Dispersed camping near Eldorado at Santa Fe provides access to high desert terrain at elevations ranging from 6,500-8,000 feet, creating dramatic temperature fluctuations throughout the year. Most camping areas require navigating unmaintained forest roads that deteriorate significantly after monsoon rains, typically occurring July through September. Vehicle requirements vary significantly by specific location and current weather conditions.
What to do
Hiking to hot springs: Spence Hot Springs Trail near Pajarito Springs (Dispersed) offers thermal pools approximately 15 minutes from the parking area. "I hiked to the hot springs at Spence Hot Springs Trail, there is a pull off but not clearly marked. It's a 15 minute walk to lukewarm pools you can bathe in and the upper pool even has a cool cave you can sit in," notes Cassidy O.
Stream fishing: Cow Creek provides accessible fly fishing opportunities with seasonal catches varying by water levels. "It's right along a creek where you can fly fish. It was a longer drive out there than expected, but there's a sign that lets you know your in the National forest and out of peoples private property," reports Jennifer H. from Cow Creek Dispersed Camping Area.
Wildlife viewing: Multiple camping areas report regular wild horse sightings, particularly at dawn and dusk. "Woke up in the morning to a heard of wild horses moving through the area," shares Taz G. from Top of New Mexico. Another camper mentions, "Wild horses roamed around our site after sunset. Pretty epic."
What campers like
Proximity to town: Free camping near Eldorado at Santa Fe provides quick access to urban amenities while maintaining distance from city lights. "This area was very accessible, in good condition, and tons of available spots, plenty of space between other campers," notes Mackenzie M. about Santa Fe BLM Dispersed Campsite. Another camper added it's "Only about a 15min drive into Downtown, Santa Fe."
Stargazing: The lack of light pollution creates exceptional night sky viewing across most dispersed sites. "And, you can clearly see the Milky Way. No light pollution except the beautiful view of the city far away," reports Lauren I. from Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site.
Seasonal temperature variations: Higher elevation sites provide cooler options during summer months. "Even in July, it was a perfect 60-65 degrees at night and in the upper 70's low 80's during the day," shares Tiffany J. about Dispersed on 4. Jeff V. adds, "If these lowlands are too hot in the summer, drive up Artist Road to Big Tesuque or the ski-way at the end of the road, where shade, cold streams, and elevation keep nights pleasant even in July or August."
What you should know
Site selection guidance: Finding the best spots often requires careful exploration and knowledge of the area. "As you enter go to the right. The road will split but stay right and continue the slight uphill climb. As the road starts to descend, you will see a small white sign nailed to a tree on the left with a sharp turn off the road," advises Tiffany J. about reaching prime sites at Dispersed on 4 - Fenton Lake State Park.
Noise considerations: Some camping areas experience periodic noise from nearby activities. "There is a lot of shooting going on after 5pm till dark at a nearby gun range," notes Mitch B. about Santa Fe BLM. Another camper mentions, "You'll hear a bit of shooting from the gun range nearby, and maybe some ATVs. But overall peaceful."
Seasonal closure risk: Areas may close without notice due to environmental conditions or management decisions. "Due to overuse, trash, and abuse, SFNF has closed this area to dispersed camping," reported Jemez M. about Caja Del Rio in May 2025. Another camper noted, "Currently closed so we couldn't stay. It looks like 50% or more of the trees have been cut down and stacked, perhaps thinning the forest."
Tips for camping with families
Location accessibility: Choose sites that balance seclusion with reasonable access for your vehicle type. "We opted not to camp in the 'lot' where a lot of people set up. We drove back the road a bit further for some privacy," shares Matt P. about Sante Fe National Forest BLM-Road 62. "Given the proximity to town there were some campsites that had a degree of homelessness to them. However, we camped two nights with absolutely no issues."
Space for activities: Look for camping areas with open space between vegetation. "Area is open. There's some trash right as you come in, but there's plenty of clean spots not too much further in," advises Vivian H. from Sante Fe National Forest BLM-Road 62 Dispersed.
Weather preparation: Mountain elevations create unpredictable conditions requiring additional clothing layers. "It's going to get colder than you think at night. Bring a fleece or warm jacket at the least," warns G.Neri about Dispersed on 4. Another reviewer notes waking up to "an inch of snow" in December at BLM-Road 62.
Tips from RVers
Site capacity awareness: Many dispersed sites accommodate smaller RVs but present challenges for larger rigs. "Mostly residential area until you get to the open space. I didn't make it to the actual coordinates as I took a wrong turn near the end, but there is a ton of open space out here. Easy to get to in 25' RV. Recommend," advises Chris S. from Top of New Mexico.
Route planning cautions: Road conditions can deteriorate rapidly, requiring careful navigation. "56 minutes to drive 3.4 miles," reports Stephanie D. from Forest Road 102 Dispersed. "Long, bumpy one-lane dirt road. 2-5mph the whole way. No shoulder. No way to back up or turn around. Lots of ruts and washouts. Only a couple of turn-arounds way up the mountain."
Dust protection: Prepare for fine dust that affects vehicle interiors and equipment. "The area is very dusty," notes Renee T. about Caja Del Rio. Another camper adds, "The only downside: it was very windy and the entire interior of my vehicle was covered in reddish dust."
