Top Free Dispersed Camping near Ponderosa, NM

Searching for a dispersed camping spot near Ponderosa? The Dyrt provides you with a diverse selection of places to camp, from dispersed backcountry camping to boondocking, and everything in-between. Whether you're looking for a quiet location in the trees or wide open spaces, The Dyrt makes it easy to find the perfect dispersed campsite.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Ponderosa, NM (8)

    Camper-submitted photo from Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Manzanita Rec Zone Dispersed Camping - Sandia District
    Camper-submitted photo from Manzanita Rec Zone Dispersed Camping - Sandia District
    Camper-submitted photo from Manzanita Rec Zone Dispersed Camping - Sandia District

    2. Manzanita Rec Zone Dispersed Camping - Sandia District

    2 Reviews
    5 Photos
    36 Saves

    Please consult the Manzanita Mountains Trail System Map to find a dispersed site: https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd555098.pdf

    Look for Motorized Dispersed Camping info in the bottom left portion of the map. **When looking for the Dispersed Camping Sites, look for small, rectangular boxes with a site number in it and a pointer that directs you to the site.

    There are NO AMENITIES at these sites. Cell phone coverage is not guaranteed. It is the recreationist’s responsibility to use a map if you choose to explore the area. It is a multi-user area. Trail(s) that are associated with each dispersed site are open for the following uses: Hiking, Mountain Biking, 2 Wheel Motorized Vehicles and Horseback Riding.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Cedro 2 Track 13 Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Cedro 2 Track 13 Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Cedro 2 Track 13 Dispersed Site

    3. Cedro 2 Track 13 Dispersed Site

    1 Review
    3 Photos
    24 Saves

    Individual BLM Field Offices may have additional or supplemental special camping rules or guidelines. Please call our Field Offices or visit our individual recreation websites for this information.

    BLM's overall policy is to allow dispersed camping on all the lands it administers with the following conditions and exceptions:

    Dispersed camping is generally allowed on public lands in New Mexico for no more than a period of 14 days within any period of 28 consecutive days. The 14-day limit may be reached either through a number of separate visits or through 14 days of continuous overnight occupation during the 28-day period. After this time period, you must relocate to another site at least 25 miles away. The purpose of this is to prevent damage to sensitive resources caused by continual use of any particular areas.

    Camping is prohibited within 900 feet of any developed water source such as a guzzler or watering trough so that the water is accessible to wildlife and livestock. Please do not park your vehicles near these waters or take any actions that would disturb wildlife or livestock from using these waters.

    Campfires must be attended at all times. Campers must comply with all fire restrictions.

    When using a motorized vehicle for camping access please park your vehicle near existing roads or existing undeveloped campsites.

    Camping is permitted within all units of the National Wilderness Preservation System administered by the BLM in New Mexico. However, all motorized and mechanized vehicles and equipment are strictly prohibited in these areas. Campers must not dispose of refuse, hazardous materials, sewage, or gray water, in any manner that would pollute the surrounding area. Please pack it out, and dispose of those materials properly.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Coyote Trailhead
    Camper-submitted photo from Coyote Trailhead

    4. Coyote Trailhead

    1 Review
    2 Photos
    13 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Equestrian
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from Cibola NP

    5. Cibola NP

    1 Review
    1 Photo
    4 Saves
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Manzano Mountains Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Manzano Mountains Camp

    6. Manzano Mountains Camp

    1 Review
    2 Photos
    25 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • No image available
      Camper-submitted photo from BLM dispersed camping / Zia Pueblo
      Camper-submitted photo from BLM dispersed camping / Zia Pueblo
      Camper-submitted photo from BLM dispersed camping / Zia Pueblo
      Camper-submitted photo from BLM dispersed camping / Zia Pueblo
      Camper-submitted photo from BLM dispersed camping / Zia Pueblo
      Camper-submitted photo from BLM dispersed camping / Zia Pueblo

    Recent Dispersed Reviews In Ponderosa

    47 Reviews of 8 Ponderosa Campgrounds


    • 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.

    • 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.

    • 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.

    • 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

    • m
      Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Caming off FS 542
      Jun. 21, 2024

      Dispersed Caming off FS 542

      Roads are a little rough

      Nice place to stop. I was the only one there. There’s a couple spots when you first get in, and then there’s more further up but the roads get worse. There were coyotes around.

    • 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

    • 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.

    • tres H.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Caming off FS 542
      May. 11, 2024

      Dispersed Caming off FS 542

      Busy

      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. Road is rough would not go with a low clearance car

    • 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.

    • L
      Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Caming off FS 542
      Apr. 21, 2024

      Dispersed Caming off FS 542

      Just enough trees for privacy, slightly steep ramp

      Can make it up to camp with 2 wheel drive low clearance. Maybe some minor scraping as you leave/arrive over a bit of a rough ramp lip. Turn left at top of main entrance ramp to avoid worst road section which goes up to peak. Enough site separation I didn’t really hear others except when they were walking by on the road. Road makes a nice hike to the peak. There are large camp sites short walks from the road too, probably awesome for families with big tents, wouldn’t even see the road where passers by walk from some of those sites.

    • L
      Camper-submitted photo from Manzanita Rec Zone Dispersed Camping - Sandia District
      Apr. 21, 2024

      Manzanita Rec Zone Dispersed Camping - Sandia District

      Roughish road, nice quiet spots

      I like it. A bit less traveled than other nearby campground. Road almost more accessible to this camp ground for low clearance. Might scrape a bit going up final ramp to Cedro peak one, but not terribly either. Some local traffic passes through regularly, including an Amazon delivery van a day. To be honest I didn’t make it all the way in to the pin shown on the dyrt, had no issues anyway. Not even a ranger visit.

    • T&A Adventures *.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Cibola NP
      Apr. 2, 2024

      Cibola NP

      Quick Overnight

      We came here planning on staying at Coyote Trailhead that was listed. Turns out you can't overnight park at the actual trailheads. And to get to the dispersed camping you have to have a jeep or similar rock climbing type vehicle & not towing anything. Crazy steep rock face in the middle of the road near the trailhead. So we turned around, saw this spot and no one was there. We spent the night, boondocking. No one bothered us.

    • D
      Camper-submitted photo from Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site
      Mar. 25, 2024

      Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site

      Great dispersed spot

      Your on top of a mesa like area so it may be a little windy, it was when we went. Stayed for 1 night. It was very clean and no one else was around other than a few walkers in the morning.

    • Taylor M.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site
      Dec. 29, 2023

      Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site

      Spirit Film Set

      Pulled in right before sunset and only saw 2 other cars in the area. Watched a rainbow form over the Sandia Mtns and a herd of wild horses ran right through our campsite! Best night of my life!!

    • dThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site
      Dec. 9, 2023

      Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site

      Great spot

      This is a gem of a spot. You drive through a residential area of really nice hi purses and horses. It’s opens up with a spectacular view and some wide open spots to watch the sun go down. It is windy though but worth it.

    • Austin C.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Caming off FS 542
      Oct. 28, 2023

      Dispersed Caming off FS 542

      Quiet stay!

      While there were other campers nearby, it was quiet and a peaceful stay. It was a full moon and the campsite had that perfect desert backdrop that you’d expect. There was a nearby cell tower so the cell service was really good too. It is definitely a place we plan to come back to camp.

    • C
      Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Caming off FS 542
      Oct. 19, 2023

      Dispersed Caming off FS 542

      Quiet and easy to find

      A good place to stay either one night or more. No facilities. Dry camping only. The sights are not well defined but there's enough clearings between the trees to make do. Cell service is wonderful because it's basically right below a giant cell tower on the mountain top. The road is mostly good till you get to the actual camping area. About 2-3 mph should get most rigs and cars over the ruts and rocks. I don't recommend coming in past sunset. You really want to see the oopsies on the road! Overall a nice free place to set up camp.

    • Elise A.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Caming off FS 542
      Oct. 15, 2023

      Dispersed Caming off FS 542

      Worth the Bumps

      A beautiful tucked away spot in the Sandi mountains. The road into the area is unkept and filled with potholes, ruts, and divots. Yes most vehicles there are SUVs and Cross overs but I did see a few sedan who made it in. Take your time and you’ll be fine.

      we went in mid October and many of the sites were taken but we still found a site. Many of the sites have fire rings ours did not but we were still able to make an open fire pit.

      Very cold at night, so bring layers and appreciate bedding.

    • J
      Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Caming off FS 542
      Sep. 15, 2023

      Dispersed Caming off FS 542

      4WD required to get to private area - peaceful under the Milky Way

      I got here after dark on my drive from the west coast to NC. There were a couple of other campers at the front of the entrance. I did a little off-roading and drove deeper in for privacy. It was quiet at night and the stars were epic and it was beautiful in the daylight the next morning!

    • Seth R.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site
      Aug. 27, 2023

      Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site

      Beautiful scenery and peaceful,

      Keep in mind that you will be cutting through neighborhoods once the pavement ends you will see signs stating "public land". Some of the roads are gravel and rocky, so if you have a low car be cautious. Horses roam freely out here. Open space. You can literally camp anywhere out here. I personally don't like camping off the main road. Several "signs" of camp fires, some trash (please pick up your trash people) not a lot. Not enough to make the place dirty etc. The place is literally 40 mins away from me so this is a great get away place. I spent the day there and plan on camping there.

    • Austin and Christel S.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Caming off FS 542
      Aug. 22, 2023

      Dispersed Caming off FS 542

      Easy access and spread out

      This space was very cool. Regrettably it was a stop over point just to sleep. Got some rain right when we arrived so exploring was limited. They’re currently cutting new sites! Several are completely open. The East side of the road is in progress. Look for the turn in to FS542 on the right. There are signs pretty well marked. If you pass the bend in the road, you’ve gone too far. Nice fire rings and ground mulch base. 4 of 5 bars AT&T 5G. There are some pretty bad ruts, but slowly getting there, passenger cars should be okay



    Guide to Ponderosa

    Camping near Ponderosa, New Mexico, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and family-friendly activities. Whether you're in an RV or pitching a tent, there are plenty of options to explore.

    What to do:

    • Explore the outdoors: The area is surrounded by stunning natural beauty. At Turquoise Trail Campground, one camper mentioned, "Great spot not too far from Albuquerque, very peaceful and quaint." This campground is perfect for those looking to unwind in nature.
    • Visit local attractions: If you're near Albuquerque KOA Journey, you can easily access attractions like the Sandia Air Tram, just 15 minutes away. A reviewer noted, "15 minutes from the Sandia Air tram, 20 minutes from the airport."
    • Enjoy recreational activities: Many campgrounds, like Route 66 RV Resort, offer amenities like pools and mini-golf. One visitor shared, "The pool is resort style with hot tub. They even have a dog washing facility with tubs."

    What campers like:

    • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review for Turquoise Trail Campground states, "Friendly staff and dog friendly (on a leash). Picnic tables, showers, laundry, clean restrooms, all nestled in the pine and fir trees."
    • Family-friendly activities: Many campgrounds cater to families. At Albuquerque KOA Journey, a parent mentioned, "Jump pad, playground, mini-golf, and a really nice pool were the highlights."
    • Convenient locations: Campgrounds like American RV Resort are close to major attractions. A camper noted, "Good location, friendly office staff."

    What you should know:

    • Noise levels: Some campgrounds are near busy roads. A visitor at Albuquerque KOA Journey mentioned, "It is right off I-40, very convenient, but very noisy."
    • Site spacing: Campers have noted that some sites can be tight. A review for Albuquerque North / Bernalillo KOA said, "Sites are close together. Friendly staff and clean/organized campground."
    • Limited amenities: Some campgrounds may not have all the services you expect. A camper at Enchanted Trails RV Park & Trading Post mentioned, "Just the basics but clean. Terrible internet."

    Tips for camping with families:

    • Choose kid-friendly campgrounds: Look for places with activities for children. At Route 66 RV Resort, a parent said, "The spaces are set apart for lots of privacy between spots and the grounds are impeccable."
    • Plan for noise: If your kids are light sleepers, consider campgrounds away from highways. A review for Coronado Campground noted, "The campground is beautiful! Has great RV spots, and having the little pagoda to ourselves was so fun!"
    • Pack entertainment: Bring games or outdoor toys. A camper at Turquoise Trail Campground mentioned, "Great for RVs though, and usually full."

    Tips from RVers:

    • Check site sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A review for American RV Resort mentioned, "Level concrete sites with picnic tables at each site."
    • Be prepared for road noise: Some RV parks are near highways. A visitor at Enchanted Trails RV Park & Trading Post said, "Freeway noise and sites right next to each other were the negatives."
    • Utilize amenities: Take advantage of laundry and shower facilities. A camper at Route 66 RV Resort noted, "The grounds are impeccable. Excellent place to stay."

    Camping near Ponderosa, New Mexico, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. With a variety of campgrounds to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect spot for your next outdoor adventure.

    Frequently Asked Questions

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

      According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Ponderosa, NM is Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site with a 4.8-star rating from 18 reviews.

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

      TheDyrt.com has all 8 dispersed camping locations near Ponderosa, NM, with real photos and reviews from campers.