Top Free Dispersed Camping near Reserve, NM

Searching for a dispersed camping spot near Reserve? Dispersed camping is an excellent way to get away from it all and to disconnect. Search dispersed campsites you've visited before, or discover new spots and read camper reviews.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Reserve, NM (7)


Recent Dispersed Reviews In Reserve

4 Reviews of 7 Reserve Campgrounds


  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Pratt Lake Dispersed
    May. 24, 2024

    Pratt Lake Dispersed

    More of a pond than a lake

    Nice quiet area. Small lake. Didn’t fish, so unsure. No amenities at all, which is fine. Road is a little rough going in, in places.

  • A
    Camper-submitted photo from Roadside Pullouts and Disperesed Camping along Route 15
    Oct. 7, 2020

    Roadside Pullouts and Disperesed Camping along Route 15

    Many scenic overnight pullouts along Route 15

    We were hoping to stay at the Gila Hot Springs campground, but it was full. Although the hot springs were oh so tempting, we're glad it turned out that way. First, FREE!  Second, fabulous views, stars, and amazing quiet.  

    All along Route 15 in the mountains to the south of Gila Hot Springs are numerous pull-offs, pull-outs, and pull-throughs where you can camp overnight.  I wouldn't recommend a long stay, but we found a little road off up a gentle embankment with a killer view. There were many others we would have gladly stayed at too.  We are pulling a 17-ft travel trailer but some of the spots are wide and broad and would fit a much larger rig.

    No-one but a masochist would drive along Route 15 at night (slow, steep, winding) and so there was zero car noise all night.  This would be true for any of the pullouts, so even though you're close to the road, there aren't any cars so it doesn't matter much.  No cell service, but there isn't cell service anywhere in the area, even in Gila Hot Springs.

    We drove to the cliff dwellings in the morning, took a leisurely 20-30 minutes.

  • Adam R.
    Camper-submitted photo from Luna Rodeo Grounds Dispersed Camping
    Sep. 10, 2018

    Luna Rodeo Grounds Dispersed Camping

    Luna New Mexico Rodeo Camping

    Every year my wife and I attend the Luna New Mexico Rodeo. This is one of our favorite places to visit, it always rains when we are there but this could not dampen our fun! the camping is dispersed and first come first serve. We suggest you pick a high spot! Although we camp during the rodeo weekend, there is no reason you cant camp other times of the year. Surrounded by towering pine and waking up to the fresh smell of wet camp fires mixed with the pine is an unforgettable memory.

    Trees are too far apart for Hammocks

    There are plenty of hiking and UTV trails nearby

    Facilities:

    No fire rings or BBQ pits.

    Restrooms are available and running water near the Rodeo arena.



Guide to Reserve

Camping near Reserve, New Mexico, offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes and peaceful retreats. Whether you're looking to stargaze or hike, this area has something for everyone.

What to do

  • Stargazing: The Cosmic Campground is known for its incredible night sky views. One camper said, "What amazing 360 views of the sky. You feel like you are in a globe."
  • Hiking: Explore the trails around Apache Creek Campground. A visitor mentioned, "The hiking in the national forest was fabulous and this was a good base to get to hikes from."
  • Fishing: If you enjoy fishing, head to Big Lake Campground. One reviewer shared, "The scenery is beautiful. The weather was beautiful and the fishing was good."

What campers like

  • Peaceful Environment: Campers appreciate the tranquility at Head Of The Ditch Campground. One visitor noted, "Only one other family here, and we only saw them when hiking towards them. Cool and in the trees!"
  • Clean Facilities: Many campers rave about the cleanliness of the sites. A review for Apache Creek Campground stated, "Large camping sites, clean campgrounds and restroom."
  • Free Camping: The opportunity to camp for free is a big draw. A camper at Forks Campground said, "This campground is really nice for being free."

What you should know

  • Limited Amenities: Many campgrounds, like Gila Hot Springs Campground, have few amenities. One camper mentioned, "The campground itself is nice enough, but the owners are downright rude and creepy."
  • No Cell Service: Be prepared for no cell service in most areas. A visitor at Cosmic Campground warned, "No AT&T service for 30 mins from East and for over an hour from west."
  • First-Come, First-Serve: Many sites operate on a first-come, first-serve basis. A camper at Upper Scorpion Campground noted, "There is also the lower scorpion campsite, plus a few others along the way."

Tips for camping with families

  • Bring Extra Supplies: Since some campgrounds, like El Caso, have limited resources, make sure to pack enough food and water. A camper advised, "Make sure to bring toilet paper."
  • Plan for Weather: Nights can get chilly, especially at places like Apache Creek Campground. One visitor said, "Cool in morning and evening but plenty of wood around to collect."
  • Engage in Activities: Look for campgrounds with nearby activities. A family at Big Lake Campground enjoyed fishing and hiking, saying, "Great place to disconnect from life for a while."

Tips from RVers

  • Check Road Conditions: Some campgrounds, like Forks Campground, may have tricky access roads. A camper mentioned, "I don't recommend towing something this big to this area, but it can be done safely."
  • Look for Spacious Sites: RVers appreciate campgrounds with ample space. A review for Springerville RV Park noted, "The spots are big and spread out."
  • Be Prepared for Limited Services: Many campgrounds lack full services. A visitor at Rolfe C. Hoyer Campground said, "There is no trash service up there, so prepare to pack out all trash."

Camping near Reserve, New Mexico, offers a mix of adventure and relaxation. With stunning views and a variety of activities, it’s a great spot for families and RVers alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Reserve, NM is Luna Rodeo Grounds Dispersed Camping with a 5-star rating from 1 review.

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

    TheDyrt.com has all 7 dispersed camping locations near Reserve, NM, with real photos and reviews from campers.