San Lorenzo Canyon offers free dispersed camping amid striking rock formations approximately 7 miles from Lemitar, New Mexico. The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) site sits at roughly 4,700 feet elevation, with temperatures ranging from below freezing in winter to over 90°F in summer. Sandy terrain and narrow canyon passages characterize this camping area where flash floods can occur during monsoon season.
What to do
Hiking the slot canyons: Explore numerous side canyons branching from the main wash at San Lorenzo Canyon. "Truly, a special place. The canyons were amazing to hike in and bike among. I saw very few people," notes Emily S., who appreciated the secluded nature of the trails.
Birdwatching opportunities: Visit nearby Bosque Birdwatchers RV Park as a base for exploring the region's rich bird habitats. While the park itself offers "inexpensive full hook ups" according to Ken, its proximity to Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge makes it ideal for wildlife viewing.
Stargazing sessions: The remote location provides exceptional night sky viewing with minimal light pollution. At The Box Recreation Area, Bradley K. found "great views and incredible star gazing" during their overnight stay, noting it's "just about 20 minutes off I-25 near Socorro NM."
What campers like
Affordable camping options: Several campgrounds offer budget-friendly alternatives. At Escondida Lake Park & Campground, C.W. was impressed by the value, noting "FHU by the pond for $18?! But wait, there's more; free firewood! Place was clean, level gravel, had great neighbors."
Privacy between sites: The dispersed camping areas provide significant space between campers. Randy T. mentioned that at San Lorenzo Canyon, "there are many campers but plenty of distance between you and the next camp site. Amazing views make it worth it."
Pet-friendly environment: Dog friendly campgrounds near Lemitar accommodate pets throughout the area. At San Antonio Bosque Park, Theresa R. shared, "We just arrived at this free campground. Concrete picnic tables and fire rings provided. We are surrounded by what looks to me like oak trees."
What you should know
Navigation challenges: Finding some sites requires careful planning and proper directions. For San Lorenzo Canyon Basecamp, Alisa P. advised, "So we discovered that if you go past the turn that the dyrt tells you to take you will find the actual San Lorenzo Canyon road. It is marked and easy to find."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. Dave B. noted at San Lorenzo Canyon Basecamp, "Went in about 2 miles. Passed a few sites but cell signal got weak to non existent the further I got in. I have Verizon. Anyhow turned around and took the first site going in. 4 bars with Verizon."
Seasonal considerations: Weather patterns affect access and comfort. At Escondida Lake Park & Campground, Todd J. shared a winter experience: "Very pleasant spot for an overnight stop near I-25. Being mid-Dec there was only one other camper."
Tips for camping with families
Fishing opportunities: Some campgrounds offer fishing access for all ages. Jean C. described Escondida Lake Park & Campground: "This is a state park campground that offers everything from basic tent sites to full hookups near a small pond for fishing (no swimming or boating)."
Playground access: Chupadero Mountainview RV Park provides clean facilities close to wildlife viewing areas. As Keith noted, "The nice owners were eager to fit me in for two nights during the crowded season for birdwatchers at the NWR."
Wildlife viewing with children: Dog-friendly sites near Bosque del Apache offer easy wildlife access. Judy E. commented on Chupadero Mountainview RV Park: "Very nice couple keep this place shipshape. We enjoyed their hospitality. Great price for the amenities and only 6 miles from viewing the migratory birds at Bosque del Apace."
Tips from RVers
Vehicle clearance requirements: High-clearance vehicles perform best on sandy terrain. For those planning to camp at San Antonio Riverine Park, Laura M. cautioned: "The road down into the campground is steep and raggedy, but we did ok (i.e., didn't scrape) in our 26ft class c."
RV site selection: Choose spots with adequate turnaround space. At San Lorenzo Canyon, Alisa P. advised, "We took a 20 ft Jayco Feather Micro travel trailer. Don't attempt unless you have 4 wheel drive and/or sand mode if you plan to pull a heavy trailer."
Hookup availability: Several campgrounds offer various levels of services. At Kiva RV Park & Horse Motel, Reuben noted, "The sewer hookup is just an open pipe. No threads. A little stinky when you take the cover off," but still rated their stay highly overall.
