Dispersed camping opportunities surround Radium Springs, New Mexico across arid desert terrain at elevations ranging from 4,000 to 5,500 feet. The area experiences extreme temperature fluctuations with summer highs regularly exceeding 100°F and winter nights dropping below freezing. Most rustic camping sites feature open, exposed terrain with minimal natural barriers against wind or sun.
What to do
Hiking access: The Sierra Vista area serves as both camping area and trailhead access. "This is a dispersed camping space so there aren't bathrooms. The views of the mountain ridge as the sun comes up is awesome. The stars from here are pretty great too! There are a couple pull off sites in a groomed road that leads to a trailhead," reports one camper.
Mountain biking: Baylor Pass West Trailhead Dispersed provides convenient access to multiple trail systems. "This is a Trailhead parking lot. Not the best spot to camp for the night, but if you are getting up early to hike, it's worth it. There is an area to the side of the main lot that people coming to hike don't typically park in," notes a camper who used the area as a base for activities.
Stargazing: Clear desert skies offer excellent night viewing opportunities. "Beautiful clear sky and view of the mountains. Very clean and well maintained," notes a visitor to one of the dispersed areas. Light pollution from Las Cruces affects some sites, but many camping spots maintain relatively dark skies suitable for astronomy.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Baylor Canyon Rd Spur, BLM, Free, campers appreciate the layout. "The sites are off a single dirt road with pull offs for the sites. There are about 10 or 12 sites as you follow the road. More if your neighbors are friendly," one reviewer explains. Despite the primitive nature, most sites provide adequate separation.
Morning wildlife: Early risers often spot desert wildlife. "We were the only big rig but there 4 vans and a couple of cars overnight," noted one camper about the trailhead areas. Another mentioned, "There were cows roaming about as it's free range here." Various primitive camping areas provide opportunities for wildlife viewing including coyotes, which can often be heard at night.
Accessibility: Many appreciate the proximity to Las Cruces for resupply runs. "This location is convenient enough to go back into town for things you need," explained a camper. Another mentioned, "What a nice place to stay. I like it so much I stayed for 8 days. Very close to White Sands NP and to the city."
What you should know
Road conditions: The Sierra Vista - Back Side Dispersed area requires appropriate vehicles. "You will need a 4x4 to get into the back area. The last few spots are the best," notes one camper. Another explains, "Coming in off of Dripping Springs Rd, you pass a large flat parking area with small sites you can pull off into, and this area is easy for any rig to access. But if you keep going all the way to the trail head and turn left, you can access more dispersed and remote camp sites."
Wind exposure: The open desert terrain provides minimal protection from elements. "You get a bit of nighttime wind as a heads up for tent campers," warns one visitor. Another noted, "Super crazy windy in the afternoons."
Regulations: The Bureau of Land Management monitors these areas regularly. "The Ranger went by every day I like that," mentioned one camper. Another shared an important warning: "Just bc our app shows BLM land, it doesn't mean we can park anywhere. We were unknowingly in an arroyo, for water flow, and the acceptable camping areas are the trailheads."
Tips for camping with families
Safety considerations: Oregan Wilderness Dispersed camping requires preparation. "The road is a bit rocky but we found a great spot to spend the night," notes one camper. Families should be aware that most sites have no barriers or fencing, creating potential hazards for unsupervised children.
Temperature preparation: Desert temperature swings require proper gear. One camper observed, "Person not too far from me pitched a tent, I car camp so can't say how tent conditions would be, but saw him with a tent pitched & staked! I was up at 7am and they were gone, imagine they must've been pretty cold, temps drop quite dramatically."
Water planning: No potable water exists at any dispersed sites. Families must bring all required water for drinking, cooking, and minimal hygiene. Plan for at least one gallon per person per day, with additional reserves for summer camping.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Las Cruces Roadrunner Overlook Rest Area provides a convenient overnight option. "This is a clean and well maintained test area. There is security here during the overnight. I spoke to the security guard and he said that the rest area is very safe. He said that he is mostly here to ensure that semi trucks do not park across car spots."
Leveling challenges: The natural terrain requires preparation. "Pretty level," notes one camper about a site, though most primitive camping areas require leveling blocks or similar equipment.
Timing arrival: Competition for sites increases on weekends and during seasonal migrations. "Lots of dispersed sites but looks like a very popular area we passed over 20 campers before finding a spot," reports one camper. Another mentioned, "Every site was taken along the way until the trailhead. We decided to squeeze in and just sleep in the car, instead of risking our luck."
