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Best Dispersed Camping near Cimarron, NM

33 Reviews

Dispersed camping opportunities abound near Cimarron, New Mexico, with several free primitive sites available on public lands. Forest Road 5 offers multiple dispersed campsites along a creek with both open meadow and forested sites. Rio Fernando de Taos provides camping at the headwaters of the river with small ponds and wildlife viewing opportunities. Arroyo Seco Dispersed camping features riverside sites with some areas offering basic amenities like fire rings. The Rio Grande del Norte National Monument contains numerous BLM dispersed camping options with dramatic gorge views.

Most dispersed sites in the region lack amenities such as potable water, toilets, or trash service. Visitors must pack out all waste and bring sufficient water supplies. Road conditions vary significantly by location and season. According to reviews, "Some might require high clearance or 4WD," particularly after rain or snowmelt when mud can make access challenging. Several campers noted that spring camping brings unique wildlife viewing opportunities, with one reporting "lots of wildlife, mostly elk and some deer. Frogs are chirping away."

Weather conditions change rapidly in this high-elevation region. Spring snowstorms can occur through May, and summer brings afternoon thunderstorms. Fire regulations are strictly enforced and vary seasonally. When permitted, fires must be contained in established fire rings where available. Cell service is inconsistent throughout the area, with Verizon providing the most reliable coverage at certain sites. Campers should verify current road conditions and fire restrictions before departure. The standard 14-day stay limit applies to all dispersed camping on federal lands in the region.

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Rio Fernando de Taos - Forest Rd 5

Rio Fernando de Taos - Forest Rd 5

46 min away

Enchanted Circle Campground E<< - #1 Campground in NM

Enchanted Circle Campground E<< - #1 Campground in NM

50 min away

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Cimarron, New Mexico (19)

    1. Forest Road 5 - Dispersed campsite

    9 Reviews
    Angel Fire, NM
    25 miles
    Website

    "There are several sites along FR-5, though some might require high clearance or 4wd. "

    "No facilities. Crick 3x bigger now. Early May. So beautiful."

    2. Rio Fernando de Taos - Forest Rd 5

    3 Reviews
    Angel Fire, NM
    25 miles
    Website

    "Just a handful of sites on this short road--one side of the road is fairly open but has the creek/river flowing nearby; the other side of the road is more in the forest and offers some shade and privacy"

    "Fairly accessible. We brought a pop up. Elk everywhere. We had a nice time"

    3. Arroyo Seco Dispersed NF Camping

    8 Reviews
    Valdez, NM
    37 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 758-6200

    "No amenities except some great river side places.

    Dispersed camping along the road (though it’s not a busy one, especially not at night so not noisy) right on the river."

    "I car-camped here just before Labor Day weekend and while it wasn’t the most private camping area, I was able to snag a spot along the river and had a nice time."

    4. Mallette Creek North

    2 Reviews
    Red River, NM
    31 miles

    "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!"

    5. Greenie Peak

    1 Review
    Red River, NM
    32 miles

    "Quick trip here overnight. lots of spots on the drive up to the peak, so don’t have to make it the whole way."

    6. Forest Road 438 Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    Ranchos de Taos, NM
    37 miles

    "Stumbled on this location by chance when another location nearby was closed. Long forest road with approximately 8-10 dispersed campsites along the road."

    "Numerous spots along the forest road and some are tucked off the road a bit. The spot we found about a 1/2 mile or so past the bridge has a little fire ring and right next to the little creek."

    7. Dispersed Camping Near Taos

    4 Reviews
    Arroyo Hondo, NM
    45 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 758-8851

    "Dirt road but we did it with no problem with our 24ft trailer."

    "A good dispersed campground with a few spots. Don’t drive to the John dun bridge from Taos use the longer route instead. The switch back road is blocked off now."

    8. Rio Grande del Norte National Monument

    3 Reviews
    San Cristobal, NM
    44 miles
    Website

    "Rio Grande del Norte National Monument is BLM land so it is all dispersed camping. You will need to make sure you aren't on someone's property or nearby any roads. There are plenty of turn offs. "

    "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."

    9. Forest Service 439

    2 Reviews
    Vadito, NM
    42 miles

    "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."

    10. South Boundary

    Be the first to review!
    Angel Fire, NM
    30 miles
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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Cimarron, NM

34 Photos of 19 Cimarron Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Cimarron, NM

33 Reviews of 19 Cimarron Campgrounds

  • Jeff V.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 27, 2025

    Mills Canyon Dispersed

    Not just dispersed, but 2 free Forest Service campgrounds!

    This canyon is a too little known gem tucked away in a corner of the state too few travel, as the near ghost town of Roy demonstrates.  for those wondering why I'd part with secrecy and reveal a local treasure, that's why: we've far too few tourists, unlike Barcelona. 

    Back to the canyon, the key attractions are the river, often a rippling stream, and sometimes mere puddles, but still, water in a dry land, and the ruins of a thriving orchard and stagecoach stop, complete with an impressive hotel.  The hotel is the largest ruin, abandoned after a flood destroyed the business more than a century ago.  There are other stone buildings scattered about for those motivated to hike around the valley. 

    The canyon remains hidden until you reach the rim and peer down (an excellent method for spotting ruins), and the first Forest Service campground is there, and best for those with larger trailers or lower clearances.

    The second Forest Service campground is by the river, complete with picnic tables, iron fire rings, and vault toilets.  Both are free as of this writing.

    I've never seen any explicit regulations beyond the obvious (don't do damage that gets us all a bad name) and 4x4 paths exist to get one further up and down the canyon for dispersed camping. 

    I'd certainly camp away from large or loud groups if I needed, but neither campground gets a rowdy crowd, or, indeed, much of a crowd. 

    p.s.  If you read this far, I'll throw in some nearby treats: Charette Lake, Fort Union, Pecos National Monument and Sugarite State Park all offer insights into the history and natural beauty of this part of NM.

  • Hayley K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Feb. 14, 2020

    Rio Grande del Norte National Monument

    Quiet beauty

    Rio Grande del Norte National Monument is BLM land so it is all dispersed camping. You will need to make sure you aren't on someone's property or nearby any roads. There are plenty of turn offs. 

    This isn't a "get away" more like a stopover spot. I stopped here on my way back North to Colorado to see the bridge over the Rio Grande and so I wasn't so high up in elevation that I would freeze. 

    But if you can find a quiet place it is a beautiful dispersed spot where there is civilization nearby and toilets at local businesses  and picnic areas that you can use. See map on review. 

    Be careful roaming at night. The drop into the river is quite deep so offroading isn't just ill advised for keeping the flora and fauna safe…but you as well. 

    There are picnic ares around the monument too, just not established camping spots.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    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,

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 4, 2025

    Forest Road 5 - Dispersed campsite

    Beautiful area!

    We stayed here for 2 days at the beginning of June 2025.  There are several sites along FR-5, though some might require high clearance or 4wd.  When we stayed, the ground was still quite damp - I would have stayed longer, but there were 3 days of rain in the forecast, and I felt there was a significant risk of getting stuck.

  • Meghan B.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 12, 2025

    Rio Fernando de Taos - Forest Rd 5

    Rio Fernando de Taos - Forest Road 5

    Really, really loved this spot--such a beautiful area. Just a handful of sites on this short road--one side of the road is fairly open but has the creek/river flowing nearby; the other side of the road is more in the forest and offers some shade and privacy. The melting snow has the ponds and river overflowing, so many of the sites are flooded and inaccessible at the moment. We had camped towards the end of the road near the turn around spot due to most sites being flooded. The animals are really coming out though--lots of birds and frogs chirping, ducks were swimming in the ponds, and we even had some elk pass through our camp! Cell service is sporadic in this area. Of course, no amenities here so pack out what you bring in.

  • m
    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!!

  • Shavit L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 7, 2019

    Arroyo Seco Dispersed NF Camping

    Beautiful and free river side camping

    No amenities except some great river side places.

    Dispersed camping along the road (though it’s not a busy one, especially not at night so not noisy) right on the river.

    First coms first served with mostly tenting spaces.

  • Rochelle B.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 12, 2025

    Rio Grande del Norte National Monument

    Tent Camp 9

    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. Don’t recommend any kind of trailer for these dispersed camp sites as it is very hard to access. This area has had rain for 2+ weeks, so be sure your 4-wheel drive is operational.

    If you seek solitude, this is the place!

  • Earl B.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 11, 2025

    Forest Road 5 - Dispersed campsite

    Serenity

    Snowstorm two days after I arrived. Tent reduced by half. No other people for 4 days. Suns out, snow is melting, can’t ask for more.

    No facilities. Crick 3x bigger now. Early May. So beautiful.

Guide to Cimarron

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Cimarron, New Mexico, where nature's tranquility awaits. With stunning landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities, this area is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Cimarron, New Mexico

Dispersed campers should check out Arroyo Seco Dispersed NF Camping

  • This area offers a peaceful environment with multiple sites along the Hondo Rio, making it ideal for families and pets, as noted by visitors who enjoyed the river with their dogs.
  • While there are some toilets available, it's essential to practice Leave No Trace principles to maintain the cleanliness of the site, as highlighted by campers at Arroyo Seco Dispersed NF Camping.
  • The proximity to the town of Arroyo Seco allows for easy access to supplies while still enjoying the serenity of nature.

Enjoy outdoor activities while free camping near Cimarron

  • For those who love hiking, Mallette Creek North provides access to beautiful trails with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the nearby streams and rivers, particularly around Forest Service 439, where you can enjoy a refreshing day by the water.
  • If you're into stargazing, the clear skies in areas like Rio Fernando de Taos - Forest Rd 5 offer incredible views of the night sky, perfect for capturing memorable moments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is dispersed camping allowed in Cimarron, Colorado?

Dispersed camping is allowed on BLM land throughout the Cimarron area. Rio Grande del Norte National Monument offers dispersed camping opportunities with numerous turnoffs, though be careful to avoid private property and stay away from roads. Dispersed Camping Near Taos provides additional options, with access from the west side (not over John Dun Bridge). When seeking dispersed sites, look for established pull-offs and remember to follow Leave No Trace principles, camping at least 200 feet from water sources. Most areas require high-clearance vehicles, and some roads may be difficult for trailers.

What are the best months for dispersed camping in Cimarron?

The prime months for dispersed camping in Cimarron are late May through early October, with July and August offering the most reliable weather. At Mills Canyon Dispersed, you'll find excellent conditions during summer months in this hidden gem. Be cautious in early May, as Forest Service 439 and similar areas can experience lingering snow melt, creating damp ground conditions that may limit accessibility, especially for trailers. Early June offers beautiful landscapes with flowing water from snowmelt, though rain can still be common. By August, conditions are typically drier with warm days and cool nights. Avoid winter months unless you're prepared for potentially harsh conditions and difficult access due to snow.

Are there any fire restrictions for dispersed camping in Cimarron?

Fire restrictions in the Cimarron area vary seasonally based on conditions, with stricter limitations typically in place during summer drought periods. When camping at Forest Road 5 - Dispersed campsite, be aware that wet conditions in spring can change rapidly to dry fire-prone conditions as summer progresses. At Arroyo Seco Dispersed NF Camping, riverside camping is available, but always check current fire regulations before your trip. Always use established fire rings when available, keep fires small, and fully extinguish them before leaving. Check with the local Forest Service or BLM office for current restrictions before your trip, as they can change rapidly with weather conditions.

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