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Best Dispersed Camping near Animas, NM

65 Reviews

Several dispersed camping opportunities exist near Animas, New Mexico, with Granite Gap standing out as a popular free site approximately 10 miles off I-10. The access road is sandy but generally manageable for most vehicles, though high clearance is recommended for certain sections. Visitors must open and close a gate upon entry. The area provides extreme solitude with space for 5-6 vehicles and impressive mountain views. No facilities or water are available.

Multiple dispersed camping areas can be found within driving distance of Animas in the surrounding public lands. FS Road 42 Dispersed in Arizona offers free camping with big-rig friendly sites. Pinery Canyon Road in Coronado National Forest provides numerous tree-covered camping spots with established fire rings, approximately 40 minutes from Chiricahua National Monument. According to one visitor, "There are no facilities or drinking water but there was a large fire ring available. You are tucked on the side of a hill and covered by trees for a nice shady spot to camp." Cell service is generally unavailable throughout these areas.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Animas, New Mexico (15)

    1. Granite Gap

    6 Reviews
    Animas, NM
    14 miles

    "This spot is about a tenth of a mile off the highway. I walked the road because of past reviews."

    "First off do not use Google maps. It will not take you to the right place. Use the built-in location found in DYRT."

    2. FS Road 42 Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    Portal, AZ
    24 miles

    "From chiricahua entrance head on FSR 42. A mile or two in many many sites along dry creek in the trees. Some Otv and motorcycle activity during day. We stayed only 15 minutes from monument."

    "There are a few dispersed spots along FS 42, just past the research station.  There are two on the left, before the cattle guard, and one on the right, just past the cattle guard."

    3. Pinery Canyon Road Dispersed Camping - Coronado National Forest

    8 Reviews
    Portal, AZ
    31 miles
    Website

    "If the campground at the national monument is full, head up Piney Canyon Rd. and you will find a number of free spots for both tent camping and RV’s just off the main road inside the boundary of the national"

    "Your best bet if you are looking to visit Chiricahua National Monument and Bonita is full. This is the closest in proximity from what I could tell."

    4. John Hand Campground

    1 Review
    Portal, AZ
    25 miles

    5. Happy Camp Trail

    22 Reviews
    Bowie, AZ
    45 miles

    "BLM ranger and other law enforcement drove up the road about once per day, which was nice. "

    "Popular boondocking site 8 miles south of I-10 ar Bowie. Easy to find, level dirt road with only a bit of washboard in places. Pit toiletat the day use area."

    6. Pinery Campground Lower - Dispersed

    1 Review
    Portal, AZ
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 364-3468

    "This dispersed campground is on the Pinery Scenic Route#42 on an all dirt road just before the incline up the mountain. It is a large campsite that can hold a group if necessary."

    7. West Turkey Creek Dispersed

    4 Reviews
    Portal, AZ
    33 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 364-3468

    "Temperatures were cool under the shade of the trees. Perfect for pitching a tent for a few nights."

    "The drive up is beautiful, the road isn’t maintained, but in pretty good condition. I stopped right after the cattle guard. There is another site going up about .5 mile in the left."

    8. Cattlemen Trail - Dispersed Camping

    8 Reviews
    Silver City, NM
    47 miles
    Website

    "Staying at the first site on the right. 14 days. Love it, plenty of shade and also sun for solar recharge. No utilities and sites not marked but they are abvious. Peace and quiet."

    "Easy to find, no rough roads, clean and quiet campsite. There were about 10 other campers when I was here. Would definitely stay here again"

    9. John Hands Waterfall Camp

    Be the first to review!
    Portal, AZ
    25 miles

    10. Indian Bread Rocks

    6 Reviews
    Bowie, AZ
    46 miles

    "Not to far from highway. Road is good for all vehicles except maybe the last few spots which need a 4x4 and high clearance. Only a few spots for bigger rigs though. Nice views of the mountains."

    "They haven’t bothered me but just want to make sure you’re aware they’re around and could be in the road. It’s gorgeous out here and plenty of space if you keep going in."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Animas, NM

29 Photos of 15 Animas Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Animas, NM

65 Reviews of 15 Animas Campgrounds

  • Shari G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 23, 2019

    Pinery Canyon Road Dispersed Camping - Coronado National Forest

    Private and close to the Chiricahuan Nat'l Monument

    If the campground at the national monument is full, head up Piney Canyon Rd. and you will find a number of free spots for both tent camping and RV’s just off the main road inside the boundary of the national forest.  Most sites are tree covered, but we found one with an open sunny space for our solar panel. Our site was right next to a very clean flowing stream, which provided not only a nice soundtrack but also a filterable water source.  Most of the sites seemed to have established fire pits, with ours being the monster of all fire pits we’ve ever seen. These are dispersed sites, so no potable water, picnic tables, or toilets are available, so come prepared with what you need to be comfortable.  Also note that the road into the forest is not maintained well and is full of washboards for about a mile or so, and many washes cross this road, so pay close attention to rain in the forecast as you could get stuck on the other side of one of these washes for an indefinite period of time.  

    The closest grocery store and gas station is in Willcox, which is about 40 minutes away.  There are also a number of wineries in the area, as this is 1 of the 3 Arizona wine regions.

    Note:  There is no cell service anywhere along this road, your best bet for an LTE connection is at the top of the monument’s road (Sugarloaf Mountain or Echo Canyon parking lots) or the guest wifi network at the visitor’s center.

  • Heather K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 28, 2025

    Granite Gap

    Perfect for a day or two

    This spot is about a tenth of a mile off the highway. I walked the road because of past reviews. The road in is soft and there is one spot that you need a high clearance vehicle for or are able to maneuver around some rocks. Otherwise it’s super easy to get to. There’s probably space for five or six rigs here. Great views.

  • Danny H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 5, 2022

    Gila National Forest Road 861 Dispersed

    Nice Overnight Boondocking location

    This is a Gila National Forest Access Road just west of the Continental Divide on highway 90.  It has multiple fairly level and easily accessible boondocking sites. It's far enough from the highway to be quiet. The only real drawback is the Cattle droppings here and there. We spent the night, so can't comment on other activities in the area, but there are roads and trails leading out of the location and into the Forest.

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 30, 2020

    Happy Camp Trail

    Secluded and beautiful

    This site is relatively easy to get to, considering how remote and alone and quiet it feels once here. We found a nice spot at 32.2437301, -109.5120963 in our 26 ft class C.  Some sketchy parts of the road, rocky and narrow with some dips, but it can be done if you're careful.  

    BLM ranger and other law enforcement drove up the road about once per day, which was nice. 

    Drive through Bowie to get to Apache Pass Rd then a left on Happy Camp Canyon dirt road which is wide and flat but washboarded. Once you get to the recreation area, there is a picnic spot with tables and toilet but no camping is allowed in that area, you'll have to keep driving a bit further. There were a lot of campers when we stayed but we found a nice spot right off the dirt road with amazing views. Heard some gun shooting going on the first day but none following that. There are open range cattle roaming around so give them space and keep your animals leashed. On a hike one was walking right up to us so be aware.There were times on our hikes where you turn a corner and there are a few just standing there. The brush is high enough to hide some too so keep an eye out. This is BLM so the camping is FREE there is however a private property further up the dirt road (property is gated and fenced off). Spots are adequate for tents, smaller RVs or trailers. 

    Good place to hike, scramble up the rocks or mountain bike.  

    Good verizon and AT&T reception.

  • Michael B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 9, 2021

    Pinery Campground Lower - Dispersed

    Tucked Away

    This dispersed campground is on the Pinery Scenic Route#42 on an all dirt road just before the incline up the mountain. It is a large campsite that can hold a group if necessary. There are no facilities or drinking water but there was a large fire ring available. You are tucked on the side of a hill and covered by trees for a nice shady spot to camp.

  • CJ T.
    May. 3, 2021

    Pinery Canyon Road Dispersed Camping - Coronado National Forest

    Pretty good dispersed sites

    Your best bet if you are looking to visit Chiricahua National Monument and Bonita is full. This is the closest in proximity from what I could tell. Obviously no bathrooms, but Chiricahua visitor center does have a bathroom. It’s not practical for every bathroom use, but maybe worth it to poop 😅 otherwise, good dispersed sites. They don’t start for a mile or two after entering Coronado NF. Sites on the right side of the road tend to have more shade then on the left. Sites have rock fire pits and good shade. We heard turkeys, had a nightly skunk visitor who was pretty un-afraid of humans and definitely was looking for food. We locked food in covered truck bed to prevent too many visitors.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 9, 2022

    Round Mountain Rockhound Area - Dispersed

    Difficult to access but great rocks!

    So if you are into rocks this really is a great place to check out. Be prepared as the drive in is difficult and long. Larger RVs are not recommended as the road has many steep washouts and ruts. The main dirt road leading into the area has bad washboard bumps. There is also an active cattle ranch in the area so be careful with any pets. You’ll find a logbook on the way in. Once there you’ll find plenty of places to park but don’t count on it being level. There are also lots of sharp rocks so watch your tires. There are no facilities here. The views are amazing especially at night. The wind never did stop. You got to really like rocks!

  • Scott B.
    Jan. 16, 2022

    Happy Camp Trail

    Beautiful desert views!

    Popular boondocking site 8 miles south of I-10 ar Bowie. Easy to find, level dirt road with only a bit of washboard in places. Pit toiletat the day use area. Beautiful views of the giant bolders that are prevalent in this area. There were 12-15 RVs of all types spread out widely along a single dirt road. I had 3 solid bars of AT&T. Very quiet at night. There is no light pollution so stargazing would have been awesome if not for the waxing moon. Enjoyed hiking around the area. Be careful as some of the cactus will scratch you badly if you're not careful. Only con was there was no toilet paper in the pit toilet. Recommend!

  • Greg C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 17, 2025

    Indian Bread Rocks

    Beautiful area

    Not to far from highway. Road is good for all vehicles except maybe the last few spots which need a 4x4 and high clearance. Only a few spots for bigger rigs though. Nice views of the mountains. There is 1 vault toilet.

Guide to Animas

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Animas, New Mexico, where you can immerse yourself in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. This area offers a variety of spots that cater to different preferences, from serene landscapes to rugged terrains.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Animas, New Mexico

  • Many dispersed camping areas, like Granite Gap, provide a peaceful retreat with minimal amenities, making them perfect for those seeking solitude.
  • Be prepared for a bit of a drive; some locations, such as Cattlemen Trail - Dispersed Camping, are accessible via unpaved roads that may require a vehicle with good clearance.
  • Always pack out what you pack in, especially in areas like Gold Gulch Road, where trash disposal facilities are not available.

Dispersed campers should check out Cattlemen Trail

  • Cattlemen Trail - Dispersed Camping is known for its scenic views and proximity to hiking trails, making it an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy exploring nature.
  • The access road is well-maintained, allowing for easy entry for various vehicle types, which is a plus for those traveling in larger rigs.
  • Campers have reported a good cell signal, making it convenient for those who need to stay connected while enjoying the great outdoors.

Scenic spots for nature lovers near Animas

  • West Turkey Creek Dispersed offers stunning views of flowing creeks and opportunities for hiking, making it a great choice for those who appreciate natural beauty.
  • The area around Pinery Canyon Road Dispersed Camping is rich in wildlife, providing a chance to see deer and turkeys during your stay.
  • For those looking for a unique experience, Indian Bread Rocks features beautiful rock formations and a serene atmosphere, perfect for a peaceful getaway.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Animas, NM?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Animas, NM is Granite Gap with a 4.7-star rating from 6 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Animas, NM?

TheDyrt.com has all 15 dispersed camping locations near Animas, NM, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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