Top Free Dispersed Camping near Animas, NM

If you're looking for a place to dispersed camp near Animas, look no further. Find the best information on dispersed campgrounds near Animas, including photos, reviews, and tips. Find the perfect dispersed campsite for your next adventure.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Animas, NM (12)

Showing results 1-10 of 12 campgrounds

Recent Dispersed Reviews In Animas

50 Reviews of 12 Animas Campgrounds


  • NThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Granite Gap
    Apr. 14, 2024

    Granite Gap

    Extreme solitude

    First off do not use Google maps. It will not take you to the right place. Use the built-in location found in DYRT. After you turn off I 10 on the left to travel approximately 10 miles the site will be on your right hand side. Follow the road to the left as you go through the gate. The site is very well-maintained. There are only a handful of sites available, but when I was there, I was the only one.

  • Melissa S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Gold Gulch Road
    Mar. 30, 2024

    Gold Gulch Road

    Nice place to pull over for the night

    We came in after dark, but the roads were clear and it was easy to set up. Quiet.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Granite Gap
    Jan. 28, 2024

    Granite Gap

    Classic New Mexi o

    Great spot. Rocks and cactus and sunrises. Narrow sandy road, but manageable for smaller RV.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from West Turkey Creek Dispersed
    Jan. 10, 2024

    West Turkey Creek Dispersed

    Gorgeous

    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. Couldn’t see good enough in the dark. The creek was flowing and quite a few animals at dawn and dusk. Not a lot of traffic, and a trail right up the road to hike or follow the creek. The last campers left it so nice I was able to add decorations.

  • Mary B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed
    Dec. 27, 2023

    Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed

    Serene Dispersed Camping Location

    A beautiful, serene location not too far from I-10 and Fort Bowie. We arrived at around 10pm in our Sprinter van and found a quiet location. The campsites are far apart and you travel on compacted dirt road to get there. The father you go, the more space you have. It will be quite bumpy if you do not have an AWD or 4x4.

  • h
    Camper-submitted photo from Granite Gap
    Dec. 25, 2023

    Granite Gap

    Beautiful! Quite! Amazing!

    Amazing views. A bit sandy of a drive. You have to open and close a gate but it is not locked. Quite, no lights nearby, dispersed camping at its best. Just a few cows. I would camp here again. We made it up in a long bed crew an Chevy 2500. Some camp sites at the bottom. But if you go up to the dead end keep to the left. Site is not to level but throw a couple of rocks under the tires and you can level out. Drive up is a little bit narrow with cactus close to the road. I would not think you need 4x4 but maybe something more then a car would be better. If wet I would think it may get a bit squishy, but with it dry a stock suv would make it just fine. Camped next to a rock face. Just beautiful!

  • D
    Camper-submitted photo from Cattlemen Trail - Dispersed Camping
    Oct. 26, 2023

    Cattlemen Trail - Dispersed Camping

    Great camping and hiking

    Great place I came upon while on I-10. Thirty minutes for the interstate. The hiking was good. The place was a little busy, but not bad. Heard some cows but never seen them. Clean place. No services. Cell signal was good.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Bread Rocks
    Oct. 17, 2023

    Indian Bread Rocks

    Nice dispersed camping area

    Happy Camp Canyon is in fairly good condition. There is a trailhead parking area that is posted as no camping but about 50 yards further down there is a clearing with fire rings. We ended up sharing the spot with some cattle for a while.

  • Dawid M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Gold Gulch Road
    Sep. 25, 2023

    Gold Gulch Road

    Safari

    a place like from some safari movie, beautiful sunset, you can see a herd of cows. plenty of room for everyone and an easy route

  • H
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed
    Sep. 4, 2023

    Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed

    Great spot for a quick camp spot

    Overall the stay was great. My only complaint would be the bugs that were swarming in the morning. They only swarm certain plants and we happened to be by one so we had bugs EVERYWHERE. But it wasn’t a big deal. We just quickly packed up and went and ate breakfast at the picnic area right down the road and explored the granite rocks for a while.

  • R
    Camper-submitted photo from Gila National Forest Road 861 Dispersed
    Mar. 11, 2023

    Gila National Forest Road 861 Dispersed

    Great views

    A number of flat cleared areas not far off of hwy90. We cleaned up the beer cans, bottles, and trash left from other before us. We plan on being here for several more days. 30ft class A with toad.

  • Haley L.
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed
    Feb. 25, 2023

    Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed

    Great Spot

    We got there far later than we should have (10:30pm) but were able to find a little space. It was, of course, difficult to navigate in the dark. The entrance was sooner than GPS showed but not too difficult to find. Sadly, we only saw hoof prints. No cows.

  • Aliza  N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed
    Dec. 17, 2022

    Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed

    Top notch dispersed camping area

    We really enjoyed our time here! The cows were great to watch and we got some great video of them! The road in was dirt and washboard here and there but overall could be easily passed by most any car. GPS coords were pretty accurate as well. Once you are off the main road the sand can be pretty deep and some of the turns pretty tight so scope it out if your in a bigger rig, before heading in. Lots of spots on the left in the first loops and on a spur to the right near some cool rocks. Not many people around when we were here and was nice and quiet.

  • Monte W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Pinery Canyon Road Dispersed Camping - Coronado National Forest
    Nov. 26, 2022

    Pinery Canyon Road Dispersed Camping - Coronado National Forest

    Awesome dispersed sites

    Drove about 40 minutes down pinery canyon road. Roads weren’t terrible but had a few washboard spots. Several sites located off the main road. Plenty of wood to collect for the fire. It was pretty cold at night in late November but there was plenty of space between sites that my generator wasn’t offensive to others. Very clean site too.

  • T
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed
    Nov. 26, 2022

    Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed

    Easy access exploring and beautiful spot

    This has been our favorite campsite of our road trip so far. Noteworthy mentions: It is off the beaten path. It’s free. There are free roaming cattle There are endless rocks to explore and climb. It will keep your attention for days. Not many people here. Campfires allowed. Would recommend a 4x4 to get to further sites. Awesome remnants of Native American activity. You’re right next to where you wanna be. Thumbs up.

  • A
    Camper-submitted photo from Cattlemen Trail - Dispersed Camping
    Nov. 3, 2022

    Cattlemen Trail - Dispersed Camping

    Cattleman trail

    There’s several campsites around the trail head. I found a great secluded spot along a rough back road area, my express van with chunky tires was able to clear the bumps in the roadway. Cell service is excellent for Verizon even wandering around the trails back here.

  • S
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed
    Oct. 24, 2022

    Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed

    Great time here

    Directions from Dyrt were spot on. As others have said If you have a Big rig park by the day use area and SCOUT it out! After the first few sites the road becomes real sandy in places and not anywhere to turn big rigs around without it being sketchy. We stayed about a mile in on the left next to some huge rocks, nice firepit, no trash, no shade. Will be here two weeks. Met some ranchers moving some of their cattle other than them saw nobody. My dogs loved it. I was just concerned about keeping them safe from rattlesnakes. Have seen at least one every day. One was HUGE @ 5' western diamondback but very beautiful red brick color. Just be very aware as this is their home we're just visiting.

  • S
    Camper-submitted photo from Gila National Forest Road 861 Dispersed
    Oct. 7, 2022

    Gila National Forest Road 861 Dispersed

    Awesome boondocking

    Off Chisholm trail , previous coordinates are for CDT NO VEHICLE TRAFFIC. Great sites, I think I had the best one. First on right just before Cattlemans road. Met Pat she has the grazing rights here. She was very apologetic about the trash the last campers left. I just said well some are scum and showed her the two trash bags full and the 4x6 platform I cut up so it's manageable. Will burn the wood and haul the rest off. Only saw her cattle one afternoon. I'm a country boy so seeing cow poop is not a big deal. She said a bear was just shot yesterday a few miles north of here. Be vigilant. #leavenotrace

  • S
    Camper-submitted photo from Cattlemen Trail - Dispersed Camping
    Oct. 5, 2022

    Cattlemen Trail - Dispersed Camping

    Excellent area

    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. I'm getting 3 bars on AT&T which is pretty good I think. Streamed a movie last night with no issues. Previous campers left trash, so my two dogs and I cleaned it up. Cut up a 4x6 platform they left. Will burn the wood and haul off the frame to a dumpster in Silver City where I'll restock at walmart. Met Pat this morning- she has the grazing rights through here. She apologized for mess from previous camper's. Told her and showed her it's taken care of and Thanked her for stopping by to say Hi. Will definitely stay here again!

  • Morgan T.
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed
    Jun. 19, 2022

    Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed

    Cows!

    This site was pretty easy to get to and at the foothills were beautiful and well-maintained. Didn’t use the restroom because there was a giant spider and there wasn’t TP, but it was there. People left rock fire pits, which we also didn’t use, but it’s nice they were there. Woke up to see cows hanging around and got to see a baby cow and mom, which was so sweet.

  • Cameron M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed
    May. 26, 2022

    Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed

    Cool scenic spot, lots of critters

    Stayed here on our way to New Mexico. It was a beautiful spot, very scenic. The dirt was soft as sand, and the area was cleaner than most. The only negative was their was tons of wasps at our site, not sure about the others. They didn’t mess with us but they were annoying like flies.

  • Albert V.
    Camper-submitted photo from Pinery Canyon Road Dispersed Camping - Coronado National Forest
    Mar. 30, 2022

    Pinery Canyon Road Dispersed Camping - Coronado National Forest

    Great spot to visit Chiricahua NM

    I spent one night here. It was very quiet and secluded, and the dirt road is in great condition. There's tons of spots and the trees give a little cover. I rained on and off at night, but I feel the tree foliage kept a lot of water from dripping down onto the tent.

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from Cattlemen Trail - Dispersed Camping
    Mar. 29, 2022

    Cattlemen Trail - Dispersed Camping

    Stay off White Water Rd

    If coming from the east your gps might try to take you via White Water Rd -DONT! Instead take the 90 unless you want to spend an hour driving over bone jarring washboard roads



Guide to Animas

Camping near Animas, New Mexico, offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are plenty of options to explore.

What to do

  • Hiking: The Chiricahua Mountains are nearby, providing numerous trails for all skill levels. One camper mentioned, "There are hundreds of beautiful, well-maintained trails throughout the mountain range" at the Chiricahua Mountains.
  • Wildlife Watching: This area is rich in wildlife. A visitor at the Bonita Canyon Campground noted, "The Arizona Coatimundi's are a very unique mammal and frequently visit the campground."
  • Stargazing: With minimal light pollution, the night sky is breathtaking. One camper shared, "The views of the night sky are unparalleled" at the Bonita Canyon Campground.

What campers like

  • Scenic Beauty: Campers rave about the stunning surroundings. A review for the Sunny Flat Campground highlights, "Gorgeous views from every single direction!"
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Many appreciate the peacefulness of the area. A visitor at Rusty's RV Ranch mentioned, "Very quiet place too. Perfect for astronomer/stargazing."
  • Friendly Community: Campers often mention the welcoming vibe. One reviewer at Smugglers' Roost said, "The community here is cute and diverse."

What you should know

  • Reservations Recommended: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially on weekends. A camper at Bonita Canyon Campground advised, "Reservations are a must."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Pinery Canyon Road Dispersed Camping, do not have drinking water or toilets. Be prepared to bring your own supplies.
  • Road Conditions: Access roads can be rough. A visitor at Cattlemen Trail warned, "If coming from the east your GPS might try to take you via White Water Rd - DONT!"

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots like Lordsburg KOA, which offers amenities like showers and a market. One camper noted, "Nice staff, well-stocked store."
  • Plan Activities: Engage kids with hiking and wildlife watching. A family at Chiricahua Mountains enjoyed, "Beautiful, easy trail right off the campsite."
  • Pack Snacks and Games: Keep everyone entertained during downtime. A camper at Sunny Flat Campground mentioned, "Enjoyed meeting new friends around our fire pit."

Tips from RVers

  • Check Size Restrictions: Some campgrounds, like Bonita Canyon Campground, have size limits for RVs. A reviewer cautioned, "Don't try to bring any big rigs as they simply won't fit."
  • Be Prepared for Limited Services: Campgrounds like Rusty's RV Ranch may have poor Wi-Fi. One visitor noted, "Very poor wifi internet connection."
  • Bring Your Own Firewood: Many places do not sell firewood. A camper at Smugglers' Roost advised, "Bring everything you need!!"

Camping near Animas, New Mexico, is a fantastic way to enjoy nature and create lasting memories. Just remember to plan ahead and be prepared for the unique challenges of the area!

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 4.3-star rating from 3 reviews.

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

    TheDyrt.com has all 12 dispersed camping locations near Animas, NM, with real photos and reviews from campers.