The best camping near Heron Lake State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Heron Lake State Park adventure.

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Discover Heron Lake State Park's tranquil waters and scenic trails.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Heron Lake State Park

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Heron Lake State Park

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Willow Creek Campground

6 sites · RVs, Tents In Heron Lake State Park

Blanco Campground

27 sites · RVs, Tents In Heron Lake State Park

Brushy Point Campground

13 sites · RVs, Tents In Heron Lake State Park

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Island View Campground

15 sites · RVs, Tents In Heron Lake State Park

Salmon Run Campground

1 site · RV, Tent In Heron Lake State Park

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$10

/ night

Ridge Rock Campground

1 site · RV, Tent In Heron Lake State Park

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$10

/ night

Ponderosa Campground

1 site · RV, Tent In Heron Lake State Park

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$10

/ night

La Laja Campground

1 site · RV, Tent In Heron Lake State Park

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$10

/ night

Rincon Primitive Campground

1 site In Heron Lake State Park

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$10

/ night

Little Oso Primitive Campground

1 site In Heron Lake State Park

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$10

/ night

Top-rated campgrounds near Heron Lake State Park

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River Sanctuary by Ojo Hot Springs

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents3 acres · La Madera, NM

Learn more about this land: Lush high desert river oasis nestled in a fertile valley in the Carson National Forest right between the fiery expanse of Taos and the rolling colorful formations of Abiquiu. Peaceful and private 3 acres right by the river at the edge of a little quaint town called La Madera (145 people, no shops)- just 6 miles to the healing mineral Hot Springs of Ojo Caliente, a place of emergence or rebirth as known to the local Natives. Right by the river, held by a ridge (that makes for amazing sunset hikes), I have a 16ft Yurt Canvas set up with furnishings (desk, couch, wash stand) and a wooden Queen Bed with down bedding. This site can only be reached by foot across the river via stumps- a car can be parked near by.. approx. 50ft. I also have a Vintage Camper that can be heated, has a kitchen, electricity and plenty of outdoor furniture with a fire pit and serene mountain views. As well as a monastic and very grounding Ensuite Bedroom, or a simple campsite if you want to bring your own camper or tent. All facilities have access to a guest bathroom inside the main house. I offer dog sitting while you soak at Ojo, healing modalities that you'll find in the Extras section, and my dear neighbor Jackie takes appointments for massages with homemade essential oils. +++ 6 miles to Ojo Caliente Hot Springs. There you will find the best restaurant in the area, with locally/organically farmed produce. The land is naturally and beautifully wild- it is not a manicured campsite. The dirt rd down to the property is best suited for higher clearance vehicles, but is manageable for city cars. With land by the river comes the mosquitos- June to August only. They are predominantly active during sunrise and sunset; long loose fitting clothes and a repellent work great. Waterhole, Waterfall and climbing sites near by, as well as Plaza Blanca, Abiquiu, Ghost Ranch and the Taos Gorge are 30 mins drive away. *No cell service in the greater area. WiFi reaches around the house/deck and allows for WiFi Calling: that’s a setting in your phone that enables phone calls & texts beside usual internet access.

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Abiquiu Tiny House

1 site · Lodging10 acres · Abiquiu , NM

Situated at 6300 ft. above sea level the Chama River Valley is surrounded by forested mountains. There is white water rafting on the Rio Chama and Rio Grande Rivers nearby during spring and summer. Within an hour there are ski areas at Taos and Santa Fe during the winter. Ojo Caliente Hot Springs is 17 miles away and has a full spa and restaurant. There are beautiful hiking trails throughout the area and Abiquiu Lake is less than 20 minutes away. The location of the Tiny House is in a quiet, private and beautiful setting. Abiquiu Lake is only 15 minutes away for fun swimming, Ghost Ranch is 20 minutes away and has 3 beautiful hikes. Santa Fe and Taos are 60 minutes away. The tiny house is a healthy house built on the golden mean and has no electrical radiation inside except wi-fi. All material used are nontoxic.Notable aspect. There are no pets allowed on the property.

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Casa de KAMA (The Silo)

1 site · Lodging4 acres · Medanales, NM

Kasa de KAMA (The Silo) is a repurposed grain Silo brought in from Kansas! It sits on 4 acres of it's own but Many more expansive acres support the Fabulous Panoramic views of Mountain ranges , Chama River, Sunrises and sunsets. Completely Peaceful and Gorgeous landscape with Vista de Pedernal (the mountain Georgia O'Keeffe painted so much she decreed God would Give it to her!) out many of the windows...

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Pagosa Mill RV Park

8 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Pagosa Springs, CO

Nestled in a grove of mature pine trees you will see wildlife most days in the meadow. The views of the East Range are not to be missed. NOTE: This RV Park is under renovation. The location is 2 miles from downtown Pagosa Springs. If you are looking for a super bougie RV Park.... THIS IS NOT IT. There are several projects under way but we are not done. Enjoy reading your book in a hammock located in the common space. Experience all that Pagosa has to offer at an extremely reasonable cost. Tall Pines Mini Golf is within walking distance. Great place to grab a snack/drink. Follow the sign up the Jeep trail on the west end of the park.

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Star Dance High Desert Retreat

9 sites · Tents50 acres · Youngsville, NM

Visit the startling beauty of the plateaus above Lake Abiquiu in northern New Mexico. Star Dance provides a secluded experience for travelers, artists, fishermen, birdwatchers, stargazers, and more. Star Dance sits above the upper Rio Chama canyons on 30 acres of trails and undisturbed natural terrain. **ATTENTION POTENTIAL GUESTS** Recently we've had a rash of guests who, either through the difficulties with using the mobile app or just not reading our provided information, have been arriving passed our check in time. We require guests to arrive no later than an hour before sundown (summer 7:30pm - winter 5:00pm) We require this because we are very rural and our sites are not lit to keep our property natural and prevent light pollution for ourselves and our neighbors. In the past we've issued refunds for people who have neglected this rule. We will no longer be doing so in the future.

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Viento Del Rio RV River Campsite

1 site · RV25 acres · Abiquiu, NM

Private Riverfront RV Glamping Site in Abiquiu, NM We’re excited to invite you to share our gorgeous property and make memories as you explore the Land of Enchantment. Experience the natural beauty that inspired American legend Georgia O’Keeffe during your Abiquiu retreat along our riverfront. Located on 25 acres along with our home and casita. Plenty of space to roam and gorgous hiking and activites close by. Well behaved, non aggressive, no excessive barking pet welcome. (We have a sweet Golden Doodle) Bring your own RV motorhome, bumper pull trailer up to 30ft OR up to 35ft Fifth-Wheel (The airsteam trailer in the picture is 27ft) Water and electrticity hookups. Outside you will find a flagstone patio, picnic table, firepit, and adirondack chairs. NOTE: There is no longer a sunshade! These is no Wi-Fi...T-Mobile works best! Guest access Located off a private driveway offering plenty of privacy and seclusion within our gated property, Your hosts Jeff and Tami along with Golden Doodle Lola, Horse Poppy

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Chili Line Depot Historic Lodging

4 sites · Lodging2 acres · Tres Piedras, NM

Welcome to the Chili Line Depot Bed and Breakfast! Unwind at this historic southwest territorial-style building. Your private upstairs suite boasts two spacious bedrooms: a king-size haven and a room with two cozy twin beds. Indulge in the luxurious bathroom, featuring a jetted tub and a walk-in shower. Step out onto your private deck, where breathtaking views will leave you speechless. Enjoy al fresco meals on your personal outdoor dining area, or head downstairs for a soak in the shared hot tub and a delightful meal on the restaurant patio. Our downstairs rooms are more economical, but they still offer all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay, including soaking in the shared hot tub, free Wi-Fi and continental breakfast. The downstairs restaurant features farm-to-table southwestern cuisine and operates in the Summer and Fall. Open till 6:00PM most nights, and open till 9PM with live music on Saturday nights. Tres Piedras is a great place to enjoy the outdoors. There are many hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails in the area, as well as rock climbing at our world famous rocks. You can also enjoy fishing, camping, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and elk hunting in the Carson National Forest. The Ojo Caliente hot springs resort and spa are just down the road. Whether you're looking for a delicious meal, music on Saturday nights, or a comfortable place to stay, the Chili Line Depot is the perfect place for you. Come and experience the best of that New Mexico has to offer at the Chili Line Depot today!

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Bear Paw lake Cabin

1 site · Lodging2 acres · Regina, NM

Relax with the whole family at this peaceful hideaway. Spend the evening star gazing on the balcony, or roasting marshmallows on the open fire pit. There is also Wi-Fi and two televisions for those who would rather relax indoors. We remodeled the cabin this year, so it is Ready for your families adventures.

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Mudita Camel's Yurt

1 site · Lodging35 acres · Capulin, CO

Eons ago camels roamed through the San Luis Valley and today they roam once again. Come and stay at our yurt enjoying views of the mountains and of the camels and donkeys roaming their home. Take a farm tour and get the chance to pet the camels and maybe even sneak a camel kiss. Enjoy a night stay at the yurt viewing the stars or enjoying a nice fire at the fire pit. Come stay in our yurt and get the chance to meet our little herd of camels and wake up to the views of the gorgeous surroundings! Travel down a few miles of dirt roads and you will find our little oasis of 35 acres. The hard-sided yurt sits right next to the field where our camels and donkeys roam. Set apart from the main house, sitting in Trujillo Canyon, and surrounded by BLM/National Forrest, its the perfect spot for recharging. Located off the beaten path so amazing for star gazing but also close enough to the Sand Dunes for day adventures. Our property is off the grid and allows you to disconnect for a little while and there is a nice creek to go and sit by. Each stay also includes a farm tour if you are interested. The night skies have little light pollution and are perfect for star gazing. We can't wait for you to come and stay with us!Don't take our word for it, guests love their stays with us! "We struck gold finding this magical place. The yurt was so cozy, comfy, and full of tons of extras that exceeded our expectations. We booked our little trip to visit the dunes, but this farm was by far the best part of our trip. We loved our walks to see all the animals. The camels and donkeys were so friendly!"

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Stone House Lodge

13 sites · RVs14 acres · Tierra Amarilla, NM

Discover the beauty of Stone House Lodge nestled between northern New Mexico’s most popular recreation areas, El Vado and Heron Lake State Parks. Come and relax in this beautiful, fun and friendly environment. We are surrounded by mountains, lakes and rivers in a wooded setting. We have five unique rustic cabins, each with their own special features. The cabins have been recently renovated and have electric and hot water. Our RV sites are spacious long level pull-throughs and have access to water, septic and electricity. Our premium RV spaces are secluded with mountain and lake views. Community showers and restrooms available. Our Dry Camp Sites are secluded and peaceful with mountain and lake views. Our campsite amenities include fishing tackle shop, minimart, picnic tables, BBQ grills, fire pits, bikes, kayaks and paddle boards.

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Stone House Lodge

10 sites · RVs, Tents14 acres · Tierra Amarilla, NM

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Creekside Glamping Tipis on Off-Grid, 70 Acre Working Ranch

5 sites · Lodging70 acres · Tres Piedras, NM

Unforgettable Stargazing Awaits in Luxurious Glamping Tipis Under the Darkest Skies in the US Escape to our gorgeous "Glamping" Tipis and luxury Yurt, nestled amidst the whispering pines and beside a gurgling mountain stream on our peaceful ranch in Northern New Mexico. Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring vastness of the Carson National Forest and its endless recreational opportunities. Gaze at a Universe of Stars from Your Private Tipi Sanctuary As day surrenders to dusk, prepare to be spellbound by the spectacle above. Far from light pollution, our secluded location boasts some of the darkest skies in the United States, transforming into a mesmerizing canvas for stargazing and astrophotography. Imagine the Milky Way ablaze with a million shimmering stars, planets twinkling like celestial diamonds, and shooting stars streaking across the velvet darkness. Luxurious Comfort Meets Untamed Nature in Your Glamping Tipi Choose from our beautifully furnished tipis, each offering a unique haven for relaxation and stargazing adventures. The Kokopelli tipi cradles you in a queen-sized bed, while our Elk and Zia tipis sleep four with a king or queen bed and a cozy bunk bed. All tipis are adorned with bedside tables, a device charger, and a camp stove for brewing coffee and tea under the starlit sky. Your All-Inclusive Glamping Retreat Awaits We've meticulously curated everything you need for a comfortable and unforgettable stay. Each tipi boasts a single-burner camping stove, a kettle, a French press coffee maker with coffee and tea selections, a cooler, and a drinking water dispenser. Step outside to find a grill for open-air cooking, a crackling fire pit with comfy camping chairs, a picnic table, and a ramada strung with a hammock for stargazing naps. Unwind and Explore at Your Pace For meals, unleash your inner chef on the grill or savor delicious home-cooked fare at the Chili Line Depot, owned by your hosts and just 7 miles away. You can choose to dine in at the restaurant or call for convenient pick-up. We'll even provide a menu in your tipi. After a day of exploring the surrounding wilderness, rejuvenate in the shared bathhouse, featuring a composting toilet, a hot shower, and an outdoor sink. Bath towels, soap, and shampoo are thoughtfully provided for your comfort. Experience the Enchantment of Nature Up Close Our 70-acre working ranch offers endless opportunities to connect with nature. Cast a line for rainbow trout in the sparkling stream (NM fishing license required) or let the kids enjoy catch-and-release fishing in our stocked pond. Hike through the whispering pines, scale rugged rock faces, or simply bask in the tranquility of your private tipi sanctuary. Sustainable Glamping in Harmony with Nature We are committed to responsible tourism and operate entirely off-grid. A solar-powered charging station keeps your essential devices connected, while minimal light pollution preserves the breathtaking night sky. Escape the Ordinary, Embrace the Extraordinary At our glamping tipis, we promise an unforgettable experience that blends luxurious comfort with the untamed beauty of nature. Come disconnect from the everyday and reconnect with the universe under the breathtaking tapestry of stars.

The best camping near Heron Lake State Park guide

Overview

About

When it comes to connecting with Mother Nature, Heron Lake State Park sets the bar high. Towering pines line the shores of Heron Lake, which is designated a “quiet lake” (no wake and minimum noise for those who want to get out on the water and find their zen). Perfect for sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding, the lake also offers prize trout and salmon fishing. The solitude doesn’t end at the lake, there’s seven miles of hiking and biking along the water and through the woods too. And those wanting to spend the night have options for staying on the beach, in campgrounds, or boating in to primitive sites; talk about options! If what you’re seeking is to decompress and reconnect, Heron Lake will have you saying “Woo-saaa” in no time.

Notable campgrounds

Developed Campgrounds - Offering 192 developed campsites with modern conveniences for a comfortable stay.
Primitive Camping Areas - Experience the raw beauty of nature in one of the three designated primitive camping areas.
Shoreline Camping - Set up your tent along the lake's edge and wake up to stunning water views.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Book early to secure your preferred campsite, especially during peak season.
Consider visiting during the weekdays for better availability and a quieter experience.
Check for cancellations regularly as plans change and spots may open up.
Explore nearby camping options to increase your chances of finding a great site.

When to go

The best time to visit Heron Lake State Park is during the summer and fall when the weather is ideal for boating, fishing, and hiking. Winter offers a unique charm with opportunities for ice fishing and cross-country skiing. Spring can be less predictable with variable weather conditions.

Know before you go

Always check park alerts for closures or restrictions before planning your visit.
Wear life jackets while boating and observe the no-wake rule to protect the park's tranquility.
Accessibility varies across different areas, so plan according to your needs.
Facilities include restrooms with water, showers, and vault toilets for your convenience.
Remember to pack out all trash and respect the park's wildlife and natural resources.