Dispersed camping near Ranchos de Taos, New Mexico offers primitive sites within Carson National Forest at elevations ranging from 7,000-9,000 feet. The region experiences significant seasonal variations, with spring snowmelt creating muddy conditions through May and summer bringing afternoon thunderstorms. Fire restrictions typically begin in late spring when temperatures rise and humidity drops.
What to do
Fishing access: Most sites along Forest Road 438 Dispersed provide river access where anglers can fish while others relax. "My boyfriend was able to fish along the river at our site while I stayed in the hammock- super nice. Even though we were right next to the water, there were less bugs than anticipated," notes camper Emma H.
Wildlife viewing: Spring and early summer camping at Rio Fernando de Taos - Forest Rd 5 offers excellent wildlife encounters. "The melting snow has the ponds and river overflowing... The animals are really coming out though—lots of birds and frogs chirping, ducks were swimming in the ponds, and we even had some elk pass through our camp!" reports Meghan B.
Hot springs hiking: Camping near John Dunn Bridge provides access to natural hot springs. "Make sure you go all the way to the coordinates as there are a ton of great spots off to the left of the road, plenty of room to spread out and some solidly flat spots. Made a quick walk down to the springs in the evening and watched the stars come out," shares camper Madeleine H.
What campers like
Riverside sites: Many campers appreciate spots along flowing water. At Arroyo Seco Dispersed NF Camping, "There are so many campsites to choose from, all along the Hondo Rio. It's peaceful and quiet. We brought our four dogs and 13 year old. There's so much to do to keep them busy. The dogs love the river and to run through it," says Melissa J.
Solitude options: For those seeking quiet, less-traveled areas provide isolation. "This is the most remote BLM site I've ever been too. Right at the edge of the Gorge, it is primitive—only saw one bathroom about 2 miles back... If you seek solitude, this is the place!" describes Rochelle B. at Rio Grande del Norte National Monument.
Stargazing: Clear night skies reward campers at higher elevations. "Made a quick walk down to the springs in the evening and watched the stars come out. Awesome!!" reports a camper about the Rio Grande gorge area.
What you should know
Spring conditions: Melting snow creates challenging access through May. At Forest Road 5 - Dispersed campsite, "Early May. Got caught up in a spring snowstorm of several feet. Tent was buried two nights running," reports Earl B., who adds, "I can see this road being quite busy when dry."
Road challenges: Many access roads require careful driving. "A little more secluded than the spots next door and a little farther away from the edge of the cliff but still beautiful. Some times RV's will park there for a while and kinda block the spot so just cross your fingers," notes Nora S. about Rio Grande Bridge Overlook.
Temperature variations: Even summer nights can be cold. "Temps got down into the mid-40s -- even in July. You could kinda hear other campers in other sites but it wasn't invasive or anything," shares PK930 K. about camping in the region.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly water play: Sites with gentle water access work well for families. "We brought our four dogs and 13 year old. There's so much to do to keep them busy. The dogs love the river and to run through it," notes a camper at Arroyo Seco.
Group camping options: Some areas accommodate larger family gatherings. "We met my brother out here. Between us we had 6 kids and 2 dogs. It's not often you find areas like this with decent open spaces that aren't super crowded. Fairly accessible. We brought a pop up. Elk everywhere. We had a nice time," shares Amanda B. about Rio Fernando.
Safety considerations: Exercise caution near the Rio Grande Gorge with children. "Be careful roaming at night. The drop into the river is quite deep so offroading isn't just ill advised for keeping the flora and fauna safe…but you as well," warns Hayley K.
Tips from RVers
Vehicle clearance requirements: Many dispersed sites require appropriate vehicles. At Forest Service 439, "I pull a small trailer and the road in was rough. I was concerned about being able to turn around... This is more suitable to car camping," notes Mark P.
Turn-around space: Check whether sites have adequate space to maneuver larger vehicles. "Solid road, no issue with 25ft travel trailer. There's a gravel cul-de-sac with a couple obvious places to camp. Also a couple two tracks roads continuing into the woods, but those weren't passable due to mud," reports PJ M. about Rio Fernando de Taos.
Site entrance assessment: Weather affects accessibility for RVs. "The road can be a little bumpy, but there was numerous spots along the way. Decently sized, mostly flat areas to set up for the night. Some spots the entrance is steep, so be wary of small cars if it's muddy," advises Cameron L.
