Paliza

PALIZA

Overview

Paliza Campground sits beneath sandstone cliffs on the Jemez Ranger District of the Santa Fe National Forest. The area is replete with culture, offering visitors a glimpse into the past. Ample recreation opportunities exist at or near the campground, which makes it a wonderful outdoor destination.

Facilities

There is no water.

The campground offers a variety of sites available for tent and RV camping. Picnic tables, lantern posts and campfire rings with grills are provided, as are accessible vault toilets. Roads within the campground are paved.

Natural Features

The newly refurbished campground sits in a forested area at the top of a hill with views of the Jemez Valley below. It was originally the site of a 1930s Civilian Convservation Corps base camp. Remnants of that camp, including log lean-to's and adirondack shelters with rock fireplaces, can be found within the campground.

A small stream runs alongside the campground and sandstone cliffs on the nearby mesas provide excellent photographic and sightseeing opportunities. A small tract of private land is located north of the campground and common courtesy is appreciated.

Recreation

Hiking, wildlife viewing and scenic drives are some of the popular activities enjoyed near the campground. Striking views of an ancient volcanic crater amid the rolling hills, can be seen from the Cerro Pelado Scenic Overlook, about 11 miles from the campground.

Off-road vehicle trails and numerous hiking and mountain biking trails surround the campground.

Nearby Attractions

The campground is located five miles northeast of the town of Ponderosa, New Mexico, an area known for its vineyards and winery with a tasting room.

The Jemez Pueblo and the Walatowa Visitor Center, both of which provide rewarding cultural experiences, are just 11 miles from the campground in the town of Jemez. The quaint community offers shopping and dining opportunities, as well as a variety of recreational opportunities.

Important Notices

This campground is a Reservation campground starting in 2026. All Site reservations can be made the day of your arrival or reservation windows are open in 6 month increments.
Online reservations are payment for two vehicles MAXIMUM; that includes the tow vehicle or RV and one additional vehicle.
Check out is at 11:00 AM, Check in time is 1:00 PM.
Quiet hours are between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. Generators are not to be used between that time.
Dead and down only in fire rings; do not cut standing trees.
No ATV/ORV use in the campground. Travel is restricted elsewhere on the forest.
Don't Move Firewood: Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by obtaining firewood near your destination and burning it on-site. For more information visit dontmovefirewood.org.
No dump station available at this campground.
Charcoal only in pedestal grills.
There are no potable water sources in the campground. Please ensure you have enough water for your visit.
There is no electrical hookup in the campground.
Click here for more information on the Santa Fe National Forest

Available Activities

DAY USE AREA - Adirondack Shelter
WILDLIFE VIEWING - Wildlife Viewing
HIKING - Hiking
CAMPING - Camping
HISTORIC & CULTURAL SITE - Historic Sites
BIKING - Biking

Directions

<p>From the town of Ponderosa, New Mexico, travel 5 miles northeast on Forest Road 10 to the campground.</p>

Contact Information

PO BOX 150
Jemez Springs, NM 87025

Rental Options

Learn more about gear rental options for your trip

Available Campsites

Photo Gallery

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