Dispersed camping options near Jemez Springs offer flexible alternatives to established campgrounds. This mountainous region sits at elevations between 6,000-8,500 feet, creating temperature variations of 20-30 degrees between day and night. During summer months, afternoon thunderstorms frequently develop between noon and 4 PM, bringing lightning risks to exposed areas.
What to do
Hot springs access: Spence Hot Springs Trail provides natural soaking opportunities with minimal hiking required. "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. at Dispersed on 4.
Fishing options: Fenton Lake offers stocked waters perfect for day trips. "Fishing is usually good though as it is well stocked. Temperatures at night can get down in the low forties after being in the eighties during the day," explains James F. from Fenton Lake State Park Campground.
Hiking variety: Las Conchas Trail provides an accessible 3-mile round trip experience. "We had several easy but longish hikes and it's just beautiful. Lots of birds, wildflowers and we even saw a beaver on the lake!" reports Reuben from Fenton Lake State Park Campground.
Rock climbing access: Multiple climbing areas accommodate various skill levels within short drives. "All of the rock in the immediate area was created by the caldera and related volcanic and magmatic activity in the area in the past few million years. This gives you the opportunity to climb on some 'bulletproof' welded tuff," explains Alan B. from Jemez Falls Campground.
What campers like
Canyon viewpoints: Some dispersed sites offer dramatic overlooks. "When we did we drove to the left, followed the path until we saw an opened gate, and turned up to a site on the right... We wandered down to a cliff, and the most BEAUTIFUL view awaited us," shares marycatmathis at Dispersed on 4.
Creek-side camping: Many sites feature water access perfect for summer cooling. "The sites are huge. A few hiking trails nearby. Vault toilets only, no showers or other facilities. Definitely a good weekend get away if you are in the area," notes Tyler M. from Jemez Falls Campground.
Seclusion options: FR376 offers more remote camping for those seeking privacy. "This camp spot is one of the best free camp sites in New Mexico. Would definitely go again. Highly recommend to anyone who loves to camp and drive four wheelers," says seryna R. about FR376 Dispersed.
Historic attractions: Archaeological sites provide cultural experiences nearby. "From the site it was only a quick drive to both hot springs and stream side hikes," explains Elizabeth & Terry C. from Dispersed on 4.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many established campgrounds require advance planning. "Fenton Lake is usually busy and reserving months ahead of time is a good idea. We like spots number 1 and 17 for tent camping," advises James F.
Road conditions: Forest service roads often require 4WD vehicles. "WARNING! The road is pretty steep and washed out right now so be careful driving even in an off-roaring vehicle. My care would not have made it with it meager front wheel drive hybrid," cautions Lyndon S. about Dispersed on 4.
Fire restrictions: Seasonal bans often limit campfires. "Each site had a picnic table and fire pit (with bright tape over it to remind you not to use it)," notes Annie C. from Redondo Campground.
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies widely by location. "We had T-mobile and there was relatively no reception here. We had just enough to send out and receive a text message every once in a while but not strong enough for a phone call," shares Tiffany J. from Dispersed on 4.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly fishing: The fish hatchery offers guaranteed success for young anglers. "If you have little ones (age 11 and under) you can continue up to the hatchery for free fishing for the kiddos. They're pretty much guaranteed to catch something," recommends Katriza L. from San Antonio Campground.
Playground access: Some campgrounds include play equipment. "Loop 2 - there's a playground next to site 14 and this is a GREAT loop for folks with kids. If you're not a kid person, you'd probably prefer a different loop," advises Nicole B. from Fenton Lake State Park Campground.
Stream exploration: Shallow water areas provide safe play zones. "It was very nice to take my young boys to play in the stream as it wasn't very deep," notes Katriza L. about San Antonio Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campgrounds offer animal sighting potential. "We saw folks fishing - and catching fish! - at those campsites that backed up to the river," observes Nicole B. from Fenton Lake State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Choose carefully for level parking and amenities. "We stayed in site #9 on the Abert's Squirrel loop. It was one of the few pull through sites. Not the easiest site to navigate or level, but we made it work and had plenty of room to park the truck in front," advises Meandering Life from Juniper Campground.
Dump station locations: Plan ahead for waste disposal. "No dump station on site (another drawback). No cell service of any kind. There are a couple of satellite wi-fi hot spots around, but after 30 minutes, you have to pay," notes Reuben about Fenton Lake State Park Campground.
Battery management: Solar capabilities vary by location. "Our spot #9 was perfect for solar, no obstructions at all. Most of the other sites we saw at least had some potential for shade," shares Meandering Life from Juniper Campground.
Weather preparation: Temperature fluctuations require adaptability. "Although at 8,000 feet of elevation, prepare for cold nights and intermittent rain, hail, and high winds, even during the 'summer' season. We experienced day time temps of 70s - 80s and nighttime drops to the low 40s on both trips," cautions Nicole B. from Fenton Lake State Park Campground.
