Dispersed tent camping in the Cibola National Forest near Ponderosa, New Mexico offers remote camping opportunities at elevations around 7,500 feet. The area features a mix of juniper and pine forest terrain with natural clearings that serve as primitive campsites. Nights can drop below freezing even during summer months due to the high elevation, requiring campers to pack appropriate cold-weather sleeping gear.
What to do
Hiking nearby trails: The areas surrounding Dispersed Camping off FS 542 provide access to numerous hiking paths. According to one visitor, "My family and I camped here and chose this location as one of our stops on our road trip. It was easy to find and get to... The area had great views and was very private."
Mountain biking: The region near Ojito Wilderness features designated mountain biking trails accessible from campsites. One camper notes, "There are a couple of hiking trails nearby and even a mountain bike trail. I had 3 to 4 bars of Verizon cell service."
Wildlife observation: Early mornings and evenings are prime times for spotting local wildlife. Tent campers often report seeing deer, rabbits, coyotes, and various bird species. A camper at Dispersed Camping off FS 542 mentioned, "Nice place to stop. I was the only one there... There were coyotes around."
What campers like
Natural privacy: Manzanita Rec Zone offers tent sites with natural forest buffers between campsites. A visitor noted, "A bit less traveled than other nearby campground... Some local traffic passes through regularly, including an Amazon delivery van a day."
Established fire rings: Many dispersed sites feature existing fire rings for safe campfire use when permitted. A camper at Manzanita Rec Zone shared, "The road up to the camping area is decent. There are big ruts headed into the camping area that are impassible to low clearance vehicles but nice spots otherwise."
Night sky viewing: The remote location and minimal light pollution create excellent stargazing conditions. Several campers specifically mention the quality of night sky views. At Aquirre Springs Campground, a visitor reported, "Great view of the stars. Amazing sunset and sunrise. Vault toilets available."
What you should know
Road conditions vary seasonally: Forest roads can develop significant ruts after rainfall, making access challenging. A camper at New Canyon Campground advised, "Drive the additional 5 miles to the top & visit that campground & enjoy all of the deer & other wildlife."
Limited water access: No potable water exists at most primitive sites around Ponderosa. All water for drinking, cooking, and washing must be packed in. Pack enough water for your entire stay plus emergency reserves.
Variable cell service: Despite remote locations, cell reception can be surprisingly good in certain areas. One camper at Ojito Wilderness mentioned, "I had 3 to 4 bars of Verizon cell service."
Timing affects site availability: Weekends bring significantly more campers to popular tent sites near Ponderosa. A visitor to Dispersed Camping off FS 542 noted, "Arrived around 9pm on a Friday night it was busy and pretty tough to find an open spot. It's a nice area and stayed quiet all night."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites near road access: For tent camping with children, sites closer to forest roads may be more manageable. A camper at Mother Bosque Gardens shared, "Airbnb for tent camping, overnight parking for van camping, full access to home amenities - this was exactly what we needed for a one night stop."
Pack for temperature swings: High elevation means significant temperature differences between day and night, even in summer. Bring layered clothing for children.
Wildlife awareness: Teach children about local wildlife safety, particularly regarding coyotes which are commonly sighted. A visitor to New Canyon Campground reported, "We were approached by a guy letting us know there was a boar and a bear coming down the canyon. He said they were about 700 yards away."
Tips from RVers
Vehicle clearance requirements: Most tent camping areas near Ponderosa require high-clearance vehicles to access, especially after rain. A visitor to Scaramanga Ranch explained that conventional RVs may not be suitable for the rugged access roads common in this area.
Road width considerations: Forest roads leading to tent sites are often narrow with tight turns. A camper at Manzanita Rec Zone advised, "Have to drive up the forest service road off the pavement. A little rough but I have a lifted outback no issues!"
Tow vehicle preparation: Those using a vehicle to tow camping equipment should research site access thoroughly. A camper at Dispersed Camping off FS 542 cautioned, "Designated areas with fire pits are bit difficult/narrow to get to if you are towing anything."
