Forest Road 102 Dispersed

Forest Road 102 offers several dispersed camping spots near Santa Fe. The best sites are typically located off the main road or up on the hillsides where people have walked in. Sites are limited and operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Some campers have found spots with picnic tables, which is a nice bonus for dispersed camping. Look for established pull-offs along the dirt road, but be prepared to search a bit as the prime locations fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.

Dispersed camping in Santa Fe National Forest typically follows standard Forest Service regulations. No special permits are required for casual camping, though stays are usually limited to 14 days within a 30-day period. Practice Leave No Trace principles by packing out all trash and waste. Campfires may be restricted during dry seasons or fire bans. Always check with the Santa Fe National Forest office for current regulations before your trip, as rules can change seasonally based on conditions and forest management policies.

While 4WD isn't strictly required for Forest Road 102, high clearance vehicles are strongly recommended. The dirt road has rocks, erosion, ruts, and washouts that make travel challenging. Some visitors have managed with Subarus and other AWD vehicles, but travel is extremely slow (2-5mph). The road is narrow with limited opportunities to turn around, making it particularly difficult for larger vehicles or trailers. For those with standard vehicles, there are walk-in campsites available near the beginning of the road if you're willing to carry your gear a short distance.

The optimal time for dispersed camping near Santa Fe is late spring through early fall, typically May through September. This provides the most moderate temperatures and accessible conditions. Summer offers warm days but cooler nights at higher elevations. Road conditions on Forest Road 102 can deteriorate after rain or snow, so avoiding the wettest seasons will increase your chances of reaching desired camping spots. Fall brings beautiful changing colors but cooler temperatures, so pack accordingly if camping during this season.