Free camping near Youngsville, New Mexico offers multiple options in the Santa Fe National Forest and surrounding public lands. Elevations range from 6,500 to 8,000 feet, contributing to significant temperature variations between day and night. Most dispersed sites provide privacy with juniper and pine trees offering natural screening between campsites.
What to do
Hiking nearby trails: At FR376 Dispersed, visitors can access numerous hiking options. "There are lots of sites to choose from down this road of varying quality. This is an OHV area, so there's a trail that connects all the sites," notes Matthew N. The area offers both forest shade and meadow settings.
Fishing opportunities: The Rio de Las Vacas provides fishing spots near several camping areas. "We have camped here dozens of times and it never disappoints. The nearest water would be at the Rio de Las Vacas or San Antonio campgrounds on hwy 126," reports John H. about the Jemez area.
Stargazing: Clear night skies at Pajarito Springs (Dispersed) provide excellent stargazing. "Nice, quiet, and saw lots of elk during our stay," mentions Meghan B. The higher elevation and distance from urban areas create ideal conditions for viewing constellations.
What campers like
Natural features: Campers appreciate the diverse landscapes. "This place is beautiful and nestled in the mountains so very secluded and quiet," writes Nora S. about Road 378 near Fenton Lake. The combination of mountains, forests, and water features creates varied camping environments.
Privacy between sites: Resumidero Camping Area offers well-spaced sites. "The camp sites were far apart and you could chose between open meadows or in the trees. Hiking trails from the campground. Beautiful area," says Rhonda D. This spacing allows for more private camping experiences.
Riverside locations: Many campers value waterfront sites. "This spot was really beautiful. Went on a weekend, and there were plenty of other people around but there was enough space where it didn't feel too crowded. We drove in, but it's very popular with people traveling by river," Andrea P. notes about Whirlpool Dispersed Camping Area.
What you should know
Road conditions vary seasonally: Many access roads become challenging after rainfall. "If it has rained the access is washed out and mud holes and ruts and mud will require a 4x4," warns G.Neri about Dispersed on 4. Always check weather forecasts before departing.
Temperature fluctuations: Pack for cold nights even in summer. "It does get cold at night since at approximately 8,000 elevation," advises Maeci W. about camping near Fenton Lake. Temperature drops of 30-40 degrees between day and night are common.
Variable cell service: Connectivity depends on specific location and carrier. "I had full service too which was nice," reports Laura M. about Santa Fe National Forest BLM-Road 62, while many other areas have no service. Download offline maps before your trip.
Tips for camping with families
River access for recreation: Whirlpool Dispersed Camping Area provides water activities for children. "I've camped this area several times. In my van and with Grandkids & dog in a tent. We had a rock campfire ring and I bring my folding table & chairs. The kids love to hang hammocks in the cedar trees," shares Clara B.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Multiple camping areas offer chances to see elk, deer, and birds. "Nice, quiet, and saw lots of elk during our stay," reports Meghan B. about Pajarito Springs. Wildlife is most active at dawn and dusk.
Safety considerations: Some areas report occasional target shooting. "We heard one gunshot, followed by 6 gunshots and the sound of bullets whizzing past us," cautions Kaytlin R. about Dispersed on 4. Contact rangers about designated shooting areas and consider camping midweek when recreational shooting is less common.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Santa Fe National Forest BLM-Road 62 offers accessible dispersed camping for various vehicles. "We didn't camp in the 'lot' where a lot of people set up. We drove back the road a bit further for some privacy," shares Matt P. This area provides more level sites suitable for RVs.
Limited clearance requirements: While many forest roads require high clearance, some remain accessible to RVs. "The road is a bit rough, but easy access and close enough to the lake that I drove over to kayak after setting up camp," notes Maeci W. about Road 378 near Fenton Lake.
No hookups or facilities: All dispersed camping near Youngsville lacks water, electrical, and sewer connections. "We had a rock campfire ring and I bring my folding table & chairs," mentions Clara B. RVers should arrive with full water tanks and empty waste tanks.
