Upper Bonito Dispersed Recreation Area offers primitive camping options near Coyote, New Mexico, at approximately 7,200 feet elevation in the Lincoln National Forest. The area features multiple camping sites along forest service roads with limited facilities but abundant access to wilderness trails. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing with occasional heavy snowfall that can make roads impassable without four-wheel drive vehicles.
What to do
Trail exploration: The surrounding forest offers numerous hiking paths beyond the main horse trails. At Skyline Campground, visitors enjoy "beautiful 360 views of the region" though "the wind can get quite torrential" at higher elevations, according to Michael.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings and evenings provide opportunities to spot local wildlife. Jamie P. notes that at Baca Campground, "I nearly always see lots of wildlife. The campsite s are large and widely spaced."
Seasonal recreation: Winter visitors can enjoy snowshoeing when conditions permit. Summer visitors have options for swimming at nearby lakes. One camper at Three Rivers Campground reports, "The water in the river was running and fresh. There were a couple nice bathing holes."
What campers like
Secluded spaces: Many sites offer relative privacy despite the open terrain. At West Mesa Trailhead BLM, Nikki B. found "a very private remote area in the forest. It was a nice change of pace from the desert that surrounds the Forrest!"
Night sky viewing: The area's minimal light pollution creates excellent stargazing opportunities. Brandon C. appreciates that at Guebara Tank Camp, "u see the sky at nights" and "can actually see the vally of trees witch is nice if u are a photo guy or girl."
Working remotely: Several areas offer cell service for those needing connectivity. Teresa T. mentions, "Good cell phone service. I plan on staying for a full week and working from here" when describing the West Mesa Trailhead area.
What you should know
Weather preparation: Mountain conditions change rapidly with significant temperature swings. At Three Rivers Campground, Jorge G. advises, "Please tread lightly, leave no trace, and be gentle with the wilderness. This place has gone through a lot of fire related hardships."
Road conditions: Access roads deteriorate during wet weather. Leah W. warns about Baca Campground: "DO NOT ATTEMPT TO DRIVE HERE IN WET CONDITIONS!" after experiencing difficulties when "the roads were too slick with water and we ended up driving off the road!"
Water requirements: No reliable water sources exist at most dispersed sites. Neal K. notes about Baca Campground: "No water so bring enough for your stay."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Several sites offer natural features that engage children. At Upper Bonito Dispersed Recreation Area, K&S Adventures reports, "We had a great night drove through the entire area and off roads to find a nice quiet area we had our son and two big doggos and had plenty of space for them to roam."
Safety considerations: Wildlife encounters require proper precautions. At Three Rivers Campground, one camper advises, "stow your food away from tent had a bear visit while there."
Bathroom facilities: Most dispersed sites lack amenities. Alex G. notes about Upper Bonito, "restrooms are clean, there's some privacy if you find s good spot."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Large rigs require careful positioning due to uneven terrain. At Twin Spruce RV Park, visitors appreciate that they "can also refill your propane on site," according to MinnieWinnie A., making it a good resupply point for those doing equestrian camping near Coyote.
Hookup availability: Most dispersed sites lack any services. For those needing full hookups near horseback riding areas around Coyote, Dennis P. notes that Stone Mountain RV Resort offers "30 or 50 amp ($10 more for 50). FHU. Friendly staff."
Seasonal access: Winter camping requires proper vehicle capabilities. Jerry R. learned at Baca Campground: "Wrong time of year too come to Baca, snow covered. Able too park, spent one nite."
Traveler
