Top Free Dispersed Camping near Los Alamos, NM

If you're looking for a place to dispersed camp near Los Alamos, look no further. The Dyrt can help you find the best dispersed campsites for your next trip. Find dispersed campsites you've visited before, or discover new spots from other campers.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Los Alamos, NM (36)

Showing results 1-10 of 36 campgrounds

Recent Dispersed Reviews In Los Alamos

140 Reviews of 36 Los Alamos Campgrounds


  • Julie K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Forest Road 558
    Oct. 27, 2024

    Forest Road 558

    Good enough for an overnight

    We parked a little further off 285 than most people so the road noise was minimal. A car drove past us on the dirt road in the morning which was surprising but nothing more. There was a rotting animal smell once in a while but we didn’t smell once inside the van. No toilet. Someone left a small fire ring. The road was rutted, don’t go if it’s wet. Fine for overnight lodging but I wouldn’t hang out there.

  • Junaid A.
    Camper-submitted photo from Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site
    Oct. 22, 2024

    Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site

    My True Review about Top of the New Mexico

    Top of New Mexico" near Albuquerque is a fantastic camping spot if you love open spaces and beautiful desert views. The sunsets here are breathtaking, and you might even spot wild horses roaming around. There's plenty of space for tents or RVs, and it's quiet and well-maintained, making it a perfect place to relax and enjoy nature. It can get a little windy, but that just adds to the experience. The road to get there winds through some houses, but once you arrive, you're surrounded by pure nature. also the food is so good, there are many food brands like subway menu who offers quality fast food services.

  • 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

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site
    Sep. 22, 2024

    Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site

    place to relax

    There are no neighbors, and other vehicles are parked here, but they had to be a quarter of a mile away. Wild horses visit in the morning. We enjoyed the sunrise to sunset. There are easy hikes, and you can do some mountain biking.

  • Alice S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site
    Sep. 20, 2024

    Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site

    Quiet Little Get Away

    Used Google Maps and had no problem finding the place. Lots of open area to choose from for parking. The road up to the location is paved but once you enter it is gravel. I have a pro master van and had absolutely no problems. Just drive slow and you should be fine. Might be worse if it was raining heavy or something but overall not a bad path. Saw wild horses which was awesome. The vegetation has a lot of thorns and spikes so for a casual hiker it’s best to stay on the gravel roads. The cell signal was pretty good but not perfect. Enough to have phone calls easy but internet connection was a bit slow.

  • K
    Camper-submitted photo from Forest Road 558
    Sep. 8, 2024

    Forest Road 558

    Dispersed Sites FSR558

    A good amount of dispersed sites off of FSR558. I just pulled off to one of the closer sites but looked like tons of other sites were further in on the road. Really quiet even with the highway close by. Great stars at night, decently clean (the sites that I saw). You could probably make it in a 2WD vehicle for the first few sites but it gets a bit more rugged as you continue in.

  • Elle M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site
    Sep. 2, 2024

    Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site

    Stunning Space for Small Vehicles

    Everything about this place is gorgeous. The 360 views from the top are incredible. I didn’t go down into the valley to see what was available but a man came through and mentioned there were options there too.

    On the top of the ridge you’re a little limited for spots but it wasn’t busy enough to cause me an issue. My closest neighbor was a few hundred yards away just like I like it.

    I car camp in a small SUV and the road is definitely not as well worn in as others. You’re also pretty close to the sides of the mountain on a winding rock path so larger or trailered vehicles are probably not ideal.

    The wild horses are active. I saw them in the neighborhood coming through and they came through camp a few times in the evening/night. Dog didn’t love it but they gave us about 30ft of space and didn’t bother much.

    Love this spot but definitely keep size and safety in mind.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Jemez Boondocking
    Aug. 22, 2024

    Jemez Boondocking

    Jemez mountains

    Jemez is a popular camping destination.  There are boon docking and campgrounds available.   I do not recommend trying to bring a rig of any size through the Gilman tunnels.  Best access for large rigs is taking 126 and accessing FS 376 from that route.

    The Jemez are by far our favorite mountains to camp in within a 3 hr radius of my home.

  • 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,

  • Clay L.
    Camper-submitted photo from Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site
    Jul. 15, 2024

    Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site

    Superb

    From the moment we arrived, we were struck by the sheer beauty of the surroundings. The panoramic views of the mountains and valleys are simply stunning, making every moment a perfect photo opportunity. The site is well-maintained, with plenty of flat areas for tents and parking. And at this place i also wish to try Chicken Strips

  • Josh K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Road 378, Fenton Lake - Dispersed
    Jul. 8, 2024

    Road 378, Fenton Lake - Dispersed

    Secluded clearings with plenty of room

    This campsite is beautiful and right next to the lake. Perfect for some chill camping. There are multiple clearing along this road. Each one is big enough for several cars and even a couple groups. The clearings are far enough apart that you can make some noise without bothering the other campers. You need a bit of clearance to be able to drive the road but not much as my Crosstrek did it great. Even on July 4th this site wasn’t busy. We only saw one other camper since most people choose to pay for a campground right on the lake

  • 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.

  • Maya T.
    Camper-submitted photo from FR376 Dispersed
    Jun. 20, 2024

    FR376 Dispersed

    My Go-To

    I live in Albuquerque, and this road is one of my constant summer repeats. You got water, shade, privacy and an adventure. It's about 1.5 hours from Abq and it takes you through the Gilman Tunnels which is always a fun stop and view. The road is a little bumpy and rocky, but there's probably 100 dispersed camping spots. There's ones right on the river, in forrest spots or meadows, you choose! There are no bathrooms, water, or cell service. Everyone has got their spot in Jemez, but this road offers endless possibilities, for all types of campers!

  • Maya T.
    Camper-submitted photo from Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site
    Jun. 20, 2024

    Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site

    Hidden Gem

    Didn't camp here but came to enjoy the beautiful sunset. Drove a short distance from Albuquerque through Placitas, saw so many horses! This is an open space that overlooks the tail of Albuquerque, and the vistas beyond. I came for the sunset but would definitely stay if I was car camping. Wouldn't necessarily set up a tent for me, but some are braver than others!

  • Mallory W.
    Camper-submitted photo from Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site
    Jun. 10, 2024

    Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site

    beautiful

    The road to drive up is through a neighborhood and is 2 miles of windy road it was a little hard to maneuver with my 32’ trailer I just had to go slow nothing crazy. I was the only one around and the view was great, it was a little windy but it didn’t shake the trailer or anything. The only reason I’m giving 4 stars and not 5 is because or the rebar I found sticking out of the ground. At first I thought it was random but then I found 2 other pieces sticking straight out of the ground and they were in there deep

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Pajarito Springs (Dispersed)
    Jun. 9, 2024

    Pajarito Springs (Dispersed)

    Secluded spaces

    Quiet, secluded spaces especially if you drive out the road far. We didn’t see any other people or campers but heard guns being shot in the morning and there were old shells at our campsite.

  • Walter T.
    Camper-submitted photo from fs road 438
    Jun. 7, 2024

    fs road 438

    Pot creek

    Great site with shade and sun, water from creek, could possibly hold 3 med. Sized rv's. About 10 miles south of taos nm. And about 1 mile off pavement

  • Tyler C.
    Camper-submitted photo from Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site
    Jun. 5, 2024

    Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site

    Worth it

    I had some trouble finding the entrance, you have to get in from the southeast side of the neighborhood, @ Llano el Norte street, but other than that I’ve spoiled myself with finding such a great campsite so early on in my trip. Definitely windy.

  • Dare To Everywhere  .
    Camper-submitted photo from Pajarito Springs (Dispersed)
    May. 27, 2024

    Pajarito Springs (Dispersed)

    Amazing views!

    Stayed: May 26, 2024 Cost: FREE Site: 35.84243° N, 106.37266° W Cell Service: Solid LTE AT&T and T-Mobile Equipment: Forester / Tent

    Different apps give this different names. It is Forest Road 181 within Santa Fe National Forest, directly off of Highway 4.

    This is some great National Forest camping. Seemed like plenty of room when you first turn in and the you can go left or right. We went left and continued to the end of the road. There were a few sites along the drive back, but we pulled up the satellite map and wanted to keep going. It gets pretty rocky and you’ll need a bit of clearance in some spots.

    To get to the end of the road site, when you pull off Highway 4, take a left and then eventually a right at the fork in the road further beyond (~1.5 miles from Highway 4). There were a couple more sites along this road, not very level, so we continued on and are so glad we did! About 30 min from Hwy 4 to end of this road. Elevation is just over 8,000 feet at this point.

  • 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.

  • S H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site
    May. 8, 2024

    Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site

    huge mesa dispersed camping at top of windy road

    Really easy to get to, up this lil windy residential road, go slow, that opens up into a huge public land past an open gate. Lots of paths from cars, just follow anyone you'd like and then pull over beside any ol bush. Don't run over any cactus.

    Stayed for two nights and the sunsets were awesome. During the day it was very very windy but not too hot. Saw some wild horses the first morning but when I got too close one of them starting running toward me and I said hell no. Classic dispersed desert camping but with good service and close to Albuquerque.

  • 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



Guide to Los Alamos

Camping near Los Alamos, New Mexico, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and unique experiences. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to unwind or a base for outdoor adventures, there are plenty of options to explore.

What to do:

  • Hiking: There are great trails right from the campgrounds. For example, at Juniper Family Campground — Bandelier National Monument, one reviewer mentioned, "The hiking right from the campground is great - the two hikes are definitely worth doing."
  • Exploring National Monuments: Visit Bandelier National Monument for stunning views and ancient Pueblo dwellings. A camper shared, "We enjoyed visiting the ancient Pueblos, especially climbing the 140 feet to the Alcove house."
  • Fishing and Boating: At Riana - Abiquiu Lake, you can enjoy fishing and boating. One visitor noted, "There is also a volleyball net and a very nice modern playground."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the views at Cochiti Recreation Area. A reviewer said, "Great views of mountains and pastel sunrises and sunset."
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Many appreciate the peacefulness of places like Black Canyon Campground. One camper mentioned, "Summer temps were very comfortable during the day and cool overnight. Perfect camping weather."
  • Friendly Hosts: Campground hosts often receive praise. At Rancheros de Santa Fe, a visitor said, "The owners are super kind, firstly. Our site was great."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Sante Fe National Forest BLM-Road 62 Dispersed, have few facilities. A reviewer warned, "If it is still open, you’ll see a lot of trash. Certain sites looked better than others."
  • No Showers: Many sites, such as Jemez Falls Campground, do not have showers. One camper noted, "It is a nice campground to spend a night or two as it does not have showers."
  • Wildlife: Be prepared for wildlife encounters. A camper at Santa Fe BLM Dispersed Campsite mentioned, "If you put up a hummingbird feeder they will love you."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Santa Fe Skies RV Park, which has a walking trail and is close to town. One family said, "The park is super clean. I highly recommend this park."
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to have a mix of activities. A reviewer at Cochiti Recreation Area mentioned, "Good location to visit both Albuquerque and Santa Fe."
  • Pack Snacks and Games: Keep kids entertained with snacks and games. A camper at Rancheros de Santa Fe noted, "The facilities were clean and accessible."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Santa Fe KOA mentioned, "Some of the spots were a little tight once you get your slides out."
  • Look for Full Hookups: Campgrounds like Cochiti Recreation Area offer electric hookups, which can be a big plus. One camper said, "All sites have paved driveways, canopies, and charcoal grills."
  • Be Prepared for Wind: Some areas can be windy, especially at Riana - Abiquiu Lake. A visitor noted, "Wind gusts are common so tie down the tumbleweeds or they'll escape!"

Camping near Los Alamos, New Mexico, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just be sure to plan ahead and enjoy the stunning scenery!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Los Alamos, NM?

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

  • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Los Alamos, NM?

    TheDyrt.com has all 36 dispersed camping locations near Los Alamos, NM, with real photos and reviews from campers.