Dispersed camping opportunities surround Carson National Forest in northern New Mexico, with numerous free camping sites concentrated around Tres Piedras, Taos, and the upper Rio Grande region. The area sits at elevations between 6,000-8,000 feet, creating cool nights even during summer months when temperatures can drop below 30°F after sunset. Most dispersed sites follow the standard 14-day camping limit and require visitors to practice Leave No Trace principles.
What to do
Hiking down to the Rio Grande: Access the river via established trails like at Cebolla Mesa where "there's a hiking trail 1.25 miles down along the canyon to the river, cactus and volcanic rock all the way down. Coming back up is tough, so pack light. Decent gold panning area with swimmable spots" according to Cebolla Mesa reviewer Michael R.
Fishing opportunities: Several locations offer fishing access near campsites. Near Arroyo Seco Dispersed NF Camping, where one camper notes you can "camp right along the Hondo Rio" and "there's so much to do to keep them busy. The dogs love the river and to run through it."
Visit hot springs: Access natural hot springs from various camping areas. As reviewer Madeleine H. describes her experience: "Make sure you go all the way to the coordinates as there are a ton of great spots off to the left of the road, plenty of room to spread out and some solidly flat spots. Made a quick walk down to the springs in the evening and watched the stars come out."
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: Many dispersed sites offer privacy away from crowds. At Carson NF - Forest Service Road 578, one camper reports: "A nice secluded little forest road. RVs will not make it, so it's nice and quiet. Stayed one night and saw no one else."
Stargazing conditions: The remote location creates excellent dark sky conditions. According to reviewer Mike W. at Rio Grande del Norte National Monument: "Area is on the edge of the gorge overlooking the Rio Grande 800' below or the Red River gorge about the same depth. Awesome views, adequate spacing between sites, visitor center, remote area, dark skies, private, arid area with small trees for shade."
Cooler temperatures: The higher elevation provides relief from summer heat. At Tres Piedras Camp, one reviewer notes: "We stayed a night and enjoyed it to the fullest. Highly recommended, especially as nights get nice and chill (vs. hot day temps) for good sleep."
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Many access roads require high-clearance vehicles. At Dispersed Camping Near Taos, reviewer Madeleine H. advises: "One thing is that you MUST approach from the west, you can't get here coming from the east over John dun bridge. Dirt road but we did it with no problem with our 24ft trailer."
Fire restrictions change seasonally: Check current restrictions before your trip. At Tres Piedras on Forest Road 64G, a camper noted: "Plenty of wood was left by the fire pit at our site," but restrictions may apply during dry periods.
Limited facilities available: Most sites lack basic amenities. While some areas like Arroyo Seco have basic toilets, most locations require self-sufficiency. As one reviewer observed: "This is the most remote BLM site I've ever been too. Right at the edge of the Gorge, it is primitive—only saw one bathroom about 2 miles back."
Weather changes rapidly: Be prepared for temperature fluctuations and storms. A camper at Arroyo Seco reported: "We had storms while camping. At least six rock/mud slides on the road. I don't know who, but someone managed to clean it all up in record time."
Tips for camping with families
Choose more developed sites: Families may prefer areas with basic facilities. At Arroyo Seco, Melissa J. reports: "There are so many campsites to choose from, all along the Hondo Rio. It's peaceful and quiet. We brought our four dogs and 13 year old. There's so much to do to keep them busy."
Access to water features: Creeks and rivers provide natural entertainment. One reviewer mentions: "You keep passing camping spots as you drive to Durango so you can really go almost anywhere!"
Pack for cold nights: Even in summer, temperatures drop significantly after sunset. A camper at Forest Service Road 578 noted: "It got cold at night, like 27 F." Bring appropriate clothing and sleeping gear for children.
Tips from RVers
Check access road conditions: Many forest roads aren't suitable for larger rigs. At Carson national forest, a camper advises: "We drove around Forest Trail 9 (FT9) until we found a great spot on the edge overlooking the Rio."
Size restrictions limit access: Several free camping areas near Carson National Forest prohibit larger vehicles. As one reviewer warns: "RVs will not make it," while another suggests: "Don't drive to the John dun bridge from Taos use the longer route instead."
Leveling challenges: Find spots with established flat areas. A reviewer at Rio Grande Bridge Overlook mentions: "Some times RV's will park there for a while and kinda block the spot so just cross your fingers."
