Santa Fe National Forest holds this small dispersed site in the hills above Los Alamos, managed by the US Forest Service with no fees and no formal infrastructure. The road in is rocky and rough. Reviewers consistently flag deep ruts and a significant washout just past the first site, making high-clearance four-wheel-drive strongly advisable, though a capable SUV can typically reach the initial camping area.
Two main spots sit along the access track, with additional options further back on either side of the road. The sites face open sightlines toward Los Alamos and snow-covered peaks to the north, and at least one reviewer spotted elk grazing in the canyon below. A few ponderosa pines provide partial shade, survivors of the major 2011 fires that burned through this area. Campfires are permitted, and cell service is available at the site.
The campground has some ongoing issues worth knowing before visiting. One section of the surrounding field has been used as a latrine by previous visitors, and bullet casings litter the ground near the surviving trees. No pets are allowed. Campers looking for dispersed spots near Santa Fe National Forest will find several comparable options in the vicinity, including Pajarito Springs (Dispersed) less than a mile to the southeast. Spring and early summer visits offer the best chance of snow on the peaks; pack out all waste and bring a shovel given the lack of facilities.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsAmerican Springs is located in New Mexico near Los Alamos
Dispersed CampingCoordinates
35.83705486 N
106.381714 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 8 usersLast on 9/8/26- Verizon5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 10 usersLast on 9/8/26
AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 8 usersLast on 9/8/26
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 8 usersLast on 9/8/26
- Verizon5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 10 usersLast on 9/8/26
- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 8 usersLast on 9/8/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- Dispersed
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Phone Service
- Alcohol
- Fires
DISPERSED CAMPING
Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if American Springs needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 47 min from Santa Fe, NM
- 1 hr 36 min from Albuquerque, NM
- 3 hrs 11 min from Farmington, NM
- 4 hrs 9 min from Pueblo, CO
