Dispersed camping options near Lindrith, New Mexico range across elevations from 7,000 to 9,000 feet in the Santa Fe National Forest and surrounding areas. The region experiences significant temperature fluctuations, with nighttime temperatures often dropping 30-40 degrees below daytime highs even in summer months. Most forest roads become difficult to navigate during winter snowfall and spring snowmelt from December through early April.
What to do
Fishing in mountain streams: Rio De Las Vacas Campground offers access to trout fishing in its namesake river. A camper noted, "The stream runs beside sites 1 thru 4. That stream is a river, Rio de las Vacas. Trout have been caught in it."
Hiking wilderness trails: Several trails are accessible from campsites in the region. At Oak Point Campground, "The road is runner friendly, so you can go on a jog if you like. Its definitely a campsite for people looking to strictly hang out."
Wildlife viewing: The Jemez Mountains provide habitat for elk, deer, and numerous bird species. According to a visitor at Rio Puerco Campground, "Only had 3 or 4 spots for camping. We found some waterfalls brushwhacking along the creek but be prepared to get your feet wet."
Kayaking and floating: The Rio Chama offers opportunities for water activities. A visitor mentioned, "Definitely have some sort of raft or kayak or SUP to put in the river upstream and float down to the boat ramp or to your campground."
What campers like
Natural water features: Campers consistently rate sites near streams and rivers highly. At Whirlpool Dispersed Camping Area, "We picked one right on the river. No electricity. No water. No picnic tables. No trash receptacle. Vault toilets. Camp spaces are spread out."
Stargazing opportunities: The remote location provides exceptional night sky viewing. As one camper described, "I came here at the height of summer and had no problems finding a site, but I feel like I got lucky! This area is popular with kayakers and the roads leading to this area are busy with trailers."
Space between sites: Many camping areas offer good distance between campsites. A visitor to Clear Creek Campground noted, "The CG is relatively small (12 sites) and is typically very quiet. The road and sites are all paved, with a mix of larger spaces (fit our 35 ft. 5th wheel just fine) and smaller tent / pop up trailer size spots."
Tree coverage: Ponderosa pines provide natural shade at many sites. According to a reviewer, "This campground is beautiful! Each site is surrounded by ponderosa pines. A small creek flows through the campground."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many access roads require careful driving. At Cuba Hwy Pulloff on Forest Road 88, "The road in is steep for long rigs. It's a bummer people throw so much trash and glass bottles around. Very pretty site otherwise and nice trails to walk."
Seasonal considerations: Many secondary forest roads become impassable during wet conditions. A camper advised, "Make sure the dirt road is dry enough in monsoon season so you don't get stuck."
Site availability patterns: Weekends see significantly higher usage than weekdays. One visitor shared, "We stayed Wednesday through Friday night. Only a few other cars around when we first arrived.. if you're traveling here during the weekend, expect a more crowded experience as caravans started pulling in Friday."
Pack-in/pack-out requirements: Most dispersed sites require complete removal of all trash. A visitor emphasized, "Always remember: PACK OUT WHAT YOU PACK IN!! Please don't leave your trash at any site and keep the wilderness- WILD."
Tips for camping with families
Select sites with water access: Children often enjoy playing near shallow stream areas. At Rio Puerco Campground, "Stayed 3 nights with grandkids. Great hiking and climbing for kids. Sights level and pit toilets clean."
Consider hammock camping: Many sites have trees suitable for hammocks. One camper mentioned, "The kids love to hang hammocks in the cedar trees."
Prepare for temperature swings: Evening temperatures drop quickly, requiring warm clothing even in summer. A visitor noted, "Mornings chilly. Nice showers!" when describing their experience camping near Abiquiu Lake.
Pack extra water: Most dispersed sites have no potable water sources. A camper advised, "No amenities, but we were the only people in the area. We were just thankful for a place to stop."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Some campgrounds have limited space for larger vehicles. At Riana - Abiquiu Lake, "We stayed in site #9 for 5 nights with the National park pass it was $40.00 with water & electric & a view of the lake. The best site is #1."
Levelness considerations: Many forest sites require leveling blocks. A camper reported, "We backed in (sites are uneven, we had to add blocks to keep our motorhome from being held in the air by the jacks)."
Electrical protection: Power quality varies at sites with hookups. An RVer warned, "I got my money's worth from my EMS that day! We got a reverse polarity error!!!"
Boondocking locations: Several forest roads offer suitable pull-offs for self-contained camping. One camper shared, "After a drive up to Abuquiu Lake NM from Albuquerque we checked out some possible boondocking campsites down river from the lake. We only found a couple of possible sites to get my 34ft 5th wheel into."
