Primitive camping near Datil, New Mexico offers opportunities to experience the high desert terrain at elevations ranging from 6,000-7,500 feet. The region transitions between juniper woodlands and ponderosa pine forests, creating diverse dispersed camping environments. Temperatures fluctuate significantly between day and night, with summer highs averaging 85°F and overnight lows dropping to 50°F even in summer months.
What to do
Rock climbing: The Box Recreation Area provides numerous climbing routes for various skill levels. "One of my favorite places I've stayed. Will definitely come back! Several hiking trails with beautiful views! A lot of great climbing also!" notes camper Nikki B. at https://thedyrt.com/camping/new-mexico/the-box-climbing-area.
Canyon exploration: Hike through the distinctive rock formations at San Lorenzo Canyon where dry riverbeds create natural pathways. "The canyons were amazing to hike in and bike among. 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," shares Emily S.
Stargazing: Clear, dark skies make this area ideal for astronomy enthusiasts. "This was a lovely spot to overnight just about 20 minutes off I-25 near Socorro NM. Great views and incredible star gazing," reports Bradley K. about The Box Recreation Area.
What campers like
Solitude: Many dispersed sites around Datil remain relatively undiscovered. "Very quiet Wednesday night here--didn't hear a single vehicle go by. We had gone a mile up the mountain (which gets quite rough) before turning around because there didn't seem to be any sites," mentions Meghan B. about Swingle Canyon at https://thedyrt.com/camping/new-mexico/swingle-canyon.
Wildlife viewing: The natural setting attracts diverse animal species. "Perfect for an immersive night in a beautiful forest, we saw a group of deers in the late afternoon," writes Amina B. about her Swingle Canyon experience.
Accessibility: Some sites offer relatively easy access for quick overnight stops. "Spent a very quiet night nestled back off the highway under the stars," notes Teresa A. regarding her stay at Swingle Canyon.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to many dispersed camping areas requires careful navigation. "Not easy to find but gorgeous spot to hike many canyon trails. Zero cell service. Don't follow goggle to find," warns Renee T. about San Lorenzo Canyon Dispersed at https://thedyrt.com/camping/new-mexico/san-lorenzo-canyon-2.
Limited facilities: Most sites lack basic amenities. "Rough Tent Camping...Great Rock Climbing. Drove 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," explains Jeff K. about The Box Recreation Area.
Seasonal considerations: Weather patterns change dramatically throughout the year. "Forgot we stopped here last year. Remember as I was pulling in. Nice and quiet both times. Little to no one here. Great views of trees and small mountains. Good place to hike around," shares Chris D. about returning to Swingle Canyon.
Tips for camping with families
Day trip planning: Some areas work better as day trips rather than overnight stays. "Cool 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," advises Nathan M. about The Box Recreation Area at https://thedyrt.com/camping/new-mexico/the-box-climbing-area.
Fire safety: Check current fire restrictions and use existing fire rings when permitted. "Just happened upon this stop on our way home from Sedona. Nice and quiet spot with some rock climbing that we didn't have time for, unfortunately. Fire pit and vault toilets available," notes Kolby B. regarding The Box Recreation Area.
Hidden gems: Take time to explore lesser-known areas away from main sites. "Truly, a special place. The canyons were amazing to hike in and bike among," recommends Emily S. about San Lorenzo Canyon Dispersed camping.
Tips from RVers
Parking considerations: Look for level areas away from dry washes. "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!" suggests Nikki B. from The Box Recreation Area.
Site selection: RVs have limited options at some locations. "Stopped 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," shares April N. about The Box Recreation Area.
Noise awareness: Be prepared for potential daytime disruptions. "The road is used by truckers from a quarry nearby, so that can be noisy during the morning/day but is quiet at night," cautions Nikki B. about The Box area.
