Within Carson National Forest, Hopewell Lake Campground sits at 9,500 feet elevation along the shores of its namesake lake. This US Forest Service facility operates from June through October, accommodating RVs up to 45 feet alongside tent campers. The campground features well-spaced sites that provide privacy despite the compact layout, with vault toilets, drinking water, and a dump station serving visitors.
Trout fishing draws many campers to the lake, where Karen N. observed "several people around us were catching very nice sized trout." The lake also serves day-use visitors with picnic tables along the shoreline. Wind conditions at the water can affect fishing success, and summer monsoon rains are common. Some sites include livestock pens, though policies vary.
Access involves rough roads that can challenge certain vehicles. When the developed campground fills, dispersed camping options extend down the dirt road from the main entrance. The elevation means voices carry between sites, but the forest setting and site spacing help maintain reasonable privacy. Camping near Carson National Forest includes several alternatives within the national forest system.
Water availability can be intermittent, so bringing backup supplies proves wise for extended stays.
Description
Overview
Hopewell Lake Campground sits next to its scenic namesake lake between Tres Piedras and Tierra Amarilla in northern New Mexico. Visitors enjoy horseback riding, hiking, fishing and canoeing.
Recreation
The 14-acre lake is perfect for canoeing and is regularly stocked with rainbow and brook trout. The Continental Divide National Scenic Trail goes through the campgound, and is popular with horseback riders and hikers.
Facilities
The campground has 31 camping sites. There is also a group day-use shelter and group overnight campsite, both available by reservation. Horse corrals and water troughs are available at two campsites. Vault toilets are provided. Currently (May 2024) there is NO water. Please bring your own water. First-come, first-served sites are available.
Natural Features
Hopewell Lake is a small, man-made lake, set high in the Carson National Forest at an elevation of 9,500 feet. A forest of conifer and aspen trees covers the area and offers partial shade in the campground.
Contact Info
For facility specific information, please call (928) 537-8888.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundHopewell Lake Campground is located in New Mexico
Directions
From Taos, New Mexico, take U.S. 64 about 40 miles west. The campground is on the south side of the road.
Coordinates
36.7044444 N
106.2355556 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 5 usersLast on 4/3/26- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo CoverageVerified by 8 usersLast on 4/3/26
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 5 usersLast on 4/3/26
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo CoverageVerified by 8 usersLast on 4/3/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Equestrian
Features
For Campers
- Market
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Pull-Through Sites
- Big Rig Friendly
Contact
General Info
Reservations
Drive Time
- 1 hr 41 min from Santa Fe, NM
- 2 hrs 31 min from Albuquerque, NM
- 2 hrs 41 min from Farmington, NM
- 3 hrs 13 min from Pueblo, CO
