About Black Canyon Campground (Santa Fe National Forest, NM)
Overview At 8475 feet in elevation, Black Canyon Campground is in a great location to experience some of the finest mountain scenery the Southwest has to offer. The facility is newly renovated and provides access to a variety of outdoor recreational activities. Campers can enjoy warm days and cool weather in the summer months, providing a scenic getaway from the desert heat. Recreation Hikers enjoy a pleasant hiking 1.5-mile trail that loops around the campground and into the surrounding forest. Several additional hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding trails are located nearby. The Pecos Wilderness can be accessed eight miles from the campground, with many trails leading to majestic peaks and through valleys, canyons and forested groves. Many recreation opportunities exist along Highway 475, both above and below Black Canyon Campground, including hiking and biking trails and picnic areas. In the winter, the area offers both Nordic and alpine skiing.Facilities The campground offers many single and double-family sites, most of which are accessible. Some sites are designated as walk-to sites for tent camping only. A few are available on a first-come, first-served basis.Each site is equipped with a table and campfire ring with grill. Accessible vault toilets are provided. The highway to the campground is paved. There is currently no water available on the campground, bring your own water.The campground is adjacent to New Mexico's Hyde State Park, where a dump station is available. Natural Features The campground is situated in a forest of pine, aspen and fir trees. A good mix of sun and shade is found throughout the area. Many beautiful views are found in the surrounding forest. Contact Info This location has limited staffing. Please call (505) 753-7331 for general information. Nearby Attractions The campground is located about seven miles northeast of the town of Santa Fe, New Mexico. This unique town is known for its cultural heritage, art galleries and museums
How to Get There
From downtown Santa Fe, New Mexico, travel north on Washington Avenue to Artist Road (Hyde Park Road/State Route 475) and turn right. Continue for 7 miles to Black Canyon Campground.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
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 Black Canyon Campground (Santa Fe National Forest, NM)
Heading to Black Canyon Campground (Santa Fe National Forest, NM)? 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 Black Canyon Campground (Santa Fe National Forest, NM)?
No central reservation system listed for Black Canyon Campground (Santa Fe National Forest, NM). Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/231894) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Black Canyon Campground (Santa Fe National Forest, NM)?
From downtown Santa Fe, New Mexico, travel north on Washington Avenue to Artist Road (Hyde Park Road/State Route 475) and turn right. Continue for 7 miles to Black Canyon Campground.
How do I contact Black Canyon Campground (Santa Fe National Forest, NM)?
You can reach the park at phone: 505-753-7331.
References & Official Resources
