Is Jemez Open for Camping in 2023?

AvatarByDale Richard Camping

Is Jemez Open For Camping?

The Jemez Mountains are a beautiful and rugged range of mountains in New Mexico. They are home to a variety of wildlife, including elk, deer, bears, and mountain lions. The mountains are also a popular destination for hikers, campers, and nature lovers.

But is Jemez open for camping? The answer is: it depends.

In this article, we will discuss the different camping options available in the Jemez Mountains, as well as the specific regulations that apply to each area. We will also provide tips on how to plan a safe and enjoyable camping trip in the Jemez.

So if you’re thinking about camping in the Jemez Mountains, read on for all the information you need to know.

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Date Open? Notes
2023-03-08 Yes Campground open for the season.
2023-09-30 No Campground closed for the season.

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Jemez Camping Regulations

What are the open camping areas?

The Jemez Mountains are home to a variety of camping opportunities, from primitive backcountry sites to developed campgrounds with amenities like restrooms and showers. The following are some of the most popular open camping areas in the Jemez:

  • Santa Fe National Forest: The Santa Fe National Forest offers a variety of camping options, including both developed and primitive campgrounds. Developed campgrounds typically have amenities like restrooms, showers, and picnic tables, while primitive campgrounds offer more secluded camping experiences with fewer amenities. Some of the most popular campgrounds in the Santa Fe National Forest include:
  • Bandelier National Monument Campground
  • Carson National Forest Campground
  • Jemez Springs Campground
  • Pecos Wilderness Campground
  • Cibola National Forest: The Cibola National Forest also offers a variety of camping options, including both developed and primitive campgrounds. Developed campgrounds typically have amenities like restrooms, showers, and picnic tables, while primitive campgrounds offer more secluded camping experiences with fewer amenities. Some of the most popular campgrounds in the Cibola National Forest include:
  • Cedro Creek Campground
  • Gallinas Canyon Campground
  • Magdalena Ranger District Campground
  • Mt. Taylor Campground

What are the closed camping areas?

The following camping areas in the Jemez Mountains are currently closed due to fire restrictions:

  • Santa Fe National Forest: The following campgrounds in the Santa Fe National Forest are closed:
  • Bandelier National Monument Campground
  • Carson National Forest Campground
  • Jemez Springs Campground
  • Pecos Wilderness Campground
  • Cibola National Forest: The following campgrounds in the Cibola National Forest are closed:
  • Cedro Creek Campground
  • Gallinas Canyon Campground
  • Magdalena Ranger District Campground
  • Mt. Taylor Campground

What are the camping regulations?

The following are some of the general camping regulations in the Jemez Mountains:

  • Camping is allowed only in designated areas. This includes both developed campgrounds and primitive backcountry sites.
  • Campfires are allowed only in designated fire pits. Campfires must be attended at all times and extinguished before leaving the campsite.
  • Pets must be on a leash at all times. Pets are not allowed in developed campgrounds or on trails in wilderness areas.
  • Trespassing is prohibited. This includes camping on private property or in areas that are closed to the public.

What are the camping fees?

The following are the camping fees for some of the most popular campgrounds in the Jemez Mountains:

  • Bandelier National Monument Campground: $20 per night
  • Carson National Forest Campground: $10 per night
  • Jemez Springs Campground: $10 per night
  • Pecos Wilderness Campground: $5 per night
  • Cedro Creek Campground: $10 per night
  • Gallinas Canyon Campground: $10 per night
  • Magdalena Ranger District Campground: $10 per night
  • Mt. Taylor Campground: $10 per night

Jemez Camping Facilities

What are the available camping facilities?

The following are some of the available camping facilities in the Jemez Mountains:

  • Developed campgrounds: Developed campgrounds typically have amenities like restrooms, showers, and picnic tables. Some developed campgrounds also have laundry facilities, playgrounds, and dump stations.
  • Primitive backcountry sites: Primitive backcountry sites offer more secluded camping experiences with fewer amenities. Primitive backcountry sites typically do not have restrooms or showers, and may require campers to pack in their own water and garbage.
  • Cabins: Some campgrounds in the Jemez Mountains offer cabins for rent. Cabins typically have beds, electricity, and cooking facilities.
  • RV parks: Some campgrounds in the Jemez Mountains also have RV parks with hookups for water, electricity, and sewer.

What are the amenities of each facility?

The following is a table of the amenities available at some of the most popular campgrounds in the Jemez Mountains:

| Campground | Amenities |
|—|—|
| Bandelier National Monument Campground | Restrooms, showers, picnic tables, fire pits |
| Carson National Forest Campground | Restrooms, picnic tables, fire pits |
| Jemez Springs Campground | Restrooms, showers, picnic tables, fire pits |
| Pecos Wilderness Campground | Restrooms, fire pits |
| Cedro Creek Campground | Restrooms, picnic

Jemez Camping Weather

The Jemez Mountains are located in northern New Mexico, and they offer a variety of camping opportunities for visitors. The climate in the Jemez Mountains is generally mild, with warm summers and cool winters. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when planning a camping trip to the Jemez Mountains.

Average Weather in the Jemez Mountains

The average high temperature in the Jemez Mountains during the summer months (June-August) is around 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The average low temperature is around 50 degrees Fahrenheit. The weather can be hot and sunny during the day, but it can also get cool and windy at night.

The average high temperature in the Jemez Mountains during the winter months (December-February) is around 40 degrees Fahrenheit. The average low temperature is around 10 degrees Fahrenheit. The weather can be cold and snowy during the day, but it can also get warm and sunny at times.

Potential Weather Hazards

There are a few potential weather hazards to be aware of when camping in the Jemez Mountains.

  • Flash floods can occur during heavy rains. Flash floods can be dangerous, so it is important to be aware of the weather forecast and to stay out of canyons and other areas that are prone to flooding.
  • Lightning is a hazard during thunderstorms. It is important to stay indoors or in a vehicle during thunderstorms.
  • Cold weather can be a hazard during the winter months. It is important to dress in layers and to stay warm at night.

Recommended Clothing and Gear for Camping in the Jemez Mountains

The following clothing and gear is recommended for camping in the Jemez Mountains:

  • Warm clothing for cold weather, including a coat, hat, gloves, and boots
  • Waterproof clothing for rainy weather
  • Sunscreen and sunglasses for sunny weather
  • A first-aid kit
  • A flashlight
  • A map of the area
  • A compass
  • A fire starter
  • A tent
  • A sleeping bag
  • A sleeping pad
  • A cooler for food and drinks

Jemez Camping Tips

The following tips can help you make the most of your camping trip to the Jemez Mountains:

  • Choose a campsite that is well-drained and away from potential hazards, such as cliffs, rivers, and trees.
  • Set up your tent in a sheltered spot, away from the wind.
  • Build a campfire in a designated fire pit.
  • Be careful with fire. Never leave a campfire unattended.
  • Dispose of trash properly.
  • Pack out all of your belongings when you leave.
  • Respect the environment.
  • Be aware of the wildlife in the area.
  • Stay safe and have fun!

Camping in the Jemez Mountains can be a great way to experience the beauty of the outdoors. By following these tips, you can make your camping trip a safe and enjoyable experience.

Is Jemez Open For Camping?

Answer: Yes, Jemez is open for camping. The Jemez Mountains are a popular destination for camping, hiking, fishing, and hunting. There are a variety of campgrounds to choose from, each with its own unique features.

What are the different campgrounds in Jemez?

Answer: The Jemez Mountains have a variety of campgrounds to choose from, including:

  • Cadillac Campground: This campground is located in the Jemez Springs area and offers stunning views of the mountains. It has 50 campsites, flush toilets, and a dump station.
  • El Vado Campground: This campground is located near the Jemez River and offers a variety of activities, including hiking, fishing, and swimming. It has 40 campsites, flush toilets, and a dump station.
  • Hubertus Campground: This campground is located in the Valles Caldera National Preserve and offers stunning views of the volcanoes. It has 30 campsites, vault toilets, and a water spigot.
  • Kodachrome Basin Campground: This campground is located in the Bandelier National Monument and offers a variety of hiking trails. It has 20 campsites, vault toilets, and a water spigot.
  • Los Alamos Campground: This campground is located near the Los Alamos National Laboratory and offers stunning views of the mountains. It has 20 campsites, flush toilets, and a dump station.

What are the camping fees?

Answer: The camping fees vary depending on the campground. The fees range from $10 to $20 per night.

What are the camping regulations?

Answer: The Jemez Mountains have a variety of camping regulations, including:

  • All campers must have a valid New Mexico state park pass.
  • Campfires are only allowed in designated fire pits.
  • Pets must be leashed at all times.
  • Garbage must be packed out.

What are the best times to go camping in Jemez?

Answer: The best times to go camping in Jemez are spring and fall. The weather is mild during these seasons, and there are fewer crowds.

Where can I get more information about camping in Jemez?

Answer: You can get more information about camping in Jemez from the following sources:

  • [New Mexico State Parks](https://www.emnrd.nm.gov/spd/parks/)
  • [Jemez Mountains Visitors Bureau](https://www.jemezmountains.org/)
  • [Bandelier National Monument](https://www.nps.gov/band/index.htm)
  • [Valles Caldera National Preserve](https://www.nps.gov/vall/index.htm)

    Jemez is open for camping, but there are some restrictions in place due to the ongoing pandemic. Visitors must make reservations in advance and adhere to social distancing guidelines. Additionally, some campgrounds may be closed or have limited capacity. However, Jemez is still a beautiful place to visit and camp, and there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. So, if you’re looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Jemez is a great option.

Author Profile

Dale Richard
Dale Richard
Dale, in his mid-thirties, embodies the spirit of adventure and the love for the great outdoors. With a background in environmental science and a heart that beats for exploring the unexplored, Dale has hiked through the lush trails of the Appalachian Mountains, camped under the starlit skies of the Mojave Desert, and kayaked through the serene waters of the Great Lakes.

His adventures are not just about conquering new terrains but also about embracing the ethos of sustainable and responsible travel. Dale’s experiences, from navigating through dense forests to scaling remote peaks, bring a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and practical tips to our blog.