Map showing campground location near San Cristobal, New Mexico

Camper submitted image from Carson national forest

Carson national forest

Carson National Forest manages this dispersed camping area along Forest Trail 9 (FT9), where drive-in access puts campers on a plateau edge overlooking the Rio Grande. Sites are self-selected. Established rock fire rings exist at some spots, and campfires are permitted. Rio Grande del Norte National Monument sits just to the south, making this a practical base for exploring the broader monument corridor. Campers who prefer a designated site can find campgrounds near San Cristobal with more developed infrastructure.

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Map & DirectionsCarson national forest is located in New Mexico near San Cristobal

Dispersed Camping

Coordinates

36.64964199499591 N
105.68696057917072 W

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Access

Drive-In
Park next to your site

Features

For Campers

Fires

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.

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Reviews2 Camper Reviews - Carson national forest

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2 Reviews

Magdalena W.

Traveler

Reviewed Oct. 17, 2026

Plenty of dispersed camping

I came a day earlier to Ojo Caliente and needed a place to stay. This is just 10 minutes drive from the Hot Spring. A lot of camp spots available, all Free, Forest Road. Not the cleanest spots but also not too bad. A lot of broken glass which is hard to remove. Amazing stargazing at night. This road could be tricky after a big rain – there was a big groove in the middle of the road when I was here.

Month of VisitOctober

Kara C.

Traveler

Reviewed Aug. 31, 2025

Great Views, Right on the Rio

We drove around Forest Trail 9 (FT9) until we found a great spot on the edge overlooking the Rio. Nestled in some trees, it was flat for our tent, awesome views, fires were allowed and already had an established rock ring.

Month of VisitAugust

(6) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

Are fires allowed at Carson national forest?

Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Carson national forest, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.