Primitive camping near Caballo, New Mexico centers primarily around BLM lands that transition from the Rio Grande Valley to higher desert terrain. The region sits at elevations ranging from 4,200 to 5,500 feet, creating temperature variations that can exceed 30 degrees between day and night. During summer months, daytime temperatures regularly exceed 95°F while winter nights often drop below freezing.
What to do
Fishing access: Bear Canyon Reservoir provides both camping and fishing opportunities within a short drive from Caballo. "Great little lake, camping is free. 14 day limit. Lots of fish. Catfish, LMB, Trout," notes Fonzie P. about Bear Canyon Reservoir.
Hiking trails: The Continental Divide Trail sections near Comfort Well offer excellent day hiking opportunities. "Close to great hiking around the CDT and fishing in Lake Roberts. Most of the sites sit on the shades of ponderosa and there's plenty of space for group camping," reports Jorge G. about Comfort Well Dispersed Camping.
Stargazing: The minimal light pollution in this region creates exceptional night sky viewing conditions. "The night sky is amazing without any light pollution," writes Alisa P., who stayed at Comfort Well Dispersed Camping. Similarly, Garret M. notes about Monticello Road that there's a "Great view of stars at night."
What campers like
Riverside camping: The Rio Grande provides a pleasant backdrop at several sites. "Right along the river. Many pull-offs to choose from. Take your pick. Most are flat. Some are shaded," explains Mary Jane F. about Truth or Consequences Camp on Rio Grande.
Solitude and space: Many dispersed sites provide substantial distance between campers. "It is surrounded by trees and the beauty of the surrounding mountains. There is so much room back at the site and there are several fire pits but no tables," describes Alisa P. about her stay near Comfort Well.
Easy highway access: For travelers passing through, several sites offer convenient overnight options. "Have stayed here twice. Easy access from I-25. Hardly anyone on-site," notes Garret M. about Monticello Road Dispersed Camping.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads vary significantly in quality. "This road is not maintained at all but is passable but has alot of potholes," cautions Chelsea P. about Monticello Road, while adding "There are a few spots right of hwy 25 and more down the road."
Limited facilities: Nearly all dispersed sites lack basic amenities. "No services, no cell signal, no trash disposal, not even a pit toilet," warns Jorge G. about North Star Mesa camping. "Please recreate responsibly and leave no trace. Pack out whatever you pack in."
Cell coverage: Service varies by location and carrier. "I have good cell service, and my home fi hot spot is working great," reports Michael D. about his stay at BLM Near City of Rocks. Twan M. notes "Good verizon service" at Monticello Road after proceeding through BLM gates.
Tips for camping with families
Safety considerations: The remote nature of these sites means emergency services may be distant. "No cell service here," notes Alisa P. about Comfort Well, making it important to bring backup communication devices when camping with children.
Temperature planning: Summer heat can be dangerous for children. "It is cooler at night and the sky is amazing without any light pollution," advises Alisa P., suggesting families should plan activities for cooler morning and evening hours during summer months.
Space for activities: Some sites offer more room for children to explore safely. "Nothing fancy, but easy in and out and great views. We were the only ones here," explains Mr BubbasAdventures V. about Butte Road Dispersed Camping.
Tips from RVers
Vehicle size considerations: Not all sites accommodate larger rigs comfortably. "You can go all the way to the old camp grounds for the upper end of Elephant Butte reservoir, but you might struggle getting back up the hill with anything bigger than a teardrop," advises Jeff K. about Monticello Road.
Turnaround space: Finding adequate space to maneuver larger vehicles can be challenging. "The spots are very spread out and all a decent size. Half of them where occupied so we drove in further then would have liked with our class A," explains Chelsea P.
Level parking: Finding flat spots is crucial for RV camping comfort. "Flat gravel and quiet after the atv's are gone," notes Claudia H. about Robledo Mountains Basecamp, making it suitable for overnight RV parking despite its primary use as an off-road vehicle area.
