Planning a dispersed camping trip near Aztec? Here you'll find a diverse selection of places to camp, including remote dispersed camping to boondocking, and everything in-between. Find dispersed campsites you've visited before, or discover new spots from other campers.
Dispersed camping along Forest Service Road 316
San Juan National Forest encompasses about 1.8 million acres in the southwestern corner of Colorado. From high-desert mesas to alpine peaks, these federal lands are managed for multiple uses and visitors are asked to respect each other and the natural resources. The San Juan National Forest Headquarters is located in Durango, Colorado, with district offices in Bayfield, Dolores and Pagosa Springs.
The Durango Special Recreation Management Area is comprised of isolated parcels of Public Lands surrounding Durango Colorado. Durango SRMA includes five discontinuous units that encompass 6,300 acres of land adjoining the town of Durango offering a wide range of recreational activities with plenty of hiking and mountain biking trails. Mountain bikes can be rented at shops in town.
The Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness is a rolling landscape of badlands which offers some of the most unusual scenery found in the Four Corners Region. Time and natural elements have etched a fantasy world of strange rock formations made of interbedded sandstone, shale, mudstone, coal, and silt. The weathering of the sandstone forms hoodoos - weathered rock in the form of pinnacles, spires, cap rocks, and other unusual forms. Fossils occur in this sedimentary landform. Translated from the Navajo language, Bisti (Bis-tie) means "a large area of shale hills." De-Na-Zin (Deh-nah-zin) takes its name from the Navajo words for "cranes".
Because of the climate, most of the visits occur in the late spring/early summer and in the fall.
Since this is a Wilderness Area, it is closed to motorized vehicles and mechanical forms of transportation (mountain bikes included). Also prohibited are campfires, collecting fossils or petrified wood, climbing on delicate geologic features, traveling in groups of more than eight people, and trespassing on adjacent tribal lands. Permits are required for uses such as grazing, scientific research, and commercial guiding.
Though these trailheads are off regularly maintained roads, they are not paved. County Road 7500 can become extremely slick and impassible when wet. Conditions of roads can change at any time due to weather. Drivers should avoid dirt roads during rain or snow. Drivers should be cautious of wash-out following rain or snowmelt.
Though camping in the Wilderness is a rewarding experience, there are no water sources. Visitors must carry all the water they will need for the duration of the trip.
Welcome to the Mesa Verde National Park Boundary BLM Land, a fantastic dispersed camping area right on the edge of Mesa Verde National Park in Colorado. This spot is a gem for those who love a bit of adventure without the frills of a developed campground. It's free, open year-round, and offers some of the most stunning views of Mesa Verde you'll find.
This area, often referred to as "Chutes and Ladders," has around 15-16 sites, each with a pull-in area and a fire pit. It's a great place to set up your tent or park your RV, though larger rigs might find it a bit tight. The sites are spread out enough to give you some privacy and peace, and it's generally a quiet spot without the party crowd.
One of the best things about camping here is the proximity to Mesa Verde National Park—just a short drive away. You can wake up to breathtaking views of the park and be there in minutes to explore the ancient cliff dwellings and other archaeological wonders. Plus, if you need to stock up on supplies, there's a Walmart about a 10-minute drive away.
A few things to keep in mind: there are no amenities like toilets, showers, or drinking water, so come prepared. Fires are allowed, but you'll need to bring your own firewood. Pets are welcome, and alcohol is allowed, making it a great spot for a relaxed, no-frills camping experience.
Visitors have raved about the incredible views and the convenience of being so close to the park. Some have mentioned that it can get crowded during peak times, so arriving early might help you snag a prime spot. And while there are some bees around, they generally keep to themselves.
So, if you're looking for a beautiful, free place to camp near Mesa Verde with minimal amenities but maximum natural beauty, this is the spot for you. Enjoy your stay!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Aztec, NM?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Aztec, NM is Madden Peak Road - Dispersed with a 4.5-star rating from 22 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Aztec, NM?
TheDyrt.com has all 28 dispersed camping locations near Aztec, NM, with real photos and reviews from campers.
