New Mexico's National Forest With The State's Highest Peak Is An Epic Camping Destination

New Mexico is called "The Land of Enchantment" for a good reason. This scenic state is known for the colorful, wide open, otherworldly landscapes that the southwest is famous for. And while there certainly is plenty of desert splendor to be found in New Mexico — like this national park with epic white sand dunes — the state also boasts deep forests, alpine meadows, and some of the US' highest mountains.

Encompassing 1.5 million acres in the northern part of the state, Carson National Forest is home to over 400 miles of clearwater rivers and streams, along with lakes, ridges, rolling hills, and mountains, with elevations ranging from 6,000 feet to the 13,161-foot summit of Wheeler Peak, New Mexico's highest point. This is a raw, wild place where it's easy to find solitude. It's also teeming with wildlife, with 86,193 acres set aside as wilderness, the highest form of protection granted to federal wildland.

It should come as no surprise that all this makes Carson National Forest an outdoor playground, with visitors flocking to the reserve to partake in all manner of outdoor recreation. This includes hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, observing wildlife, fishing, hunting, winter sports, and — more than anything — pitching a tent or pulling up an RV in one of the reserve's many camping spots.

The Carson National Forest is just that, a vast area blanketed by pine, Douglas fir, aspen, juniper, and more. This is a place of gnarled, rocky hills and hidden valleys, with open spaces interspersed between the trees. It's the kind of western landscape that makes your heart soar and inspires you to get outside, making it ideal for camping.

Just what style of camping you wish to do depends on your taste and comfort level, but the forest boasts scores of areas ranging from RV-friendly car campgrounds to primitive backcountry spots. Dispersed camping (boondocking) is also available throughout all of Carson National Forest, though there are restrictions, such as staying at least 200 feet away from all streams, lakes, trails, and roads (300 in designated wilderness areas). As is always the case, it's best to read up on the rules and regulations before heading out into any national protected area.

While some of the more established campgrounds will have water and restrooms, most of the sites in the Carson National Forest tend to be pretty basic, meaning no RV hookups, no water available, and only pit toilets. This makes planning ahead essential, but also means that for many spots it's unlikely you'll be battling crowds. That said, there are a handful of reservable sites, though the vast majority are available on a first-come first-served basis. Also, nuisance bears are an issue at campgrounds throughout much of the forest, so proper food storage is essential. In addition, due to fire danger, there are strict rules regarding campfires, so know before you go.

The Carson National Forest offers an array of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts, especially those keen to hit the trail. There are over 330 miles of paths suitable for hikers, bikers, and equestrians, which also turn into snowshoe, snowmobile, and Nordic skiing tracks come wintertime. Popular hikes include Lost Lake Loop, a 14-mile circuit path to a pristine natural alpine reservoir, and Chimney Rock Trail, a short jaunt offering arresting vistas of open country and colorful cliffs. Just a stone's throw from the charming, arsty town of Taos — which is also a must-see for fall views and adventures — is the Wheeler Peak via Williams Lake Trail, a gorgeous, yet strenuous climb to the summit of the state's highest point with views that are guaranteed to take your breath away.

The forest is also home to loads of wildlife, including big game such as mule deer, elk, black bear, bighorn sheep, and mountain lion. Birders will also find plenty of avian species to spot, especially when it comes to raptors. Golden eagles are common throughout the region, and you also can catch a glimpse of bald eagles, peregrine falcons, hawks, and owls. 

The Carson National Forest also boasts some of the country's premier ski resorts, where you can hit the slopes in pristine powder conditions during the cold months of the year. These include Taos Ski Valley, Red River and Sipapu ski areas, all of which are situated within the boundaries of the forest. While you're in New Mexico, be sure to stop by its largest city, which is also an incredible foodie destination.