🏔️ What to Pack for a Cabin Weekend in Northern New Mexico

Make the most of your stay at Vida Bonita Pecos with this helpful packing guide.

Planning a peaceful mountain escape to Northern New Mexico? Whether you’ve reserved a rustic-chic cabin at Vida Bonita Pecos or another scenic spot near the Pecos River, knowing what to pack will help you relax and enjoy every moment. From cool mornings to warm afternoons, here’s what to bring for a cozy and comfortable stay in the Santa Fe National Forest.

👕 Layered Clothing for the Mountains

Mountain weather is famously unpredictable—sunshine in the afternoon, cool breezes in the evening. Be ready with:

• Moisture-wicking base layers

• A warm fleece or wool sweater

• A jacket or puffer (even in summer)

• Sturdy hiking boots or trail shoes

• Sun hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen

• Rain jacket (especially in late summer)

Winter visitors: Bring thermal layers, insulated boots, gloves, and snow gear. Our cabins are toasty with heaters and wood-burning stoves, but your outdoor adventures will be much more fun if you're warm.

🌲 Outdoor Gear & Nature Essentials

If you plan to hike, fish, or relax by the water, pack:

• Small daypack or backpack

• Refillable water bottle (or enjoy our delicious spring water!)

• Binoculars for birdwatching—hummingbirds are everywhere right now

• Flashlight or headlamp

• Fishing gear and valid New Mexico fishing license

• Small hammock or blanket for outdoor lounging

• Camp chair or outdoor seat (optional, but nice to have)

Evenings are perfect for stargazing, so bring a cozy blanket or telescope if you’d like.

🏡 Cabin Comforts You’ll Want

We provide towels, linens, cookware, and basic supplies, but you might also want:

• Favorite snacks or groceries (last stop: Pecos, NM)

• Coffee pods for our Keurig machines

• A good book, journal, or camera

• Board games, cards, or your favorite puzzles

• Reusable containers or bags

• Phone chargers (some cabins have built-in charging lamps!)

If you’re staying in the Ponderosa Main Lodge, Twin Pines Duplex, or Crestview Cabin, you’ll also have a full kitchen and indoor/outdoor dining areas. Many of our guests love cooking in the fresh mountain air and relaxing by the firepit.

📍 Final Travel Tips

Before heading up scenic Highway 63, make a stop in Pecos, NM for last-minute essentials.

• Family Dollar and Dollar General carry basic supplies.

• The Phillips 66 is your last stop for beer, wine, and gas.

• Stock up on groceries in Santa Fe or Las Vegas, NM, if needed.

⚠️ Cell service fades quickly after Pecos, so be sure to message us on Hipcamp (or your booking platform) when you leave town. We’re located just past mile marker 24—second right after the marker. If you reach Cowles Ponds, you’ve gone too far.

🏕️ Ready for Your Perfect Cabin Weekend?

Packing thoughtfully means more time spent soaking in the views, breathing mountain air, and reconnecting with nature. Whether it’s your first time visiting Vida Bonita Pecos or you’re a returning guest, we can’t wait to welcome you for your Northern New Mexico mountain retreat.