Finding an open public campground this time of the year in the mountainous regions of New Mexico is a challenge.
One amazing all-year location is the Vista Linda Campground 5 miles south of Jemez Springs on State Hwy 4. The facilities are minimal–vaulted toilets, picnic tables (some covered), grills and trash cans–on this Sante Fe National Forest campground; however, the location is impressive and someone put a great deal of thought into the layout design of the sites. There is trail access, and fishing pads are accessible to people with disabilities.
All the 13 sites, both pull-through and back-in, are paved and mostly level. Note that the water has been shut off because of temperatures dipping below freezing.
Our site was adjacent to the small meandering Jemez River surround by Cottonwoods and Junipers.
Camping fee: $10/night; $5/night for those with the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass.
Photo: Vista Linda Campground, site # 7. By Julianne Crane
Karen: How wonderful to hear from you. I hope we can connect in Arizona. Always great to hear from you. Julianne
Hi Julieanne,
Wendy told me that you are down south working on Habitat for Humanity houses. Great project!
I am in Surprise, AZ where my son Scott has just moved his family into a new home. I plan to be in the Arizona area until next April. I hope that we can reconnect when you are in the area. Please let me know your itinerary in AZ.
Looking forward to seeing you again,
Karen
Evan:
Thank you for bringing this to my attention. The number of sites has been corrected to reflect your information.
Vista Linda Campground is a jewel, out-of-season travelers like us really appreciate the fact that it is open year-round.
Keep up your good work on the Santa Fe National Forest.
Julianne
Received an e-mail from Evan Miller, Recreation Staff with the Jemez Ranger District, Santa Fe National Forest regarding a correction on this posting:
Julianne,
In the blog article about Vista Linda campground you state that the site has 23 units. This should read 13 units. Nice article though, I appreciate your interest in national forest campgrounds.
Thanks much,
Evan Miller
Recreation Staff
Jemez Ranger District
Santa Fe National Forest
575.829.3535 ext. 3106
evanmiller@fs.fed.us