Continental Divide dispersed camping areas near Six Mile Canyon sit at elevations between 7,000-8,000 feet, creating distinct seasonal temperature variations with cool nights even during summer months. Access routes through the area often follow unpaved roads that cross pine-covered mesas and high desert terrain. Winter conditions can reduce available camping options with some gates closed from mid-December through March.
What to do
Hiking through lava fields: Joe Skeen Campground provides access to El Malpais National Conservation Area's unique volcanic landscape. "Great free campground in a marvelous place. Great sunsets, clean toilets. Water only at ranger station," notes Christoph R. The campground offers established sites with covered picnic areas close to multiple hiking trails.
Mountain biking on forest trails: Quaking Aspen Campground connects to trail networks through the Cibola National Forest. "Amazing hiking and mtb'ing trails. And, a nice lake," reports Tommy B. The campground sits at 8,000 feet elevation, providing cooler temperatures for summer riding.
Night sky observation: The remote location allows exceptional stargazing opportunities. At Six Mile Canyon Road dispersed sites, campers note the lack of light pollution. "The stars were bomb dot com," according to Nat&Rach C., who appreciated the secluded nature of this free camping area with established fire rings.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Grants KOA Journey maintains well-kept bathrooms and shower facilities. "Very friendly staff and campers, exceptionally clean," reports T.O. The campground also offers a walking path through a lava flow within the park boundaries.
Wildlife encounters: Turkey Springs camping area provides habitat for various wildlife. "Spots aren't marked so be observant," advises Roger J., who enjoyed the "large Ponderosa Pines with White Cedar and Oak scrub" that characterize the landscape and provide shelter for local animals.
Affordability: Joe Skeen Campground offers free camping with amenities beyond most no-cost sites. "Each site has a covered patio with picnic table and a fire pit," notes Jessica S. The campground provides vault toilets without requiring payment or permits.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to Six Mile Canyon dispersed sites requires careful planning during wet weather. "I drove my Prius in during the summer and it was fine. Granted, I could see how this would be hazardous if the ground was soft and muddy," explains Gordy Y. The road becomes increasingly difficult beyond the first few pull-offs.
Seasonal closures: Turkey Springs follows forest service schedules that limit winter access. "This site is closed from December 15 to March 31," reports Dave B. Similar closures affect other dispersed camping areas throughout the region.
Limited amenities: Most dispersed camping locations provide no services. "Nothing fancy. Close to I-40 but you can get far enough away to limit road noise. Road is good enough to drag a camper back," explains Jeff K. about Six Mile Canyon, noting the trade-off between convenience and services.
Tips for camping with families
Space considerations: Red Rock Park & Campground offers designated sites near sandstone formations. "Church Rock Trial and Pyramid Rock Trail are both about 3 to 3 and a half miles round trip from the campground. You're surrounded by desert on one side and dark red stone on the other," explains Fain H., highlighting kid-friendly hiking options.
Swimming access: During summer months, Bluewater Lake State Park Campground provides lake activities for children. "Great state run campground with options from primitive to full hook ups at great prices. The primitive camping is all along the lake so you can park and walk right in with your canoe or SUP. Playground for the kiddos," notes Sara S.
Educational opportunities: Pet friendly camping opportunities near Continental Divide include sites with access to cultural landmarks. "The ruins are worth the long drive on 21 mile access road from the highway," explains Robert C. about Chaco Culture National Historical Park, where families can explore ancient architecture alongside their pets.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Finding level spots presents challenges at some campgrounds. "Most sites have a level, gravel tent pad, table and fire ring," notes Jennifer W. about Bluewater Lake State Park Campground, adding that "Some large level pull thrus" are available for RVs needing more space.
Utility connections: USA RV Park offers full hookup sites for those seeking pet-friendly camping near Continental Divide with amenities. "Full hookups with military and good sam discounts. We've stayed here before and we will again. A dog park, showers, rest rooms and laundry available," reports Jeanne A.
Size restrictions: Larger rigs face limitations at some sites. "The wash to get into the campground is steep on both sides. We drug a bit on the way in and a lot on the way out. We have a silverback 37bh that specs say is 39'11". Would not try it again," warns Jennifer P. about Joe Skeen Campground, despite its otherwise "amazing dark sky view of the stars."
