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Best Dispersed Camping near Lemitar, NM

30 Reviews

Several free dispersed camping options exist near Lemitar, New Mexico, primarily concentrated in The Box Recreation Area and San Lorenzo Canyon. The Box offers primitive camping with vault toilets but no other amenities. According to one visitor, "The bottom Box Canyon parking lot is great. It is just a large gravel parking lot, but the views are amazing!" Sites range from a main parking area to more secluded spots beyond a cattle guard. The area serves as a popular rock climbing destination with several hiking trails.

San Lorenzo Canyon provides more remote camping opportunities with multiple dispersed sites. High-clearance vehicles are recommended as roads deteriorate into dry riverbeds the further you venture in. A camper noted, "You will feel like you are not driving in the right place as the 'road' is eventually just a dry river bed, but keep going and you will find gorgeous sites." Cell service is limited or non-existent in most areas. Both locations permit campfires when no restrictions are in place, allow pets, and operate on a leave-no-trace basis with no trash service available. San Antonio Bosque Park offers additional primitive camping with concrete picnic tables near the Rio Grande, though it sits close to a highway with occasional train noise.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Lemitar, New Mexico (9)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Lemitar, NM

12 Photos of 9 Lemitar Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Lemitar, NM

30 Reviews of 9 Lemitar Campgrounds

  • Taylor S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 15, 2021

    The Box Recreation Area

    Parking lot

    There are primitive camp spots down a rough dirt road right off the highway. Otherwise you are just setting up camp in the parking lot. Pretty quiet area and a vault restroom that’s door needs some TLC is available in the main parking area. Great spot if you want to get an early start on rock climbing.

  • Alice C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 26, 2021

    San Antonio Bosque Park

    Cozy campground

    I decided to stay here last minute and arrived after dark on Jan. 21st. It was easy to find- look for the drive just to the side of the canal (I turned left onto the dirt road after coming off I-25). There are 2 dirt roads - take the upper one to the right, and within a few hundred feet there is a steepish driveway to the right down to under the trees.

    Tables and fire rings provided- although as another reviewer stated, there are posted fire restrictions.

    Sites are very flat. There is a semi-busy road nearby but it feels secluded under the trees. One other camper set up when I got in- I was surprised to see anyone, but it was nice to know someone else was around too.

    I’d definitely stay here again, even as a solo female traveler.

    Lots of cell service (ATT)

  • Shari G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 31, 2018

    San Antonio Bosque Park

    Great place to stay for the night near Bosque del Apache

    Finding this little park on the banks of the Rio Grande just outside of town in the dark would have been unlikely without the very specific directions given to us at Bosque Del Apache National Wildlife Refuge Visitor’s Center. “From the blinking light go east for 0.7 miles and turn left on the dirt road between the canal and the river.” Sure enough, there it is.

    This small campground has about 5 sites, with picnic tables, but offers no other services—no water, fire rings or even toilets. But as the directions say, it’s close to town and it’s FREE. So, on a day where we spent most of the afternoon and watched the sunset while in the National Wildlife Refuge, this campsite served us well. We even planned to get up before sunrise to watch the birds take to the sky from their night-time roosting areas, so we weren’t there long. 

    The wildlife refuge is a birder’s paradise during the late fall and winter. Species of Sand Hill Cranes, Snow Geese, Canada Geese, and a multitude of ducks winter here feeding on grain grown in nearby fields and roosting overnight in the shallow wetlands. The numbers of birds are overwhelming, and awe-inspiring. But when we learned that the Sand Hill Cranes have been making this journey for nearly 10 million years, we were simply blown away. 

    There are plenty of opportunities for other recreation in the area, road cycling, mountain biking, hiking and motor-sports. As we pulled out of the campground, we noticed a beach buggy cruising by which looked as cool as it was retro – total ‘70s style. There are other free, “dry camps” in the area, BLM land, etc. as well as a few other RV parks offering shorter or longer stays.

  • Jeff K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 19, 2020

    The Box Recreation Area

    Rough Tent Camping...Great Rock Climbing

    Drove down the night before in order to go climbing the next day.  Found a decent spot in a dry wash to put up the tent for the night.  It worked and allowed quick access to the crag in the morning.  Does start to get busy with climbers fairly early (8am or so).  Would be perfect for somebody with a camper-van or teardrop.

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 4, 2022

    San Antonio Bosque Park

    Good Enough for Free

    Free campground, easy to get to from the town of San Antonio, NM. Not a place that I’d recommend as a destination, but a good spot to stop for a night. It’s right along the Rio Grande and close to the Bosque Del Apache refuge, where we went to see sandhill cranes the next morning.

    Good cell service from all 3 major carriers. No amenities here. Pack out your trash and your poo. No restrooms, water, or garbage service. 

    There are 6 sites, each with a picnic table and fire ring. Area is overgrown and not well maintained but you can clearly distinguish the sites. Not a bad spot for free. You can hear road noise from Hwy 380. 

    2 other campers were here when we stayed here in mid November. Campers were not sketchy, they seemed like travelers, and we felt safe here.

  • Nathan M.
    Apr. 12, 2020

    The Box Recreation Area

    Pretty cool area

    Cool place. The spots with fire pits have been blocked off by private property signs. Camping definitely at your own risk, perfect for just a day trip.

  • A
    Nov. 7, 2021

    San Antonio Bosque Park

    No-hassle place to stay for a night (or ten)

    ~5 sites with picnic tables + more areas farther back. Room for trailers, schoolies, RV’s, etc.

    Access is from a short gravel road off a paved road. Turn right down the first hill. There are potentially more areas further down, but the road gets sandier and I did not see any official markings.

    It is right near the Rio Grande (but admittedly not a very spectacular portion). The foliage in late fall is a lovely pale yellow and orange.

    Some sites are right near a busy road highway, but noise would probably only be an issue in a tent. There were people coming and going at all hours of the day.

    15 minutes from a Socorro, which has a Walmart and a water/ice stand to fill jugs for 25 cents a a gallon.

    Not the prettiest views here or best accommodations, but the ease of access is appreciated. Great place to stay if you need a break from the road or just somewhere to stop overnight. Would definitely stay again.

    +Near Civilization +East to access +Shade

    • Fire pits (but signs seem to indicate no fires allowed any longer) -No water -No bathroom
  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 2, 2019

    The Box Recreation Area

    Climbing area where you can camp if you are chill

    10-15 down 60 west of Socorro you'll find "the box" climbing area. This is on BLM land, and there is no trash pick-up or other managed facilities here, so camping is at your own discretion and you MUST leave the area as you found it (or better). There is a vault toilet at the main parking lot as you drive in, and if you drive further up the road there is a small pull-off with a couple of simple fire-pits where you will likely find a couple other climbers camping. Please be responsible about your food, trash and making a fire. There is loads of good climbing in the area and it's a great place to set up camp for a few days, but don't ruin that privilege for everyone by mistreating the area. Follow pack-in, pack-out, LNT and common sense rules.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 29, 2022

    San Antonio Bosque Park

    Not bad for free

    There are 5 larger spots with picnic tables and fire pits. While here, several long travel trailers parked in the first 2 spots. Then there are several other spots down the dirt road suitable for vans or small campers. It’s fairly quiet how we you will hear road noise in the background all day and night.

Guide to Lemitar

Dispersed camping near Lemitar, New Mexico, offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. With a variety of locations to choose from, campers can enjoy the beauty of the outdoors while taking advantage of the freedom that dispersed camping provides.

Dispersed campers should check out San Antonio Bosque Park

  • This area is a great spot for those looking for a free place to stay while exploring the nearby Bosque Del Apache refuge. The San Antonio Bosque Park is conveniently located along the Rio Grande, making it an ideal base for wildlife viewing.
  • While amenities are limited, the park allows pets and is open year-round, making it accessible for spontaneous trips. Just remember to pack out what you bring in, as there are no trash services available.
  • Be aware that the area can attract hunters during certain seasons, so it's wise to stay alert and choose your camping spot carefully.

Beautiful landscapes for dispersed campers at The Box Recreation Area

  • The Box Recreation Area is known for its stunning views and excellent stargazing opportunities, making it a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts.
  • This spot is not just for camping; it’s also a popular rock climbing destination, with several hiking trails nearby for those looking to explore the rugged terrain.
  • Facilities include a vault restroom, but campers should be prepared for a primitive experience, as there are no water hookups or trash services.

Top activities while free camping near Lemitar at Bianca Ranch Road

  • For those seeking a more adventurous experience, Bianca Ranch Road - BLM dispersed is a popular choice, especially for ATV enthusiasts who enjoy the open desert landscape.
  • The area is characterized by low shrub and open spaces, making it suitable for those who prefer a more rugged camping experience, though larger trailers may find it challenging to navigate.
  • Expect some noise from nearby ATV traffic, but the freedom to camp in a less crowded environment can be worth it for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Lemitar, NM?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Lemitar, NM is The Box Recreation Area with a 4.3-star rating from 12 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Lemitar, NM?

TheDyrt.com has all 9 dispersed camping locations near Lemitar, NM, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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