Dispersed campsites near Lindrith, New Mexico offer varied terrain from rocky pine forests to sage-covered plateaus. The region sits at elevations ranging from 7,000 to 9,000 feet throughout the Carson and Santa Fe National Forests. Summer daytime temperatures typically reach 75-85°F but drop significantly after sunset, with winter bringing substantial snowfall that restricts access to many sites.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Canjilon Creek Campground provides access to three lakes stocked with trout. A camper reports, "Hardly met anyone while there. It has three lakes filled with trout. Lots of areas to explore." The campground sits at approximately 9,000 feet elevation with minimal crowds.
Hiking from camp: At Resumidero Camping Area, trails start directly from the campground. According to one visitor, "Hiking trails from the campground. Beautiful area." The trail system connects to larger networks within the national forest.
Wildlife viewing: Multiple clearings along Forest Service roads provide opportunities to observe elk in their natural habitat. At American Springs, one camper noted, "Very peaceful with a nice view down the canyon. Elk grazing below were the cherry on top."
What campers like
Mountain views: American Springs campsites offer panoramic vistas. One camper described the experience: "Give you a good view of Los Alamos and some snow covered peaks." The higher elevation sites provide the most expansive views.
Spacious sites: The Road 378 dispersed area features large clearings that accommodate multiple groups while maintaining privacy. According to a review, "The clearings are far enough apart that you can make some noise without bothering the other campers."
Quiet atmosphere: Even on holiday weekends, many sites remain uncrowded. The Cuba Highway pulloff on Forest Road 88 provides immediate seclusion. One visitor noted, "No amenities, but we were the only people in the area. We were just thankful for a place to stop."
What you should know
Road conditions: Most dispersed camping areas require vehicles with some clearance. For Cuba Highway pulloff, a camper advised, "Beginning has limited spots (25' or less total length) as you start going up the road it gets way rutted/washboarded out. I would recommend 4x4."
Temperature fluctuations: The high elevation means significant temperature drops after sunset. A camper at Road 378 observed, "It does get cold at night since at approximately 8,000 elevation." Pack extra layers even for summer camping.
Human impacts: Unfortunately, some areas show signs of improper waste disposal. One camper at Road 378 reported, "Bugs and poop... but beautiful. I liked this spot don't get me wrong, it was beautiful and nestled in the mountains so very secluded and quiet BUT the poop that littered this campsite made this site basically uninhabitable."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose established areas with basic facilities when camping with children. Resumidero Camping Area offers vault toilets and defined sites. A visitor shared, "We expected a campground that was spread out, fire rings and vault toilets. It was perfect. The camp sites were far apart and you could chose between open meadows or in the trees."
Weather preparation: Pack clothing for all conditions, especially for evening temperature drops. Even summer nights require warm sleeping bags and jackets at these elevations.
Accessibility considerations: For easier family access, Star Dance offers amenities like cabins and showers. One visitor described it as "beautiful beyond words. It's an enchanting, magical healing place that was very hard to leave."
Tips from RVers
Length limitations: Forest roads often restrict larger rigs. At Cuba Highway pulloff, a reviewer noted, "The road in is steep for long rigs. It's a bummer people throw so much trash and glass bottles around."
Clearance requirements: Many access roads require higher clearance vehicles. An American Springs camper advised, "Probably not a must have, but I highly recommend a four-wheel-drive high clearance to get back into the camp spots here."
Cell service: Limited connectivity exists at lower elevations with improvement higher up. One Cuba Highway camper reported, "Cell service ATT - 1/2 bars at the bottom as you go up the road you get better service."
