Dispersed camping areas around Jamestown, New Mexico sit at elevations between 7,000-8,000 feet, creating cooler summer temperatures than surrounding lower elevations. The region's volcanic history has shaped distinctive landscape features including lava flows and sandstone formations. Local camping conditions vary significantly between spring and fall with seasonal closures affecting access to several popular sites from December through March.
What to do
Hiking the Zuni Mountains: Quaking Aspen Campground serves as an excellent base for exploring the region's trail system. "Really nice hiking / mountain bike trails. The aspens are in the trails not the campground," notes Robert B., who visited in October. The area provides diverse terrain options for different skill levels.
Explore lava formations: Grants KOA Journey offers a unique geological feature right in the campground. "It has a walking path through a lava flow in the park," shares Edith L., who stayed for 5 nights. The surrounding El Malpais National Monument contains additional volcanic features accessible within a short drive.
Visit El Morro National Monument: This historic site preserves centuries of inscriptions carved into sandstone bluffs. "We got up early to hike El Morro since the trails are only open from 9-5 (be back at the ranger station by 4:45)," recommends Hayley K. "1000% recommend doing the stairs route if your body can take it. The 200 ft stair climb wasn't bad at all and the views and trail up top were incredible."
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: Six Mile Canyon offers increasing privacy the further you travel down the road. "The valley road cuts through green canyon bluffs and rolling hills with good tree coverage. Lots of fun and scenic driving," reports Twan M. "The main road is 2wd friendly for a long way, with probably 10-15 camping sites/options along the way."
Seasonal weather advantages: The higher elevation of Turkey Springs provides natural cooling during warmer months. "Great Spot nice and cool among the tall pines and Oaks," writes Francois T. The shaded sites create comfortable camping even during hot summer periods.
Affordable camping options: Many budget-conscious campers appreciate McGaffey Campground's value. "We discovered McGaffey while searching for a campsite that permitted fires, and I'm so glad we did," writes Libby A. "The sites are spread out and well-maintained. There is a trail alongside for hiking or bikes."
What you should know
Seasonal closures affect access: Multiple dispersed camping areas close during winter months. "The gate at the end of the road is closed Dec. 15 to March 31," reports Dan J. about Six Mile Canyon. Similar restrictions apply to Turkey Springs, with Dave B. noting, "This site is closed from December 15 to March 31."
Cell service varies widely: Connectivity depends on specific location and carrier. Timothy N. reports from Turkey Springs: "TMobile access was mixed. Sometimes limited LTE, sometimes 5G." At El Morro National Monument, expect minimal service given its remote location.
Road conditions determine accessibility: Wet weather significantly impacts unpaved roads. Kenny R. advises about Turkey Springs: "Don't recommend if it's muddy! Great spot! Lots of options and tons of open space... due to this dispersed camping area kinda being a mudpit after the rain." Plan accordingly and check recent weather before attempting access.
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Bluewater Lake State Park Campground offers family-friendly amenities. Jennifer W. notes the park has "lots of sites. Most have a level, gravel tent pad, table and fire ring. Vault toilets in abundance... separate shower house... Some electric sites. Some large level pull thrus."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children often enjoy spotting local animals. Austin C. reports from Bluewater Lake: "Wild horses roaming around the lake were also pretty cool." The diverse ecosystem supports various wildlife viewing opportunities throughout different seasons.
Educational experiences: El Morro National Monument provides learning opportunities through ranger programs. Hayley K. shares: "Between the separated free sites, small number of spots, and ranger programming on-site at the campground every weekend, it was a top 5 favorite spot for us."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Several campgrounds require preparation for uneven terrain. At Bluewater Lake State Park, Shirlee A. advises: "Have this 4 stars instead of 5 cause literally almost all of the sites are unleveled so it was hard to find the right fit but other than that, it's beautiful here!"
Pull-through accessibility: Red Rock Park & Campground offers convenient options for larger vehicles. John M. reports: "The site was clean with 50 amp power and water, it also had a small BBQ, picknick table and was fairly level. The site was under $25 for the night."
RV size limitations: Despite official guidelines, some campgrounds accommodate larger vehicles than advertised. Robert G. shares about McGaffey Campground: "The forest service website says 22' max trailer but that's not what we found! I'm in a 38' motor home and there were NO tight spots at all! Site 10 is back in but we had 30' to spare."
