Best Dispersed Camping near Taos, NM

The Carson National Forest and Bureau of Land Management territories surrounding Taos, New Mexico feature predominantly dispersed camping options along forest service roads and near water features. Rio Grande del Norte National Monument offers primitive sites with dramatic gorge views, while Forest Road areas like FR-5, FR-438, and FR-578 provide accessible camping for tent and small RV users. Arroyo Seco Dispersed camping areas north of town offer riverside sites with minimal amenities but scenic mountain backdrops. Most locations maintain free access with standard 14-day stay limits, though site quality and privacy vary considerably across the region.

Road conditions present significant challenges for many camping areas, particularly after rain or snowmelt. As one camper noted, "Long, bumpy one-lane dirt road... Lots of ruts and washouts. Not good for trailers. Best for high clearance or 4x4." Many forest roads lack turnaround areas for larger vehicles, with several reviewers reporting difficulty maneuvering trailers. Weather patterns fluctuate dramatically with elevation changes, with spring snowmelt causing flooding at lower sites and nighttime temperatures dropping below freezing even in April. Cell service remains sporadic throughout the region, with better connectivity reported at Tres Piedras Camp and areas closer to highways. Fire restrictions commonly apply during summer months, with complete bans during peak fire season.

Riverside camping receives consistently positive reviews, particularly along Forest Road 438 where campers report "sites having river access" with opportunities for fishing. Wildlife sightings enhance the experience, with one visitor noting, "The animals are really coming out though—lots of birds and frogs chirping, ducks were swimming in the ponds, and we even had some elk pass through our camp!" The Rio Grande Gorge area offers what one camper called "the most remote BLM site I've ever been to," with dramatic views but challenging access. Visitors frequently mention the contrast between daytime and nighttime temperatures, with one noting "nights get nice and chill versus hot day temps for good sleep." Trash management remains problematic in some areas, with several reviewers mentioning the need to clean up after previous campers.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Taos, New Mexico (28)

    1. Arroyo Seco Dispersed NF Camping

    8 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

    7 Reviews
    Angel Fire, NM
    13 miles
    Website

    "There are several sites along FR-5, though some might require high clearance or 4wd. "

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

    3. Dispersed Camping Near Taos

    4 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."

    4. 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."

    5. Rio Fernando de Taos - Forest Rd 5

    3 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. Forest Road 438 Dispersed

    1 Review
    Ranchos de Taos, NM
    9 miles

    "Stumbled on this location by chance when another location nearby was closed. Long forest road with approximately 8-10 dispersed campsites along the road."

    7. Rio Grande Bridge Overlook

    1 Review
    Arroyo Hondo, NM
    13 miles

    "A little more secluded than the spots next door and a little farther away from the edge of the cliff but still beautiful."

    8. 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."

    9. Rio Grande Gorge BLM

    1 Review
    Carson, NM
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 758-8851

    10. 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 28 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Taos, NM

50 Reviews of 28 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 4-star rating from 8 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 28 dispersed camping locations near Taos, NM, with real photos and reviews from campers.