Top Free Dispersed Camping near Santa Fe National Forest

Looking for the best Santa Fe National Forest dispersed camping? Here you'll find a diverse selection of places to camp, including remote dispersed camping to boondocking, and everything in-between. From secluded to easily reachable, we offer dispersed campsites near Santa Fe National Forest just for you.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Santa Fe National Forest, NM (40)

    Camper-submitted photo from Sante Fe National Forest BLM-Road 62 Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Sante Fe National Forest BLM-Road 62 Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Sante Fe National Forest BLM-Road 62 Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Sante Fe National Forest BLM-Road 62 Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Sante Fe National Forest BLM-Road 62 Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Sante Fe National Forest BLM-Road 62 Dispersed

    1.

    Sante Fe National Forest BLM-Road 62 Dispersed

    38 Reviews
    81 Photos
    487 Saves
    Santa Fe, New Mexico

    Welcome to the Sante Fe National Forest BLM-Road 62 Dispersed camping area in New Mexico. This spot is perfect for those who enjoy a more rugged, no-frills camping experience. It's a large area with plenty of space to set up camp wherever you can get your vehicle. The main roads are in decent shape, but the side roads can be a bit rough, so be prepared for some bumps.

    One of the standout features here is the sheer openness and the beautiful views of the surrounding area. Sunrises and sunsets are particularly stunning, making it a great place for photography or just soaking in the natural beauty. Despite being close to a landfill, you won't notice any smell or garbage, which is a pleasant surprise.

    There are no hookups or running water, so come prepared with your own supplies. The only amenity you'll find is a vault toilet near the entrance. Fires are allowed, so you can enjoy a campfire under the stars, but you'll need to bring your own firewood.

    Pets are welcome, but keep in mind that not everyone keeps their dogs on a leash, so if you're bringing your furry friend, be prepared for some canine visitors. The area is also popular for activities like hiking and shooting, so it can get a bit noisy at times.

    Overall, if you're looking for a free, spacious, and scenic spot near Santa Fe, this dispersed camping area is a solid choice. Just remember to pack out all your trash and leave the place better than you found it. Enjoy your stay!

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Dispersed
    • Toilets
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Santa Fe BLM Dispersed Campsite
    Camper-submitted photo from Santa Fe BLM Dispersed Campsite
    Camper-submitted photo from Santa Fe BLM Dispersed Campsite
    Camper-submitted photo from Santa Fe BLM Dispersed Campsite
    Camper-submitted photo from Santa Fe BLM Dispersed Campsite
    Camper-submitted photo from Santa Fe BLM Dispersed Campsite

    2.

    Santa Fe BLM Dispersed Campsite

    18 Reviews
    24 Photos
    265 Saves
    Santa Fe, New Mexico

    Santa Fe BLM is a solid spot for those looking to camp near Santa Fe, NM without spending a dime. This area offers a mix of tent and RV accommodations, making it a versatile choice for different types of campers. The landscape is mostly flat with dirt roads that are accessible for most vehicles, so getting around shouldn't be a hassle.

    One of the standout features here is the sheer amount of space. Even though you might have neighbors, you won't feel crammed in. There's plenty of room to spread out and find a bit of privacy among the trees and bushes. The views are pretty great too, with some stunning sunsets and a clear night sky perfect for stargazing.

    While the campground doesn't offer amenities like drinking water or electric hookups, it does have vault toilets, which are a nice convenience. Fires are allowed, and there are some fire pits already set up, so you can enjoy a cozy campfire. Just remember to bring your own firewood since it's not provided.

    The proximity to Santa Fe is a big plus. It's easy to pop into town if you need supplies or just want to explore. Some campers have mentioned that the roads are in good condition, making the drive to and from the city a breeze.

    Overall, Santa Fe BLM is a great choice if you're looking for a free, spacious camping area with beautiful views and easy access to Santa Fe. Just be prepared for the basics and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo from Pajarito Springs (Dispersed)
    Camper-submitted photo from Pajarito Springs (Dispersed)
    Camper-submitted photo from Pajarito Springs (Dispersed)
    Camper-submitted photo from Pajarito Springs (Dispersed)
    Camper-submitted photo from Pajarito Springs (Dispersed)
    Camper-submitted photo from Pajarito Springs (Dispersed)
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed on 4 - Fenton Lake State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed on 4 - Fenton Lake State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed on 4 - Fenton Lake State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed on 4 - Fenton Lake State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed on 4 - Fenton Lake State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed on 4 - Fenton Lake State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Caja Del Rio Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Caja Del Rio Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Caja Del Rio Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Caja Del Rio Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Caja Del Rio Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Caja Del Rio Dispersed Camping

    5.

    Caja Del Rio Dispersed Camping

    7 Reviews
    21 Photos
    95 Saves
    Santa Fe, New Mexico

    The Caja del Rio area is a lower elevation and drier section of the Santa Fe National Forest. This is mainly a Piñon-Juniper dominated vegetation zone with areas of sage and mixed grasses. It is often open for recreational opportunities when the rest of the Forest is snowed over. Watch for seasonal road closures due to wet and very muddy roads. It is another good area for solitude and lesser travelled trails.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • Dispersed
    • Toilets
    Camper-submitted photo from Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site

    6.

    Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site

    14 Reviews
    43 Photos
    255 Saves
    Placitas, New Mexico

    Welcome to the Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site, a hidden gem near Albuquerque, NM. This spot is perfect for those who love a bit of adventure and don't mind roughing it. The area is wide open, offering stunning views, especially at sunset. You might even catch a glimpse of wild horses roaming around, which adds a magical touch to your stay.

    Getting here can be a bit tricky. You'll need to navigate through a residential area and find your way up a winding road. But once you arrive, you'll be rewarded with a vast, open space where you can set up camp pretty much anywhere. Just be mindful of the fragile vegetation and stick to existing paths to help preserve the natural beauty.

    One thing to note: it's windy up here. Almost every visitor mentions it, so come prepared. The wind can be a bit of a challenge, but it also keeps things cool during the day. And trust me, the sunsets are worth it. They're absolutely breathtaking.

    There are no amenities like toilets, showers, or drinking water, so you'll need to bring everything you need and pack out all your trash. Fires are allowed, but given the dry conditions, it's best to be cautious and maybe skip the campfire altogether.

    Pets are welcome, but keep them leashed or under voice command. The area is popular with local walkers, and no one wants a surprise encounter with an unleashed dog.

    In short, if you're looking for a peaceful, scenic spot with a touch of wild, this is the place for you. Just come prepared, respect the land, and enjoy the incredible views.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Group
    • Equestrian
    Camper-submitted photo from FR376 Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from FR376 Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from FR376 Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from FR376 Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from FR376 Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from FR376 Dispersed

    7.

    FR376 Dispersed

    5 Reviews
    30 Photos
    137 Saves
    Jemez Springs, New Mexico

    Primitive camping is allowed almost anywhere on the Santa Fe National Forest unless otherwise posted. These areas generally do not offer any amenities although occasionally you will find a toilet building or a picnic table and grill. Please keep your campsite at least 100 feet from streams and lakes, including riverbanks or areas next to bodies of water. This will help preserve the health of the riparian area and protect sensitive animals and plants found here.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    Camper-submitted photo from American Springs
    Camper-submitted photo from American Springs
    Camper-submitted photo from American Springs
    Camper-submitted photo from American Springs
    Camper-submitted photo from American Springs
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM Orilla Verde Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM Orilla Verde Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM Orilla Verde Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM Orilla Verde Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM Orilla Verde Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM Orilla Verde Recreation Area

    9.

    BLM Orilla Verde Recreation Area

    8 Reviews
    10 Photos
    290 Saves
    Carson, New Mexico

    The Orilla Verde Recreation Area is located within the Rio Grande Del Norte National Monument and along the Rio Grande Wild and Scenic River. Nestled along the banks of the Rio Grande and within the steep-walled Rio Grande Gorge, the campgrounds in this area offer nearby access to the river. The elevation along the river is 6,100 feet and the steep canyon rises 800 feet from the river to the Gorge rim.

    Because of the dramatic changes in elevation and the diversity of plant life, Orilla Verde draws many species of animals, including raptors (such as eagles and hawks), songbirds, waterfowl, beaver, cougar, ringtail, mule deer, and more. The Rio Grande also has attracted humans since prehistoric times. Evidence of ancient peoples is found throughout the Recreation Area in the form of petroglyphs on the rocks and many other types of archaeological sites.

    The climate at Orilla Verde is semi-arid, with summer thunderstorms common in July and August, and snow possible from October through March. Summer temperatures range from 45 to 90 degrees, and winter temperatures range from -15 to 45 degrees

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Dispersed

    $5 - $15 / night

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Santa Fe National Forest?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Santa Fe National Forest is Sante Fe National Forest BLM-Road 62 Dispersed with a 4.2-star rating from 38 reviews.

    What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Santa Fe National Forest?

    TheDyrt.com has all 40 dispersed camping locations near Santa Fe National Forest, with real photos and reviews from campers.