Equestrian camping near White Sands, New Mexico offers dry, desert conditions with temperature fluctuations that can exceed 30°F between day and night. The region sits at approximately 4,000 feet elevation within the Tularosa Basin, surrounded by the Sacramento Mountains to the east and the San Andres Mountains to the west. Water sources remain extremely scarce throughout the area, making advance planning essential for both human and equine needs.
What to do
Desert trail riding: The areas surrounding White Sands provide several riding opportunities outside park boundaries. At BLM Dispersed camping along B059 New Mexico, riders will find open terrain with minimal obstacles. "There are many places along this road to pull over and stay the night. Road in is rocky and rutted in places," notes Laura M., adding that "Spring time in this area should be beautiful with wildflowers."
Mountain exploration: The Organ Mountains offer scenic riding trails with varied terrain. When camping at Oregan Wilderness Dispersed, riders gain access to mountain paths with rock formations. Mike M. reports, "Beautiful and isolated spots" where you can avoid "the traffic trying to get to the parking area to hike."
Sunset viewing: Position yourself for remarkable sunset views from established vantage points. Dan M. describes his experience: "Light noise to the south from El Paso/IH 10 to the West but not much to the East looking into the canyon or North. Saw many stars and satellites."
What campers like
Solitude and seclusion: Horse campers appreciate the privacy found at dispersed sites. At Gap Tank dispersed camping, Jacob W. describes the experience as "Very primitive. No campground. Little to no shade," noting that it's located "in the gap between Mt. Riley and the E. Potrillo Mountain ridge in the Desert Peaks National Monument on BLM land."
Accessible backcountry: While not suitable for horses, the Backcountry Primitive Sites — White Sands National Park demonstrate the appeal of nearby primitive camping. Irene L. explains, "This isn't a campground but backcountry camping with a hike to the site of under a mile, so it's perfect for backpacking trips for families. BUT walking on sand is a lot more tiring than you think."
Mountain vistas: The mountainous backdrop provides scenic settings for horse camping. Tessa T. notes about Oregan Wilderness, "Lots of dispersed sites but looks like a very popular area we passed over 20 campers before finding a spot. Spots are pretty well spaced out with lots of vegetation inbetween."
What you should know
Access limitations: Many roads to dispersed sites require careful navigation with horse trailers. Jonathan E. warns about Oregan Wilderness: "The road in is very bumpy/rocky. I'm kind of a risk-taker with my Toyota Corolla and was able to make it the full way from one end of the road to the other (driving VERY slowly and carefully), but had to get out of my car quite a few times to move large rocks out of the way."
Weather considerations: Prepare for extreme temperature variations and wind. At Aguirre Spring Recreation Area and Campground, Mark M. advises, "Water available at host site near gate before driving about 4 or 5 mi to campsites. Road IS narrow and winding and steep in place but pave and ONE way."
Horse management requirements: No permanent equestrian facilities exist at most sites. Rick M. rates BLM Dispersed camping: "My bus was squeaking, twisting, driving at an angle, and it was a brutal drive... While I'll not come back because it's not well maintained, it does have very beautiful vistas."
Tips for camping with families
Plan for limited facilities: Most horse-friendly sites lack basic amenities. Abraham notes about BLM camping: "Always stay here on my way back to Texas or heading farther west. A few solid campsites on mossman road; roads are a little rough closer to the campsite but nothing crazy."
Schedule around military activities: Nearby military installations can create unexpected noise. Laura M. cautions: "Boom / explosion sounds all night made for an uneasy night, especially for our dogs. We are assuming the sounds came from testing and/or training at the nearby Doña Ana range."
Site selection matters: Choose locations carefully when bringing children and animals. For non-equestrian camping at Aguirre Spring, Kara S. advises, "Great sites with close and clean toilets. We found a few level spots that would work for rooftop tents, but most spots seemed a little rocky and uneven for tents."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions apply: RV options for equestrian camping near White Sands are limited by road conditions and site dimensions. Mike M. notes at Oregan Wilderness: "Able to get our 39' toy hauler into this location without any issues."
Level parking challenges: Bring leveling equipment for all vehicles. Dan M. warns about BLM dispersed camping: "Sites are not level so be prepared."
Water management: Transport sufficient water for both people and horses. Ben S. describes BLM camping as having "Pretty good about 4 spots to pull off maybe more if you have a higher clearance vehicle and can make it back in farther my Camry couldn't lol but still a nice place to stay a couple days."
