Looking for the best campgrounds near Rodeo, NM? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that New Mexico camping has to offer. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Rodeo, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.
"From chiricahua entrance head on FSR 42. A mile or two in many many sites along dry creek in the trees. Some Otv and motorcycle activity during day. We stayed only 15 minutes from monument."
"There are a few dispersed spots along FS 42, just past the research station. There are two on the left, before the cattle guard, and one on the right, just past the cattle guard."
"This spot is about a tenth of a mile off the highway. I walked the road because of past reviews."
"First off do not use Google maps. It will not take you to the right place. Use the built-in location found in DYRT."
"If the campground at the national monument is full, head up Piney Canyon Rd. and you will find a number of free spots for both tent camping and RV’s just off the main road inside the boundary of the national"
"Your best bet if you are looking to visit Chiricahua National Monument and Bonita is full. This is the closest in proximity from what I could tell."
"The drive up is beautiful, the road isn’t maintained, but in pretty good condition. I stopped right after the cattle guard. There is another site going up about .5 mile in the left."
"Turkey creek flows right next to the campground and offers fantastic hikes along it's banks. There are multiple small waterfalls and pools to splash in."
"This dispersed campground is on the Pinery Scenic Route#42 on an all dirt road just before the incline up the mountain. It is a large campsite that can hold a group if necessary."
"BLM ranger and other law enforcement drove up the road about once per day, which was nice. "
"Popular boondocking site 8 miles south of I-10 ar Bowie. Easy to find, level dirt road with only a bit of washboard in places. Pit toiletat the day use area."
"Not to far from highway. Road is good for all vehicles except maybe the last few spots which need a 4x4 and high clearance. Only a few spots for bigger rigs though. Nice views of the mountains."
"They haven’t bothered me but just want to make sure you’re aware they’re around and could be in the road. It’s gorgeous out here and plenty of space if you keep going in."
"Playa Dispersed Campsite is a hidden gem located in the stunning landscapes of Arizona."
"Wide open skies, peaceful surroundings, and incredible sunrises made for a perfect desert camping experience."
"This is just a gravel and dirt parking lot at the trailhead for the bird sanctuary. It has several large water holes when it rains."
LegendIf the campground at the national monument is full, head up Piney Canyon Rd. and you will find a number of free spots for both tent camping and RV’s just off the main road inside the boundary of the national forest. Most sites are tree covered, but we found one with an open sunny space for our solar panel. Our site was right next to a very clean flowing stream, which provided not only a nice soundtrack but also a filterable water source. Most of the sites seemed to have established fire pits, with ours being the monster of all fire pits we’ve ever seen. These are dispersed sites, so no potable water, picnic tables, or toilets are available, so come prepared with what you need to be comfortable. Also note that the road into the forest is not maintained well and is full of washboards for about a mile or so, and many washes cross this road, so pay close attention to rain in the forecast as you could get stuck on the other side of one of these washes for an indefinite period of time.
The closest grocery store and gas station is in Willcox, which is about 40 minutes away. There are also a number of wineries in the area, as this is 1 of the 3 Arizona wine regions.
Note: There is no cell service anywhere along this road, your best bet for an LTE connection is at the top of the monument’s road (Sugarloaf Mountain or Echo Canyon parking lots) or the guest wifi network at the visitor’s center.
RangerThis spot is about a tenth of a mile off the highway. I walked the road because of past reviews. The road in is soft and there is one spot that you need a high clearance vehicle for or are able to maneuver around some rocks. Otherwise it’s super easy to get to. There’s probably space for five or six rigs here. Great views.
LegendThis site is relatively easy to get to, considering how remote and alone and quiet it feels once here. We found a nice spot at 32.2437301, -109.5120963 in our 26 ft class C. Some sketchy parts of the road, rocky and narrow with some dips, but it can be done if you're careful.
BLM ranger and other law enforcement drove up the road about once per day, which was nice.
Drive through Bowie to get to Apache Pass Rd then a left on Happy Camp Canyon dirt road which is wide and flat but washboarded. Once you get to the recreation area, there is a picnic spot with tables and toilet but no camping is allowed in that area, you'll have to keep driving a bit further. There were a lot of campers when we stayed but we found a nice spot right off the dirt road with amazing views. Heard some gun shooting going on the first day but none following that. There are open range cattle roaming around so give them space and keep your animals leashed. On a hike one was walking right up to us so be aware.There were times on our hikes where you turn a corner and there are a few just standing there. The brush is high enough to hide some too so keep an eye out. This is BLM so the camping is FREE there is however a private property further up the dirt road (property is gated and fenced off). Spots are adequate for tents, smaller RVs or trailers.
Good place to hike, scramble up the rocks or mountain bike.
Good verizon and AT&T reception.
GuideThis dispersed campground is on the Pinery Scenic Route#42 on an all dirt road just before the incline up the mountain. It is a large campsite that can hold a group if necessary. There are no facilities or drinking water but there was a large fire ring available. You are tucked on the side of a hill and covered by trees for a nice shady spot to camp.
TravelerYour best bet if you are looking to visit Chiricahua National Monument and Bonita is full. This is the closest in proximity from what I could tell. Obviously no bathrooms, but Chiricahua visitor center does have a bathroom. It’s not practical for every bathroom use, but maybe worth it to poop 😅 otherwise, good dispersed sites. They don’t start for a mile or two after entering Coronado NF. Sites on the right side of the road tend to have more shade then on the left. Sites have rock fire pits and good shade. We heard turkeys, had a nightly skunk visitor who was pretty un-afraid of humans and definitely was looking for food. We locked food in covered truck bed to prevent too many visitors.
GuideSo if you are into rocks this really is a great place to check out. Be prepared as the drive in is difficult and long. Larger RVs are not recommended as the road has many steep washouts and ruts. The main dirt road leading into the area has bad washboard bumps. There is also an active cattle ranch in the area so be careful with any pets. You’ll find a logbook on the way in. Once there you’ll find plenty of places to park but don’t count on it being level. There are also lots of sharp rocks so watch your tires. There are no facilities here. The views are amazing especially at night. The wind never did stop. You got to really like rocks!
GuidePopular boondocking site 8 miles south of I-10 ar Bowie. Easy to find, level dirt road with only a bit of washboard in places. Pit toiletat the day use area. Beautiful views of the giant bolders that are prevalent in this area. There were 12-15 RVs of all types spread out widely along a single dirt road. I had 3 solid bars of AT&T. Very quiet at night. There is no light pollution so stargazing would have been awesome if not for the waxing moon. Enjoyed hiking around the area. Be careful as some of the cactus will scratch you badly if you're not careful. Only con was there was no toilet paper in the pit toilet. Recommend!
GuideNot to far from highway. Road is good for all vehicles except maybe the last few spots which need a 4x4 and high clearance. Only a few spots for bigger rigs though. Nice views of the mountains. There is 1 vault toilet.
GuideNice BLM camping location. Happy Camp Road is well maintained. Although it is a dirt road I’ve towed my trailer on much worse. Hiking is plentiful. I didn’t drive too far away from entrance as it seemed a little dicey for my trailer. Near the entrance there is about 5 or 6 spots that would work for larger rigs. I took one star off for the flies. I guess they can’t be helped since this is free range BLM.
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Rodeo, New Mexico, where you can immerse yourself in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. This area offers a variety of spots that cater to different camping styles, from serene hideaways to more accessible locations.
Frequently Asked Questions
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Rodeo, NM is FS Road 42 Dispersed with a 5-star rating from 2 reviews.
TheDyrt.com has all 12 dispersed camping locations near Rodeo, NM, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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