Top Free Dispersed Camping near Cedar Crest, NM

Looking for dispersed camping near Cedar Crest? Find everything from dispersed backcountry camping to boondocking with The Dyrt. Each dispersed site offers quick access to one or more of Cedar Crest's most popular destinations.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Cedar Crest, NM (12)

    Camper-submitted photo from Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Manzanita Rec Zone Dispersed Camping - Sandia District
    Camper-submitted photo from Manzanita Rec Zone Dispersed Camping - Sandia District
    Camper-submitted photo from Manzanita Rec Zone Dispersed Camping - Sandia District

    2. Manzanita Rec Zone Dispersed Camping - Sandia District

    2 Reviews
    5 Photos
    36 Saves

    Please consult the Manzanita Mountains Trail System Map to find a dispersed site: https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd555098.pdf

    Look for Motorized Dispersed Camping info in the bottom left portion of the map. **When looking for the Dispersed Camping Sites, look for small, rectangular boxes with a site number in it and a pointer that directs you to the site.

    There are NO AMENITIES at these sites. Cell phone coverage is not guaranteed. It is the recreationist’s responsibility to use a map if you choose to explore the area. It is a multi-user area. Trail(s) that are associated with each dispersed site are open for the following uses: Hiking, Mountain Biking, 2 Wheel Motorized Vehicles and Horseback Riding.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Santa Fe BLM
    Camper-submitted photo from Santa Fe BLM
    Camper-submitted photo from Santa Fe BLM
    Camper-submitted photo from Santa Fe BLM
    Camper-submitted photo from Santa Fe BLM
    Camper-submitted photo from Santa Fe BLM

    3. Santa Fe BLM

    21 Reviews
    30 Photos
    280 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo from Cedro 2 Track 13 Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Cedro 2 Track 13 Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Cedro 2 Track 13 Dispersed Site

    4. Cedro 2 Track 13 Dispersed Site

    1 Review
    3 Photos
    24 Saves

    Individual BLM Field Offices may have additional or supplemental special camping rules or guidelines. Please call our Field Offices or visit our individual recreation websites for this information.

    BLM's overall policy is to allow dispersed camping on all the lands it administers with the following conditions and exceptions:

    Dispersed camping is generally allowed on public lands in New Mexico for no more than a period of 14 days within any period of 28 consecutive days. The 14-day limit may be reached either through a number of separate visits or through 14 days of continuous overnight occupation during the 28-day period. After this time period, you must relocate to another site at least 25 miles away. The purpose of this is to prevent damage to sensitive resources caused by continual use of any particular areas.

    Camping is prohibited within 900 feet of any developed water source such as a guzzler or watering trough so that the water is accessible to wildlife and livestock. Please do not park your vehicles near these waters or take any actions that would disturb wildlife or livestock from using these waters.

    Campfires must be attended at all times. Campers must comply with all fire restrictions.

    When using a motorized vehicle for camping access please park your vehicle near existing roads or existing undeveloped campsites.

    Camping is permitted within all units of the National Wilderness Preservation System administered by the BLM in New Mexico. However, all motorized and mechanized vehicles and equipment are strictly prohibited in these areas. Campers must not dispose of refuse, hazardous materials, sewage, or gray water, in any manner that would pollute the surrounding area. Please pack it out, and dispose of those materials properly.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Coyote Trailhead
    Camper-submitted photo from Coyote Trailhead

    5. Coyote Trailhead

    1 Review
    2 Photos
    13 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Equestrian
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from Cibola NP

    6. Cibola NP

    1 Review
    1 Photo
    4 Saves
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Caja Del Rio Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Caja Del Rio Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Caja Del Rio Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Caja Del Rio Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Caja Del Rio Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Caja Del Rio Dispersed Camping

    7. Caja Del Rio Dispersed Camping

    7 Reviews
    21 Photos
    107 Saves

    The Caja del Rio area is a lower elevation and drier section of the Santa Fe National Forest. This is mainly a Piñon-Juniper dominated vegetation zone with areas of sage and mixed grasses. It is often open for recreational opportunities when the rest of the Forest is snowed over. Watch for seasonal road closures due to wet and very muddy roads. It is another good area for solitude and lesser travelled trails.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • Dispersed
    • Toilets
    Camper-submitted photo from Manzano Mountains Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Manzano Mountains Camp

    8. Manzano Mountains Camp

    1 Review
    2 Photos
    25 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM dispersed camping / Zia Pueblo
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM dispersed camping / Zia Pueblo
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM dispersed camping / Zia Pueblo
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM dispersed camping / Zia Pueblo
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM dispersed camping / Zia Pueblo
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM dispersed camping / Zia Pueblo
    • No image available
    Showing results 1-10 of 12 campgrounds

    Recent Dispersed Reviews In Cedar Crest

    112 Reviews of 12 Cedar Crest Campgrounds


    • Junaid A.
      Camper-submitted photo from Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site
      Oct. 22, 2024

      Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site

      My True Review about Top of the New Mexico

      Top of New Mexico" near Albuquerque is a fantastic camping spot if you love open spaces and beautiful desert views. The sunsets here are breathtaking, and you might even spot wild horses roaming around. There's plenty of space for tents or RVs, and it's quiet and well-maintained, making it a perfect place to relax and enjoy nature. It can get a little windy, but that just adds to the experience. The road to get there winds through some houses, but once you arrive, you're surrounded by pure nature. also the food is so good, there are many food brands like subway menu who offers quality fast food services.

    • RThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Santa Fe BLM
      Oct. 14, 2024

      Santa Fe BLM

      Partial closure and absolute dump

      This place sufficed due to the need to have somewhere for the night, if we had the chance we’d have gone somewhere else. Massive piles of trash everywhere, sites strewn with people’s leftover garbage from camping there.

      Due to its close proximity to the landfill, it was extremely loud during the morning from around 7am onwards.

      There was a partial closure banning camping in a section of the landfill, which was incredibly difficult to figure out where we could camp, as the map is not clear at all,

      Coyotes at night were really cool.

      Overall disappointing but glad we managed somewhere to sleep for the night

    • KThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site
      Sep. 22, 2024

      Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site

      place to relax

      There are no neighbors, and other vehicles are parked here, but they had to be a quarter of a mile away. Wild horses visit in the morning. We enjoyed the sunrise to sunset. There are easy hikes, and you can do some mountain biking.

    • Alice S.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site
      Sep. 20, 2024

      Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site

      Quiet Little Get Away

      Used Google Maps and had no problem finding the place. Lots of open area to choose from for parking. The road up to the location is paved but once you enter it is gravel. I have a pro master van and had absolutely no problems. Just drive slow and you should be fine. Might be worse if it was raining heavy or something but overall not a bad path. Saw wild horses which was awesome. The vegetation has a lot of thorns and spikes so for a casual hiker it’s best to stay on the gravel roads. The cell signal was pretty good but not perfect. Enough to have phone calls easy but internet connection was a bit slow.

    • Elle M.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site
      Sep. 2, 2024

      Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site

      Stunning Space for Small Vehicles

      Everything about this place is gorgeous. The 360 views from the top are incredible. I didn’t go down into the valley to see what was available but a man came through and mentioned there were options there too.

      On the top of the ridge you’re a little limited for spots but it wasn’t busy enough to cause me an issue. My closest neighbor was a few hundred yards away just like I like it.

      I car camp in a small SUV and the road is definitely not as well worn in as others. You’re also pretty close to the sides of the mountain on a winding rock path so larger or trailered vehicles are probably not ideal.

      The wild horses are active. I saw them in the neighborhood coming through and they came through camp a few times in the evening/night. Dog didn’t love it but they gave us about 30ft of space and didn’t bother much.

      Love this spot but definitely keep size and safety in mind.

    • Cameron L.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Santa Fe BLM
      Aug. 17, 2024

      Santa Fe BLM

      Good in a pinch

      Plenty of spots and easy to get to. The only catch is you will need to find a spot away from the multiple large piles of trash.

      The surrounding area was pretty and sunset was great!

    • Clay L.
      Camper-submitted photo from Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site
      Jul. 15, 2024

      Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site

      Superb

      From the moment we arrived, we were struck by the sheer beauty of the surroundings. The panoramic views of the mountains and valleys are simply stunning, making every moment a perfect photo opportunity. The site is well-maintained, with plenty of flat areas for tents and parking. And at this place i also wish to try Chicken Strips

    • RThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Sante Fe National Forest BLM-Road 62 Dispersed
      Jun. 25, 2024

      Sante Fe National Forest BLM-Road 62 Dispersed

      A lot of trash

      I drove in and was immediately stopped by park rangers. They told me they were letting people know they will be shutting this location down do to people not being decent. If it is still open, you’ll see a lot of trash. Certain sites looked better than others. Flat land with not a lot to do.

    • m
      Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Caming off FS 542
      Jun. 21, 2024

      Dispersed Caming off FS 542

      Roads are a little rough

      Nice place to stop. I was the only one there. There’s a couple spots when you first get in, and then there’s more further up but the roads get worse. There were coyotes around.

    • Maya T.
      Camper-submitted photo from Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site
      Jun. 20, 2024

      Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site

      Hidden Gem

      Didn't camp here but came to enjoy the beautiful sunset. Drove a short distance from Albuquerque through Placitas, saw so many horses! This is an open space that overlooks the tail of Albuquerque, and the vistas beyond. I came for the sunset but would definitely stay if I was car camping. Wouldn't necessarily set up a tent for me, but some are braver than others!

    • Mallory W.
      Camper-submitted photo from Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site
      Jun. 10, 2024

      Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site

      beautiful

      The road to drive up is through a neighborhood and is 2 miles of windy road it was a little hard to maneuver with my 32’ trailer I just had to go slow nothing crazy. I was the only one around and the view was great, it was a little windy but it didn’t shake the trailer or anything. The only reason I’m giving 4 stars and not 5 is because or the rebar I found sticking out of the ground. At first I thought it was random but then I found 2 other pieces sticking straight out of the ground and they were in there deep

    • Tyler C.
      Camper-submitted photo from Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site
      Jun. 5, 2024

      Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site

      Worth it

      I had some trouble finding the entrance, you have to get in from the southeast side of the neighborhood, @ Llano el Norte street, but other than that I’ve spoiled myself with finding such a great campsite so early on in my trip. Definitely windy.

    • Shayla F.
      Camper-submitted photo from Santa Fe BLM
      May. 23, 2024

      Santa Fe BLM

      A safe place to sleep outside Santa Fe

      It's a pretty nice and mostly flat area of land with dirt roads. Most vehicles can access the roads we went on. Pretty quiet and while we did have neighbors we were by no means packed in there like sardines.

    • tres H.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Caming off FS 542
      May. 11, 2024

      Dispersed Caming off FS 542

      Busy

      Arrived around 9pm on a Friday night it was busy and pretty tough to find an open spot. It’s a nice area and stayed quiet all night. Road is rough would not go with a low clearance car

    • S H.
      Camper-submitted photo from Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site
      May. 8, 2024

      Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site

      huge mesa dispersed camping at top of windy road

      Really easy to get to, up this lil windy residential road, go slow, that opens up into a huge public land past an open gate. Lots of paths from cars, just follow anyone you'd like and then pull over beside any ol bush. Don't run over any cactus.

      Stayed for two nights and the sunsets were awesome. During the day it was very very windy but not too hot. Saw some wild horses the first morning but when I got too close one of them starting running toward me and I said hell no. Classic dispersed desert camping but with good service and close to Albuquerque.

    • Scott
      Camper-submitted photo from Santa Fe BLM
      May. 8, 2024

      Santa Fe BLM

      Tent camp Santa fe

      I haven't camped yet.This is my 1st day here.And I just got the app so I'll have to come back and give her a few after i've finished my trip

    • L
      Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Caming off FS 542
      Apr. 21, 2024

      Dispersed Caming off FS 542

      Just enough trees for privacy, slightly steep ramp

      Can make it up to camp with 2 wheel drive low clearance. Maybe some minor scraping as you leave/arrive over a bit of a rough ramp lip. Turn left at top of main entrance ramp to avoid worst road section which goes up to peak. Enough site separation I didn’t really hear others except when they were walking by on the road. Road makes a nice hike to the peak. There are large camp sites short walks from the road too, probably awesome for families with big tents, wouldn’t even see the road where passers by walk from some of those sites.

    • L
      Camper-submitted photo from Manzanita Rec Zone Dispersed Camping - Sandia District
      Apr. 21, 2024

      Manzanita Rec Zone Dispersed Camping - Sandia District

      Roughish road, nice quiet spots

      I like it. A bit less traveled than other nearby campground. Road almost more accessible to this camp ground for low clearance. Might scrape a bit going up final ramp to Cedro peak one, but not terribly either. Some local traffic passes through regularly, including an Amazon delivery van a day. To be honest I didn’t make it all the way in to the pin shown on the dyrt, had no issues anyway. Not even a ranger visit.

    • T&A Adventures *.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Cibola NP
      Apr. 2, 2024

      Cibola NP

      Quick Overnight

      We came here planning on staying at Coyote Trailhead that was listed. Turns out you can't overnight park at the actual trailheads. And to get to the dispersed camping you have to have a jeep or similar rock climbing type vehicle & not towing anything. Crazy steep rock face in the middle of the road near the trailhead. So we turned around, saw this spot and no one was there. We spent the night, boondocking. No one bothered us.

    • D
      Camper-submitted photo from Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site
      Mar. 25, 2024

      Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site

      Great dispersed spot

      Your on top of a mesa like area so it may be a little windy, it was when we went. Stayed for 1 night. It was very clean and no one else was around other than a few walkers in the morning.



    Guide to Cedar Crest

    Camping near Cedar Crest, New Mexico, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and fun activities for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly spot or a quiet getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

    What to do:

    • Explore the outdoors: The area is perfect for hiking and enjoying nature. Many campers appreciate the trails available, with one reviewer from Cochiti Recreation Area noting, "The trails are fabulous."
    • Visit nearby attractions: If you’re up for a drive, Albuquerque and Santa Fe are just a short trip away. A camper at Cochiti Recreation Area mentioned, "Good location to visit both Albuquerque (50 mins) and Santa Fe (35 mins)."
    • Enjoy water activities: Many campgrounds near Cedar Crest are close to lakes or rivers, making it easy to fish or swim. One visitor at Cochiti Recreation Area highlighted the "beautiful views of the lake and surrounding mountains."

    What campers like:

    • Clean facilities: Campers often mention the cleanliness of restrooms and showers. A reviewer at Albuquerque KOA Journey said, "The bathrooms/showers were likewise very clean and there was plenty of hot water."
    • Family-friendly amenities: Many campgrounds have activities for kids. A parent at Albuquerque KOA Journey shared, "Jump pad, playground, mini golf and a really nice pool were the highlights."
    • Friendly staff: Campers appreciate helpful staff at the campgrounds. One visitor at Route 66 RV Resort noted, "The grounds are impeccable. Excellent place to stay."

    What you should know:

    • Location matters: Some campgrounds are near busy roads, which can be noisy. A camper at Cochiti Recreation Area mentioned, "It is right off I-40, very convenient, but very noisy."
    • Limited services: Not all campgrounds have full hookups or amenities. A reviewer at Enchanted Trails RV Park & Trading Post said, "Only one restroom."
    • Weather considerations: Be prepared for changing weather conditions, especially in the mountains. A camper at Manzano Mountains State Park Campground noted, "It was hot in the valley so we retreated to the nearest mountains."

    Tips for camping with families:

    • Check for kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and pools. A parent at Albuquerque KOA Journey mentioned, "Clean, modern and convenient showers were pluses for Mom and Dad."
    • Plan for noise: If your kids are light sleepers, consider campgrounds away from highways. A camper at Cochiti Recreation Area noted, "The campground noise was quiet."
    • Pack games and outdoor gear: Bring along items for family fun. A visitor at Turquoise Trail Campground said, "Great spot not too far from Albuquerque, very peaceful and quaint."

    Tips from RVers:

    • Choose the right campground: Some campgrounds are better suited for RVs than others. A reviewer at Route 66 RV Resort said, "Most sites are pull through concrete level slabs."
    • Be mindful of space: Some sites can be tight, so check the layout before booking. A camper at Albuquerque North / Bernalillo KOA mentioned, "Sites are close together."
    • Check for amenities: Look for campgrounds with dump stations and electric hookups. A visitor at Cochiti Recreation Area noted, "There is a dump station & drinking water."

    Camping near Cedar Crest, New Mexico, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. With a little planning, you can enjoy the great outdoors and make lasting memories.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Cedar Crest, NM?

      According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Cedar Crest, NM is Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site with a 4.8-star rating from 18 reviews.

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

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