Red Sands Off-Highway Vehicle Area

State Trust Land encompasses Red Sands Off-Highway Vehicle Area, a free dispersed camping spot that caters specifically to off-road enthusiasts. The area sits on sandy terrain that requires four-wheel drive access, particularly when towing trailers or larger rigs.

This OHV destination attracts dirt bikers and ATV riders who arrive early in the morning to take advantage of the extensive trail system. Campers share the space with motorized recreation throughout the day, though riders typically respect camping areas. The open landscape provides no natural shade, and wind can make conditions challenging during certain weather patterns. Cell service reaches the area, allowing campers to stay connected.

alana M. notes the area is "about thirty minutes to the nearest town but the stars are amazing at nighttime." The remote location requires complete self-sufficiency, as no water or restroom facilities exist on-site. Campers must bring their own supplies and practice Leave No Trace principles. Several nearby alternatives include Red Sands OHV and Dog Canyon Dispersed Campground for those seeking different camping experiences in the region.

Note that access conditions may change, so verify current status before arrival.

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Location

Dispersed Camping

Red Sands Off-Highway Vehicle Area is located in New Mexico

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

32.65669458 N
106.01776918 W

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Connectivity

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  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Good Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Good Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Site Types

  • Dispersed

Features

For Campers

  • Phone Service
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

DISPERSED CAMPING

Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.

Contact

General Info

Drive Time


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4 Reviews

Free dispersed camping area popular with OHV enthusiasts offering spacious, open terrain. No facilities available and 4WD access required. Early morning ATV activity common but ample space for privacy.

Reviewed Mar. 15, 2023

Does not exist

Hey yall! Wanted to download the app just to leave the review for other weary travelers. This site doesn't exist anymore! It's now private property and there's a large gate blocking. There are some other pull off areas nearby on the road unmarked that you'll just spot and see. All dirtbaggers be careful

Month of VisitMarch
Reviewed May. 21, 2021

Free, Beautiful and Secluded

my friends and I stayed here for two nights while exploring the area with our pop up camper! it’s completely free but you need 4wd to get through the bumpy and sand when pulling something! it is an area for dirtbiking and more so you will have people throughout the day and sometimes night riding nearby but they never messed with us and there is plenty of room and trails to find somewhere secluded for yourself! has no water or bathrooms though so be prepared to bring a shovel and your own survival supplies. about thirty minutes to the nearest town but the stars are amazing at nighttime! and it wasn’t too cold at night the time of year we went.

Month of VisitMay
Reviewed Jan. 8, 2021

Research before going

Not sure if we stayed at the right place or what all of the rules were since we arrived at night, would be beneficial to look up a little more info before camping as it is an OHV area. Found the sign and parking lot no problem and to my knowledge we were the only ones there on a Saturday night. People with ATVs and dirt bikes showed up at the crack of dawn on Sunday morning so we didn't stay too long. Warmer than up on the mountains.

  • Review photo of Red Sands Off-Highway Vehicle Area by David R., January 8, 2021
  • Review photo of Red Sands Off-Highway Vehicle Area by David R., January 8, 2021
  • Review photo of Red Sands Off-Highway Vehicle Area by David R., January 8, 2021
  • (5) View All
Reviewed Jul. 16, 2018

Great for off road vehicles

We usually take a camper out there. It's great for off road vehicles and it's pretty open. No shade and can get pretty miserable if it's windy.

Sitein the dunes
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Red Sands Off-Highway Vehicle Area by Brittany N., July 16, 2018
  • Review photo of Red Sands Off-Highway Vehicle Area by Brittany N., July 16, 2018

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Red Sands an OHV area with camping options?

Yes, Red Sands is primarily an Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) area that also offers dispersed camping options. The site is popular for dirt biking and other off-road activities during both day and night. Camping is free, but be aware that OHV users will be active throughout the day and sometimes into the evening. The area is quite open with plenty of space to set up camp while enjoying off-road recreation.

Where is Red Sands Campground located in New Mexico?

Red Sands Off-Highway Vehicle Area is actually located in Texas, not New Mexico. It's situated near El Paso in west Texas. The area is known for its distinctive red sand terrain, which provides an open landscape for off-road enthusiasts. There's a parking lot with signage marking the entrance to the area, making it relatively easy to find despite its somewhat remote setting.

How far is Red Sands Campground from El Paso?

Red Sands OHV Area is located very close to El Paso, making it a convenient getaway for city residents looking for off-road adventures and camping. The area is within easy driving distance from El Paso, typically less than 30 minutes from most parts of the city. This proximity makes it popular for weekend trips and day outings for those based in El Paso who want quick access to an open space for off-roading and camping.