Dispersed camping opportunities near Rowe, New Mexico extend beyond the established campgrounds into several BLM areas where campers can stay for free with minimal facilities. The region sits at elevations between 6,500-8,500 feet, creating distinct temperature differences between higher mountain sites and lower valley locations. Summer overnight temperatures often drop into the 40s even when daytime highs reach 80 degrees, making layered clothing essential regardless of season.
What to do
Fishing for trout: Holy Ghost Campground provides direct access to excellent fishing spots along the Pecos River. "Plenty of fish for fishing as well," notes Bethany L., who recommends arriving "early, Friday or even Thursday, it does get filled fast."
Hiking to waterfalls: Santa Fe Treehouse Camp offers unique trails with rewarding destinations. "We also did a short hike down to a beautiful little waterfall," shares Danielle P. The camp sits on a mesa with "180 degree views" according to Platinum P., making it ideal for scenic day hikes.
Trail exploration: Black Canyon Campground features a moderate loop trail accessible directly from the camping area. Luke M. explains, "The trail is phenomenal. The incline is quite steep, but the loop is a reasonable length and I've seen families with young children and elderly folks successfully complete the loop."
What campers like
Stargazing: Sante Fe National Forest BLM-Road 62 offers clear night skies away from city lights. Niki S. mentions "some good stars at night" as a highlight of staying at this free dispersed camping area that's only "20 minutes from Santa Fe."
River access: Visitors appreciate Holy Ghost Campground for its creek-side sites. "I prefer camp sites 7 through 10, even the very first site when you first come in since they are right near the river," advises Valeri P., who found the campground always maintained with "clean restrooms."
Natural surroundings: The pine-scented air at Santa Fe Treehouse Camp creates an immediate sensory experience. Teresa notes, "The first thing you notice when you arrive at Santa Fe Treehouse Camp is the wonderful smell of pine in the air. The second thing is the breathtaking views of the mountains."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to many campgrounds requires careful driving on rough roads. Matt P. describes Sante Fe National Forest BLM-Road 62 as "super convenient to Santa Fe" but warns "the area is very dusty." Similarly, Aaron S. cautions about Holy Ghost: "Take it slow and don't tailgate. There is two way traffic on a one lane road."
Limited water availability: Villanueva State Park Campground and other sites often have seasonal water restrictions. Christina S. notes Villanueva has "pit toilets but they were well maintained. A short walk down the hill to the lower campground there were shower and restroom facilities."
Weather variability: Black Canyon Campground sits at high elevation where temperatures fluctuate significantly. Cheryl M. advises, "If you aren't used to elevation, the camp sits up 8400 feet, it'll take a bit more time to do normal activities. This Florida gal had to learn to slow down."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Hyde Memorial State Park Campground offers recreational facilities for children. Katriza L. mentions "a fun playground my kids enjoyed and a nice area at the group shelter. Lots of fun painted rocks my kids found by the stream."
Water play spots: During summer, Villanueva State Park provides safe creek areas for children. Rosa H. recalls, "We went 2017 summer and it was one of the best campgrounds we have been to. We had lots of fun in the creek and hiking the trails."
Affordable options: Campgrounds in the region offer budget-friendly options for families. According to Christina S., Villanueva State Park Campground costs only "$10 for the non-hook up sites" with picnic shelters that Celina M. describes as "wonderful" with "really spacious" campsites.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Santa Fe Skies RV Park, choose sites based on specific needs. Colorado C. advises, "This is the park in Santa Fe for big rigs. Friendly and family owned," noting "beautiful views from the north and west side of the park."
Electric needs: The region has limited full-hookup options. Kristin S. found Santa Fe Skies to be "an excellent spot to stay in the Santa Fe area" but mentioned "the water pressure (not terrible but definitely not great)" as a minor concern.
Leveling challenges: Black Canyon's terrain requires preparation. Cheryl M. warns, "Some sites weren't level, so if you're in a RTT or RV, be sure to have plenty of leveling tools." Reuben adds that their "pad was narrow enough that back in took more than one try" in their 29-foot rig.
