Primitive camping near Gamerco, New Mexico provides year-round options despite seasonal closures at main sites. While Six Mile Canyon and Turkey Springs both close from December 15 through March 31, campers find alternatives by parking outside gates during winter months. The higher elevation at Turkey Springs (above 7,000 feet) creates significantly cooler nighttime temperatures than forecast for nearby Gallup.
What to do
Explore canyon roads: Six Mile Canyon Road extends far beyond the initial entrance, with each mile offering increasingly secluded camping opportunities. "We only drove about 1.5 miles passed the gates, but we saw several camp spots with fire rings. The road is grated and well maintained," notes Michele D. at Six Mile Canyon - Dispersed Camping.
Mountain biking: The extensive network of roads provides excellent mountain biking terrain for those bringing bikes. "Biked 6 miles up the road. Had cell service (Verizon and T-mobile)," reports Terry O. at Six Mile Canyon Road Dispersed Site.
Wildlife viewing: The forested areas around Turkey Springs support diverse wildlife amid ponderosa pines and oak scrub. "Great Spot nice and cool among the tall pines and Oaks. Road in is very accessible lots of spots available," comments Francois T. at Turkey Springs.
What campers like
Natural seclusion: Despite proximity to I-40, Six Mile Canyon offers surprising isolation. "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," shares Twan M.
Variable terrain: The dispersed camping areas feature multiple terrain options from open valleys to forested highlands. "Lots of options for sites on both sides of 162 before it starts going uphill. Several sites off the smaller two track roads can support good size trailers with lots of flat open space," explains Timothy N.
Cell coverage: Unlike many remote camping areas, several sites maintain workable cell service. "The paved road is loud in the morning and evening with ranch/quarry traffic, but it is very quiet at night," adds Timothy N. about Turkey Springs.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Both main dispersed camping areas close during winter months. "This site is closed from December 15 to March 31," confirms Dave B. about Turkey Springs.
Weather impacts: Rain transforms the dirt access roads into challenging terrain regardless of season. "Great spot! Lots of options and tons of open space. Beautiful area. I decided to stay at the nearby Quaking Aspen Campground (0.5 mile away) due to this dispersed camping area kinda being a mudpit after the rain," warns Kenny R.
Site availability: Arriving early improves chances of securing preferred spots. "We did have to drive a couple miles to get away from other campers. Was perfectly fine after a day of cross country driving," notes Jami C. about Six Mile Canyon Road.
Tips for camping with families
Vehicle considerations: Standard passenger cars can access some areas during dry conditions. "I drove my Prius in during the summer and it was fine. Granted, I could see how this would be hazardous if the ground was soft and muddy," shares Gordy Y. at Six Mile Canyon - Dispersed Camping.
Road navigation: Initial road forks can confuse first-time visitors. "Road situation is a little confusing—pin drops up to the left, but as we left in the morning we saw some folks who had taken the right side of the initial fork, so seems like both ways are an option," explains Nat&Rach C.
Temperature planning: Higher elevations experience significant temperature drops. "It is above 7k, so it does get colder at night than the local forecast for Gallup," cautions Timothy N. about Turkey Springs.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Trailers and RVs should scout for level areas first. "Sites not very level but managed to get the RVs level enough. Thoroughly enjoyed the area," notes Terry O.
Size limitations: Larger RVs face challenges in many areas. "For the left side, the road to the dispersed sites is quite lopsided so I'd avoid it with a top heavy vehicle like our heavy ass van," advises Nat&Rach C.
Campsite spacing: Multiple sizeable spots accommodate RVs with privacy. "We got a site for 2 RVs that protected us from an impending windstorm," reports Terry O. about Six Mile Canyon Road.
