Dispersed camping areas near Chamberino, New Mexico offer remote desert experiences in the Chihuahuan Desert environment. These primitive sites typically sit at elevations between 4,000-5,500 feet, with significant temperature fluctuations between day and night. The winter months bring milder conditions for rustic camping, with daytime temperatures ranging from 50-65°F, while summer months can exceed 100°F with intense sun exposure.
What to do
**Desert hiking trails: Access points to numerous trails at Sierra Vista provide opportunities for all skill levels. "This is a dispersed camping space so there aren't bathrooms. The views of the mountain ridge as the sun comes up is awesome. The stars from here are pretty great too!" shared one camper.
**Wildlife viewing: Early mornings and evenings are prime times for spotting desert wildlife. A visitor at Gap Tank dispersed camping noted, "Gap Tank is located in the gap between Mt. Riley and the E. Potrillo Mountain ridge in the Desert Peaks National Monument on BLM land in the Chihuahuan Desert. Very few people out there. Very primitive."
**Night photography: Clear desert skies provide exceptional stargazing and astrophotography conditions. "The sky was dark at night and we couldn't see any electric lights. Kind of cool so close yet so far from El Paso," reported one Gap Tank camper.
What campers like
Privacy in remote areas: Some campsites provide substantial separation from neighbors. At Baylor Canyon Rd Spur, a visitor noted, "The sites are off a single dirt road with pull offs for the sites. You shouldn't need a 4x4 unless it rains, but some there are some larger rocks that might scrape if you don't have a high clearance."
Extended stays: Many campers appreciate the ability to stay multiple days. "What a nice place to stay. I like it so much I stayed for 8 days. Very close to White Sands NP and to the city," shared one Sierra Vista camper.
Proximity to amenities: Despite feeling remote, these sites allow for supply runs. "This location is convenient enough to go back into town for things you need," noted a camper at Sierra Vista, making rustic camping near Chamberino more accessible.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Some roads deteriorate during certain seasons. At BLM Dispersed camping along B059, a visitor warned, "Road in is rocky and rutted in places; we made it in our 26ft Class C but a higher clearance vehicle would have made for a much less stressful drive in."
Wind exposure: Most sites have little natural protection from strong desert winds. "Super crazy windy in the afternoons," reported a Sierra Vista camper who stayed for over a week.
Military training areas nearby: Some camping areas experience noise from nearby military installations. "Boom / explosion sounds all night made for an uneasy night, especially for our dogs. We are assuming the sounds came from testing and/or training at the nearby Doña Ana range," shared one visitor to BLM Dispersed camping along B059.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection for kids: Look for spots with adequate space for safe play areas. At Sierra Vista - Back Side Dispersed, a camper advised, "The campsites are fantastic. You will need a 4x4 to get into the back area. The last few spots are the best."
Safety planning: Establish clear boundaries for children due to wildlife concerns. "No border problems. No javelinas this time, just a jackrabbit," reported a camper at Gap Tank, noting the occasional wildlife encounters.
Educational opportunities: These areas offer excellent geology and desert ecology lessons. "Dripping Springs' historical site is bear by too," mentioned one Sierra Vista visitor, highlighting nearby educational sites.
Tips from RVers
Vehicle clearance considerations: Many sites require careful navigation for larger rigs. "I would definitely try to get spots here before Sierra Vista or Baylor Pass trailhead as you don't have to deal with the traffic trying to get to the parking area to hike," advised an RVer at Oregan Wilderness Dispersed, adding "Able to get our 39' toy hauler into this location without any issues."
Campsite selection: Early arrival increases options for suitable parking. "Several places to pull over and stay the night. Road in is rocky and rutted in places," noted an RVer at BLM Dispersed camping.
Weather preparedness: Be ready for rapid weather changes and extreme conditions. "Sunset on the Organ Mtns was beautiful and we woke up to a light dusting of snow," shared a visitor at Oregan Wilderness Dispersed, highlighting the variable winter conditions for primitive camping near Chamberino.
