Earth houses near Red River
Experience Sangre de Cristo Mountain adventures when camping near Red River.
- Red River
Popular camping styles for Red River
Earth houses near Red River guide
Overview
North of Taos in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, the small town of Red River gives campers a true Southern Rockies experience. Surrounding Red River is Carson National Forest, where scenic spots like Williams Lake, Chimney Rock, and Wheeler Peak offer lakeside and mountaintop views of the region. Choose from campsites, cabin rentals, and RV parks near the forest and other major Red River hot spots, including Middle Fork Lake and Cimarron Canyon State Park. Many lakefront campsites provide easy access to fly fishing and hiking, while equestrian campgrounds are even available for those traveling with horses.
Where to go
Carson National Forest
Carson National Forest covers more than 2,000 square miles of pristine wilderness areas and mountains like Wheeler Peak—the highest elevation in the state at 13,161 feet. Hikers can traverse the Continental Divide Trail to glimpse Chimney Rock, one of the most unique geological features of the forest. Other attractions include Williams Lake, the Georgia O’Keefe cabin, and Echo Amphitheatre. Then stay in campsites in and near the forest that offer basic amenities like full restrooms and water and electrical hookups.
Middle Fork Lake
Though Red River is home to more than 20 lakes, Middle Fork Lake is often regarded as one of the most beautiful. Cradled by pine trees in the foothills of Wheeler Peak and Walters Peak, the alpine lake is only accessible by hiking or horseback riding. The lake’s beauty makes it a popular destination in all four seasons, particularly with its golden autumn foliage and blankets of snow during winter. Accommodations in nearby lakeside campsites provide easy access to the famous Middle Fork Lake Trail, where visitors can survey the entire vista.
Cimarron Canyon State Park
A popular destination for hiking and fly fishing, Cimarron Canyon State Park’s lush forests and trout-filled Cimarron River make it a fun stop. Found off Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway, the park features four campgrounds with nearly 100 developed campsites, as well as access to nearby private RV parks and cabin rentals. During the warm season, enjoy wildlife watching and horseback riding. In winter, snowshoeing is a popular pastime.
When to go
Visit Red River year-round to enjoy its wide range of seasonal activities, including skiing and fly fishing. Winter highs reach 34°F, and the season sees snowfall, which is great news for winter sports lovers. In summer, temperatures seldom exceed the mid-80s. Campers may wish to book their stay for the most popular accommodations to ensure they get a reservation during this season.
