About RIO DE LAS VACAS CAMPGROUND
Overview Less than two hours from the city of Albuquerque, Rio de las Vacas Campground offers a cool oasis from the New Mexico heat. Visitors delight in the hiking and fishing opportunities available in the shade of the pine covered Jemez Mountains. A few of the campsites have the creek running along them, providing a soothing atmosphere for campers. Recreation Local streams and the San Gregorio reservoir provide fishing opportunities for anglers, and hikers will delight in the many hiking opportunities in the nearby San Pedro Parks Wilderness. Facilities There are 15 campsites on the campground. Most of the campsites at Rio De Las Vacas come with a paved RV pad, fire rings, picnic table, and tent pads. The campground itself has paved roads, trash bins, vault toilets and a host on site. Natural Features The campground is located amid stunning ponderosa pines in close proximity to the Rio de las Vacas. The campground has a beautiful open meadow and scenic views of the surrounding Jemez Mountains. Fall brings migrating birds through the campground and the sounds of elk bugling to impress potential mates. Nearby Attractions The San Pedro Parks Wilderness, just north of the Rio de las Vacas Campground, offers easy and scenic day hikes. The minimal grade increases of the trails into the San Pedro Parks make this wilderness an ideal backpacking destination for beginners and experienced backpackers alike. Three main trailheads, the San Gregorio, Palomas and Los Pinos, are within driving distance of the campground.
How to Get There
From Cuba, New Mexico, travel 11 miles east of Cuba on New Mexico State Highway 126. The campground is located approximately 11 miles from Cuba where lodging, restaurants, and gas stations are available. The campground is approximately a one and a half hour drive from Albuquerque.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
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Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to RIO DE LAS VACAS CAMPGROUND
Heading to RIO DE LAS VACAS CAMPGROUND? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for RIO DE LAS VACAS CAMPGROUND?
No central reservation system listed for RIO DE LAS VACAS CAMPGROUND. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/251437) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to RIO DE LAS VACAS CAMPGROUND?
From Cuba, New Mexico, travel 11 miles east of Cuba on New Mexico State Highway 126. The campground is located approximately 11 miles from Cuba where lodging, restaurants, and gas stations are available. The campground is approximately a one and a half hour drive from Albuquerque.
How do I contact RIO DE LAS VACAS CAMPGROUND?
You can reach the park at phone: 575-289-3264.
References & Official Resources
