Playas, NM is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Playas is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Find the best campgrounds near Playas, NM. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.
"Quite, no lights nearby, dispersed camping at its best. Just a few cows. I would camp here again."
"Easy to find, no rough roads, clean and quiet campsite. There were about 10 other campers when I was here. Would definitely stay here again"
"It’s not practical for every bathroom use, but maybe worth it to poop 😅 otherwise, good dispersed sites."
"There are a few dispersed spots along FS 42, just past the research station. "
"This is a Gila National Forest Access Road just west of the Continental Divide on highway 90. "
"There are several dispersed areas offering a bit more privacy both below and above the official campground."
"This dispersed campground is on the Pinery Scenic Route#42 on an all dirt road just before the incline up the mountain."
GuideThis is a Gila National Forest Access Road just west of the Continental Divide on highway 90. It has multiple fairly level and easily accessible boondocking sites. It's far enough from the highway to be quiet. The only real drawback is the Cattle droppings here and there. We spent the night, so can't comment on other activities in the area, but there are roads and trails leading out of the location and into the Forest.
RangerAmazing views. A bit sandy of a drive. You have to open and close a gate but it is not locked. Quite, no lights nearby, dispersed camping at its best. Just a few cows. I would camp here again. We made it up in a long bed crew an Chevy 2500. Some camp sites at the bottom. But if you go up to the dead end keep to the left. Site is not to level but throw a couple of rocks under the tires and you can level out. Drive up is a little bit narrow with cactus close to the road. I would not think you need 4x4 but maybe something more then a car would be better. If wet I would think it may get a bit squishy, but with it dry a stock suv would make it just fine. Camped next to a rock face. Just beautiful!
LegendIf the campground at the national monument is full, head up Piney Canyon Rd. and you will find a number of free spots for both tent camping and RV’s just off the main road inside the boundary of the national forest. Most sites are tree covered, but we found one with an open sunny space for our solar panel. Our site was right next to a very clean flowing stream, which provided not only a nice soundtrack but also a filterable water source. Most of the sites seemed to have established fire pits, with ours being the monster of all fire pits we’ve ever seen. These are dispersed sites, so no potable water, picnic tables, or toilets are available, so come prepared with what you need to be comfortable. Also note that the road into the forest is not maintained well and is full of washboards for about a mile or so, and many washes cross this road, so pay close attention to rain in the forecast as you could get stuck on the other side of one of these washes for an indefinite period of time.
The closest grocery store and gas station is in Willcox, which is about 40 minutes away. There are also a number of wineries in the area, as this is 1 of the 3 Arizona wine regions.
Note: There is no cell service anywhere along this road, your best bet for an LTE connection is at the top of the monument’s road (Sugarloaf Mountain or Echo Canyon parking lots) or the guest wifi network at the visitor’s center.
GuideMy favorite camp spots. I’ve visited the monument multiple times and i love this area. Some spots are closer together to allow for bigger groups but most are semi secluded. Never disappoints and have camped here in every weather which the trees protect at least somewhat.
TravelerThere’s several campsites around the trail head. I found a great secluded spot along a rough back road area, my express van with chunky tires was able to clear the bumps in the roadway. Cell service is excellent for Verizon even wandering around the trails back here.
GuideThis dispersed campground is on the Pinery Scenic Route#42 on an all dirt road just before the incline up the mountain. It is a large campsite that can hold a group if necessary. There are no facilities or drinking water but there was a large fire ring available. You are tucked on the side of a hill and covered by trees for a nice shady spot to camp.
RangerThere are a few dispersed spots along FS 42, just past the research station. There are two on the left, before the cattle guard, and one on the right, just past the cattle guard. We had a Ford Transit and a Chevy Express in there, and were able to set up Starlink as well. There is zero cell signal here.
GuideI spent one night here. It was very quiet and secluded, and the dirt road is in great condition. There's tons of spots and the trees give a little cover. I rained on and off at night, but I feel the tree foliage kept a lot of water from dripping down onto the tent.
RangerThis is a fantastic spot! Turkey creek flows right next to the campground and offers fantastic hikes along it's banks. There are multiple small waterfalls and pools to splash in. There are several dispersed areas offering a bit more privacy both below and above the official campground. This little out of the way spot has never been busy during our multiple visits. Plan to stay more than one night because you'll be sad to leave.
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Playas, New Mexico, where you can immerse yourself in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. This area offers a variety of spots that cater to different camping styles, from serene landscapes to rugged terrains.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Playas, NM?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Playas, NM is Granite Gap with a 4.7-star rating from 6 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Playas, NM?
TheDyrt.com has all 12 dispersed camping locations near Playas, NM, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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