Best Dispersed Camping near Ruidoso Downs, NM

Searching for the best camping near Ruidoso Downs, NM? Ruidoso Downs is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Find the best campgrounds near Ruidoso Downs, NM. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Ruidoso Downs, New Mexico (22)

    1. Upper Bonito Dispersed Recreation Area

    4 Reviews
    Nogal, NM
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 257-4095

    "A lot of dispersed camping areas don't have toilets, but this one does.

    Lots of first come first served campsites along the little creek. Not much privacy when it's busier (warmer months)."

    "We had a great night drove through the entire area and off roads to find a nice quiet area we had our son and two big doggos and had plenty of space for them to roam."

    2. West Mesa Trailhead BLM Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    Capitan, NM
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 244-4605

    "Easy to find and not a rough drive. I saw several dirt pull offs surrounded by trees before parking. This was a very private remote area in the forest."

    "But I rode my bike all over the place and there's dispersed camping everywhere. Good cell phone service. I plan on staying for a full week and working from here."

    3. Forest Road 568 - Dispersed Camping

    14 Reviews
    Cloudcroft, NM
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 682-2551

    "You can get as far away from main roads as you need. There are infinite spots on this road. It’s quite long and the road conditions aren’t all that bad, so anyone can access it."

    "04/15/22 service road 568, Lincoln National Forest, NM

    Friday night/Good Friday

    I found this camp on a suggestion from a local waitress at Big Daddy’s."

    4. Guebara Tank Camp

    1 Review
    Nogal, NM
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 257-4095

    "Not to many trees that are tall so u get cover but not complete seclusion but enof to where it’s enjoyable and u see the sky at nights so path ways are very down sloap if ur in a car know how to drive"

    7. Forest Rd 568 Dispersed

    7 Reviews
    Cloudcroft, NM
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 682-2551

    "You can get as far away from main roads as you need. There are infinite spots on this road. It’s quite long and the road conditions aren’t all that bad, so anyone can access it."

    "This was a beautiful location, near the town of Cloudcroft. We enjoyed the cooler weather up in the mountains. It was peaceful and quite. There were not very many spaces available."

    8. Raptor Lake Dispersed / Holloman Lake

    48 Reviews
    Holloman Air Force Base, NM
    48 miles
    Website

    "There are no amenities here, and surprisingly there was no trash at all. There is a gravel road off the highway that leads into the campground."

    "1990 Winnebago Chieftain towing a '95 Wrangler from LA > FL

    Got here late last night driving from Albuquerque and since it's essentially just all dirt/shrub, you're able to park wherever you can (just"

    10. Bluff Springs Dispersed Camping

    16 Reviews
    Sunspot, NM
    36 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 682-7570

    "Dispersed camping along the bluff spring stream. A ton of campsites, and easy access to bluff spring and a trail complex. High clearance vehicle recommended, pretty packed in the summer months."

    "This is a quiet area tucked away in Lincoln National Forest. It's not too far from Cloudcroft, NM so it's easy to resupply on water, snack, etc."

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Ruidoso Downs, NM

116 Reviews of 22 Ruidoso Downs Campgrounds



Guide to Ruidoso Downs

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Ruidoso Downs, New Mexico, where nature offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle. With a variety of locations to choose from, outdoor enthusiasts can find the perfect spot to unwind and explore.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Ruidoso Downs

  • Enjoy hiking in the nearby trails, such as those accessible from Upper Bonito Dispersed Recreation Area, which offers plenty of space for both pets and families to roam.
  • Experience the thrill of horseback riding during the summer months at Guebara Tank Camp, where equestrian camps provide guided trail rides through stunning landscapes.
  • Take advantage of the peaceful surroundings at Forest Road 568 - Dispersed Camping, where wildlife sightings are common, making it a great spot for nature photography.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Ruidoso Downs, New Mexico

  • Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially on weekends, as areas like West Mesa Trailhead BLM Dispersed can get busy during peak times.
  • Be prepared for limited amenities; for instance, Bailey Canyon offers no toilets or trash services, so plan to pack out what you bring in.
  • Check road conditions before heading out, as some areas like End of Cedar Creek Road may have rough terrain that requires a vehicle with good clearance.

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Upper Bonito Dispersed Recreation Area

  • This location is well-reviewed for its spaciousness and proximity to trails, making it ideal for families and those with pets looking to explore the outdoors.
  • While it lacks amenities like drinking water and electric hookups, the natural beauty and quiet atmosphere more than make up for it, as noted by visitors who enjoyed their time there.
  • The area is also a great base for hiking adventures, with trails leading to some of the best scenic views around Ruidoso, ensuring an unforgettable camping experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Ruidoso Downs, NM?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Ruidoso Downs, NM is Upper Bonito Dispersed Recreation Area with a 4.3-star rating from 4 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Ruidoso Downs, NM?

TheDyrt.com has all 22 dispersed camping locations near Ruidoso Downs, NM, with real photos and reviews from campers.