Experience Unmatched Nature at Cuchillo Del Medio Campground

18 reviews

Arroyo Seco, NM 87514, USA
webSite

Cuchillo Del Medio Campground Introduce

Cuchillo Del Medio Campground offers a unique and untouched camping experience nestled along the Rio Hondo, just on the outskirts of Arroyo Seco, NM. This hidden gem is a haven for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers seeking an authentic connection with the great outdoors. Nestled in the heart of northern New Mexico, the campground provides a perfect base for exploring the nearby Taos Ski Valley while offering a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Location: Ideally situated near the Rio Hondo river, Cuchillo Del Medio Campground is a mere 14-day drive from Taos Ski Valley, making it an excellent stop for travelers heading to this popular ski destination.
Free Camping: This campground stands out as one of the few free camping spots available. While staying here is completely free, there are no hookups or utilities provided, including electricity, water, or sewage connections.
Natural Beauty: The site boasts stunning natural beauty with towering trees and the soothing sound of the nearby river. The rushing waters of the Rio Hondo provide a refreshing environment, perfect for those looking to escape the heat and immerse themselves in nature.
Primitive Camping Experience: Guests are encouraged to embrace the "pack it in, pack it out" philosophy here. There are no trash cans or dumpsters available on-site, so visitors must bring their own waste bags for disposal elsewhere. Additionally, potable water is unavailable, so campers should plan accordingly and bring all necessary supplies.
Stay Duration: Visitors can stay for up to 14 consecutive days within a 30-day period, making it an ideal spot for extended getaways without the need for frequent relocation.
Facilities: A single pit toilet is available on-site but may not always be accessible. This primitive facility underscores the emphasis on self-reliance and minimal environmental impact that defines the camping experience here.

Campers can enjoy a true boondocking experience, with shaded sites offering respite from the sun while the gentle sound of the river creates a soothing ambiance. The area is particularly popular among those traveling with RVs or overland vehicles who appreciate the freedom and solitude that comes with primitive camping.

Activities: While the primary draw is the camping experience, visitors can also enjoy fishing in the river or simply taking leisurely walks through the surrounding nature. The nearby Taos Ski Valley offers year-round outdoor activities, making this campground a versatile option for both summer and winter getaways.
Challenges: Visitors should be aware of the lack of amenities and prepare accordingly. Steep driveways leading to some sites may require careful consideration of vehicle capabilities, particularly for larger vehicles or those with limited maneuverability.
Customer Feedback: Reviewers have praised the campground for its pristine natural beauty and tranquility. Many highlight the peaceful environment, with one visitor describing it as a "true boondocking experience" that offers "peace, tranquility, cool air, and so much natural beauty." Another camper appreciated the "shaded sites" and "riverside ambient noise," though they noted the need to bring all water and prepare for the pit toilet situation.

Cuchillo Del Medio Campground is a gem for anyone seeking an authentic outdoor experience in northern New Mexico. While it may not offer modern conveniences, its untouched natural beauty and serene atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers. Whether you're traveling with family, friends, or solo, this campground offers a unique opportunity to disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature.

Location

New Mexico Taos County Arroyo Seco

Customer Reviews

4.0

18 reviews

Cee Gee

Sep 11, 2024

This is a great camping area on the banks of the Rio Hondo on the way to Taos Ski Valley. It's free to camp here. There is a 14 day limit on camping, which means you can stay here a total of 14 days within a 30 day period. Camping here is a true boondocking experience. There are no trashcans or dumpsters, so be prepared to take all your trash with you when you leave. Pack it in, pack it out. There's no drinking water here either, so bring all you need. And please don't contaminate the beautiful river. What else is not available here? No electricity. No dump station. No sewage hookups. There is at least one pit toilet in the vicinity, but sometimes it's locked, so be prepared for that. What DOES this campground offer? A free place to pitch your tent. Magnificent tall trees. A rushing river so cold your bones will ache moments after you put your feet in. The soothing sound of that river. Peace. Tranquility. Cool air. So much natural beauty.

Mark Morrison

Oct 24, 2023

This campground is right off the road when driving up into the Taos Ski Valley. There are kinda two areas of it that you can't drive between; two different driveways if you will. We stayed in the southern one. These sites are free and you can stay for up to two weeks consecutively. Shade and riverside ambient noise is unbeatable. Super peaceful apart from the occasional vehicle on the road. Pit toilet restrooms were in the northern half of the campground, just a little walk from where we were. Some of the sites involve rather steep "driveways" to park, so be mindful of what your vehicle is capable of. Bring all the water you'll need; there is none in the campground. Such a relaxing place to be.

Floyd May

Aug 09, 2024

Great location for camping near Taos ski valley. Stream behind the campground makes for a peaceful soundscape, and it being nestled in the steep valley helps keep wind out. Good fire pits, some of the camp sites have tables. Road noise was an issue, and you'll need a vehicle with some ground clearance - no compact sedans 😉

Shuai Jiang

Jul 18, 2022

Cozy campsite with only two RV spots but multiple shares campgrounds. Facilities are limited with only fire pits, two tables and a dry toilet. No water. There is a river running by it for those with filters. Due to the small number of space, be ready to have a plan B on campgrounds. We came in mid July and temps were great at night with a strong stream. Allows easy access to Wheeler peak hike.

Justin Williams

Jun 25, 2018

This dispersed campground is easy to find on the road to Taos Ski Valley. The sites are on the south east side of the road. The speed limit is 30 mph most of the way so they don't sneak up on you. This campground is best for cars and SUVs, half of the sites are not accessible with a motorhome, trailer or car. There is a bathroom but no garbage service here. This is the end of June and the Rio Hondo flows along side the sites with plenty of water to wade in. The water is cool and clear with bever sign everywhere. Look out for bears and no fires of any kind! We love to Forrest so camp responsibly!