Camping at Jemez Falls Campground

Overview of Jemez Falls Campground

Jemez Falls Campground is a popular camping site located within the Santa Fe National Forest, New Mexico. This campground is well-loved by campers due to its close proximity to the scenic Jemez Falls and the East Fork of the Jemez River. It offers a tranquil setting surrounded by a forested area featuring ponderosa pines, Douglas fir, and oak trees.

Amenities and Facilities

The campground is equipped with multiple amenities:

• Campsites: There are several camping sites available for tents, and some can accommodate small trailers. Each site usually has a picnic table, fire ring, and grill.
• Restrooms: The facility includes vault toilets.
• Water: Drinking water is available, though it is recommended to bring extra water especially during peak summer months.
• Access: The campground provides easy access to hiking trails leading to Jemez Falls and the nearby Valles Caldera National Preserve.

Activities and Attractions

Visitors to Jemez Falls Campground can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities:

• Hiking & Biking: Numerous hiking and biking trails are accessible from the campground.
• Fishing: Anglers can find opportunities to fish in the East Fork of the Jemez River.
• Wildlife Watching: The surrounding forest is home to diverse wildlife, including deer, squirrels, and an array of bird species.
• Photography: The area is picturesque, especially the waterfall and the forested landscape, making it a great spot for photography.
• Exploring: The Jemez Mountain Trail National Scenic Byway runs through this area and provides a scenic drive.

Important Camping Information

Here are some key points and rules to keep in mind:

• Reservations: Some sites are available on a first-come, first-serve basis, while others can be reserved in advance through the National Recreation Reservation Service.
• Season: The campground typically operates from late spring through early fall, dependent on the weather conditions.
• Fees: There is a fee for camping per night, subject to change, so it is best to verify current rates prior to visiting.
• Fire Safety: Due to the risk of wildfires, campers must adhere to fire restrictions which may include bans on open fires during dry periods.
• Leave No Trace: Visitors are encouraged to follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve the natural environment.
• Pet Policy: Pets are usually allowed but must be kept on a leash.

Accessibility Information

• Road Access: The main roads to Jemez Falls Campground are paved, but the campsite roads and parking spurs are typically gravel.
• Mobility Impaired Access: While some areas might offer accessible facilities, the natural terrain may present challenges for those with mobility impairments.

Contact Information and Directions

For the most current information or specific inquiries, it's advised to contact the Santa Fe National Forest's Jemez Ranger District or to visit the USDA Forest Service website. You can also consult maps and regional signage for directions to the campground, which is located along the Jemez Mountain Trail off of New Mexico State Road 4.

Always check for any updates, alerts, or closures before planning your camping trip to Jemez Falls Campground.