Datil is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Datil is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your New Mexico camping adventure.
"Easily found the dispersed sights from the app. Spent a very quiet night nestled back off the highway under the stars."
"There are about 3 spots near the road entrance."
"Found a decent spot in a dry wash to put up the tent for the night. It worked and allowed quick access to the crag in the morning. Does start to get busy with climbers fairly early (8am or so). "
"This is on BLM land, and there is no trash pick-up or other managed facilities here, so camping is at your own discretion and you MUST leave the area as you found it (or better)."
"I saw very few people it will feel like you are not driving on the right place as the ‘road’ is eventually just a dry river bed, but keep going the course and you will find gorgeous sites to camp at."
"Not easy to find but gorgeous spot to hike many canyon trails. Zero cell service. Don't follow goggle to find."
GuideThere are primitive camp spots down a rough dirt road right off the highway. Otherwise you are just setting up camp in the parking lot. Pretty quiet area and a vault restroom that’s door needs some TLC is available in the main parking area. Great spot if you want to get an early start on rock climbing.
GuideDrove down the night before in order to go climbing the next day. Found a decent spot in a dry wash to put up the tent for the night. It worked and allowed quick access to the crag in the morning. Does start to get busy with climbers fairly early (8am or so). Would be perfect for somebody with a camper-van or teardrop.
RangerEasily found the dispersed sights from the app. Spent a very quiet night nestled back off the highway under the stars.
TravelerCool place. The spots with fire pits have been blocked off by private property signs. Camping definitely at your own risk, perfect for just a day trip.
Guide10-15 down 60 west of Socorro you'll find "the box" climbing area. This is on BLM land, and there is no trash pick-up or other managed facilities here, so camping is at your own discretion and you MUST leave the area as you found it (or better). There is a vault toilet at the main parking lot as you drive in, and if you drive further up the road there is a small pull-off with a couple of simple fire-pits where you will likely find a couple other climbers camping. Please be responsible about your food, trash and making a fire. There is loads of good climbing in the area and it's a great place to set up camp for a few days, but don't ruin that privilege for everyone by mistreating the area. Follow pack-in, pack-out, LNT and common sense rules.
LegendVery quiet Wednesday night here--didn't hear a single vehicle go by. There are about 3 spots near the road entrance. We had gone a mile up the mountain (which gets quite rough) before turning around because there didn't seem to be any sites... and we're only driving through the area, so finding somewhere a bit more private wasn't the biggest deal. Cell service is spotty, but there. No amenities, so pack out what you bring in.
GuideVery close to the main road, few spots and some with firepits, we were only 3 cars staying for the night. Perfect for an immersive night in a beautiful forest, we saw a group of deers in the late afternoon. No toilet no water. Def recommend.
GuideOne of my favorite places I’ve stayed. Will definitely come back!
The bottom Box Canyon parking lot is great. It is just a large gravel parking lot, but the views are amazing! There is a bathroom at the bottom parking lot (the only bathroom)! Occasionally I got 1 bar of service.
Instead of turning left into the parking lot, continue up the hill to find something more remote. If you cross over the cattle guard to the left, there is a large dirt pull off with an amazing view and private! We were there almost a week and only saw one other person park up there. There is no service, but walking back down the road just a bit a could find a few bars.
Several hiking trails with beautiful views! A lot of great climbing also! Spectacular views and lots of wild life! A great place to star gaze!
The road is used by truckers from a quarry nearby, so that can be noisy during the morning/day but is quiet at night.
TravelerStopped at the first parking area and it was flat, empty and quiet. We didn’t travel up the road to the spot the other reviewers stayed but we enjoyed the easy drive in.
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Datil, New Mexico, where nature enthusiasts can immerse themselves in stunning landscapes and enjoy a peaceful retreat away from the crowds. With a variety of options available, campers can find the perfect spot to set up their tents or RVs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the rules for dispersed camping near Datil, NM?
Dispersed camping near Datil follows standard BLM land regulations. At San Lorenzo Canyon Dispersed, campers must practice Leave No Trace principles—pack out all trash and leave the area as you found it or better. There's typically a 14-day stay limit. Some areas have designated fire pits, but be aware that fire restrictions may apply seasonally. Always check current regulations before your trip. Respect any private property boundaries, as some areas near dispersed camping may be marked with private property signs. Road conditions can be challenging in some locations, with access sometimes involving driving on dry riverbeds.
Are there any amenities at Datil dispersed camping areas?
Amenities at Datil dispersed camping areas are minimal. The Box Recreation Area offers a vault toilet in the main parking lot, though some reviewers note it needs maintenance. There are no trash pickup services, so you must pack out all waste. Most sites at Swingle Canyon feature established fire pits, but there are no toilets or water sources. Cell service is spotty throughout the region, with some areas getting occasional single-bar coverage. These are truly primitive camping experiences where self-sufficiency is essential.
Where is Datil dispersed camping located in New Mexico?
Datil dispersed camping is located in western New Mexico, with several areas available nearby. The Box Recreation Area is approximately 10-15 miles west of Socorro on Highway 60, offering dispersed camping opportunities on BLM land. This area is popular with rock climbers and offers stunning views. Another option is Swingle Canyon, which provides quiet dispersed camping spots nestled in beautiful forest terrain, easily accessible from the main road with several sites near the entrance.
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