Top Free Dispersed Camping near Chamisal, NM

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Chamisal, NM (38)

    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

    1. Santa Fe BLM

    21 Reviews
    30 Photos
    280 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo from Arroyo Seco Dispersed NF Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Arroyo Seco Dispersed NF Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Arroyo Seco Dispersed NF Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Arroyo Seco Dispersed NF Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Arroyo Seco Dispersed NF Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Arroyo Seco Dispersed NF Camping

    2. Arroyo Seco Dispersed NF Camping

    7 Reviews
    19 Photos
    478 Saves

    Many people enjoy the solitude and primitive experience of camping away from developed campgrounds and other campers. Dispersed camping is camping anywhere in the National Forest OUTSIDE of a designated campground. It means no services; such as trash removal, and little or no facilities; such as tables, fire pits and toilets are provided. There are extra responsibilities and skills that are necessary for dispersed camping. It is your responsibility to know these before you try this new experience. Camping rules and regulations apply to make your experience safe, and to keep the natural resources scenic and unspoiled for other campers.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    • Toilets
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Forest Service 439
    Camper-submitted photo from Forest Service 439
    Camper-submitted photo from Forest Service 439
    Camper-submitted photo from Forest Service 439
    Camper-submitted photo from Forest Service 439
    Camper-submitted photo from Forest Service 439

    3. Forest Service 439

    2 Reviews
    8 Photos
    44 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Forest Road 558
    Camper-submitted photo from Forest Road 558
    Camper-submitted photo from Forest Road 558
    Camper-submitted photo from Forest Road 558
    Camper-submitted photo from Forest Road 558
    Camper-submitted photo from Forest Road 558

    4. Forest Road 558

    3 Reviews
    10 Photos
    27 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Carson NF - Forest Service Road 578 - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Carson NF - Forest Service Road 578 - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Carson NF - Forest Service Road 578 - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Carson NF - Forest Service Road 578 - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Carson NF - Forest Service Road 578 - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Carson NF - Forest Service Road 578 - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping Near Taos
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping Near Taos
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping Near Taos
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping Near Taos

    6. Dispersed Camping Near Taos

    3 Reviews
    4 Photos
    86 Saves

    With two outstanding Wild and Scenic Rivers and three developed recreation areas, the BLM’s Taos Field Office is a great place to experience a whitewater rafting challenge; enjoy a breathtaking view of a river gorge; hike miles of developed trails; camp under the stars; view wildlife; or visit important prehistoric, historic, or active cultural sites. Come and explore over 594,000 acres of your public lands. The Field Office also administers over 4 million acres of Federal mineral estate.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Pajarito Springs (Dispersed)
    Camper-submitted photo from Pajarito Springs (Dispersed)
    Camper-submitted photo from Pajarito Springs (Dispersed)
    Camper-submitted photo from Pajarito Springs (Dispersed)
    Camper-submitted photo from Pajarito Springs (Dispersed)
    Camper-submitted photo from Pajarito Springs (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

    8. 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 Tres Piedras Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Tres Piedras Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Tres Piedras Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Tres Piedras Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Tres Piedras Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Tres Piedras Dispersed Site

    9. Tres Piedras Dispersed Site

    1 Review
    11 Photos
    171 Saves

    Many people enjoy the solitude and primitive experience of camping away from developed campgrounds and other campers. Dispersed camping is camping anywhere in the National Forest OUTSIDE of a designated campground. It means no services; such as trash removal, and little or no facilities; such as tables, fire pits and toilets are provided. There are extra responsibilities and skills that are necessary for dispersed camping. It is your responsibility to know these before you try this new experience. Camping rules and regulations apply to make your experience safe, and to keep the natural resources scenic and unspoiled for other campers. The Tres Piedras Ranger District is managed for many multi-use purposes; hunting, fishing, hiking, biking, skiing, snowmobiling, camping and personal firewood cutting are among the activities.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Forest Road 102 Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Forest Road 102 Dispersed
Showing results 1-10 of 38 campgrounds

Recent Dispersed Reviews In Chamisal

122 Reviews of 38 Chamisal Campgrounds


  • Julie K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Forest Road 558
    Oct. 27, 2024

    Forest Road 558

    Good enough for an overnight

    We parked a little further off 285 than most people so the road noise was minimal. A car drove past us on the dirt road in the morning which was surprising but nothing more. There was a rotting animal smell once in a while but we didn’t smell once inside. No toilet. Someone left a small fire ring. The road was rutted, don’t go if it’s wet. Fine for overnight lodging but I wouldn’t hang out there.

  • 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

  • Melissa J.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Arroyo Seco Dispersed NF Camping
    Sep. 18, 2024

    Arroyo Seco Dispersed NF Camping

    Absolutely Gorgeous

    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. The dogs love the river and to run through it. No one really bothers anyone. There are toilets at some of the sites. Very clean. 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. We've had a great time, even with the rain and hail. We will definitely come back.

  • K
    Camper-submitted photo from Forest Road 558
    Sep. 8, 2024

    Forest Road 558

    Dispersed Sites FSR558

    A good amount of dispersed sites off of FSR558. I just pulled off to one of the closer sites but looked like tons of other sites were further in on the road. Really quiet even with the highway close by. Great stars at night, decently clean (the sites that I saw). You could probably make it in a 2WD vehicle for the first few sites but it gets a bit more rugged as you continue in.

  • Timothy N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping Near Hopewell Lake
    Aug. 29, 2024

    Dispersed Camping Near Hopewell Lake

    Plentiful dispersed options

    We spent a few nights in the dispersed area near Hopewell .  We rolled in at 5 and had plenty of sites to choose from.  We chose one of the lower areas, with one large open space surrounded by smaller sites.  There were many more up the road, and there was constant traffic headed uphill until about 9PM.   Once the traffic stopped it was very quiet, only the cattle calling through the trees.  It rained for several hours and our spot stayed solid.  Some offshoot roads were rutted out. The main road had minimal rocks and holes, didn't get very muddy.  TMobile\Google mobile service worked well enough.  Verizon did not work.

  • 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!

  • Erika L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Mallette Creek North
    Aug. 14, 2024

    Mallette Creek North

    Peaceful

    Even with a couple and a new born up the hill I never heard them from our campervan! Serene surroundings and even and beautiful place to camp during a thunderstorm!

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Forest Service 439
    Jul. 30, 2024

    Forest Service 439

    Rough

    I pull a small trailer and the road in was rough. I was concerned about being able to turn around. When I got to the spot where there are six or eight camping spots, finding one suitable for a trailer was difficult, but I did it. This is more suitable to car camping.

    There is an open area that would be good for group camping. There are three or more RVs that appear to be permanent  features. That was strange. Looked like fishing camps. I didn't want to drive the steep road down to this area.

    Personally, I wish I had stopped a the forest service campsites up hill from this location, but if you are in a car and want to tent camp here, I don't see a problem,

  • Chris E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping Near Hopewell Lake
    Jul. 29, 2024

    Dispersed Camping Near Hopewell Lake

    Lots of sites in high elevation and shaded area.

    This dispersed area is close to Hopewell Lake and Campground where there is fishing and vaulted toilets. The Continental Divide Trail goes right through this location.

  • 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.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Pajarito Springs (Dispersed)
    Jun. 9, 2024

    Pajarito Springs (Dispersed)

    Secluded spaces

    Quiet, secluded spaces especially if you drive out the road far. We didn’t see any other people or campers but heard guns being shot in the morning and there were old shells at our campsite.

  • Walter T.
    Camper-submitted photo from fs road 438
    Jun. 7, 2024

    fs road 438

    Pot creek

    Great site with shade and sun, water from creek, could possibly hold 3 med. Sized rv's. About 10 miles south of taos nm. And about 1 mile off pavement

  • Wild Berries B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Tres Piedras Camp
    Jun. 5, 2024

    Tres Piedras Camp

    On the way out from Mesa Verde NP

    We found this place randomly. Seen all the road exits of the Carson National Forest on our way to Taos we said “let’s give it a try!” And we found apparently a fairly popular place. It may be due to available internet connection (which we greatly enjoyed it after weeks!) or just a lower altitude spot that may help with physical activity and weather temps. At any rate, easy and short access to the camp sites via gravel sandy road, some with fire rings and camp tables, leveled grounds for trailers and lots of pine trees for privacy. There are signs for trailheads and pretty rock formations that will need to be explored next time. 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.

  • Dare To Everywhere  .
    Camper-submitted photo from Pajarito Springs (Dispersed)
    May. 27, 2024

    Pajarito Springs (Dispersed)

    Amazing views!

    Stayed: May 26, 2024 Cost: FREE Site: 35.84243° N, 106.37266° W Cell Service: Solid LTE AT&T and T-Mobile Equipment: Forester / Tent

    Different apps give this different names. It is Forest Road 181 within Santa Fe National Forest, directly off of Highway 4.

    This is some great National Forest camping. Seemed like plenty of room when you first turn in and the you can go left or right. We went left and continued to the end of the road. There were a few sites along the drive back, but we pulled up the satellite map and wanted to keep going. It gets pretty rocky and you’ll need a bit of clearance in some spots.

    To get to the end of the road site, when you pull off Highway 4, take a left and then eventually a right at the fork in the road further beyond (~1.5 miles from Highway 4). There were a couple more sites along this road, not very level, so we continued on and are so glad we did! About 30 min from Hwy 4 to end of this road. Elevation is just over 8,000 feet at this point.

  • Erik B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Road 710 Dispersed
    May. 24, 2024

    Road 710 Dispersed

    Off road Fire service road

    Tons of Boondocking spots.

    Not ideal for long wheel base as it’s an out and back without turn around spots.

    Best pull outs are to the left as the road forks after the cattle guard.

  • 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.

  • 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

  • Brittani M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Arroyo Seco Dispersed NF Camping
    Apr. 20, 2024

    Arroyo Seco Dispersed NF Camping

    Peaceful, clean sites

    As a dead end (there is the Taos ski resort up further, the best spots are before the ski resort) there wasn’t much traffic. One of the cleanest campsites off a road I’ve been to! Plenty of brush if you want to start a fire. There is no Verizon service.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Forest Service 439
    Mar. 17, 2024

    Forest Service 439

    Good shit.

    I work seasonal(may-oct) jobs and found out about this site from freecampsites.net, i stayed here with a frequency (abiding to the rules but frequently). There are 4 places to park on the lower section and 3 on the upper section, most spots can fit multiple cars. A little stream is near by-- a little shallow and a little mucky on the bottom, but really refreshing. The stars are incredible, also some beautiful views of the mountains from the lower section. The road in is a bit sketchy at times, but as long as you are mindful of potholes you should be good-- my minivan made it with ease.

    There are some family reunions which took place while i visited and they dont really follow the rules which sucks. One family had their stuff on the land for over a month i noticed, they had fires when not permitted, trash scattered, and they had atvs which would tear up the place a bit... other than that though this place is amazing and close enough to town if youre a seasonal worker and need a good home base. AT&T service was crap, i think one time i got 1 bar of service for a second but i bumped my phone and lost it.

    Last thing i will say is be cognizant of fires and flooding, both can happen here! Happy camping folks :)

  • Renee T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Caja Del Rio Dispersed Camping
    Dec. 29, 2023

    Caja Del Rio Dispersed Camping

    Convenient location with drawbacks

    Let me start by saying I'd stay here again. But there was such a pitted road to the right. It's too hard to get off the high banks with our Transit. On the left fork near the pit toilets, better roads but more campers. 5 rvs all in sight of one another. There was rain and snow week before that made roads worse I assume. Not much trash around. Near horse corral that gets use. 17 degrees with wind this morning but clear skies. Shooting nearby as well as the trash dump nearby. But the location can't be beat.

  • mThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping Near Taos
    Nov. 11, 2023

    Dispersed Camping Near Taos

    Great spots all with gorge views

    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. 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. Awesome!!

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Caja Del Rio Dispersed Camping
    Nov. 8, 2023

    Caja Del Rio Dispersed Camping

    Close to Santa fe

    I stayed 4 nights bc it was so close to hiking and town. Very dusty and packed some trash out that was left behind. Pretty quiet with beautiful sunrises and sunsets.

  • Debbie  W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Caja Del Rio Dispersed Camping
    Oct. 28, 2023

    Caja Del Rio Dispersed Camping

    Quiet with lots of room

    Stayed 4 nights. Very quiet. About 15 minutes from downtown Santa Fe. Many sites available. Very dusty due to no recent rain. We have a 26 ft travel trailer. We saw larger Rvs, vans, cars. Tents.

  • Jennifer H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Santa Fe BLM
    Oct. 26, 2023

    Santa Fe BLM

    Great views, can be loud in the morning

    We camped here for two nights while visiting Santa Fe and it is definitely the best free spot you’ll find so close to the city. There were quiet a few people out in RV’s and trailers, but there’s so much space that you can really park almost anywhere and still have a little bit of privacy with the trees/bushes. Apple/google maps will take you right to the road, and we hardly noticed the landfill until we heard trash trucks one morning. There are some fire pits already set up and plenty of wood around to have a little fire.



Guide to Chamisal

Camping near Chamisal, New Mexico, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, this area has something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails around Holy Ghost Campground. One reviewer mentioned, "The hikes are the best especially if you have time to go to the lake." The area is known for its stunning views and access to nature.
  • Fishing: Head to Eagle Nest Lake State Park Campground for some fishing. A visitor shared, "There is a boat launch for aquatic activities," making it a great spot for anglers.
  • Hot Springs: Visit Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa for a relaxing soak. One camper noted, "The hot springs are amazing and you can leave and come back," perfect for a day of pampering.

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. A review for Columbine Campground states, "Beautiful area with tall trees, big tables, fresh water, lots of shade," making it a favorite for nature lovers.
  • Well-Maintained Facilities: Many appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. A visitor at Taos Valley RV Park & Campground mentioned, "The park was clean with much attention paid to the aesthetic."
  • Friendly Hosts: Campers often mention the helpfulness of the camp hosts. One reviewer at Black Canyon Campground said, "Friendly host, well-maintained, vault toilets available."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Black Canyon Campground, do not offer drinking water or electric hookups. A camper noted, "No electric, water, sewer or dumpstation," so be prepared to bring your own supplies.
  • Cell Service: Expect limited cell service in many areas. One camper at Holy Ghost Campground mentioned, "No cell service or wifi in the campground," which can be a nice break from technology.
  • Crowded During Peak Season: Popular spots can fill up quickly. A visitor at Coyote Creek State Park Campground said, "The electric hookup RV sites are right on top of each other," so plan ahead.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Taos Valley RV Park & Campground, which has a "walking trail around the park" and is convenient for families.
  • Bring Entertainment: Since some campgrounds lack amenities, pack games or outdoor activities. One camper at Eagle Nest Lake State Park Campground enjoyed the "great hiking trail" nearby, which can keep kids engaged.
  • Plan for Meals: With limited markets, it's wise to bring food. A visitor at Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa mentioned, "The onsite restaurant/pub is a class act and delicious," but having your own meals can save time.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Hookup Availability: Not all campgrounds have electric hookups. A reviewer at Angel Fire RV Resort noted, "All RVs must be self-contained," so ensure your RV is equipped.
  • Be Prepared for Narrow Roads: Some campgrounds, like Holy Ghost Campground, have narrow access roads. One camper advised, "Take it slow and don’t tailgate," to avoid any mishaps.
  • Reserve Early: Popular spots fill up fast, especially during weekends. A visitor at Coyote Creek State Park Campground mentioned, "The electric area on Sat and Sun was noisy," indicating the need for early reservations to secure a quieter spot.

Camping near Chamisal, New Mexico, offers a unique blend of outdoor fun and relaxation. With a little planning, you can enjoy everything this beautiful area has to offer!

Frequently Asked Questions

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

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Chamisal, NM is Santa Fe BLM with a 3.8-star rating from 21 reviews.

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

    TheDyrt.com has all 38 dispersed camping locations near Chamisal, NM, with real photos and reviews from campers.