Dispersed camping near Bluewater Village, New Mexico offers primitive sites situated at elevations ranging from 6,000 to 7,000 feet, creating significantly cooler temperatures than nearby lowland areas. The region features juniper and ponderosa pine forests interspersed with open high desert terrain. Most camping areas remain open from April through mid-December with seasonal closures enforced during winter months.
What to do
Explore forest roads: Turkey Springs provides access to extensive forest exploration along Forest Service Road 162. "Great Spot nice and cool among the tall pines and Oaks. Road in is very accessible lots of spots available," notes one camper at Turkey Springs.
Mountain biking: The Continental Divide Trail passes near several camping areas, offering excellent biking opportunities. "Biked 6 miles up the road. Had cell service (Verizon and T-mobile)," reports a visitor at Six Mile Canyon Road Dispersed Site, making it possible to explore while staying connected.
Stargazing: Campers report excellent night sky viewing from multiple sites. "The stars were bomb dot com," notes one camper about their experience at Six Mile Canyon, highlighting the minimal light pollution despite proximity to transportation corridors.
What campers like
Temperature relief: The higher elevation creates comfortable camping conditions even during hot months. "It is above 7k, so it does get colder at night than the local forecast for Gallup," explains a visitor to Turkey Springs, noting the climate advantage.
Accessibility for standard vehicles: Despite remote locations, many sites can be reached without specialized equipment. "I drove my Prius in during the summer and it was fine," reports one camper about Six Mile Canyon - Dispersed Camping, though they caution this changes in wet conditions.
Natural windbreaks: The terrain offers protection during New Mexico's windy seasons. "We got a site for 2 RVs that protected us from an impending windstorm," describes a camper at Six Mile Canyon Road Dispersed Site, demonstrating how the landscape features can enhance comfort.
What you should know
Seasonal road closures: Multiple camping areas implement winter restrictions. "This site is closed from December 15 to March 31," confirms a Turkey Springs visitor, which aligns with closure dates for other nearby camping areas.
Cell service variability: Connectivity fluctuates significantly across the region. "TMobile access was mixed. Sometimes limited LTE, sometimes 5G," reports a camper at Turkey Springs, suggesting visitors should prepare for potential communication limitations.
Weather impacts on accessibility: Road conditions deteriorate rapidly during wet weather. "Don't recommend if it's muddy! Great spot! Lots of options and tons of open space... kinda being a mudpit after the rain," warns a visitor at Turkey Springs.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection strategy: Finding optimal spots requires driving beyond the entrance areas. "There were several spots. We did have to drive a couple miles to get away from other campers," notes a visitor at Six Mile Canyon Road Dispersed Site.
Pack adequate supplies: No services exist in these areas, requiring complete self-sufficiency. "Road is grated and well maintained. We really weren't sure what to expect, but this was such a beautiful spot we're planing a trip back with friends," shares one Six Mile Canyon camper who appreciated the accessibility despite the rustic setting.
Alternative campground options: Consider nearby developed sites when conditions affect dispersed areas. "I decided to stay at the nearby Quaking Aspen Campground (0.5 mile away) due to this dispersed camping area kinda being a mudpit after the rain," advises a Turkey Springs visitor, highlighting flexibility in planning.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain throughout the area. "Sites not very level but managed to get the RVs level enough," reports a camper at Six Mile Canyon Road Dispersed Site about accommodating two recreational vehicles.
Road assessment: Evaluate road conditions carefully before proceeding with larger vehicles. "Nothing fancy. Close to I-40 but you can get far enough away to limit road noise. Road is good enough to drag a camper back," confirms a visitor to Six Mile Canyon - Dispersed Camping.
Size-appropriate site selection: Larger vehicles require specific locations. "Several sites off the smaller two track roads can support good size trailers with lots of flat open space. A few sites in the trees right on the road could only support vans or tents," explains a Turkey Springs visitor, indicating not all sites accommodate all vehicle types.
