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Rio Chama Fishing
Public Campground

Rio Chama Fishing

Abiquiu, New Mexico
4.9 (18 reviews)

Photos shown are stock images and may not represent the actual campground.

About Rio Chama Fishing

An excellent fishing stream that consistently produces trophy size brown trout. Access at El Vado lake and near Ghost Ranch.  Section from El Vado Reservoir has been designated as a wild and scenic river. Fish species include brown trout, rainbow trout and kokanee salmon. A 34 mile stretch of river. Best trout fishing is within several miles of El Vado Dam.

Nestled along the scenic Rio Chama in northern New Mexico, this public campground offers a peaceful retreat for RV travelers seeking outdoor adventure and natural beauty. The river setting creates a tranquil atmosphere where you can wake to the gentle sound of flowing water and fall asleep under New Mexico's star-filled skies. This location is ideal for anglers, nature enthusiasts, and families looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

The Rio Chama is renowned among fishing enthusiasts for its excellent trout populations, making this campground a premier destination for those hoping to cast a line in pristine waters. Whether you're an experienced fly fisherman or just looking to enjoy a relaxing day by the river, the accessible fishing opportunities here provide memorable experiences for all skill levels. The river corridor supports a healthy ecosystem, and visitors frequently encounter native wildlife including mule deer, elk, and various bird species throughout the seasons.

The surrounding landscape showcases the stunning diversity of northern New Mexico's terrain. Rolling hills, piñon and juniper forests, and dramatic canyon walls create a picturesque backdrop for your camping adventure. The elevation and geographic location provide comfortable temperatures during summer months, making it an excellent escape from the heat of lower elevations. Fall visits offer spectacular foliage as aspen trees turn golden yellow against the deep blue New Mexico sky.

Beyond the immediate campground, the region offers rich cultural and historical attractions. The area sits within reach of several notable destinations, including historic Spanish colonial communities and Native American cultural sites that reflect New Mexico's deep heritage. Outdoor recreation options extend beyond fishing to include hiking, wildlife watching, and photography opportunities that capture the rugged beauty of the high desert.

This public campground attracts visitors who appreciate authentic outdoor experiences without unnecessary commercial development. The rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars reflects consistent visitor satisfaction and the quality of experiences available here. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or an extended RV camping trip, Rio Chama Fishing provides an accessible gateway to northern New Mexico's natural wonders and outdoor recreation.
4.9

Rating

18

Reviews

Park Details

Tips & Tricks

Book Early

Abiquiu 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 Abiquiu.

Explore the Area

Don't miss local attractions near Abiquiu. Ask the camp host for hidden gems and trails.

Rio Chama Fishing Reviews

Sign in to Review
G
Valerietti P

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Valerietti P

Awesome campsite. Quiet, by the river, in a stunning place - the Rio chama valley. The road to reach this campsite is a dirt road for 12miles, but totally doable if dry with a regular car, and a load of patience, about 15-20mph, i.e. almost 1h drive since when you leave the paved road. The campsites are not huge, but excellent for a tent, lots of shade, one nice table fire pit per site, even if no... Awesome campsite. Quiet, by the river, in a stunning place - the Rio chama valley. The road to reach this campsite is a dirt road for 12miles, but totally doable if dry with a regular car, and a load of patience, about 15-20mph, i.e. almost 1h drive since when you leave the paved road. The campsites are not huge, but excellent for a tent, lots of shade, one nice table fire pit per site, even if not all fire pits have the grill on top. Absolutely no cell service around there.

G
Valerietti P

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Valerietti P

Awesome campsite. Quiet, by the river, in a stunning place - the Rio chama valley. The road to reach this campsite is a dirt road for 12miles, but totally doable if dry with a regular car, and a load of patience, about 15-20mph, i.e. almost 1h drive since when you leave the paved road. The campsites are not huge, but excellent for a tent, lots of shade, one nice table fire pit per site, even if no... Awesome campsite. Quiet, by the river, in a stunning place - the Rio chama valley. The road to reach this campsite is a dirt road for 12miles, but totally doable if dry with a regular car, and a load of patience, about 15-20mph, i.e. almost 1h drive since when you leave the paved road. The campsites are not huge, but excellent for a tent, lots of shade, one nice table fire pit per site, even if not all fire pits have the grill on top. Absolutely no cell service around there.

G
Scott Micheels

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Scott Micheels

Great little campground with beautiful views on the way in! Our 2WD rental car did fine on the dry road, although wet conditions would probably alter our choices. No water, but the pit toilets and trash receptacles were very well maintained. We lucked out and saw some of the Northern Lights, which was an unexpected bonus.

G
Pete Gomez

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Pete Gomez

A no-fee camping area right next to the Rio Chama. Sites are close together by modern standards and half the sites butt up against the river the other half are one row back. Be choosy because the amount of shade you get will vary greatly from site to site. Sites have a picnic table and fire pit. There are pit toilets, but no water available. Access to this is a 12 mile dirt road. There's three... A no-fee camping area right next to the Rio Chama. Sites are close together by modern standards and half the sites butt up against the river the other half are one row back. Be choosy because the amount of shade you get will vary greatly from site to site. Sites have a picnic table and fire pit. There are pit toilets, but no water available. Access to this is a 12 mile dirt road. There's three cattle grates and a little bit of washboard, but passable by passenger vehicles... unless there has been monsoons in the past days. The upper part of this 12 mi can wash out and or become so full of mud that you will need 4WD and good tires to pass it. Even with heavy rainfall, The road is usually good up to Chavez Boat Launch. After that is where things can get dicey.

G
Pete Gomez

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Pete Gomez

A no-fee camping area right next to the Rio Chama. Sites are close together by modern standards and half the sites butt up against the river the other half are one row back. Be choosy because the amount of shade you get will vary greatly from site to site. Sites have a picnic table and fire pit. There are pit toilets, but no water available. Access to this is a 12 mile dirt road. There's three... A no-fee camping area right next to the Rio Chama. Sites are close together by modern standards and half the sites butt up against the river the other half are one row back. Be choosy because the amount of shade you get will vary greatly from site to site. Sites have a picnic table and fire pit. There are pit toilets, but no water available. Access to this is a 12 mile dirt road. There's three cattle grates and a little bit of washboard, but passable by passenger vehicles... unless there has been monsoons in the past days. The upper part of this 12 mi can wash out and or become so full of mud that you will need 4WD and good tires to pass it. Even with heavy rainfall, The road is usually good up to Chavez Boat Launch. After that is where things can get dicey.

G
Ellen S

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Ellen S

Fairly rough road to the campground. Great, rustic setting next to the river. No fee. First come, first serve. Picnic tables, fire pits, clear spaces. Clean outhouses. Found a few rattlesnakes hanging out next to the women's toilet, so bring a headlamp and pee with your eyes open!

G
Ellen S

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Ellen S

Fairly rough road to the campground. Great, rustic setting next to the river. No fee. First come, first serve. Picnic tables, fire pits, clear spaces. Clean outhouses. Found a few rattlesnakes hanging out next to the women's toilet, so bring a headlamp and pee with your eyes open!

G
Kevin Bishop

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Kevin Bishop

Amazing location! Easy put-ins for rafts, kayaks, paddle boards. Exceptionally clean vault toilets. Campsites with shade. Unbeatable views!!

G
Kevin Bishop

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Kevin Bishop

Amazing location! Easy put-ins for rafts, kayaks, paddle boards. Exceptionally clean vault toilets. Campsites with shade. Unbeatable views!!

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