Dispersed camping near Mentmore, New Mexico offers free camping options at elevations ranging from 6,500 to over 7,000 feet. The terrain features a mix of juniper, oak scrub, and ponderosa pine forests depending on elevation. Weather patterns in this region can cause dramatic temperature differences between sites, with higher elevation areas typically 10-15 degrees cooler than lower canyon sites.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Turkey Springs provides excellent wildlife spotting with its higher elevation forest habitat. "Large Ponderosa Pines with White Cedar and Oak scrub. Spots aren't marked so be observant," notes camper Roger J., who stayed at Turkey Springs.
Mountain biking: The dirt roads extending into the canyons offer moderate terrain for cyclists. "Biked 6 miles up the road. Had cell service (Verizon and T-mobile)," reports Terry O., who camped at Six Mile Canyon Road Dispersed Site.
Stargazing: The minimal light pollution makes this area ideal for night sky observation. One camper at Six Mile Canyon wrote, "The stars were bomb dot com," highlighting the exceptional visibility on clear nights.
What campers like
Secluded sites: Many dispersed camping areas provide substantial privacy despite proximity to I-40. According to camper Twan M., "The valley road cuts through green canyon bluffs and rolling hills with good tree coverage. Lots of fun and scenic driving. Spur trails are good 4x4 drives."
Cooler temperatures: The higher elevation sites offer relief from summer heat. Timothy N. points out that Turkey Springs "is above 7k, so it does get colder at night than the local forecast for Gallup," which can be advantageous during hot months.
Accessibility options: Sites range from easily accessible to more remote locations. "The main road 162 was in great condition until it starts going uphill, then it was rutted out. Only a couple spots beyond this point," notes Timothy N. about Turkey Springs, indicating good access for most vehicles until the terrain changes.
What you should know
Road conditions vary by season: Dry weather makes most sites accessible with standard vehicles. "I drove my Prius in during the summer and it was fine. Granted, I could see how this would be hazardous if the ground was soft and muddy," writes Gordy Y. about their experience at Six Mile Canyon - Dispersed Camping.
Alternative parking during closures: When gates close for winter, some areas still permit overnight stays. "The road is closed to 6 mile canyon and the dispersed camping there; I stayed outside the fence for the night and had no issues. You can hear the highway but its not a huge issue," Abraham explains.
Cell service reliability: Reception varies by provider and location. At Turkey Springs, one camper reported, "TMobile access was mixed. Sometimes limited LTE, sometimes 5G," indicating spotty but workable connectivity for those who need to stay connected.
Tips for camping with families
Noise considerations: While close to I-40, many sites offer surprising quiet. Michele D. noted about her experience, "Right next to the highway, but you'd never know it was there. We really weren't sure what to expect, but this was such a beautiful spot we're planning a trip back with friends."
Site selection timing: Arriving early helps secure better spots, especially on weekends. "We just needed a place to spend the night and arrived late in the evening, so unfortunately we weren't able to explore the area," mentions a Six Mile Canyon visitor who still found suitable camping.
Multiple pull-off options: The numerous side roads provide camping alternatives. Steve M. describes free camping at Turkey Springs: "Many pull-off spots and several pull throughs with lots of shady pines and wonderful breezes and wildlife. Secluded spots available and very quiet and beautiful location."
Tips from RVers
Levelness challenges: Finding flat spots for larger rigs requires planning. "Sites not very level but managed to get the RVs level enough," reports Terry O. about Six Mile Canyon Road Dispersed Site, indicating that leveling blocks may be necessary.
Site capacity for multiple vehicles: Some areas can accommodate group camping with multiple RVs. Terry O. adds, "We got a site for 2 RVs that protected us from an impending windstorm," showing that strategic site selection can provide weather protection.
Road navigation advice: The unpaved access routes require careful driving. Haley S. advises, "Six Mile canyon road off I40 is a bit rough in places. I did fine in my pro master but if it's muddy or wet I wouldn't attempt it without 4WD. Beautiful spot once you find a place though."
