Vista Linda Campground

We scoped out this campground several years ago while passing through, and finally got a chance to stay here last weekend. The location is both scenic and convenient to everything nearby, with large and well separated sites. If you can get a site on the river side of the loop (we didn’t) then your experience would be even better.

Deducting a star for noise (generators and partying) and for some issues with fire ants. In fact, we had to abandon our first site (#2) as the pad was overrun with aggressive biting ants. We mentioned this to the camp host, and he responded quickly by blocking off the site and putting down insecticide.

Be sure to stock up on everything before you get here. The only general store in the area (just north of Jemez Springs) has an underwhelming selection of food options.

This site has a lot going for it. It is close to route 4, and the main road through the campground is paved so access is easy. It has a pit toilet and trash bins. Our site had a covered shelter with a picnic table, fire pit, and BBQ. We also had a level spot to set up our tent.

There is a river behind the campground that adds to the ambience, and helps to block out most of the road noise.

We actually didn't pay for this campsite because there were no fee envelopes for us to deposit money and get a receipt. I noticed that some campers had receipts and others didn't. No one ever refilled the envelopes. Maybe it was because it was the end of the summer season? I'm not sure.

1 star down because I had no service with Verizon!

We actually found a spot in this otherwise full campground on Memorial Day weekend (Fri). What a gorgeous place along a small stream at the bottom of a stunningly beautiful red rock canyon. $10 per night but we payed half that with our pass. Back in sites, good seclusion and covered picnic table. Some generator noise but nothing excessive. Pit toilets were adequate and clean and water was available. No AT&T service. We will certainly return for a longer visit this fall!

On the first night I arrived there were 4 other rigs and that jumped up to 8 other campers on the second night so it seems to be a fairly popular campground even during the week. The east sites are along the river and each site is pretty well surrounded with trees making it seem more private and it’s amazing to be able to fall asleep to the sound of the water. The west sites are a little more exposed and right next to the road. The camp host is very nice. Cell service is next to non existent though I did get lucky and found a few spots to get out a text message.

We camped here on a Monday in late October with a 24 ft trailer. All of the pads are asphalt, but may still need some leveling. From our site we could see and hear the river. The cottonwoods were a magnificent yellow, and there are plenty of them along Hwy 4! From our site, we also had views of the bluffs on our side, and opposite side of the road. The campground is right off the highway, but no noise at night! Lots of stars visible here. Our site, and many others had a stone walled in fire area with table, and a roof over it that was impermeable. Good shade hot weather and ry in the rain! You could have a fire, with rain all around you! The campground has water spigots, recycling and garbage cans, but no dump. The pit toilets were kept immaculate by Donald, who was the best campground host we’ve ever met! He gave us lots of good advice about what to see around here - Soda Dam, hot springs, Valles Caldera, Los Alamos. So much to see and do! Also, when we asked if he had any fire wood, he gave us the wood he was planning on using that night, for $5.00, and we could hear him chopping more later! He walks with 2 sticks, but his energy is mighty!

Vista Linda is an immaculately maintained campsite along the Jemez river.

Mike, the camp host, greeted us shortly after we entered the park and gave us a warm welcome. He pointed out the amenities and directed us toward the trails to the river. He's a great asset to the camp and his hard work and love of he area is obvious.

After getting set up, we took a quick walk down to the river and waded around a bit. My suggestion is to close your eyes and inhale deeply. I'm not sure what made the river smell so amazing, but I instantly relaxed after our long drive that day.

Our site had a covered picnic area and both a grill and a fire pit. The bathrooms, water spigot, and trash cans were just a short walk away.

If you're in the area, this is a great place to camp, but get there early, it's popular for a reason.

This little BLM campground is delightful. Located between Jemez Pueblo and Jemez Springs, Vista Linda is a great spot.

Sites are on the smaller side, and I am almost positive all require backing in. No hookups, but relatively clean long drop bathrooms and garbage cans.

Campground is along the river, and is dark and quiet at night. The sunset was incredible.

No camp host and few other campers on a Thursday night in late March. $10 per spot, $5 with senior or access federal passes.

Check out the Gilman tunnels in Jemez Pueblo, they are wild (small rigs only, or just bring your toad).

One sporadic bar of Verizon Extended.

In the middle of many attractions along the Jemez River this place is an absolute gem. The view of the mountains and cliffs is stunning, especially as you watch the sun slowly reveal them in the morning. The river runs along the campground.
Larger rigs may not fit in here but we had no problem with our 25ft trailer. Some sites have covered tables and there are toilets and fresh water available, but no hookups.
The campground often fills up on weekends but in April we had plenty of choices. Mike, the camp host is the best. He keeps a very clean campground and was most helpful with information about the area. Jemez Springs is not far down the road with a couple of good places to eat, not to mention the ruins and local hot springs.