Primitive camping near Angostura, New Mexico offers direct access to the Organ Mountains Desert Peaks National Monument, with elevations ranging from 4,000 to over 9,000 feet across the region. The area experiences extreme temperature fluctuations, particularly from April through October when daytime highs can reach 95°F before dropping to 50°F at night. Cell coverage varies significantly as you move away from main roads, with higher elevation sites often having stronger signals due to line-of-sight connections to towers in Las Cruces.
What to do
Hiking to mountain peaks: Access several challenging trails from the Baylor Pass West Trailhead Dispersed area. "Great hiking trail but small parking lot. We were the only big rig but there 4 vans and a couple of cars overnight. No trash or water here," notes Bruce O. from Baylor Pass West Trailhead Dispersed.
Stargazing opportunities: Set up at higher elevation sites away from Las Cruces for clearer night skies. "The stars are surprisingly visible too - there's a lot of light pollution from Las Cruces down below, but it didn't seem to have much effect on star gazing while I was there," reports lynsey F. from Baylor Canyon Rd Spur, BLM, Free.
Wildlife watching: Early mornings provide opportunities to see desert wildlife. "Heard coyote's howling pretty nearby around 1:30am, and in the area again at 3am-ish. There was also lots of scat around, pretty large piles, thinking it's cow as there's several cattle ranches very close by," adds lynsey F.
What campers like
Morning mountain views: The sunrise hitting the Organ Mountains creates spectacular lighting conditions. "The views of the mountain ridge as the sun comes up is awesome. The stars from here are pretty great too! There are a couple pull off sites in a groomed road that leads to a trailhead," shares Morgan Z. from Sierra Vista.
Multiple location options: Finding the right spot depends on your vehicle and timing. "We pulled in late and easily found a spot, but cars here really are parked side by side. It's a good spot for a night's rest," reports Alyssa L. from Baylor Pass West Trailhead Dispersed.
Remote camping experience: For true isolation, some campers push farther down rough roads. "Coming in off of Dripping Springs Rd, you pass a large flat parking area with small sites you can pull off into, and this area is easy for any rig to access. But if you keep going all the way to the trail head and turn left, you can access more dispersed and remote camp sites just around the bend," explains Laura M. from Sierra Vista - Back Side Dispersed.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Many access roads require careful driving. "The road is pretty rocky, take it slow and you'll be good though. 4wd not needed, I managed fine in a 2wd Escape, wouldn't attempt going too far in with low clearance as some rocks are pretty big," warns lynsey F.
Campsite selection timing: Arriving early ensures better site options. "Quite a few spots with fire rings (maybe 10) not too far from the road. The views are gorgeous, yet it's close to the city and amenities. Luckily we got here early, since it really filled up around sunset. Vans, tents, and RVs all fit," notes Kate B. from Sierra Vista.
Weather considerations: Wind can be extreme, especially in afternoons and at exposed sites. "What a nice place to stay. I like it so much I stayed for 8 days. Very close to White Sands NP and to the city. The Ranger went by every day I like that. Super crazy windy in the afternoons," cautions Karla L.
Tips for camping with families
Best beginner sites: Choose locations with easier road access for family camping. "This was a very nice camp. I parked and then put my tent a little ways out. Everyone is very quiet, but you can hear cars from the highway. Beautiful clear sky and view of the mountains. Very clean and well maintained," suggests Haley L.
Safety planning: Research ranger patrol schedules for added security. "The Ranger went by every day I like that. The whole place have site by the road, clean and organice. Busy road with the Sierra Vista trail but it was private enough," mentions Karla L.
Proximity to facilities: Some sites offer quick access to town for supplies. "This location is convenient enough to go back into town for things you need. We went to Holiday World RV (which I highly recommend) to get a repair done and returned to the area," suggests Laura M.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Assess turnaround options before committing to a spot. "We drove all the way to the power line rd, made a right and then proceeded through multiple BLM gates that we had to open then close behind us. We ended up down in the reservoir valley, out of the wind. Phenomenal spot," shares Twan M. from Monticello Road Dispersed Camping.
Best overnight stops: Several areas provide convenient access from highways. "Right along the river. Many pull-offs to choose from. Take your pick. Most are flat. Some are shaded. We use solar for charging and had plenty of sunshine!" notes Mary Jane F. from Truth or Consequences Camp on Rio Grande.
Leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at many sites. "I would definitely try to get spots here before Sierra Vista or Baylor Pass trailhead as you don't have to deal with the traffic trying to get to the parking area to hike. Able to get our 39' toy hauler into this location without any issues," advises Mike M. from Oregan Wilderness Dispersed.
