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Best Dispersed Camping near Carlsbad Caverns, NM

127 Reviews

The desert city of Carlsbad, NM, is near a national park by the same name and boasts the third largest cave chambers in the United States. It’s also where some of the best camping in New Mexico is located. Whether you pitch a tent or stay in a cabin to enjoy the stunning desert sunset, camping near Carlsbad Caverns National Park is an unforgettable experience. Rattlesnake Canyon is aptly named and a great place for primitive campers ready for a backcountry adventure. Stop by Rattlesnake Springs to see desert reptiles. The wetland also brings in hundreds of birds. RV campsites are also an option for your trip to the caverns.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Carlsbad Caverns, New Mexico (8)

    1. Chosa Campground

    55 Reviews
    Carlsbad Caverns, NM
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 234-5972

    "Only 10 minutes from Carlsbad Caverns NP and about 25 minutes from Guadeloupe Mountains NP!

    The area is a large fenced in gravel lot. Plenty of spots for trailers/RVs/and any other campers."

    "Traveled 10 hours to visit Carlsbad Caverns. Found this spacious location, was not very busy (only two other campers), spacious and quiet. Beautiful view of Carlsbad range."

    2. Mile 10 - Dispersed Camping

    33 Reviews
    Whites City, NM
    5 miles
    Website

    "Only 10 minutes from Carlsbad Caverns NP and about 25 minutes from Guadeloupe Mountains NP!

    The area is a large gravel lot with some brush and scubs scattered about."

    "This is a good place for dry camping. Right off the road. GPS takes you straight there. 6 or 7 miles from Carlsbad Caverns. Not far from Carlsbad, NM. Very few people came through."

    3. Carlsbad BLM Land Dispersed

    24 Reviews
    Whites City, NM
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 234-5972

    "I stayed here because it was 15 minutes from Carlsbad cavern, and it did not disappoint. It was a really rough road past the first three spots, but my 2wd van made it."

    "Only 5 minutes from Carlsbad caverns, this dispersed OHV trail is accessible to anyone with a vehicle that can make it over potholes and speed bumps."

    4. Dark Canyon Dispersed

    10 Reviews
    Whites City, NM
    10 miles
    Website

    "Only 30 minutes from Carlsbad Caverns NP and about 20 minutes from Carlsbad NM! This is a great spot off the highway with basically no noise from cars."

    "This was a great camping spot off the beaten path. I would make sure to have high clearance and even 4 wheel drive for the steep rocky drive up if you plan to go past the main camp area."

    5. Carlsbad Caverns Dispersed

    7 Reviews
    Whites City, NM
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 234-5972

    "Only 20 minutes from Carlsbad Caverns NP! This is area is about 2.5 miles off the highway. Only about .7 miles on a pretty level gravel road with some small ruts here and there."

    "High clearance for the upper levels of the roadway but several vans could stay below close to the entrance.  Quiet nights rest with occasional truck driving by on the roadway below"

    6. Whites City Road Dispersed Camp

    2 Reviews
    Whites City, NM
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 234-5972

    "4 miles from Carlsbad Caverns NP. Not traffic. No noise. We had area to our self. Level Dirt/gravel area. Bring water and toilet. Would stay here again."

    7. Avalon Lake Dispersed

    8 Reviews
    Carlsbad, NM
    25 miles

    "Just needed a place to pop up the RTT with others in the convoy it worked but it’s definitely rocky and has nails at certain locations drive with caution ⚠️."

    "Other than that, some night you might get some loud locals riding OHV on the other side of the lake."

    8. Wilderness Ridge Wilderness Campground — Guadalupe Mountains National Park

    Be the first to review!
    Guadalupe Mountains National Park, TX
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (915) 828-3251

    $6 - $48 / night

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Carlsbad Caverns, NM

130 Photos of 8 Carlsbad Caverns Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Carlsbad Caverns, NM

127 Reviews of 8 Carlsbad Caverns Campgrounds

Guide to Carlsbad Caverns

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Carlsbad Caverns, New Mexico, where you can enjoy the great outdoors without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. With stunning landscapes and proximity to natural wonders, this area offers a unique camping experience.

Explore the Great Outdoors while Free Camping Near Carlsbad Caverns

  • The Chosa Campground provides a spacious dirt lot ideal for those looking to camp close to both Carlsbad Caverns and Guadalupe Mountains National Park.
  • At Mile 10 - Dispersed Camping, campers can enjoy magical sunsets and a peaceful atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for unwinding after a day of exploration.
  • For a more secluded experience, the Carlsbad BLM Land Dispersed area offers wide-open spaces with breathtaking views, ideal for stargazing and enjoying the quiet of the desert.

Must-Visit Attractions for Dispersed Campers

  • The Dark Canyon Dispersed site is a hidden gem, providing access to stunning trails and panoramic views, perfect for adventurous campers.
  • Just a short drive from the Carlsbad Caverns Dispersed, this area allows for easy access to one of the most spectacular cave systems in the world.
  • Campers at Avalon Lake Dispersed can enjoy lakeside views and the opportunity to explore the surrounding natural beauty, making it a great spot for fishing and hiking.

Top Activities for Dispersed Campers Near Carlsbad

  • Hiking enthusiasts will find plenty of trails near Whites City Road Dispersed Camp, which is conveniently located just a few miles from Carlsbad Caverns.
  • The Hackberry Lake area offers a unique landscape for those looking to explore the desert environment while enjoying activities like birdwatching and photography.
  • For a more rugged experience, the Wilderness Ridge Wilderness Campground in Guadalupe Mountains National Park is perfect for hikers and nature lovers seeking solitude and adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Carlsbad Caverns, NM?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Carlsbad Caverns, NM is Chosa Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 55 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 8 dispersed camping locations near Carlsbad Caverns, NM, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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