Best Dispersed Camping near Taos, NM

The landscape around Taos, New Mexico gives dispersed campers plenty of options for setting up away from crowds. You can find remote spots near Taos City Park Campground and Taos Area State Park, but remember these places don't have water or bathrooms—you'll need to bring everything you need. Always follow Leave No Trace practices when camping in these areas. Public land rules require you to camp a certain distance from roads and water. Most sites limit stays to 14 days. Many of the dirt roads leading to good camping spots are rough, so a vehicle with decent clearance helps a lot. The wild camping around Taos tends to be quiet compared to established campgrounds. Make sure to pack out all your trash and supplies when you leave. Check for fire bans before you go, as they're common in dry periods. The Taos Recreation Area has some good backcountry spots too, with the Sangre de Cristo Mountains creating a nice backdrop for camping.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Taos, New Mexico (26)

    1. Arroyo Seco Dispersed NF Camping

    7 Reviews
    Valdez, NM
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 758-6200

    "No amenities except some great river side places.

    Dispersed camping along the road (though it’s not a busy one, especially not at night so not noisy) right on the river."

    "I car-camped here just before Labor Day weekend and while it wasn’t the most private camping area, I was able to snag a spot along the river and had a nice time."

    2. Forest Road 5 - Dispersed campsite

    5 Reviews
    Angel Fire, NM
    13 miles
    Website

    "No facilities. Crick 3x bigger now. Early May. So beautiful."

    "I think it being early-May and the snow melt that's happening makes the camping experience quite unique: the sounds of rushing water, the birds and frogs chirping, and the elk walking through--it's really"

    3. Forest Service 439

    2 Reviews
    Vadito, NM
    10 miles

    "A little stream is near by-- a little shallow and a little mucky on the bottom, but really refreshing. The stars are incredible, also some beautiful views of the mountains from the lower section."

    4. Dispersed Camping Near Taos

    3 Reviews
    Arroyo Hondo, NM
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 758-8851

    "A good dispersed campground with a few spots. Don’t drive to the John dun bridge from Taos use the longer route instead. The switch back road is blocked off now."

    "Dirt road but we did it with no problem with our 24ft trailer."

    5. Rio Fernando de Taos - Forest Rd 5

    2 Reviews
    Angel Fire, NM
    14 miles
    Website

    "Just a handful of sites on this short road--one side of the road is fairly open but has the creek/river flowing nearby; the other side of the road is more in the forest and offers some shade and privacy"

    "Highway 64 between Taos and Angel Fire > Turn onto Forest Rd 5 and go to end

    Solid road, no issue with 25ft travel trailer."

    6. Rio Grande del Norte National Monument

    3 Reviews
    San Cristobal, NM
    19 miles
    Website

    "Rio Grande del Norte National Monument is BLM land so it is all dispersed camping. You will need to make sure you aren't on someone's property or nearby any roads. There are plenty of turn offs. "

    "This is the most remote BLM site I’ve ever been too. Right at the edge of the Gorge, it is primitive—only saw one bathroom about 2 miles back."

    7. Carson NF - Forest Service Road 578 - Dispersed Camping

    5 Reviews
    Carson National Forest, NM
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 758-8678

    "There are a bunch of different roads you can turn off to camp on if you’re driving from Taos to Durango."

    "I tent-camped off of Carson NF Forest Service Road 578 in mid April 2022. FS 578 is south of Tres Piedras about 5 miles on the west side of Hwy 285."

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Showing results 1-10 of 26 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Taos, NM

44 Reviews of 26 Taos Campgrounds



Guide to Taos

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Taos, New Mexico, where you can immerse yourself in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. With stunning landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities, this area is perfect for adventurers seeking a more rustic experience.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Taos, New Mexico

  • Make sure to bring plenty of water, as many dispersed camping spots, like Carson NF - Forest Service Road 578, do not offer drinking water facilities.
  • Be prepared for varying road conditions; some areas, such as Forest Road 558, may require a vehicle with higher clearance due to ruts and rough terrain.
  • Always practice Leave No Trace principles to keep these beautiful areas pristine, especially in popular spots like Rio Grande del Norte National Monument.

Dispersed campers should check out BLM Orilla Verde Recreation Area

  • This area offers a mix of amenities, including drinking water and electric hookups, making it a convenient choice for those who still want a touch of comfort while enjoying nature at BLM Orilla Verde Recreation Area.
  • Located right next to the Rio Grande, this spot is perfect for fishing and enjoying riverside activities, providing a serene backdrop for your camping experience.
  • The camp host is known for being friendly and helpful, ensuring that your stay is enjoyable and stress-free.

Scenic views and activities at Rio Grande del Rancho Dispersed Campground

  • Nestled in a picturesque setting, Rio Grande del Rancho Dispersed Campground offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, perfect for photography and relaxation.
  • The area is ideal for hiking and exploring, with trails that lead to breathtaking vistas and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
  • Enjoy the tranquility of the outdoors, as this dispersed site is known for its peaceful atmosphere, allowing you to unwind and connect with nature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Taos, NM?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Taos, NM is Arroyo Seco Dispersed NF Camping with a 3.9-star rating from 7 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Taos, NM?

TheDyrt.com has all 26 dispersed camping locations near Taos, NM, with real photos and reviews from campers.