Primitive camping near San Fidel, New Mexico offers solitary experiences within the high desert landscape at approximately 6,500 feet elevation. The area experiences dramatic temperature changes between day and night, with summer highs reaching 90°F and nighttime temperatures dropping to the 40s even in summer months. Most dispersed sites sit on piñon-juniper woodland terrain with volcanic outcroppings that create natural windbreaks for campers.
What to do
Hiking access: The Continental Divide Trail passes near Forest Service Road Large Camp, providing direct trail access for day hikes or extended backpacking. "This spot is fairly wide open spacious, right off the Continental Divide Trail, and has two fire rings," notes reviewer Mike V.
Mountain biking: The White Ridge Bike Trails system can be accessed near BLM dispersed camping / Zia Pueblo area. "Nearby are also some hiking and biking trails," mentions reviewer muj V. The trail system includes intermediate to advanced singletrack routes through desert terrain.
Wildlife observation: Free-roaming cattle are common throughout the region, particularly in the BLM areas. "There are free roaming cattle in the area that can get quite close at times. They were not the slightest phased by the shooting just yards from them," reports Laura M.
What campers like
Natural windbreaks: Camel Head Camp offers protection from the high desert winds due to its positioning. Drew T. describes it as a "Great little spot for a short night stay on NMBDR. Tucked into the ledge."
Spacious sites: Many primitive camping areas near San Fidel offer considerable space between campsites. Forest Service Road Large Camp features ample room for multiple tents and vehicles. Mike V. noted the location is "fairly wide open spacious" with established fire rings.
Solitude options: For those seeking true isolation, the deeper sections of BLM land provide remote camping. According to muj V., "The area is big and has a selection of camp sites / flat areas to choose from," allowing campers to find more secluded spots away from potential noise.
What you should know
Road conditions: The dirt access roads to primitive camping spots near San Fidel can be challenging. The route to Ignacio Chavez SMA Dispersed camping requires high-clearance vehicles. BLM land near Zia Pueblo features particularly difficult roads. "The dirt road from highway 550 is all washboard for miles and miles," cautions Laura M.
Shooting activity: Recreational shooting is common on BLM land near Zia Pueblo and can affect the camping experience. Luke M. reports, "Woke up by gunfire at 3am. We knew full well to expect some gunfire at dawn but 3am was a little too early."
Reservation boundaries: Access to many dispersed camping areas requires passing through reservation lands. When driving to BLM areas near Zia Pueblo, Laura M. advises, "You go through Zia Reservation land to get to this area so pay attention to the signs."
Weather preparedness: The high desert experiences rapid weather changes. Summer thunderstorms develop quickly, and Drew T. notes Camel Head Camp could be "a mess in a rain storm" despite being a "wonderful spot to disperse camp."
Tips for camping with families
Location selection: For family camping, choose areas farther from known shooting zones. The Forest Service Road camps along FSR 456 and 239 generally offer quieter environments compared to BLM lands near Zia Pueblo.
Water planning: No water sources exist at any primitive camping locations near San Fidel. Families should pack 1 gallon per person per day, plus additional water for cooking and cleaning.
Wildlife awareness: Beyond cattle, the area contains rattlesnakes and scorpions during warmer months. Check shoes and gear in the morning, especially when camping with children at BLM dispersed camping / Zia Pueblo. Luke M. mentioned encountering wildlife: "cows marched through our site at one point waking us up."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for RVs: The primitive sites near San Fidel have no designated RV pads or hookups. Smaller travel trailers and camper vans can access Forest Service Road Large Camp via FSR 456, but the roads deteriorate after turning onto FSR 239.
Leveling challenges: Most dispersed sites in this region have uneven terrain. Bring leveling blocks and plan to scout potential sites before attempting to position an RV or trailer.
Waste management: With no dump stations in the immediate area, RVers must plan trips to Grants or Albuquerque for proper waste disposal. The White Ridge Bike Trails parking area has "a large dumpster" according to Laura M., but no other facilities.
