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.
"These dispersed campsites were recommended to us and they did not disappoint! Secluded dry camping spots with great views of the monuments."
"This is a good free spot near Mesa Verde, but if it is closed check out the many BLM spots on road 316 off the highway, barely West of Target Tree Campground slightly East of Mancos."
"Could do it in a non 4wd non high clearance, but wouldn’t recommend beyond the 4.5 mark."
"Madden Peak dispersed camping is a fantastic option for those seeking a peaceful and scenic camping experience near Mesa Verde National Park, Cortez, and Durango."
"This is a good free spot near Mesa Verde, but if it is closed check out the many BLM spots on road 316 off the highway, barely West of Target Tree Campground slightly East of Mancos."
"This campsite is right outside of Mesa Verde and is easy to locate. Campsites are located along a dirt road and they are clearly marked."
"Close to Hwy 160, so easy to access. Campsite access road ok, rutted abit in some places from prior mud which has since dried."
"Some are to steep for a camper, but perfect for truck or van camping. We got to our spot around 4pm and by the time we were set up and heading into town for stuff all the spots were taken."
"For iPhone users use google maps. Or it will take you to a dead end private road. This site is also two other names on here also! The chutes and ladder one and also the mesa verde dispersed!"
"Great view of the mesa, easy access, plenty of firewood on the ground, not crowded, and clean campsites"
"We got to town late and our preferred spots were all taken, so we came here as a backup. The spots are all right off of the road and easy to get to. The views aren’t much, but they’re good spots."
"Big spaces easy access for larger campers very peaceful"
"You can set up shop right on the outskirts of the parking lot on the flat ground or in the nearby canyons or turnoffs on the road to get the the parking lot. "
"This free campground positioned us well to beat the heat and hike through the badlands first thing in the morning!"
"Covered picknick tables and good pit toilets.
I left my tent up while visiting Chaco. "
"Just arrived at Angel Peak dispersed campground near Bloomfield NM. It's Monday July 9th 2024. We stayed one night. The gravel road from HWY 550 is in good shape."
"A little difficult to find the turn off when arriving at night but a fun bumpy road down to the bluff. Beautiful river view when you awake in the morning."
"Lots of space to choose from with no amenities good views of sunrise and san juan river, recommend a somewhat off road capable vehicle for this area."
LegendThis campground is more like a parking lot with extended canyons for camping. You can set up shop right on the outskirts of the parking lot on the flat ground or in the nearby canyons or turnoffs on the road to get the the parking lot.
There is a pit toilet located there that is really well taken care of. There is also a picnic shelter for those super hot days when you are in need of shade.
You can also backpack across the wilderness area as well. You will need to check the weather and supply extra water since there is not much shade and no water sources.
For Hiking: We used Gaia GPS to pinpoint our coordinates to the "cool" spots and ended up getting detoured due to really cool formations all over the place. We were like moths to flames. It is such a cool spot and LOTS to see!
Gear review: Banner and Oak Freedom to Explore hat
Occasionally as a Ranger we get the opportunity to test out some gear from time to time. I got this hat for my partner and he wanted to test it out for a while before we reviewed it so we thought this was the perfect opportunity. You can find the hat here: https://bannerandoak.com/collections/hats/products/horizon-olive
This hat is extremely fashionable and comfortable. The color is a perfect Olive with black writing that says "Freedom To Explore". There is a mesh lining on the inner front of the hat that helps with sweat and heat. It also keeps you from getting a line across your forehead when removing the hat. He wore it all day and didn't take it off once for it being too loose or too tight. Even after a week fo wearing it everyday it didn't get that gross sweat smell that normal hats get.
The back of the hat has a buckle closure instead of snaps so it lays nice on the back of your head and doesn't dig in.
GuideOnly free place near Durango in the winter. We called and asked the BLM & Forest Service. Easy access, lots of space. Bumpy access road and highway noise.
TravelerThis free campground positioned us well to beat the heat and hike through the badlands first thing in the morning! Pit toilets available next to the parking lot as well as a pavilion area with tables.
A handful of dispersed sites were available once in the BLM boundaries as well as plenty of space in the trailhead parking lot to spend the night.
The hike to the various features of the badlands are not marked, however good GPS signal allowed us to plug in coordinates to follow during the hike. Land forms looked like they should be from a different planet!
GuideI loved my stay here--absolutely incredible views, not too crowded. Covered picknick tables and good pit toilets.
I left my tent up while visiting Chaco. Some wild weather came through and when I got back my tent had nearly gone over the canyon rim despite being staked down and weighted with my sleeping bag and pad. I'd strongly recommend tying at least one tent line to the shade structure around the picknick table in times of iffy weather.
GuideWe had the goal of exploring New Mexico back country and Bisti, which we did! The Dyrt directions to the trailhead here are perfect. There were a few folks camping at the parking lot and there is a relatively clean pit toilet there though bring TP. We drove past the lot and got over a ditch no problem with our Tacoma. Past the second lot there is dispersed camping. We picked a great spot on the left. Nearby our spot 100 yards were very cool rock formations. We hiked in the badlands and found some neat formations and petrified wood though nothing like the beautiful photos published online. It was still worth it for the unique experience. We did a 6 mile out/back hike with 2 dogs. Flat but hot and windy at times. Some of the wind got intense at our camp spot. All in all this is a worthwhile experience if you like getting off the beaten path and exploring something different. We drove from here to Alien Throne. GPS was spotty but got us there and we had on/off service in Bisti.
TravelerThese dispersed campsites were recommended to us and they did not disappoint! Secluded dry camping spots with great views of the monuments.
GuideNot much to add to the other reviews. Found a great spot with view about 4.0 miles up. The spots get way more secluded and separated as you go up the road. Could do it in a non 4wd non high clearance, but wouldn’t recommend beyond the 4.5 mark.
GuideJust arrived at Angel Peak dispersed campground near Bloomfield NM. It's Monday July 9th 2024. We stayed one night. The gravel road from HWY 550 is in good shape. Only one other camper in the entire area. This is completely dry camping. No potable water nor electricity. However, each site has a fire ring, picnic table and shade shelter. Everything is very tidy. Only a small bit of litter in the fire ring. Clean vault toilet nearby. Strong 5G TMobile cell signal.
ScoutFine, especially when nothing else is available and you need a place to stop for a night. USFS access roads weren’t open for the season yet.
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Shiprock, New Mexico, where you can immerse yourself in stunning landscapes and enjoy the tranquility of nature. This area offers a variety of options for campers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What permits or regulations are required for dispersed camping at Shiprock?
Most dispersed camping near Shiprock is on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land and doesn't require specific permits, though you should always check current regulations before your trip. At Mesa Verde National Park Boundary (BLM Land), camping is generally free with standard BLM dispersed camping rules: camp at least 200 feet from water sources, use existing fire rings when possible, and follow Leave No Trace principles. For Cannonball Mesa, be aware that access may involve crossing private land before reaching BLM territory.
What is the best time of year for dispersed camping at Shiprock?
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the most pleasant conditions for dispersed camping near Shiprock, with moderate temperatures ideal for exploration. Summer brings intense heat, making early morning activities essential, as noted by campers at Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness | Dispersed Camping who planned early hikes to avoid the heat. Winter camping is possible at lower elevation sites like Cherry Creek Gravel Lot, which remains accessible year-round, though prepare for cold nights and potential wind.
Where can I find dispersed camping near Shiprock?
Several dispersed camping options exist near Shiprock. Bisti / De-Na-Zin Wilderness Area offers free camping with a parking lot area and nearby canyons for setting up camp. Pit toilets are available. You can also explore Angel Peak NM Badlands | Dispersed Camping, which features covered picnic tables, pit toilets, and incredible views. Both locations provide good access to the stunning landscapes of northwestern New Mexico and are within driving distance of Shiprock.
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