Carson National Forest encompasses Rio Grande del Rancho Dispersed Campground, a drive-in site managed by the US Forest Service near Vadito, New Mexico. This dispersed camping area operates without developed facilities or designated campsites, requiring campers to bring their own water and practice Leave No Trace principles.
The campground sits within the national forest system where visitors can access free camping around Carson National Forest throughout the region. Forest Service roads provide access to the area, though road conditions may vary seasonally. Campers should prepare for primitive conditions and pack out all waste, making this location most suitable for self-sufficient outdoor enthusiasts comfortable with dispersed camping protocols.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Dispersed CampingRio Grande del Rancho Dispersed Campground is located in New Mexico
Coordinates
36.250214 N
105.580605 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 4/26/26
- AT&TNo CoverageVerified by 3 usersLast on 4/26/26
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 4/26/26
- AT&TNo CoverageVerified by 3 usersLast on 4/26/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Features
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.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Rio Grande del Rancho Dispersed Campground needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 1 hr 18 min from Santa Fe, NM
- 2 hrs 8 min from Albuquerque, NM
- 3 hrs 2 min from Pueblo, CO
- 3 hrs 37 min from Farmington, NM
