Fishing enthusiasts will find multiple stocked lakes and streams running through this 10,000-acre private campground in the forested mountains near Costilla. Rio Costilla Park sits at elevation among aspens and ponderosa pines, with most campsites positioned along babbling creeks and the Rio Costilla itself. The property accommodates RVs up to 50 feet, though rough access roads make 4WD vehicles preferable for reaching some areas and the upper lakes.
Campers can choose from widely spaced sites that create a dispersed camping feel, with some featuring covered picnic table areas. Portable toilets are positioned near all sites, but no running water is available on-site. The park charges $30 per night plus a $10 daily fishing fee per person, with firewood available for purchase. Cattle roam freely throughout the property, requiring leashed pets at all times.
Terry notes the atmosphere benefits from restrictions: "There is NO FIREWORKS permitted and NO ATV's permitted. Thus, a pleasant and quiet camp trip." The park offers extensive hiking trails leading to higher elevation lakes, though visitors should prepare for challenging terrain and potential navigation difficulties. Campers exploring the broader region can also check campsites around Red River for additional mountain camping options.
Description
Rio Costilla ~ Pristine Wilderness is located in Northern Taos County, New Mexico. Lush forests offer Spring & Summer Recreation through Labor Day Weekend and are a Hunter’s Paradise throughout the year.
Camping, Fishing, Hiking, Bike Riding, Rock Hounding, and just plain Relaxing are among many activities to be enjoyed during warmer months of the year in Rio Costilla Park.
Fee Info
Day Entrance Only: $15.00 per vehicle per day. Day entry up to 8:00 PM Only. Dry camping for tents & RVs. Overnight Entrance for Camping: $30.00 per vehicle per day. Fee covers up to 24 Hours Fishing: An Additional $10.00 per person per day
Reservation Info
Trash dumpster – located across from big Canopy in Rio Costilla Septic Waste dump site – located at the old El Gato Lodge No Potable water in Rio Costilla, however, RVs/Trailers can be filled with potable water at the Rio Costilla main office, located in Costilla, NM.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Private CampgroundRio Costilla Park is located in New Mexico
Address
#72 State Road 196
Costilla, NM 87524
Coordinates
36.84685993070775 N
105.38041402419776 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo CoverageVerified by 2 users
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo CoverageVerified by 2 users
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Equestrian
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Pull-Through Sites
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 2 hrs 30 min from Pueblo, CO
- 2 hrs 32 min from Santa Fe, NM
- 3 hrs 9 min from Colorado Springs, CO
- 3 hrs 21 min from Albuquerque, NM


















