Public Campground
5 Points Vista
Salt Flat, New Mexico
Located in the far SW portion of the Guadalupe Ranger District, this viewing area (vista) offers spectacular views of th...
Photos shown are stock images and may not represent the actual campground.
About Las Petacas Campground
Campground in New Mexico.
Las Petacas Campground offers a genuine New Mexico camping experience in a remote, high-desert setting that appeals to travelers seeking authentic outdoor adventure away from crowded commercialized parks. Located in the heart of New Mexico's rugged landscape, this public campground serves as an excellent base for exploring the distinctive character and natural beauty of the region.
The area surrounding Las Petacas embodies the spirit of the American Southwest, with dramatic vistas, wide open spaces, and the kind of peace and quiet that modern travelers often crave. The high desert environment creates stunning sunrises and sunsets, with colorful skies that seem to stretch endlessly across the horizon. Those interested in stargazing will find the dark night skies particularly rewarding, especially during new moon phases when the Milky Way becomes a dominant feature of the evening sky.
This location appeals especially to RVers who appreciate a more rustic camping experience and those interested in exploring New Mexico's rich cultural heritage and natural attractions. The region offers access to hiking opportunities, scenic drives, and the chance to encounter authentic Southwestern landscapes characterized by piñon and juniper forests, mesas, and desert vistas. The campground serves as a practical jumping-off point for discovering the unique character that defines central New Mexico.
Visitors should be prepared for the remote nature of this location, which means cell service may be limited and supplies should be gathered before arrival. The elevation and desert climate mean temperatures can vary significantly between day and night, so bringing appropriate bedding and clothing for varying conditions is recommended. The campground's public nature means it attracts a mix of travelers, from weekend adventurers to extended-stay visitors seeking solitude and connection with the landscape. This is an ideal destination for those who value authenticity, self-sufficiency, and the opportunity to experience the genuine character of New Mexico's interior regions without the amenities and price tags of more developed facilities.
The area surrounding Las Petacas embodies the spirit of the American Southwest, with dramatic vistas, wide open spaces, and the kind of peace and quiet that modern travelers often crave. The high desert environment creates stunning sunrises and sunsets, with colorful skies that seem to stretch endlessly across the horizon. Those interested in stargazing will find the dark night skies particularly rewarding, especially during new moon phases when the Milky Way becomes a dominant feature of the evening sky.
This location appeals especially to RVers who appreciate a more rustic camping experience and those interested in exploring New Mexico's rich cultural heritage and natural attractions. The region offers access to hiking opportunities, scenic drives, and the chance to encounter authentic Southwestern landscapes characterized by piñon and juniper forests, mesas, and desert vistas. The campground serves as a practical jumping-off point for discovering the unique character that defines central New Mexico.
Visitors should be prepared for the remote nature of this location, which means cell service may be limited and supplies should be gathered before arrival. The elevation and desert climate mean temperatures can vary significantly between day and night, so bringing appropriate bedding and clothing for varying conditions is recommended. The campground's public nature means it attracts a mix of travelers, from weekend adventurers to extended-stay visitors seeking solitude and connection with the landscape. This is an ideal destination for those who value authenticity, self-sufficiency, and the opportunity to experience the genuine character of New Mexico's interior regions without the amenities and price tags of more developed facilities.
3.4
Rating
27
Reviews
Park Details
Tips & Tricks
Book Early
Angel Fire is popular during peak season. Reserve 2-4 weeks in advance for weekends and holidays.
Check-in Time
Most parks have check-in after 1:00 PM and check-out by 11:00 AM. Call ahead if you'll arrive late.
Local Weather
New Mexico weather can change quickly. Pack layers and check the forecast for Angel Fire.
Explore the Area
Don't miss local attractions near Angel Fire. Ask the camp host for hidden gems and trails.
Las Petacas Campground Reviews
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Mera Maroldo
Mar 18, 2026
4.0
Google Review by Mera Maroldo
It's really small and the sites are very close together, so not a lot of privacy, but good opportunity for community if the people are right. It's also not very far off the main road at all so you see cars when they drive by from certain sites. That being said, it's a cool spot and the sound of the creek is really nice, plus there's places to hike nearby. There's no facilities aside from one toile... It's really small and the sites are very close together, so not a lot of privacy, but good opportunity for community if the people are right. It's also not very far off the main road at all so you see cars when they drive by from certain sites. That being said, it's a cool spot and the sound of the creek is really nice, plus there's places to hike nearby. There's no facilities aside from one toilet which remarkably didn't smell bad, although someone needs to hang about 20 fly strips in there. As far as location and resources go, it's what I look for and expect when I go camping. I just wish it was further off the main road, but it turns out you can't move a creek, so.
G
Mera Maroldo
Mar 18, 2026
4.0
Google Review by Mera Maroldo
It's really small and the sites are very close together, so not a lot of privacy, but good opportunity for community if the people are right. It's also not very far off the main road at all so you see cars when they drive by from certain sites. That being said, it's a cool spot and the sound of the creek is really nice, plus there's places to hike nearby. There's no facilities aside from one toile... It's really small and the sites are very close together, so not a lot of privacy, but good opportunity for community if the people are right. It's also not very far off the main road at all so you see cars when they drive by from certain sites. That being said, it's a cool spot and the sound of the creek is really nice, plus there's places to hike nearby. There's no facilities aside from one toilet which remarkably didn't smell bad, although someone needs to hang about 20 fly strips in there. As far as location and resources go, it's what I look for and expect when I go camping. I just wish it was further off the main road, but it turns out you can't move a creek, so.
G
Mera Maroldo
Mar 18, 2026
4.0
Google Review by Mera Maroldo
It's really small and the sites are very close together, so not a lot of privacy, but good opportunity for community if the people are right. It's also not very far off the main road at all so you see cars when they drive by from certain sites. That being said, it's a cool spot and the sound of the creek is really nice, plus there's places to hike nearby. There's no facilities aside from one toile... It's really small and the sites are very close together, so not a lot of privacy, but good opportunity for community if the people are right. It's also not very far off the main road at all so you see cars when they drive by from certain sites. That being said, it's a cool spot and the sound of the creek is really nice, plus there's places to hike nearby. There's no facilities aside from one toilet which remarkably didn't smell bad, although someone needs to hang about 20 fly strips in there. As far as location and resources go, it's what I look for and expect when I go camping. I just wish it was further off the main road, but it turns out you can't move a creek, so.
G
Tom B
Mar 18, 2026
3.0
Google Review by Tom B
It's okay for a night. Road was noisy and lots of cars pulling in to find a place for the night. Theres not a lot of parking and the spots are next to the camp road so the cars would drive right by you. Definitely NOT for trailers or large RVs. It's tight and there's nowhere to turn around.
G
Tom B
Mar 18, 2026
3.0
Google Review by Tom B
It's okay for a night. Road was noisy and lots of cars pulling in to find a place for the night. Theres not a lot of parking and the spots are next to the camp road so the cars would drive right by you. Definitely NOT for trailers or large RVs. It's tight and there's nowhere to turn around.
G
Tom B
Mar 18, 2026
3.0
Google Review by Tom B
It's okay for a night. Road was noisy and lots of cars pulling in to find a place for the night. Theres not a lot of parking and the spots are next to the camp road so the cars would drive right by you. Definitely NOT for trailers or large RVs. It's tight and there's nowhere to turn around.
G
Melba Aguilar
Mar 18, 2026
4.0
Google Review by Melba Aguilar
Camped here over the weekend (5/2018). Pros: nice stream, plenty of trees, well cleared sites, well maintained grills and picnic tables, available without reservation. Cons: Close to the road and town (loud), sites are small to average, some trash in the sites, healthy ant population. We enjoyed it overall, and ended up staying an extra night.
G
Melba Aguilar
Mar 18, 2026
4.0
Google Review by Melba Aguilar
Camped here over the weekend (5/2018). Pros: nice stream, plenty of trees, well cleared sites, well maintained grills and picnic tables, available without reservation. Cons: Close to the road and town (loud), sites are small to average, some trash in the sites, healthy ant population. We enjoyed it overall, and ended up staying an extra night.
G
Melba Aguilar
Mar 18, 2026
4.0
Google Review by Melba Aguilar
Camped here over the weekend (5/2018). Pros: nice stream, plenty of trees, well cleared sites, well maintained grills and picnic tables, available without reservation. Cons: Close to the road and town (loud), sites are small to average, some trash in the sites, healthy ant population. We enjoyed it overall, and ended up staying an extra night.
G
Kimberly Slack
Mar 18, 2026
1.0
Google Review by Kimberly Slack
Beautiful little spot right outside of Taos with easy access for smaller rigs and tent camping. But site is used by people to party, litter, sell and do drugs all day long. Did not see any park rangers or service people around. Toilet was dirty. I did not feel safe and left two days earlier than planned. If you travel alone, don’t go here.
G
Kimberly Slack
Mar 18, 2026
1.0
Google Review by Kimberly Slack
Beautiful little spot right outside of Taos with easy access for smaller rigs and tent camping. But site is used by people to party, litter, sell and do drugs all day long. Did not see any park rangers or service people around. Toilet was dirty. I did not feel safe and left two days earlier than planned. If you travel alone, don’t go here.
G
Kimberly Slack
Mar 18, 2026
1.0
Google Review by Kimberly Slack
Beautiful little spot right outside of Taos with easy access for smaller rigs and tent camping. But site is used by people to party, litter, sell and do drugs all day long. Did not see any park rangers or service people around. Toilet was dirty. I did not feel safe and left two days earlier than planned. If you travel alone, don’t go here.
G
Leigh Sinclair
Mar 18, 2026
1.0
Google Review by Leigh Sinclair
Just a heads up - drove by here today and this campground is closed. Didn’t look like it would be opening anytime soon. Pretty overgrown. Lots of other little sites along the River but they were all full on Friday afternoon.
G
Leigh Sinclair
Mar 18, 2026
1.0
Google Review by Leigh Sinclair
Just a heads up - drove by here today and this campground is closed. Didn’t look like it would be opening anytime soon. Pretty overgrown. Lots of other little sites along the River but they were all full on Friday afternoon.
G
Leigh Sinclair
Mar 18, 2026
1.0
Google Review by Leigh Sinclair
Just a heads up - drove by here today and this campground is closed. Didn’t look like it would be opening anytime soon. Pretty overgrown. Lots of other little sites along the River but they were all full on Friday afternoon.
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