Best Dispersed Camping near Pecos, NM

Pecos, New Mexico's dispersed camping spots sit among the beautiful Sangre de Cristo Mountains. When camping here, you'll need to bring everything you need since there are no facilities anywhere. Many people like the Cow Creek area where you can camp near the water and try fly fishing. Just know that you'll probably need a high-clearance vehicle to handle the rough dirt roads leading to these sites. All campers need to follow Leave No Trace practices and pack out all trash. Check for fire restrictions before your trip, as they're often in place throughout the area. The BLM limits stays to 14 days in these undeveloped camping areas. Make sure to set up your site at least 200 feet from any water source to protect the environment. There's a lot of wildlife around, so store your food properly to keep animals away. These remote spots give you a real backcountry experience far from everyday conveniences. From here, you can also take day trips to the Rio Grande or White Sands. The weather can change quickly, with big temperature drops at night, so pack accordingly. Dispersed camping near Pecos requires good preparation and respect for the natural area.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Pecos, New Mexico (19)

    1. Sante Fe National Forest BLM-Road 62 Dispersed

    41 Reviews
    Santa Fe, NM
    24 miles

    "This is dispersed camping with mostly RVs, some vans, and a few tents and teepees. There are no hookups but near the entrance there is a building with two enclosed bathrooms."

    "It's a great area with flat sites and close proximity to Santa Fe. The dirt road is not too long and not bad at all. There were a bunch of campers there but it didnt feel crowded."

    2. Santa Fe BLM Dispersed Campsite

    26 Reviews
    Santa Fe, NM
    24 miles

    "As you drive down the road the BLM land is clearly identified by the 14 day camping limit signs."

    "I was towing a Uhaul cross country so needed some place close-ish to the free way and with an easily accessible road: this location had both."

    3. Cow Creek Dispersed Camping Area

    2 Reviews
    Tererro, NM
    6 miles
    Website

    "There are a few tent spots and car camping spots, and it’s right along a creek where you can fly fish."

    4. Forest Road 102 Dispersed

    3 Reviews
    Tesuque, NM
    16 miles
    Website

    "We took this road to get to a hike and saw several people camping off the road or a ways up a hill where rhey had walked in. We saw limited places so be ready for first come first serve."

    5. Caja Del Rio Dispersed Camping

    9 Reviews
    Santa Fe, NM
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (505) 438-5300

    "A gorgeous and vast dispersed campground just a short drive from Santa Fe."

    "20 mins from Sata Fe, lots of open roads and land for dispersed camping. Can get a bit crowded and hard to find a spot away from people, but plenty of room."

    7. Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site

    35 Reviews
    Placitas, NM
    47 miles
    Website
    +1 (505) 761-8700

    "Great little find for a quick place to car camp while driving through Albuquerque without going too far out of the way."

    "When you first arrive to the end of the road and the beginning of the public land - you have the option to go left, straight, or right."

    8. Pajarito Springs (Dispersed)

    16 Reviews
    Los Alamos, NM
    43 miles

    "We were just looking for a place to crash in our SUV before going to Bandelier National Monument in the morning and continuing on our road trip."

    "Along the entire length of this road dispersed camping is allowed."

    10. American Springs

    3 Reviews
    Los Alamos, NM
    43 miles

    "Probably not a must have, but I highly recommend a four-wheel-drive high clearance to get back into the camp spots here, but there are a handful of spots."

    "Great spot once you make the steep road up!!! We camped close to the entrance. We explored and found some amazing sites further back"

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Showing results 1-10 of 19 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Pecos, NM

134 Reviews of 19 Pecos Campgrounds



Guide to Pecos

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Pecos, New Mexico, where nature lovers can find serene spots away from the crowds. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, campers can enjoy the great outdoors while embracing the freedom of camping without designated sites.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Pecos, New Mexico

  • Many areas, like Cow Creek Dispersed Camping Area, provide access to beautiful scenery along a creek, perfect for those looking to fish or relax by the water.
  • Be prepared for rough roads; some spots, such as Caja Del Rio Dispersed Camping, may require a vehicle with good clearance due to uneven terrain.
  • Always pack out what you bring in, as some locations, including Santa Fe BLM Dispersed Campsite, have reported issues with trash left behind by previous visitors.

Scenic views and wildlife encounters for dispersed campers

Dispersed campers should check out Cow Creek for its unique features

  • Cow Creek Dispersed Camping Area is known for its picturesque fall colors, making it an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts.
  • The area is suitable for both tent and car camping, providing flexibility for different camping styles.
  • While the road can be rough, the scenic beauty and tranquility of Cow Creek make the journey worthwhile for those seeking a peaceful retreat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Pecos, NM?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Pecos, NM is Sante Fe National Forest BLM-Road 62 Dispersed with a 4.2-star rating from 41 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Pecos, NM?

TheDyrt.com has all 19 dispersed camping locations near Pecos, NM, with real photos and reviews from campers.