Reviews

For Montoso Campground: This is one of the newer areas managed by BLM and is definitely one their best. First the area and activities. Located on a Mesa overlooking the Red River and Rio Grande Gorges, this is a prime example of New Mexico’s high desert. There are several trails including what I feel is one of the best in BLM’s inventory, Little Arsenic Trail descends 800 feet into the Rio Grande Gorge ( which means you have to climb back out). The descent/ascent consists of 22 switchbacks. It is steep and rocky and gives the trail a rating of hard. From there you can follow the River Trail downstream along the Rio Grande to its confluence with the Red River. There are several shelters and vault toilets along the trail and the views of the river and surrounding gorge are spectacular. There are easier trails including a nice hike/bike trail that traverses the Mesas. Next the camping. There are 5 campgrounds with sites that can accommodate tents only and/or sites that can handle up to 37 foot RV’s (no hook ups but several campgrounds have a water pump). The sites are well dispersed and each have a picnic table with cover, fire pit, and pedestal BBQ grill. First come first serve but only a quarter of the 29 sites were occupied when we were there. $7/night and you at the campground. All campgrounds have vault toilets. Definitely a haul to reach this area north of Taos but well worth it.

Posted Jun 05, 2023 by Jeff Breault from Albuquerque . This is the subjective opinion of a traveler and not of AllStays LLC.