Horse Riding and Camping
Horseback riding and packing are popular activities in the Santa Fe National Forest, especially in the high country. All four designated Wilderness areas are open for horsepacking, and many other trails as well. Be aware of group size limits in Wilderness (look for specific wilderness restrictions on www.wilderness.net), and learn the Leave No Trace principles specific to stock use. This would include things like using a highline rather than tying stock to trees and using only weed seed free feed.
As always, use caution with fire and pack out anything you pack in.
Search for Horse Riding and Camping Opportunities
Borrego Mesa Campground
Site Open
The Borrego Mesa Campground is located close to several trailheads leading into the north half of the Pecos Wilderness. Amenities include picnic tables, firepits, and small corrals at each site…
Iron Gate Campground
Site Closed
Important Note: The campground is OPEN to the public but visitors may encounter a closed gate on Forest Road 223 before the campground. This gate is for livestock management. Please feel free to…
Iron Gate Trailhead
Site Closed
Important Note: During the open season (roughly April through November), the campround and trailhead are OPEN to the public but visitors may encounter a closed gate on Forest Road 223. This gate is…
Jacks Creek Horse Camp
Site Closed
Beautifully located among aspens and mixed conifer, you will definitely get the mountain experience at Jack's Creek. 21 miles north of Pecos, NM.Some recreation uses include: camping, hiking,…
Jacks Creek Trailhead
Site Closed
The Jacks Creek Trailhead is located in Pecos Canyon off State Route NM 63. This trailhead accommodates horse trailers and is the best place to park for visitors with horse trailers connecting to…
Johnson Mesa Campground
Site Closed
Johnson Mesa is a dispersed camping area located east of Las Vegas on NM 65 and FR 153. Facilities: vaulted toilets, tables and grills. NO potable water available.
Palomas Trailhead
Site Open
Palomas Trailhead is located on Forest Road 70 near the SE boundary of the San Pedro Parks Wilderness.
Panchuela Trailhead
Site Open
Panchuela Trailhead is located at the end of Forest Road 305 accessed by NM 63 approximately 22 miles north of Pecos.Uses: Hiking, backpacking, horseback riding.Facilities: Drinking water is…
Resumidero Camping Area
Site Open
Resumidero is a popular primitive camping area. Located in a large alpine meadow, Resumidero is a local favorite and used by numerous recreationists for camping, picnicking, and group…
Vacas Trail/San Gregorio Lake Trailhead #51
Site Open
At the trailhead is a 10-15 car parking lot with a vault toilet. The elevation here is 9,300 ft. The climb into the San Pedro Parks Wilderness is gradual. San Gregorio Reservoir is about a mile…