: Situated just below 9,000 feet, the campground is characterized by a blend of Ponderosa pine and high-altitude conifers, offering cooler temperatures and unique forest scenery.
• Base Camp for Exploration: It serves as an excellent base camp for accessing not only Trampas Lakes but also other high-alpine destinations like Hidden Lake and the broader Pecos Wilderness.
• Challenging Access (for some): For those who enjoy off-roading or have high-clearance vehicles, the "very rough" FR639 offers an adventurous approach.
• Natural Beauty (historically): While recent changes due to "beating up" of the area and fewer trees have been noted, the inherent beauty of the surrounding mountains and river valley remains.
• Quiet Environment (except for other campers): The natural setting is inherently quiet, disturbed primarily by sounds from fellow campers rather than external sources.

Address: Truchas, NM 87578, USA

Phone: As a dispersed campground within the Carson National Forest, Trampas Medio does not have a dedicated phone number. For information regarding conditions, regulations, or the surrounding area, it is best to contact the Camino Real Ranger District of the Carson National Forest. Their general inquiry phone number is typically (575) 587-2255. You can also find general information on the Carson National Forest website or through Recreation.gov for broader forest details.

For seasoned New Mexico outdoor enthusiasts, Trampas Medio Campground offers a unique and highly suitable experience, particularly for those who prioritize raw wilderness immersion over extensive amenities. Located in the high-altitude forests of Carson National Forest near Truchas, it's a destination that resonates with the adventurous spirit of many locals who seek true escape and direct access to some of our state's most breathtaking alpine environments.

Its primary appeal for New Mexicans lies in its status as a "dispersed campground." This means fewer rules, more freedom, and a direct connection to nature that developed campgrounds often can't provide. For those comfortable with bringing their own water, managing their waste responsibly, and being self-reliant, the rewards are immense. The soothing sound of the Rio de Las Trampas nearby creates a truly peaceful ambiance that fosters relaxation and a deep appreciation for the natural world.

Crucially, Trampas Medio serves as an unparalleled base camp for accessing the iconic Trampas Lakes hike and the vast Pecos Wilderness. For New Mexico hikers, backpackers, and anglers who dream of high-alpine adventures, the ability to park and start their journey almost immediately from their campsite is a significant advantage. This direct access to some of the most pristine and challenging trails in Northern New Mexico makes the campground a strategic hub for serious outdoor pursuits.

While the accessibility via FR639 might be challenging for some, it's often seen as part of the adventure for locals with high-clearance vehicles or a taste for off-road driving. This inherent barrier helps maintain the campground's remote feel, deterring casual visitors and preserving the wilderness character for those who truly seek it. It's a place where you're "hemmed in by mountains all around," offering a sense of seclusion and grandeur that is uniquely New Mexican.

Despite some recent observations about fewer trees and the area appearing "beat up" in spots, the fundamental allure of Trampas Medio for New Mexico locals remains. It represents an opportunity to experience authentic, rugged camping in a stunning high-mountain environment, close to home but feeling worlds away. For those who embrace the "pack it in, pack it out" ethos and desire a base for exploring the alpine heart of our state, Trampas Medio Campground continues to be a prime, albeit rustic, choice.

Trampas Medio Campground

Truchas, NM 87578, USA