Sugarite Canyon State Park RV & Campground Guide
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History and outdoor adventure meet in Sugarite Canyon State Park. Located in northern New Mexico, adjacent to the Colorado border, this park sits on the site of a 1900s-era coal-mining camp. Today, it’s a stunning and wild park featuring two shimmering lakes and a spectacular canyon. Spend your days exploring the historic Sugarite town ruins, get out into the deep forests on the hiking and horseback riding trails, or climb up to the mesa for views of the Rockies and the Great Plains. With its well-stocked trout lakes, the park is also popular among anglers and boaters. The nearest town is Raton, just 6 miles away, and Las Vegas is within an easy 100-mile drive.
Spring 21-59 F
Summer 45-81 F
Fall 22-72 F
Winter 12-45 F
RV Resorts & Campsites in Sugarite Canyon State Park
Sugarite Canyon State Park is known for its cool evenings and snowy winters. No matter what time of year you visit, an RV makes a cozy base camp. If you don’t own one, an RV rental is an excellent alternative.
Sugarite Canyon State Park Campgrounds
The Sugarite Canyon State Park campgrounds provide the best access to the park’s 3,600 acres. Choose from a variety of campgrounds and either primitive or electric sites. If you have a big rig, be sure to check out the pull-through site availability. From your spot, it’s an easy hike or bike ride to Lake Alice and Lake Maloya. All spots offer access to a dump station, flush toilets, and hot showers so that everyone in your group stays comfortable. Sites start at $14 for spaces with electricity and $10 for basic spots.
Willow Springs RV Park
Enjoy easy access to Sugarite Canyon State Park from your spot at Willow Springs RV Park. It’s located just a few miles away in Raton, right next to I-25 for easy access. This is a simple spot with clean grounds and lovely views. Full hookups are available, and sites offer either 30-amp or 50-amp electric service. Choose from both pull-through sites up to 72 feet long and back-in spaces up to 54 feet long. Rates start at $36 per night, and discounts are available for weekly stays, veterans, and seniors.
Raton KOA
If you want a site with plenty of amenities, the Raton KOA has you covered. Here, you’ll enjoy full hookups, Wi-Fi access, and cable TV service. With spots up to 85 feet long and pull-through availability, there’s room for even the biggest RVs. This campground is just minutes from I-25, so it’s a popular spot for quick visits. Most RV sites are long and wide, giving you plenty of room to set up camp; be sure to check individual descriptions to find sites with shade or extra space for tents or toys.
Raton Pass Camp
Wake up to breathtaking views of the Sangres de Cristo Mountains at Raton Pass Camp, which sits 13 miles from Sugarite Canyon State Park. This beautiful campground sits at the top of Raton Pass, just south of the Colorado-New Mexico border. Watch wildlife from your full hookup-site and post memories on social media using the free Wi-Fi connection. Choose from both pull-through and back-in sites; each comes with access to the exceptionally clean bathrooms, showers, and laundry room. If you’re feeling social, head to the cafe, store, and gathering space to chat with other campers. Pets are welcome. Rates range from $38 to $42 per night, with an extra charge if you need 50-amp power.
What to Do at
Sugarite Canyon State Park
Inside Sugarite Canyon State Park
Sugarite Canyon State Park offers something for every camper. If you’re looking to relax, head for the water. Both lakes are stocked with trout to ensure exceptional fishing, and the electric-motor-only rule ensures a peaceful environment. Walk between the lakes on the Lake-to-Lake trail, or get out into the forest on the 13-mile trail network. Both hikers and horseback riders are welcome, and many trails offer exceptional butterfly sightings and stunning scenery. If you’re visiting during the winter months, bring your cross-country skis and snowshoes.
How to Get to
Sugarite Canyon State Park
NM-526 passes right through Sugarite Canyon State Park. You can access it from the north in Colorado or the south in New Mexico. The easiest way to reach the park is to take I-25 to Raton, New Mexico. From there, get on NM-72 east and turn north on NM-526.
Entering Sugarite Canyon State Park
Sugarite Canyon State Park is open all year. Hours and facility availability vary by season, so be sure to check before you arrive.
Sugarite Canyon State Park Per vehicle : $5.0
Is Sugarite Canyon State Park on your bucket list? If you’re taking an RV trip to the park, the RVshare team would be fascinated to hear about your experience. Tag RVshare on your social media posts, or simply send your snapshots, tips, and stories to [email protected]. You may even see them featured in an upcoming blog or social media post.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sugarite Canyon State Park
Spring is the best time to visit the park. The weather is typically mild during these seasons, making it ideal for hiking and camping. However, you should be aware that thunderstorms are common in the spring and summer.
There are various wildlife species that you will find in Sugarite Canyon State Park, including mule deer, elk, bighorn sheep, and pronghorn antelope. You can also enjoy spotting various birds such as eagles, hawks, and owls.
There are no designated RV spots in Sugarite Canyon State Park. However, there are some areas where RVs are allowed to park. These areas are typically near campsites or picnic areas.
Pets are allowed in the park, but they must be kept on a leash at all times, and pet owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets. However, pets are not allowed on hiking trails.
Sugarite Canyon State Park is accessible to disabled visitors. The park has handicap-accessible bathrooms, picnic tables, and campsites. There are also several wheelchair-accessible trails and a handicap-accessible fishing pier on Bonito Lake.