Trout Lakes Campground
Tierra Amarilla NM Boondocking
| ADDRESS |
|---|
| FR 125 Tierra Amarilla, New Mexico GPS: 36.606389, -106.378942 Elevation: 9301′ |
| MANAGEMENT |
| Public – USDA Forest Service (Official) (575) 684-2489 This is a FREE campsite. |
Previous Reviews:
Trout Lakes Campground Tierra Amarilla NM Boondocking: The road in is Dirt and 11 miles from a paved road. Trout Lakes Campground is open End of May. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 15 feet. You may stay N/A at Trout Lakes Campground.
Free Campground with very primitive arrangements. 11 miles from Cebolla where a convenience store is located; gasoline available and a post office are available in Cebolla.
Trailers limited to less than 15′ in length.
Trout Lakes contains 5 primitive campsites and access roads within the campground. Three lakes provide fishing opportunities amid a setting of quiet conifers and aspen. Summer’s quiet beauty turns to gold as autumn touches the aspen and rewards campers lingering in the area.
About This Location
If you’re searching for a quiet boondocking spot near Tierra Amarilla, Trout Lakes Campground is worth a look. This area has primitive campsites nestled in Carson National Forest, so you get to camp near several lakes and soak up nature—no crowds, no fees.
Trout Lakes has 12 primitive sites, good for tent camping or small campers. It’s a solid pick for off-grid folks who want something simple.
You’ll find basic access roads and metal fire rings at each site. There’s enough space to park and set up a tent, but that’s about it.
The remote location means you’ll need to bring all your supplies. There aren’t any amenities like water or restrooms, so it’s really best for experienced boondockers who don’t mind roughing it.
Location And Access Of Trout Lakes Campground Tierra Amarilla NM Boondocking
Trout Lakes Campground sits in Carson National Forest, just outside Tierra Amarilla, New Mexico. It’s up at 9,300 feet, so expect a cool, forested vibe.
Getting there starts on U.S. Highway 84. You’ll turn onto Forest Road 125, which is gravel for the first three miles.
After that, the road turns rough and isn’t graveled. It gets especially tricky when it’s wet.
A few things to know:
- The unpaved road can be pretty sketchy in rain or snow.
- High-clearance vehicles are a smart choice.
- Don’t rush—those last few miles are slow going.
There are 12 primitive campsites and not much else, so prep is everything. Pack in your own supplies and water.
A GPS or map with coordinates is super helpful out here. The spot’s roughly at:
| Latitude | Longitude |
|---|---|
| 36.6043 | -106.3738 |
It’s quiet and remote, but you’ll want to be ready for rugged, basic camping.
Directions: How To Get There And What To Expect From Trout Lakes Campground Tierra Amarilla NM Boondocking
To get to Trout Lakes Campground, start from U.S. Highway 84 near Tierra Amarilla, New Mexico. The first three miles are on a gravel road.
After that, it switches to rough, ungraveled road. If it’s been raining, things can get dicey.
Heads up: The access road gets slick and hazardous after rain. Take it slow and don’t push your luck—high-clearance vehicles are really the way to go.
The campground has several boondocking spots for trailers, motorhomes, or tents. Each site comes with a metal fire ring.
You’ll be surrounded by conifers and aspen trees. Fishing’s an option in the nearby lakes.
There’s enough room at each site for your vehicle and camping setup.
| Key Points | Details |
|---|---|
| Road Condition | Gravel, then unpaved; hazardous when wet |
| Vehicle Recommendation | High clearance preferred |
| Camping Options | Trailers, motorhomes, tents |
| Facilities | Metal fire rings at each site |
| Activities | Fishing, quiet nature setting |
Amenities And Activities At Trout Lakes Campground Tierra Amarilla NM Boondocking
Trout Lakes Campground keeps it simple, so don’t expect much beyond the basics. There are no hookups, so it’s all dry camping.
Restrooms are available, but they’re pretty bare-bones. Each campsite has a metal fire ring for safe campfires.
Fishing is a big draw here. Three lakes surround the campground, so you can cast a line and enjoy the peace.
You can park anything from small to full-sized trailers or just pitch a tent. The sites are roomy enough for different setups.
It’s a peaceful spot, great for outdoor activities like hiking or watching wildlife. No playgrounds or sports fields, but the lakes are calm and relaxing.
| Amenity | Details |
|---|---|
| Restrooms | Available |
| Fire rings | Metal fire rings at each site |
| Trailer access | Small to full-sized trailers |
| Water | No hookups, dry camping only |
| Fishing | Available on three lakes |
Camping Regulations And Restrictions For Trout Lakes Campground Tierra Amarilla NM Boondocking
Camping at Trout Lakes Campground comes with a few rules to keep things running smoothly. You’re allowed to camp with tents and small trailers.
Trailers over 16 feet aren’t allowed. Each designated site has a metal fire ring—use it for campfires and don’t start fires elsewhere.
Pack out your trash or use the provided containers. Parking is right by each campsite, so you won’t have to lug your gear far.
Camping costs $20 per night. If you want to fish, you’ll need a permit, but if you’re just camping, you’re good.
Toilets are on site, but don’t expect much else. Bring your own water and whatever else you need.
Questions? The campground manager can be reached at 505-684-2489.
Be cool, follow the local rules, and leave the place better than you found it. That’s the best way to keep Trout Lakes Campground enjoyable for everyone.
Leave No Trace At Trout Lakes Campground Tierra Amarilla NM Boondocking
When you camp at Trout Lakes Campground, following Leave No Trace principles really does matter. It keeps the natural area protected and the site decent for the next folks.
Always pack out all your trash and leftover food—seriously, don’t leave a crumb behind. Burying or burning waste just isn’t the way to go.
Stick to using the designated fire rings. That way, you’re not scorching the ground or making a mess.
Try to keep your campsite on the smaller side. Avoid trampling plants or getting too close to wildlife.
Set up only in established sites or on tough surfaces like rock or gravel. That helps keep the area looking good.
Keep noise down and respect the quiet. Nobody likes a loud neighbor, and pets should definitely stay under control.
If you need to wash dishes, use biodegradable soap. Make sure you’re at least 200 feet from lakes or streams—water sources need to stay clean.
Before heading out, double-check that your fire’s completely out. Scatter any cool ashes, and give your site a once-over for stray trash or gear.
It’s not hard, but it does take a little effort. Isn’t it worth it to keep Trout Lakes Campground beautiful for everyone?
| AMENITIES: | ACTIVITIES: |
|---|---|
| Restrooms | Small RV Camping Tent Camping Fishing |
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