Are you in need of a campground near Shiprock, NM? Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Shiprock campgrounds just for you. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Shiprock, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.
"Good showers, some of the camp sites have decent WiFi connection, fairly quiet, and wildlife (deer and prairie dogs) in camp side. Toilets not the best, lots of wasps"
"I'm not sure what the hook-up situation is for campers. We were able to enjoy cool evening walks; where we would often spot deer."
"Maybe a little pricey but we were running out of daylight - the staff were really nice and the park is quiet even though it's near a main road. Bathrooms were nice!"
"We got our permit at the nearby BLM office. The sand/gravel road to the Campground is decent, but almost got stuck in soft spots in our 21' motor home."
"We drove up Hwy 491 from I40 and were surprised there were no sites all the way up to Farmington or Shiprock. We chose this site but got there when it was already dark."
"This is BLM Land outside of Mesa Verde National Park. Has quite a few different sites that are all free and have fairly easy access to."
"This was such a nice spot super close to Mesa Verde national park. It was about a 5 minute drive from the park entrance."
"They even had Easter candy and eggs in the office and outside the door for the kiddos. They directed us to our site which was located just behind the teepees."
"This campground has an updated playground, heated (seasonal) swimming pool, a 1-mile walking trail, dog park, and even tepees in addition to cabins for overnight camping."
"This rv park is right next to the entrance to mesa verde. It was a nice park and showers were included! There’s also a pool and mini golf if you’re interested in that."
"Our back-side neighbors had to move their picnic table back in order to accommodate our driver-side slide (the distance between our extended slide and their trailer is about 8 feet."
TravelerOvernighted, no one but me. Gorgeous view of Sleeping Ute, beautiful sunset vista. Great spot to pitch tent. Someone had built a tall stone fire out which was perfect as a kitchen counter for my jet boil! Roads a little rough and rocky at start but gets better after 1/2 mile or so. I did my first ever wilderness drone try. Would recommend pretty good, high clearance vehicle. Would be dicey in rain
ScoutStaff and owner have been very helpful. This is a basic campground with simple amenities, but it’s clean and maintained. It’s very convenient to Bisti hiking. This is our third stay here.
ScoutDropped in on the spur of moment, and the staff did everything possible to find the right spot for my needs.
GuideQuiet semi remote site with views of the San Juan Valley. Close to the quality fishing waters of the world famous San Juan river.
RangerHad a great couple days here. Lots of sites. Campground loops have flush toilets and water, as well as WiFi modems. There are central free showers and coin-operated laundry. There are several shops and restaurants throughout the park. Great historical sites! The campground has lots of mule deer roaming thru in the morning and evening. Many sites do not have much shade.
TravelerThis is a nice park. A little dated. The pull through spaced had 30/50 amp hook ups. Water and sewer. Our 41’ Montana’s 5 slides fit but the spaces (and trees) prevented us from opening our awning. The picnic table and fire pit were adequate but no open burning was permitted during our stay due to fire conditions . We didn’t use either showers or laundry. We had a problem with our truck and the manager was able to extend our stay by a day on short notice — also recommended a local diesel shop in Cortez. Great view of the Mesa and noise from the highway was not too bad. We would stay here again if in the area.
ScoutOur one night stay here on a holiday weekend was great! Very peaceful. Everything is well organized. Each camp site is numbered. It's just like a paid campground but without toilets and water. So bring your own. Enjoy
ScoutJust off the road, awesome view and nice camp sites.
ScoutVery nice place. Lots of good options and tent camping is choose yourself. Flushing toilets, free showers, and a coin laundry on-site along with a place for breakfast and a general store. Would stay again if in the area.
Camping near Shiprock, New Mexico, offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are several campgrounds that cater to different needs and preferences.
Camping near Shiprock, New Mexico, provides a mix of adventure and relaxation. With various campgrounds to choose from, you can find the perfect spot for your next outdoor getaway.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find camping spots near Shiprock, New Mexico?
Several excellent camping options exist within driving distance of Shiprock. Brown Springs Campground is located off Highway 491, about 3 miles down a dirt road, and offers shaded picnic sites with level parking spots. For those seeking dispersed camping with breathtaking views, Angel Peak NM Badlands provides stunning vistas of the New Mexico Badlands about 6 miles down a gravel road. Other nearby options include Homestead RV Park near Kirtland for those wanting amenities like water and toilets, or Chutes and Ladders dispersed camping with 15 designated sites accessible from Highway 160. Most campsites in the region require driving on dirt or gravel roads, so check conditions before heading out, especially in wet weather.
What permits or regulations apply to camping around Shiprock, NM?
When camping near Shiprock, permit requirements vary by location. For Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness Area, no permits are required for dispersed camping, but you must follow wilderness regulations including Leave No Trace principles. The area has a pit toilet at the parking lot, but bring your own toilet paper. For BLM-managed lands like Dunes OHV Area, camping is generally allowed for up to 14 days. Some campgrounds require permits obtained from local BLM offices, so check ahead. Much of the land around Shiprock itself is part of the Navajo Nation, where camping requires special permits from tribal authorities. Always verify current regulations before your trip, as rules can change seasonally and may include fire restrictions during dry periods.
What is the best time of year to camp near Shiprock?
Spring and fall offer the most pleasant camping conditions near Shiprock. The New Mexico desert experiences extreme temperature variations, with summer days often exceeding 90°F. At Alien Run Trailhead Basecamp, spring provides moderate temperatures ideal for outdoor activities. Moore's RV Park & Campground offers shade trees that provide relief during hot months, but summer campers should prepare for intense sun and heat. Late April through early June and September through October generally offer the most comfortable temperatures. Winter brings cold nights, sometimes below freezing, but days can be mild. Monsoon season (July-August) brings afternoon thunderstorms that can make dirt roads impassable, so check weather forecasts and road conditions before your trip during these months.
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