Things to do
Philmont Scout Ranch, a world-renowned high adventure camp owned by the Boy Scouts of America, is located just 5 miles from Ponil RV Park and Campground! Spanning over 140,000 acres in the stunning Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Philmont offers a wilderness experience like no other.
Each summer, hundreds of Scouts and their families choose to stay with us before embarking on their Philmont trek. Ponil RV Park is the perfect spot to relax, prepare, and share in the excitement of what’s to come. Plus, Philmont provides convenient transportation from the Raton, NM train station right to our campground and will shuttle you directly to Philmont on the morning your adventure begins. Please join us to kick off your journey with camaraderie and comfort—Ponil RV Park is proud to be part of your Philmont experience! (https://www.philmontscoutranch.org)
There are plenty of dining options within a short walk from Ponil RV Park. Enjoy a tasty bite at local favorites like the Cree-Me Drive In or Hikers Cafe. Plus, Cimarron offers a variety of other charming venues to explore! Check out more dining and activity options at www.cimarronnm.com
Historical Buildings
The history of Cimarron, New Mexico, is rich and fascinating, with several historic buildings and sites that offer a glimpse into the town’s colorful past. Pick up a self-guided Historic Walking Tour of Old Town Cimarron and its companion booklet, A Brief History of Cimarron, at a local business or the Visitor Center.
This historic walking tour covers 14 unique sites dating back to the mid-1800s, including the old jail, the stage office, and the Old Mill Museum. The tour takes you along the Santa Fe Trail, sharing stories of Lucien Maxwell’s 1,713,000-acre land grant and the Colfax County War. Brass plaques mounted on stone pillars guide you from site to site, providing rich details about each location.
For an even deeper dive into Cimarron history, check out the Legends by Lantern Light Tours, which offers guided tours that bring to life local lore and ghost stories. Learn more about Cimarrons' history and historic sites at www.cimarronnm.com/history
We offer two inviting tent camping areas, each with its own charm and amenities to make your stay comfortable and memorable.
For a serene, tucked-away experience, our lower campground sits along the scenic bank of Ponil Creek. Here, you’ll find a spacious, grassy area perfect for pitching tents under the canopy of large trees. This spot features a fire pit, rustic seating and table, a water faucet, and even a 110V electrical outlet—perfect for those seeking a true nature retreat with a few extra comforts.
If you prefer to be closer to amenities, our main campground offers tent spaces beneath a double row of shaded trees. This area is conveniently located near the bathhouse, laundry facilities, and pavilion. It’s ideal for families and groups, with plenty of space for outdoor games, a basketball hoop, and areas for tossing around a ball or frisbee.
Many families of Scouts stay with us while their kids embark on adventures at Philmont Scout Ranch, and scout groups often settle in for 2-3 days before their trek to explore the surrounding attractions. Join us and make Ponil your base camp for adventure and relaxation!
Explore the intriguing history of our area with local museums and even a haunted hotel! This hotel is a living museum, brimming with stories from the past. Notable figures like Jesse James, Bat Masterson, and Annie Oakley have all graced its halls, along with countless others. Come for a meal, stay for the stories, and experience a piece of history that continues to captivate.