Top Free Dispersed Camping near Las Vegas, NM

Looking for the best dispersed camping near Las Vegas? Dispersed camping is the perfect way to get off the grid. Search dispersed campsites you've visited before, or discover new spots and read camper reviews.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Las Vegas, NM (10)


Recent Dispersed Reviews In Las Vegas

70 Reviews of 10 Las Vegas Campgrounds


  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Santa Fe BLM
    Oct. 14, 2024

    Santa Fe BLM

    Partial closure and absolute dump

    This place sufficed due to the need to have somewhere for the night, if we had the chance we’d have gone somewhere else. Massive piles of trash everywhere, sites strewn with people’s leftover garbage from camping there.

    Due to its close proximity to the landfill, it was extremely loud during the morning from around 7am onwards.

    There was a partial closure banning camping in a section of the landfill, which was incredibly difficult to figure out where we could camp, as the map is not clear at all,

    Coyotes at night were really cool.

    Overall disappointing but glad we managed somewhere to sleep for the night

  • Cameron L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Santa Fe BLM
    Aug. 17, 2024

    Santa Fe BLM

    Good in a pinch

    Plenty of spots and easy to get to. The only catch is you will need to find a spot away from the multiple large piles of trash.

    The surrounding area was pretty and sunset was great!

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Forest Service 439
    Jul. 30, 2024

    Forest Service 439

    Rough

    I pull a small trailer and the road in was rough. I was concerned about being able to turn around. When I got to the spot where there are six or eight camping spots, finding one suitable for a trailer was difficult, but I did it. This is more suitable to car camping.

    There is an open area that would be good for group camping. There are three or more RVs that appear to be permanent  features. That was strange. Looked like fishing camps. I didn't want to drive the steep road down to this area.

    Personally, I wish I had stopped a the forest service campsites up hill from this location, but if you are in a car and want to tent camp here, I don't see a problem,

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sante Fe National Forest BLM-Road 62 Dispersed
    Jun. 25, 2024

    Sante Fe National Forest BLM-Road 62 Dispersed

    A lot of trash

    I drove in and was immediately stopped by park rangers. They told me they were letting people know they will be shutting this location down do to people not being decent. If it is still open, you’ll see a lot of trash. Certain sites looked better than others. Flat land with not a lot to do.

  • Erik B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Road 710 Dispersed
    May. 24, 2024

    Road 710 Dispersed

    Off road Fire service road

    Tons of Boondocking spots.

    Not ideal for long wheel base as it’s an out and back without turn around spots.

    Best pull outs are to the left as the road forks after the cattle guard.

  • Shayla F.
    Camper-submitted photo from Santa Fe BLM
    May. 23, 2024

    Santa Fe BLM

    A safe place to sleep outside Santa Fe

    It's a pretty nice and mostly flat area of land with dirt roads. Most vehicles can access the roads we went on. Pretty quiet and while we did have neighbors we were by no means packed in there like sardines.

  • Scott
    Camper-submitted photo from Santa Fe BLM
    May. 8, 2024

    Santa Fe BLM

    Tent camp Santa fe

    I haven't camped yet.This is my 1st day here.And I just got the app so I'll have to come back and give her a few after i've finished my trip

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Forest Service 439
    Mar. 17, 2024

    Forest Service 439

    Good shit.

    I work seasonal(may-oct) jobs and found out about this site from freecampsites.net, i stayed here with a frequency (abiding to the rules but frequently). There are 4 places to park on the lower section and 3 on the upper section, most spots can fit multiple cars. A little stream is near by-- a little shallow and a little mucky on the bottom, but really refreshing. The stars are incredible, also some beautiful views of the mountains from the lower section. The road in is a bit sketchy at times, but as long as you are mindful of potholes you should be good-- my minivan made it with ease.

    There are some family reunions which took place while i visited and they dont really follow the rules which sucks. One family had their stuff on the land for over a month i noticed, they had fires when not permitted, trash scattered, and they had atvs which would tear up the place a bit... other than that though this place is amazing and close enough to town if youre a seasonal worker and need a good home base. AT&T service was crap, i think one time i got 1 bar of service for a second but i bumped my phone and lost it.

    Last thing i will say is be cognizant of fires and flooding, both can happen here! Happy camping folks :)

  • Renee T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Caja Del Rio Dispersed Camping
    Dec. 29, 2023

    Caja Del Rio Dispersed Camping

    Convenient location with drawbacks

    Let me start by saying I'd stay here again. But there was such a pitted road to the right. It's too hard to get off the high banks with our Transit. On the left fork near the pit toilets, better roads but more campers. 5 rvs all in sight of one another. There was rain and snow week before that made roads worse I assume. Not much trash around. Near horse corral that gets use. 17 degrees with wind this morning but clear skies. Shooting nearby as well as the trash dump nearby. But the location can't be beat.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Caja Del Rio Dispersed Camping
    Nov. 8, 2023

    Caja Del Rio Dispersed Camping

    Close to Santa fe

    I stayed 4 nights bc it was so close to hiking and town. Very dusty and packed some trash out that was left behind. Pretty quiet with beautiful sunrises and sunsets.

  • Debbie  W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Caja Del Rio Dispersed Camping
    Oct. 28, 2023

    Caja Del Rio Dispersed Camping

    Quiet with lots of room

    Stayed 4 nights. Very quiet. About 15 minutes from downtown Santa Fe. Many sites available. Very dusty due to no recent rain. We have a 26 ft travel trailer. We saw larger Rvs, vans, cars. Tents.

  • Jennifer H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Santa Fe BLM
    Oct. 26, 2023

    Santa Fe BLM

    Great views, can be loud in the morning

    We camped here for two nights while visiting Santa Fe and it is definitely the best free spot you’ll find so close to the city. There were quiet a few people out in RV’s and trailers, but there’s so much space that you can really park almost anywhere and still have a little bit of privacy with the trees/bushes. Apple/google maps will take you right to the road, and we hardly noticed the landfill until we heard trash trucks one morning. There are some fire pits already set up and plenty of wood around to have a little fire.

  • Jennifer H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Cow Creek Dispersed Camping Area
    Oct. 9, 2023

    Cow Creek Dispersed Camping Area

    Beautiful fall colors

    There are a few tent spots and car camping spots, and it’s right along a creek where you can fly fish. It was a longer drive out there than expected, but there’s a sign that lets you know your in the National forest and out of peoples private property. You probably want 4WD because the road was rough, but definitely worth it with the fall colors! We loved this spot!

  • Ben R.
    Camper-submitted photo from Santa Fe BLM
    Apr. 29, 2023

    Santa Fe BLM

    I mean, it was free

    The area is right next to a landfill which worried us at first but turned out not to be a problem, I imagine it gets worse in the warmer months. You can drive around and find some cool and private spots but there is trash seriously everywhere. We even found shot gun shells a little further out all over the ground. When you pull up to the area you can either turn right into the blm land or go straight past the signage into the National park area. I think it said El Camino Real. This is where the toilets and shelter is. The toilets were actually well kept. There were some nice people but I can imagine if you drive further out away from people it feels a little sketchier. It wasn’t the best, but it was definitely free.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Caja Del Rio Dispersed Camping
    Apr. 25, 2023

    Caja Del Rio Dispersed Camping

    Lots of Open Space for Dispersed Camping

    20 mins from Sata Fe, lots of open roads and land for dispersed camping. Can get a bit crowded and hard to find a spot away from people, but plenty of room.

  • E
    Camper-submitted photo from Caja Del Rio Dispersed Camping
    Feb. 8, 2023

    Caja Del Rio Dispersed Camping

    Beautiful dispersed campground near Santa Fe

    A gorgeous and vast dispersed campground just a short drive from Santa Fe. There was enough space and trees/shrubs to offer privacy, and as a solo traveler I felt completely safe sleeping in my crossover. I parked just off the main dirt road between a couple of junipers and still felt like I had the privacy I preferred. You can drive further to get a more secluded space. The only downside: it was very windy and the entire interior of my vehicle was covered in reddish dust. But this place was so beautiful and spaced out that being covered in dust seemed like a small price to pay for a great experience.

    The Campground: The main dirt road wasn't in great condition, so the short journey after you turn off of Country Road 62 was very bumpy, but it didn't appear that anyone was having issues navigating it (that might change if there's heavy rainfall). There's a vault toilet and picnic pavilion near the front; this area is also a trailhead. The whole place feels very open and has a nice view of the mountains. 

    The area: Very close to Santa Fe. 

    Booking: No booking or fee. This is dispersed camping and there are no official "sites" here. When looking for a place to set up, make sure you chose a place that's well-traveled. Seemed like there were enough areas to camp that I don't imagine this place ever gets too full.

    Cell Service: I have Verizon, and my service was good.

  • N
    Camper-submitted photo from Sante Fe National Forest BLM-Road 62 Dispersed
    Dec. 21, 2022

    Sante Fe National Forest BLM-Road 62 Dispersed

    Easiest spot near Santa Fe

    This is a large area with many campsites. Pretty much anywhere you can get your vehicle, you can camp. No services except for a vault toilet near the entrance. The roads are dirt. Main roads are good, side roads have a bit more ruts and divots.

    When you come into the dispersed area, there are a lot more people camped near the front, but if you continue down the road you can easily find a secluded spot. The spot was quiet for the most part, just a few dogs barking at night.

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sante Fe National Forest BLM-Road 62 Dispersed
    Dec. 11, 2022

    Sante Fe National Forest BLM-Road 62 Dispersed

    for those who aren’t picky

    it’s loud day and night due to being by airport and landfill. road is trash after getting to the second cattle guard. lots of shooting ranges, nearly unlimited campsites, dogs barking and trash scattered but still it’s very relaxing being in the forest

  • Ildiko F.
    Camper-submitted photo from Santa Fe BLM
    Sep. 3, 2022

    Santa Fe BLM

    it’s pretty alright!

    in the nighttime it’s really good- quiet besides the coyotes and excellent for stargazing. however both times i’ve been here there’s been some guy just absolutely screaming and cursing at no one in particular. both times he’s left in the evening tho. the sites are a lil close together but having access to the vault toilets is a treat!

  • Izzy T.
    Camper-submitted photo from Santa Fe BLM
    Aug. 26, 2022

    Santa Fe BLM

    Land of Disenchantment near trailhead

    Next to a landfill, which is loud near the trailhead. Pit toilets are disgusting. Would rather dig a hole for that… long term campers mainly at the trailhead - RV, tent, and van. Plus loads of trash and abandoned RV’s.

    However, I stayed here the 14 day limit and found some great spots that are secluded from the residents and flies. Other than the serenading coyotes, it’s very peaceful at night. Great views of the surrounding mountains and awesome sunsets. Conveniently located to Santa Fe. I don’t think I’ll stop here again unless it’s overnight.

  • Izzy T.
    Camper-submitted photo from Sante Fe National Forest BLM-Road 62 Dispersed
    Aug. 22, 2022

    Sante Fe National Forest BLM-Road 62 Dispersed

    Decent

    First off, I’m so disappointed with the state of the land. The trailhead was crowded and covered in trash. Complete filth no matter which direction you go, including abandoned RV’s. It’s right next to a landfill so the flies rule this land. ATV and gun activity all weekend.

    We stayed at a site a mile from the trailhead, minimal trash and lots of room to spread out.

    Advantages: 15 minutes to town, beautiful sunrise/sunset, relatively quiet during the week. Great views of the surrounding area.



Guide to Las Vegas

Camping near Las Vegas, New Mexico, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and unique experiences. Whether you're looking for a quiet retreat or a family-friendly adventure, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

  • Hiking: Explore the trails around Holy Ghost Campground. One camper mentioned, "The hikes are the best especially if you have time to go to the lake." Another noted, "Beautiful campground with great hiking access."
  • Fishing: Many campgrounds, like North Area Campground — Storrie Lake State Park, offer fishing opportunities. A reviewer shared, "Fishing in the lake as well," making it a great spot for anglers.
  • Sightseeing: Visit the nearby Santa Fe for museums and restaurants. One camper at Hyde Memorial State Park Campground said, "Access to the Santa Fe Ski slope is just up the hill about 8 more miles."

What campers like

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the stunning scenery. A visitor at Big Tesuque Campground said, "Gorgeous sunset views" and another noted, "Beautiful mountain campground."
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Many appreciate the peacefulness of places like Iron Gate Campground. One camper mentioned, "It's tucked away, so there are usually few other campers."
  • Family-Friendly: Campgrounds like Santa Fe KOA are noted for being clean and accommodating for families. A reviewer said, "Super clean, polite staff, and a brand new playground."

What you should know

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, such as North Area Campground, have limited facilities. A camper noted, "No water at dump station" and "the gates close at 5 pm sharp."
  • Road Conditions: Access can be tricky. A visitor to Holy Ghost Campground warned, "The road is really narrow and... in terrible condition with HUGE pot holes."
  • Cell Service: Expect limited connectivity. A camper at Rancheros de Santa Fe mentioned, "No cell service but Starlink connection is fine."

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose the Right Campground: Look for family-friendly spots like Santa Fe Treehouse Camp. A reviewer said, "Great people, views, and the hiking has endless possibilities."
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have games or activities ready. One camper at Rancheros de Santa Fe mentioned, "The campground is incredibly safe! Our children made friends with other kiddos camping."
  • Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand can keep everyone happy. A visitor at Las Vegas/New Mexico KOA Journey noted, "They sell snacks and small things if you need to grab a small missing item."

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Santa Fe KOA said, "Some of the spots were a little tight once you get your slides out."
  • Water Pressure: Be aware of water pressure issues. A reviewer at Las Vegas/New Mexico KOA Journey mentioned, "The only bad is water pressure; very low."
  • Arrive Early: Get to your campground early to secure a good spot. A camper at Villanueva State Park Campground advised, "For me personally, I wouldn't come on the weekends due to how populated it was."

Camping near Las Vegas, NM, has something for everyone, from stunning views to family-friendly activities. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Las Vegas, NM?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Las Vegas, NM is Santa Fe BLM with a 3.8-star rating from 21 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Las Vegas, NM?

    TheDyrt.com has all 10 dispersed camping locations near Las Vegas, NM, with real photos and reviews from campers.