Tent camping near Shiprock, New Mexico requires preparation for significant temperature fluctuations common in this high desert environment. Elevations in the surrounding areas range from 5,500 to 7,000 feet, with summer daytime temperatures often exceeding 90°F while dropping below 60°F at night. Winter camping can be challenging with temperatures frequently falling below freezing from November through March.
What to do
Explore ancient ruins: At Canyons of the Ancients, Sand Canyon, campers can access numerous Pueblo archaeological sites. "We did a 13 mile hike of Pueblo ruins. My partner and I looked for arrowheads all over," reports one visitor who appreciated the historical context of the area.
Stargaze from secluded spots: The remote location at Cannonball Mesa provides exceptional night sky visibility. A camper noted, "Very remote area. Beautiful night sky and peace. The entrance is a gate in a private land, drive about 1 mile to BLM land, mostly dirt roads."
Canyon hiking: Several ravines and small canyons offer hiking opportunities near the dispersed sites. "If you travel down from the camp spots you'll find yourself kind of in a canyon. I like walking it and spending time by myself," writes one camper about their experience exploring the terrain beyond their campsite.
What campers like
Uncrowded camping experience: Many dispersed sites offer solitude despite their accessibility. "Whenever I've been here it's been pretty empty," writes a return visitor to Canyons of the Ancients, highlighting the area's generally low occupancy even during peak seasons.
Variety of terrain: The landscape changes dramatically across relatively short distances. One camper at Forest Road 316 Roadside Camp observed, "Towards the top the landscape changes from piñon pine to an aspen grove so you really get a few different options to fit what you're looking for."
Wildlife viewing: The area supports diverse fauna including deer and elk. "Elk views" was listed as a highlight by one camper, though they noted the challenging access: "Tuff to get in, but made it. Big rocks. Steep."
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Many access routes require appropriate vehicles. "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," writes a camper about their experience finding alternative camping at Cherry Creek Gravel Lot.
Seasonal closures affect access: Winter and early spring typically bring road closures to many dispersed camping areas. "Road is currently closed. Assuming through March like most others in the area," reported a camper attempting to access Forest Road 316 in March.
Environmental considerations: Pack out all trash as improper disposal has impacted some areas. "Clean up the trash if ye find it! I dragged quite a few cans out," writes one environmentally-conscious visitor, highlighting the ongoing need for camper stewardship.
Tips for camping with families
Accessibility concerns: Choose sites based on your vehicle capabilities and family comfort level. "This road can accommodate all kinds of camping. We didn't have to drive very far to find a good spot. Where we camped could fit all size rigs," notes a family who visited Forest Road 316 Roadside Camp.
Noise considerations: Some sites experience animal or traffic noise that might disturb light sleepers. "Lots of good parking spots along the road, all well established spots. Only con is there were a whole bunch of cows, making noise allllllll night long," warns one camper about potential bovine disturbances.
Weather preparation: Wind can be significant in this region, requiring extra tent stakes and setup considerations. "It was VERY windy the night we stayed, so tuck back into the bushes with your tent for some protection," advises an experienced camper.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: Several areas can accommodate RVs despite rough access roads. A visitor to Forest Road 316 Roadside Camp shared, "Big spaces easy access for larger campers very peaceful," confirming the area's suitability for bigger rigs.
Road clearance requirements: Many access roads require sufficient vehicle clearance. "Getting up there was not possible in my Travato (in my opinion). I've got some Falken Wildpeaks so traction was not so much the issue as the uneven path up," reported an RVer attempting to access a site with insufficient clearance.
Generator etiquette: Some campers report disturbances from inconsiderate generator use. "There was one night an inconsiderate person parked his company truck and camper as close to me as was possible with wide open space all over and ran his generator," noted a tent camper sharing space with RVs.
