Dispersed tent camping options around Farmington, New Mexico range from riverside sites to mountain forest locations within 30-60 miles of the city. The area sits at the convergence of the San Juan, Animas, and La Plata rivers, creating diverse camping environments from arid plateaus to wooded mountain terrain. Most dispersed sites in this high desert region experience significant temperature variations between day and night, particularly during spring and fall camping seasons.
What to do
Fishing access points: At Navajo Lake Relax Wild-u-can group campsite, campers can enjoy easy lake fishing access. "Jake from the Dyrt here! Navajo Lake Group Camp offers the perfect setup for groups with 4 separate sites so each tent has their own space. They provide the tents so don't worry about packing them!" This site offers a convenient base for anglers targeting the lake's bass, pike, and catfish.
Wildlife observation: Cherry Creek Gravel Lot provides opportunities for spotting local wildlife. As one camper noted, "Beautiful place! It's pretty easy to get into, there are more secluded places up the hill a ways but it gets kinda rough. You can hear the highway, but it's not much. Just ambient background noise." The diverse flora and fauna make this a good location for nature photography.
Stargazing opportunities: Forest Road 316 offers excellent night sky viewing conditions during clear weather. A visitor reported, "This was an easy spot and any kind of vehicle can get here. Lots of room, not much to look at in the fall, as far as, right around, but the views are amazing king distance and at night the stars are amazing." Limited light pollution makes this area particularly suitable for astronomical observation.
What campers like
Seasonal variety: Bay City Campground offers different experiences throughout the camping season. "We camped in early May. There are 3 (maybe 4) spots and it's beautiful! The CG is about a half mile from the end of the pavement. No bathroom but there was a fire ring," reports one camper, highlighting the spring conditions. This area transforms through seasons with changing water levels and vegetation.
Versatile camping spots: Many tent campers appreciate the diverse site options at Forest Road 316. One camper noted, "A really great area! Tons of spots as you go up, some more secluded than others so a lot of variety of privacy and sizes for any setup. Towards the top the landscape changes from piñon pine to an aspen grove." This terrain variation allows campers to select sites matching their preferences for sun exposure, privacy, and views.
Accessibility: Several sites near Farmington accommodate various camping styles. Cherry Creek Gravel Lot provides an option when other areas are closed. "Fine, especially when nothing else is available and you need a place to stop for a night. USFS access roads weren't open for the season yet," mentions one reviewer. This accessibility makes it valuable for last-minute camping plans or early/late season trips.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to some camping areas requires navigating unpaved roads that may challenge certain vehicles. One camper at Cherry Creek Gravel Lot reported, "Getting up there was not possible in my Travato (in my opinion). I've got some Falken Wildpeaks so traction was not so much the issue as the uneven path up." Many sites have variable road conditions depending on recent weather.
Site availability: Camping areas near Farmington can fill quickly during peak seasons and weekends. A visitor to Forest Road 316 mentioned, "We got to town late and our preferred spots were all taken, so we came here as a backup." Arriving midweek or earlier in the day improves chances of securing preferred spots.
Seasonal closures: Several forest roads and camping areas close during winter months. Regarding Bay City Campground, one camper noted, "Road is closed as of today, think it opens in May." Similarly, Forest Road 316 has seasonal closures with one review stating, "Road is currently closed. Assuming through March like most others in the area." Checking with local ranger districts before travel is advisable.
Tips for camping with families
Noise considerations: When tent camping with children near Farmington, consider noise levels at various sites. Forest Road 316 has mixed reports, with one camper noting, "Awesome spot, TONS of places to pitch a tent or park a camper. That being said - lots of generators, moderate views, cars driving by often." This may affect sleep quality for light-sleeping children.
Wildlife awareness: Prepare children for potential wildlife encounters including livestock. One camper at Forest Road 316 mentioned, "Lots of good parking spots along the road, all well established spots. Only con is there were a whole bunch of cows, making noise allllllll night long." Creating appropriate expectations helps children adjust to nighttime sounds.
Group camping options: Families traveling together should consider designated group sites. The Navajo Lake Relax Wild-u-can group campsite offers specialized accommodations where "each tent has their own space" while maintaining group proximity. This arrangement helps balance privacy with community during family camping trips.
Tips from RVers
Size-appropriate sites: RV campers should research site dimensions before arrival. At Forest Road 316, one RVer commented, "This road can accommodate all kinds of camping. We didn't have to drive very far to find a good spot. Where we camped could fit all size rigs." Selecting appropriate sites prevents access issues and campsite setup problems.
Generator courtesy: When using generators at dispersed sites, consider timing and placement. One camper at Cherry Creek Gravel Lot experienced disruption when "an inconsiderate person parked his company truck and camper as close to me as was possible with wide open space all over and ran his generator." Following campground etiquette improves the experience for all campers.
Winter camping options: RVers seeking off-season camping have limited but viable options. Cherry Creek Gravel Lot provides winter access when other sites close. "Only free place near Durango in the winter. We called and asked the BLM & Forest Service. Easy access, lots of space. Bumpy access road and highway noise," notes one winter camper. This information helps RVers plan extended camping seasons.
