Dispersed camping near Jamestown, New Mexico offers primitive overnight options on public lands at elevations ranging from 6,500 to 7,500 feet. The region features high desert terrain with juniper, pine, and oak vegetation that provides varying degrees of natural coverage. Winter temperatures typically drop below freezing, making seasonal closures necessary from mid-December through March.
What to do
Explore side roads and canyons: Six Mile Canyon features multiple spur trails beyond the main road that provide opportunities for day hiking and 4x4 exploration. According to one visitor at Six Mile Canyon - Dispersed Camping: "Spur trails are good 4x4 drives. The main road is 2wd friendly for a long way, with probably 10-15 camping sites/options along the way."
Wildlife observation: The higher elevation areas around Turkey Springs support diverse bird and small mammal populations. Birds are particularly active during morning hours. A camper reported at Turkey Springs: "Easy to get to with no four-wheel drive needed. Many pull-off spots and several pull throughs with lots of shady pines and wonderful breezes and wildlife."
Mountain biking on forest roads: The network of unpaved roads provides moderate terrain for mountain biking with minimal technical sections. One visitor at Six Mile Canyon Road Dispersed Site shared: "Biked 6 miles up the road. Had cell service (Verizon and T-mobile)," indicating the area offers good riding opportunities while maintaining connectivity.
What campers like
Natural shade coverage: Turkey Springs stands out for its mature tree canopy. A camper noted: "Great Spot nice and cool among the tall pines and Oaks. Road in is very accessible lots of spots available."
Quiet despite highway proximity: The canyon topography blocks much of the highway noise at Six Mile Canyon. As one reviewer described: "We just needed a place to spend the night and arrived late in the evening, so unfortunately we weren't able to explore the area. 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."
Star visibility: Minimal light pollution provides excellent night sky viewing conditions in clearer weather. A camper at BLM land near Grants, NM mentioned: "Plenty of room to park. No fire rings. There is an unofficial shooting range on the property," suggesting open spaces with unobstructed views for stargazing away from established campsites.
What you should know
Seasonal road closures enforced: Gates prevent vehicle access to multiple dispersed areas during winter months. A camper confirmed: "This site is closed from December 15 to March 31," while another stated: "The gate at the end of the road is closed Dec. 15 to March 31. Parked outside the gate for the night. Looks like a nice area if I could get there."
Temperature fluctuations: Higher elevations experience significantly colder nights than reported in nearby towns. According to a visitor: "It is above 7k, so it does get colder at night than the local forecast for Gallup."
Variable road conditions: Even smaller vehicles can access most areas during dry conditions, but rain transforms access routes. One camper noted: "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."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites closest to main roads: The first available spots often provide easier access with less rugged terrain. A visitor shared: "I stopped in what seemed like the first camping spot, so I didn't risk the harder road further down. I'd say I was only a half mile in."
Monitor weather forecasts: Rain can quickly change conditions and limit evacuation options. A camper warned: "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."
Bring water supplies: No potable water exists at any of the primitive camping areas near Jamestown, requiring complete self-sufficiency. Pack 1 gallon per person per day at minimum, with additional reserves for emergencies and cleaning.
Tips from RVers
Look for established pull-offs: Previous camping spots are visible by cleared areas and occasional fire rings. A camper noted: "Large Ponderosa Pines with White Cedar and Oak scrub. Spots aren't marked so be observant."
Site leveling challenges: Be prepared with leveling blocks or hydraulic systems. According to one RVer: "We got a site for 2 RVs that protected us from an impending windstorm. Sites not very level but managed to get the RVs level enough."
Avoid narrow canyon sections: Wider clearings exist primarily near road entrances. One visitor observed: "There were several 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."
