Best Dispersed Camping near Cibola National Forest and National Grasslands

Dispersed camping in Cibola National Forest offers several free primitive sites within an hour of Albuquerque. Notable locations include Dispersed Camping off FS 542, Manzanita Recreation Zone, and Top of New Mexico Dispersed Site. These areas provide basic camping with no amenities or facilities. Most sites feature established fire rings but no toilets, water, or trash service. According to reviews, Top of New Mexico offers "incredible scenery, overlooking the valley and mountains in the West, with great sunsets" and excellent stargazing opportunities.

Vehicle access varies significantly between sites. Forest Service Road 542 requires high-clearance vehicles for most sites. As one camper noted, "You definitely need something high-clearance with 4x4 as there are large ruts on either side, potholes, and large rocks." The first sites on FS 542 may be accessible to standard vehicles, but deeper sites require 4WD. Arrive during daylight hours to navigate rough roads safely. Top of New Mexico has gravel roads that can be navigated slowly in most vehicles.

Wildlife encounters are common throughout these areas. Wild horses roam near Top of New Mexico, while bears, coyotes, and other wildlife inhabit the forest sites. Cell service is generally good near FS 542 due to nearby towers but varies at other locations. Several campers report busy conditions on weekends, particularly at FS 542. When navigating to Top of New Mexico, follow Llano del Norte to avoid private roads that are not clearly marked. The elevation at FS 542 reaches approximately 7,500 feet, requiring acclimation for lowland visitors before attempting nearby trails.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Cibola National Forest and National Grasslands (8)

    1. Dispersed Camping off FS 542

    25 Reviews
    Tijeras, NM
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (505) 346-3900

    "This dispersed camping is a great spot to stop. There are multiple site identified with lot signs and fire rings. Some of the spots are Easier to access than others."

    "No facilities. Dry camping only. The sights are not well defined but there's enough clearings between the trees to make do."

    2. Manzanita Rec Zone Dispersed Camping - Sandia District

    4 Reviews
    Ponderosa, NM
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (505) 281-3304

    "Have to drive up the forest service road off the pavement. A little rough but I have a lifted outback no issues! Highly recommended."

    "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."

    3. Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site

    35 Reviews
    Placitas, NM
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (505) 761-8700

    "Great little find for a quick place to car camp while driving through Albuquerque without going too far out of the way."

    "When you first arrive to the end of the road and the beginning of the public land - you have the option to go left, straight, or right."

    4. Cedro 2 Track 13 Dispersed Site

    2 Reviews
    Tijeras, NM
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (505) 761-8700

    5. Cibola NP

    1 Review
    Tijeras, NM
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (505) 346-3900

    6. Manzano Mountains Camp

    2 Reviews
    Mountainair, NM
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (505) 346-3900

    "Took awhile to get here, well off the beaten path. Ponderosa Pines, oak and juniper scrub. Ample supply of downed trees to use as firewood. Gets muddy if it rains."

    7. Canyon Del Apache

    Be the first to review!
    Cibola National Forest and National Grasslands, NM
    12 miles

    8. BLM dispersed camping / Zia Pueblo

    3 Reviews
    Jemez Pueblo, NM
    45 miles

    "So the road getting here is a bit of a long dirt road, somewhat washboarded by the big trucks that drive along it. The area is big and has a selection of camp sites / flat areas to choose from."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Cibola National Forest and National Grasslands

31 Photos of 8 Cibola National Forest and National Grasslands Campgrounds


Dispersed Camping Reviews near Cibola National Forest and National Grasslands

66 Reviews of 8 Cibola National Forest and National Grasslands Campgrounds



Guide to Cibola National Forest and National Grasslands

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Cibola National Forest and National Grasslands in New Mexico, where nature lovers can find peace and solitude amidst stunning landscapes.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Cibola National Forest and National Grasslands, New Mexico

Enjoy wildlife encounters while free camping near Cibola National Forest and National Grasslands

  • Keep an eye out for wild horses at Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site, where they often roam freely, adding to the charm of your camping experience.
  • Coyotes are known to frequent areas like Manzano Mountains Camp, so be prepared for their howls at night, which can enhance the wilderness atmosphere.
  • Birdwatching is a rewarding activity in spots like Canyon Del Apache, where you can observe various species in their natural habitat.

Activities to enjoy while free camping near Cibola National Forest and National Grasslands

  • Hiking is a popular activity, with trails accessible from Cedro 2 Track 13 Dispersed Site, offering scenic views and a chance to explore the local flora and fauna.
  • Mountain biking enthusiasts will find great trails near BLM dispersed camping / Zia Pueblo, making it an ideal spot for adventure seekers.
  • For those who enjoy stargazing, the remote locations like Cibola NP provide minimal light pollution, allowing for breathtaking views of the night sky.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Cibola National Forest and National Grasslands?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Cibola National Forest and National Grasslands is Dispersed Camping off FS 542 with a 4.4-star rating from 25 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Cibola National Forest and National Grasslands?

TheDyrt.com has all 8 dispersed camping locations near Cibola National Forest and National Grasslands, with real photos and reviews from campers.