If you want a home base to camp that allows you to travel into Santa Fe itself often, Black Canyon is a perfect distance. Be very cautious driving here after heavy rains. Weve rounded up some of the best RV parks around Santa Fe, according to campers who have been before. There is more space than you can think of in . Camping Near Santa Fe National Forest. Find a Free Campsite Campgrounds. United States. American Spring Dispersed Camping Also Check: Best Portable Power Bank For Camping. There are picnic tables and even a few shade structures at some of the sites, making this an amenity rich free campsite. There is also an equestrian campground just down the road where you can fill up with water and dump your tanks. Camping Near Santa Fe | The Santa Fe National Forest GPS: 36.0711, -107.0096 Ill happily provide additional suggestions if none of the free campsites above hit the mark for you. As with most of the Western United States, much of the public land in New Mexico is managed by two entities: The United States Forest Service (USFS) and the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). On the other hand, the roads differ depending on where youre going. This guide is designed to help you navigate the various rules and regulations and plan your perfect New Mexico dispersed camping adventure. Learn more about New Mexico State Parks Annual Camping Pass. The campground is rustic and underutilized, and it is far less developed than most. The mountains seem to hug the campground, protecting the Chihuahuan Desert ecosystem of yucca, juniper, and sage. Its probably on par for what wed get for a big holiday weekend like Memorial Day weekend, but now its every weekend, said Leah Hurley, recreation staff officer for the Jemez and Cuba Ranger Districts. Here the Organs stunning panorama of needle-like spires rises just outside your tent. Wingert said hes been coming to the Jemez for 35 years and has been saddened to see the amount of trash left by campers increase over time. 11 Forest Lane Only a handful of campsites. Almost immediately after this, the dirt access road becomes much rougher. It never got too full. Locals from adjacent settlements use it largely for picnicking, but it also serves those who stay overnight before starting a horseback or backpack trip into the Pecos. The quiet campground is located in a strand of ponderosa pine in the Santa Fe National Forest. Santa Fe National Forest Campgrounds - Tripadvisor According to users, the road condition is broken down as such: The initial four sites are accessible to lower clearance vehicles, but youll need a 44 vehicle with higher clearance if you want to camp further back. Whether you camp in a tent or a recreational vehicle (RV), there are campgrounds in U.S. National Forests and Grasslands to satisfy the needs of most campers. The book details over 25 trails and includes topographical maps, trail conditions and recommendations for mountain bike. Looking for dispersed camping in New Mexico? New Mexico is undoubtedly one of the best states for wintercamping. Rancheros de Santa Fe is famous for its gorgeous, natural setting, attracting visitors worldwide. * I believe the USFS plans to require a nightly fee here ($10 to $12) in the near future. The views here are truly stunning and youll be treated to some incredible sunsets and sunrises at Dog Canyon. In this article, the best dispersed camping near Santa Fe, New Mexico, is discussed. Yeti Tundra 45 Cooler - The ultimate camping cooler. The best way to do this is typically by reaching out directly to the relevant USFS Ranger District or BLM Office in the area youd like to camp to inquire on camping locations. Our dispersed camping checklist has all the camping essentials plus specific items for dispersed camping. Its a little over an hour away and is notable for its badland scenery, especially its hoodoo formations. Beautiful wilderness scenery abounds and there are plenty of hiking opportunities nearby. Santa Fe is the hub . Find additional details ondispersed camping in National Forestsand on BLM land in New Mexico in the sections below: There are six National Forests and one National Grassland located in New Mexico that are managed by the USFS. Info:Bureau of Land Management Las Cruces District, 575-525-4300. Perhaps most popular is Cebolla Mesa Campground at the very end of the road (about 3.5 miles from the turnoff). Camping is prohibited within 900 feet of any developed water source (guzzler, watering trough, etc.) Check out our Dispersed Camping App guide here. By Matt Dahlseid Call the Kiowa and Rita Blanca National Grasslands for more information: (575) 374-9652, Get Directions to Mills Canyon Campground. The Santa Fe National Forest, which borders the Village of Jemez Springs, has several campgrounds available for a night under the stars, and close enough to the Village where restaurants, hot springs soaks and even a hot shower at one of the lodging facilities await you. Take your orientation skills and discover what a southwest landscape looked like when buffalo roamed the area. The dirt access road isnt horribly rough, but high-clearance is certainly helpful. Share sensitive information only City of Rocks state park, Chihuahuan desert, New Mexico. In January, Los Alamos hiker Coco Rae published Hiking Trails in Valles Caldera National Preserve, the first comprehensive guide to the 20-year-old preserve's trail system. New Mexico has no shortage of interesting rock formations, and this cluster of boulders, near . Dates: March 27, 2023 - August 25, 2023 (option to extend to November) . The Pecos Ranger Station of the Santa Fe National Forest is located just down the road on Highway 63 less than 1 mile south of the town of Pecos . Weve included a few good options for dispersed campsites in these national forest in the sections below, and have also linked to the dispersed camping regulations page for each forest below: To better visualize where each of these National Forests are located in New Mexico, take a look at the USFS map below: The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is the other governmental agency that permits dispersed camping in New Mexico. The recreation area shall be comprised of approximately 57,000 acres of lands and interests in lands within the Santa Fe National Forest as generally depicted on the map entitled "Jemez National Recreation AreaProposed" and dated September 1992. What are some of your favorite lesser-known hiking/camping/offroading The Forest used three methods to designate access to motorized dispersed camping: (1) Designating specific routes leading to dispersed campsites . The park is also close to two major shopping malls as well as the historic villages of Cerrillos and Madrid. The campsites here are close enough to Bonito Lake as well as some great hiking and ATV trails in the national forest. Its also a really tranquil spot. On the drive in to Cebolla Mesa campground, youll pass several spur roads and roadside pullouts that are suitable for dispersed camping. Golden Clear Creek R V Park. Santa Fe Fire Road is an excellent trail for beginning off-roaders with its smooth surface and several spurs to explore. Try not to arrive after dark so you dont flood the campground with your headlights. Unless otherwise noted, primitive camping is permitted practically everywhere in the Santa Fe National Forest. Informacin detallada del sitio web y la empresa: hunzaguides.com, +923008504627, +925813457050, +923335044414, +923015044414, +923438926352 Hunza Guides Pakistan - Tours, Trekking & Expeditions I believe there are plans to install shade shelters in the near future. Use them as inspiration, or make it easy on yourself and head to one of these great sites for your next camping trip. Cimarron Campground, in the Carson National Forest, is an equestrian dream. In terms of wildlife, dont be surprised if you see quail, doves, cattle, and much more. With just 12 campsites (three with their own horse corrals) spread between two camping loops (upper and lower), youll never have too much company around. The views of the Milky Way are among the very best Ive experienced in the United States. It has 8 total first-come, first-served campsites (all completely free!) Restrooms:Vault toiletWater:NoCrowds:LightMap. Dont forget to check out our other state specific dispersed camping guides: document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); 1. Another site on the more than 5.4 million acres managed by the BLMs LC District Office in New Mexico, this site is accessed via Exit 151 off Interstate 10. CONTACT. Although this isnt a typical dispersed campsite, it provides great access to the surrounding wilderness while also being easy to access for a variety or rigs. Hurley said forest employees on patrol have reported many large groups circling the wagons, or gathering several vehicles, including RVs, at spacious dispersed sites. Nightly rate based on last price paid . Additional information on each site is available on the SFNF websites Recreation page. US; New Mexico; Santa Fe; Caja Del Rio Dispersed Camping. Within Holy Ghost Canyon, the Santa Fe National Forest's Holy Ghost Campground is located on the outskirts of the Pecos Wilderness. Im not aware of any other free campsites in the immediate area. That said, there are plenty of campsite options, so you shouldnt have a tough time finding a spot. It takes just a 15-minute drive from the city to get into the Santa Fe National Forest and find yourself in Black Canyon Campground. People disregarding fire safety is nothing new. If youre looking for an incredible free campsite with stunning views of Angel Peak and the badlands, look now further than the BLM managed Angel Peak Scenic Area. 26.9 mi. You can access these sites from either direction, although RVs and trailers should arrive via Highway 217 from the east for the smoothest approach. Dept. This free camping spot is close to the La Cueva Trail if youre of the mind to get a little hike in during your stay. Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area Nederland. A small camping fee will possibly be implemented soon (although staying here will still be worth it). 2023 This site is owned and operated by CamperAdvise. Caja Del Rio dispersed camping is part of the Santa Fe National Forest overseen by the U.S. Forest Service. Listings Map. Pet Friendly . With more people seeking dispersed sites since the ordered closure of campgrounds in late March, campers have been venturing deeper along Forest Service roads than in years past. It's located in an alpine meadow and provides easy access to the San Pedro Parks Wilderness through both Vega Redonda Trail #34 and Corralitos Trail #452. Youll enjoy the campgrounds modest environment. Heres a quick list of the free campsites I dive into below: Or, browse these free campsites on our New Mexico dispersed camping map to find one near you. It boasts four concrete telescope pads (camping isnt allowed on these) and requires campers to use red light filters on all flashlights and headlamps to minimize light pollution. Free Camping Near Santa Fe - CampingProClub.com Recreation Technician - Inyo National Forest. Just 30 minutes away from White Sands National Park, Dog Canyon dispersed camping is another great area for any size rig. Listing for: American Conservation Experience. Developed campgrounds offer amenities ranging from electrical hookups for RV or trailer camping, to only a toilet. Please also visit the USFS or BLM website for the area you plan on visiting (or talk to a ranger) for the most up-to-date information on current rules, restrictions, and area closures. From Interstate 25, take Exit 1 and then turn east onto University Road/Dripping Springs Road. Caja Del Rio Dispersed Camping, Santa Fe | Roadtrippers The views here are truly stunning and youll be treated to some incredible sunsets and sunrises at Dog Canyon. Is dispersed camping allowed in Santa Fe National Forest. I use these in conjunction with a free, open source topo like Caltopo or Gaia GPS. This graded forest road provides access to the Santa Fe National Forest for about half the year, or at least until the snow melts. Mark Komadina Park Manager mark.komadina@emnrd.nm.gov. Located about 5 miles north of the town of Capitan, this expansive section of Lincoln National Forest isnt known only for its many recreational opportunities its also famous as the place where the real Smokey the Bear was found in 1950. 4. The dispersed camping lifestyle is one of the best reasons to look for the best dispersed camping in New Mexico. However, there is no disposal station. 15 USFS Santa Fe National Forest: 11 Forest Lane, Santa Fe, NM 87508; (505) 438-5300 16 USFS Gila National Forest: 3005 E Camino del Bosque, Silver City, NM 88061; (575) 388-8201 17 USFS Carson National Forest: 208 Cruz Alta Road, Taos, NM 87571; (575) 758-6200 18 City of Santa Fe Parks & Rec. Science. Located just southeast of Albuquerque, West Mesa Road dispersed camping is another gem. During the May 8-10 weekend, McLarty said he and his team found 38 improperly extinguished campfires. Apart from that, theres another reason why RVers flock to New Mexico. See 12 traveler reviews, 17 photos and blog posts New Mexico Free Camping Cuba Mesa De Cuba Dispersed Camping . In the Sangre de Cristo Mountains of New Mexico, the campground is set amid pine and fir trees, just where the aspen trees will start to appear. 3. I own a Forest River Berkshire XLT Diesel 45A Class A Motorhome. I am Ted Mosby from Cleveland, Ohio. Guide to Camping on the Tour du Mont Blanc, Guide to Hiking from Aspen to Crested Butte, Guide to Camping on the West Highland Way, Guide to Camping on the Walkers Haute Route, The Ultimate Guide to the Coast to Coast Walk, The Complete Guide to Snowshoeing in Rocky Mountain National Park, How to find dispersed campsites in New Mexico, The Best Dispersed Camping Areas in New Mexico, Santa Fe National Forest Dispersed Camping, Lincoln National Forest Dispersed Camping, Coronado National Forest Dispersed camping, Bureau of Land Management Dispersed Camping in New Mexico(BLM), Albuquerque District Office (Albuquerque), the New Mexico BLM lists these helpful rules for dispersed camping, combination of several online apps/websites, Cibola National Forest & Kiowa National Grassland MVUM, Upper Bonito Recreation Area Dispersed Camping, Kiowa National Grassland (administered by Cibola NF). Jemez Falls Campground (Santa Fe National Forest) Another well-located New Mexico campground, Jemez Falls Campground has 52 campsites perfect for tents and smaller RVs. LockA locked padlock Aside from the stargazing, this campground is notable for its remoteness and wide-open desert views. This is hands down one of the most beautiful places in New Mexico, in my opinion. Many campers have ignored the Leave No Trace principles, strewing refuse around their campsites and leaving piles of trash at day-use areas that have remained open, despite ever-present signs that ask people to pack out their garbage. 8. Parks, RV Parks. The threat of a fire is the most pressing concern for Luke McLarty, fire battalion chief of the Jemez Ranger District. However, as you pull in, its pretty enormous. Here are 30 of the best places to go camping in New Mexico. Developed campgrounds across Northern New Mexico will remain closed during one of the busiest camping weekends of the year, but campers are expected to be out in force anyway. respect the fire conditions warnings and practice no-trace camping principles. Holy Ghost Creek borders this dispersed camping area. The Memorial Day weekend is the unofficial launch of the summer recreation season on the 1.6-million-acre Santa Fe National Forest . Expect plenty of peace and quiet, despite some daytime OHV use. Pecos, NM Camping: A Guide To National Forest Sites Resumidero Camping Area. One of the most important considerations when dispersed camping in New Mexico is to follow Leave No Trace principles. Its located in Northeast New Mexico about an hour off I-25. In addition, the New Mexico BLM lists these helpful rules for dispersed camping: The map below gives you a sense of where BLM managed land is located in New Mexico: There are many resources available to help you find dispersed camping areas in New Mexico, first and foremost of which is this guide! Dont hesitate to reach out. Although you shouldnt expect solitude, camping here is a lot more private than you might expect from a BLM campground. Status: Seasonal, Full time, Non-Exempt . The breathtaking canyon view is spectacular, but owing to fallen trees, camping is inaccessible occasionally. Although the parking lot is windswept, you will conveniently find a silent area. New Mexico | Bureau of Land Management Las but certainly not least on our list of the best places for dispersed camping in New Mexico is Cebolla Mesa. This is a large area of dispersed camping. Choose from the following to find a site: The Santa Fe National Forest offers beautiful camping areas that range from low to high elevation, high desert to forested and primitive to developed. Your best bet is to contact the Ranger District or refer to the helpful map for Mananita that displays dispersed campsites. That blaze, started by an improperly extinguished campfire, burned 16,500 acres of forest in the Jemez Mountains, and its scars are still striking to see today. The map linked above brings you to the largest camping area, although there are many more opportunities if you venture further in. Motorized Access to Dispersed Camping: To reduce the risk of future damage to natural and heritage resources, the Santa Fe National Forest proposes to designate motorized access to dispersed camping. Check out the pullouts and spur roads along Highway 150 on the way to Taos Ski Valley for starters. Its not free, but the New Mexico annual camping pass is still a heck of a deal. Angel Peak is normally pretty mellow, but does become something of a local party spot on nicer weekends, especially around holidays.