Dispersed camping near El Morro National Monument offers several free and minimally developed sites situated between 7,000-8,000 feet elevation in the high desert region. The area experiences significant temperature fluctuations with cold nights even during summer months. Access roads vary from maintained gravel to challenging two-track trails, with conditions worsening considerably during and after precipitation events.
What to do
Explore canyon terrain: Six Mile Canyon Road provides opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing within the canyon ecosystem. "Just off & along the interstate, you'd never know. The valley road cuts through green canyon bluffs and rolling hills with good tree coverage. Lots of fun and scenic driving," notes one Six Mile Canyon visitor.
Mountain biking: The road systems around dispersed camping areas offer recreational cycling options. A camper at Six Mile Canyon Road Dispersed Site shared, "Biked 6 miles up the road. Had cell service (Verizon and T-mobile)," suggesting connectivity for navigation while exploring.
Stargazing: The remote location provides excellent dark sky viewing with minimal light pollution. One camper remarked, "The stars were bomb dot com," highlighting the quality of night sky visibility in the area.
What campers like
Cooler temperatures: Higher elevation camping areas provide relief from summer heat. "It is above 7k, so it does get colder at night than the local forecast for Gallup," reports a Turkey Springs visitor, noting the temperature advantage.
Ponderosa pine forest: The mature tree canopy offers aesthetic appeal and natural shade. A camper described, "Large Ponderosa Pines with White Cedar and Oak scrub. Spots aren't marked so be observant."
Privacy between sites: Many areas offer sufficient space between camping spots for solitude. "Many pull-off spots and several pull throughs with lots of shady pines and wonderful breezes and wildlife. Secluded spots available and very quiet and beautiful location," notes one Turkey Springs camper.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Several roads close during winter and early spring months. At Forest Service Road Large Camp, a visitor noted access options: "You can drive to this location Via forest service road 456 until it turns into FSR 239," but many areas have seasonal restrictions.
Road conditions: Access roads deteriorate rapidly with precipitation. "Six Mile canyon road off I40 is a bit rough in places. I did fine in my pro master but if it's muddy or wet I wouldn't attempt it without 4WD," warns one camper.
Vehicle requirements: Some areas demand higher clearance or 4WD capability. "We did have to drive a couple miles to get away from other campers," notes a Six Mile Canyon Road visitor, indicating more remote sites require additional driving on rougher roads.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Look for established pull-offs with safe play areas. "Several sites off the smaller two track roads can support good size trailers with lots of flat open space," which provides room for children to explore safely.
Noise considerations: Some areas experience traffic noise during daylight hours. A camper observed, "The paved road is loud in the morning and evening with ranch/quarry traffic, but it is very quiet at night."
Weather preparedness: Pack for cold nights regardless of season. "Froze overnight as of November," reported one BLM land near Grants, NM visitor, underscoring the need for warm sleeping gear even during moderate seasons.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many sites require significant leveling efforts. "Sites not very level but managed to get the RVs level enough," reports one visitor who successfully situated two RVs at a site.
Turn-around spaces: Identify adequate space to maneuver larger vehicles before committing to roads. "A few sites in the trees right on the road could only support vans or tents," notes a camper, indicating limited options for larger rigs.
Road assessment: Stop and walk sections of questionable roads before proceeding. "The main road 162 was in great condition until it starts going uphill, then it was rutted out," warns a camper, suggesting careful evaluation of roads before driving RVs further.
