Free Camping Collection
Established Camping
San Lorenzo Canyon
San Lorenzo Canyon, near Lemitar, New Mexico, is a stunning spot for those who crave a bit of solitude and breathtaking views. This place is all about the natural beauty, with wide-open spaces surrounded by striking rock formations that make for some fantastic photo ops.
Camping here is free, and while you won't find any fancy amenities like running water or toilets, visitors appreciate the peaceful atmosphere. One camper noted, “I enjoy camping here very quiet and peaceful.” Just be prepared to pack in what you need and pack out your trash. The lack of facilities means it’s a true back-to-nature experience.
Getting to San Lorenzo Canyon can be a bit tricky, so don’t rely on Google Maps. A few campers have shared helpful directions to avoid getting lost. Once you arrive, you’ll find plenty of spots to set up your tent or park your RV, but be cautious of the sandy terrain if you're towing something heavy. As one reviewer put it, “Amazing views make it worth it.”
For those looking to explore, the canyon offers unique geological features and a chance to see some wildlife. Just keep an eye on the weather, as flash floods can occur in narrow areas. Whether you're here for a weekend or a longer stay, San Lorenzo Canyon is a great choice for those wanting to escape the hustle and bustle and soak in the beauty of New Mexico's desert landscape.
Description
Bureau of Land Management
This is primitive camping.
San Lorenzo Canyon is jointly managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Bureau of Land Management as a primitive recreation area. This scenic east-west canyon offers ample outdoor opportunities for hiking and primitive camping. Not only a destination for hikers, the Canyon offers outstanding opportunities for photographers. Millions of years of Earth’s history unfold in San Lorenzo Canyon, a picturesque area of sandstone cliffs, arches, and hoodoos. The cottonwoods indicate there may have been a reliable water source at one time in the area. The area has remnants of old ranches and homesteads; springs and tiny creeks are hidden in the canyon bottoms and washes. High clearance and/or 4-wheel drive vehicles are recommended. There are no restrooms or drinking water.
Location
San Lorenzo Canyon is located in New Mexico
Directions
The site is northwest of Socorro and about 5 miles northwest of Lemitar, NM. The area can be reached by taking the western frontage road north from Lemitar (along I-25) and driving about 5 miles. At that point, you follow a maintained dirt road west which will take you to the main canyon.
Coordinates
34.24354785 N
106.99394328 W
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Stay Connected
- WiFiGood
- VerizonAvailable
- AT&TUnknown
- T-MobileAvailable
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
Features
For Campers
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Pull-Through Sites
FREE established camping
Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if San Lorenzo Canyon needs a permit.
