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Free Camping Collection

Dispersed Camping

Whirlpool Dispersed Camping Area

Whirlpool Dispersed Camping Area, near Abiquiu, New Mexico, is a fantastic spot for those looking to escape into nature without the frills of a traditional campground. This location offers a rustic experience right next to the river, where you can soak in stunning views and enjoy the tranquility of the outdoors.

The area is perfect for tent camping or RVs, though keep in mind there are no hookups or drinking water available. Visitors have noted the peacefulness of the site, especially during the week, making it a great choice for a quiet retreat. One camper mentioned, “You can see every star on a clear night,” which speaks to the clear skies and beautiful stargazing opportunities here.

For those who enjoy hiking, there are a couple of trails nearby that let you explore the stunning landscape. Just be prepared for some muddy spots on the roads leading in, as they can get a bit rough, but it’s manageable if you take it slow. Campers have shared that the area can get busy, especially during peak times, but the spacious sites allow for a bit of privacy.

If you’re looking for a place to unwind and connect with nature, Whirlpool Dispersed Camping Area is a solid choice. Just remember to pack out what you pack in, as some visitors have noted litter left behind by others. Enjoy your time by the river and take in all the natural beauty this area has to offer!

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Location

Whirlpool Dispersed Camping Area is located in New Mexico

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

36.31360187 N
106.58998097 W

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Access

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

Stay Connected

  • WiFi
    Poor
  • Verizon
    Available
  • AT&T
    Unknown
  • T-Mobile
    Available

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Dispersed
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • ADA Access
  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Alcohol
  • Pets

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 Whirlpool Dispersed Camping Area needs a permit.

Contact

General Info


Reviews

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5 Reviews

Reviewed Nov. 4, 2023

October

This is a nice spot next to the river, there are a couple of hiking trails. I was there during the week and it was pretty quiet

Month of VisitOctober
  • Review photo of Whirlpool Dispersed Camping Area by Tracy T., November 4, 2023
  • Review photo of Whirlpool Dispersed Camping Area by Tracy T., November 4, 2023
  • Review photo of Whirlpool Dispersed Camping Area by Tracy T., November 4, 2023
Reviewed Sep. 24, 2023

Will go again

We got there on a Friday and had our pick of sites. We picked one right on the river. No electricity. No water. No picnic tables. No trash receptacle. Vault toilets. Camp spaces are spread out. Some of the roads on the campground had deep ruts and pools of mud water but not all. You can see every star on a clear night. The road to the campground is about 6 miles of curvy dirt and gravel single lane. But a woman managed it in a Jaguar so not too bad just go slow. Rustic and relaxing.

Sitesites not marked.
Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of Whirlpool Dispersed Camping Area by Tim W., September 24, 2023
  • Review photo of Whirlpool Dispersed Camping Area by Tim W., September 24, 2023
  • Review photo of Whirlpool Dispersed Camping Area by Tim W., September 24, 2023
  • (7) View All
Reviewed Sep. 7, 2023

Awesome views

This camping spot is awesome but can be busy at times. One down side being close to the river is the bugs, literally thousands of them can make it unpleasant. Outside of that the spot on the river is fantastic for viewing pleasure. You can certainly find valuable relaxation here.

Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of Whirlpool Dispersed Camping Area by Michael N., September 7, 2023
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  • (18) View All
Reviewed Nov. 7, 2021

Great Few Days in NM

I came here at the height of summer and had no problems finding a site, but I feel like I got lucky! This area is popular with kayakers and the roads leading to this area are busy with trailers. Seems a given, since it’s close to the river!

I found a site right next to the Rio and even though it was muddy, I still appreciated being able to get in to cool down a bit. My site had plenty of room for my truck and hub tent. Only real complaint is the trash the previous campers left behind.

Days were hot as they are in NM but the nights were pleasant. People were having a good time but were chill at night, something I always appreciate at free sites.

Roads were good and any vehicle can make it. Just go slow as usual! I had a sparse cell signal but didn’t want it anyway.

Clean bathrooms and plenty of sites- maybe 12 or so?- lots of space to spread out. A great option for camping along the Rio.

Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Whirlpool Dispersed Camping Area by Kim M., November 7, 2021
  • Review photo of Whirlpool Dispersed Camping Area by Kim M., November 7, 2021
  • Review photo of Whirlpool Dispersed Camping Area by Kim M., November 7, 2021
  • (17) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the elevation of Whirlpool Dispersed Camping Area?

    Whirlpool Dispersed Camping Area is located at 6299 feet.

  • Is there cell phone reception at Whirlpool Dispersed Camping Area?

    According to campers on TheDyrt.com, Verizon signal is available, AT&T is unknown, and T-Mobile is available.