Best Dispersed Camping in New Mexico

From the vast Chihuahuan Desert to the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, New Mexico has a wealth of opportunities to get outside and explore. For outdoor adventurers, there’s skiing in Taos, whitewater rafting on the Rio Grande, and plenty of hiking, from the Southern Rockies to dusty desert canyons. That’s what makes camping in New Mexico such a varied and fulfilling experience.

Carlsbad Caverns provides ample opportunities to hike, explore, learn about desert wildlife, even appreciate a few thousand Mexican free-tail bats take flight. They swarm out of the cave every night at dust for an audience that often numbers in the hundreds. It’s a perfect excuse to stick around the park after dark and do some camping in New Mexico.

Of course, the only camping available within Carlsbad Caverns National Park is backcountry camping, so come prepared to Leave No Trace. Keep in mind that the desert landscape is often dry, so fire bans, even some backcountry cooking bans, are frequently in effect in the drier months. On the upside, backcountry camping permits are free and you can grab one at the visitor center when you arrive.

Visit White Sands National Monument for an unmatched, natural experience. Acres upon acres of white gypsum dunes stretch into the distance, offering hours of diversion, be it hiking across the dunes or sledding down them. If you forgot your sled, don’t worry, you can pick one up in the gift shop. Just be sure to enjoy these activities early in the morning or late in the evening during the summer months; it gets hot in the desert during midday!

As for camping in White Sands, it’s backcountry camping or nothing and sites require a short hike through the dunes. You’ll be camping on the gypsum, surrounded by shifting white hills, dark night skies up above, and no other campers in sight. It’s definitely a unique experience. Permits are $3.00 per person and can be picked up at the visitor center.

Wherever your adventures take you in the Land of Enchantment, get out there and let The Dyrt help you locate the best camping in New Mexico.

Best Dispersed Sites in New Mexico (162)

    1. Chosa Campground

    55 Reviews
    Carlsbad Caverns, NM
    Website
    +1 (575) 234-5972

    "Found this spacious location, was not very busy (only two other campers), spacious and quiet. Beautiful view of Carlsbad range. This is a BLM managed site with no utilities except trash bins."

    "Nice open spot right off the highway. Drive up the paved road and it’s on your left. Gravel has been laid down so it’s nice and firm for campers/RVs. Also has a garbage can there."

    2. Raptor Lake Dispersed / Holloman Lake

    49 Reviews
    Holloman Air Force Base, NM
    Website

    "There are no amenities here, and surprisingly there was no trash at all. There is a gravel road off the highway that leads into the campground."

    "1990 Winnebago Chieftain towing a '95 Wrangler from LA > FL

    Got here late last night driving from Albuquerque and since it's essentially just all dirt/shrub, you're able to park wherever you can (just"

    3. Sante Fe National Forest BLM-Road 62 Dispersed

    41 Reviews
    Santa Fe, NM

    "This is dispersed camping with mostly RVs, some vans, and a few tents and teepees. There are no hookups but near the entrance there is a building with two enclosed bathrooms."

    "It's a great area with flat sites and close proximity to Santa Fe. The dirt road is not too long and not bad at all. There were a bunch of campers there but it didnt feel crowded."

    4. Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site

    35 Reviews
    Placitas, NM
    Website
    +1 (505) 761-8700

    "Great little find for a quick place to car camp while driving through Albuquerque without going too far out of the way."

    "When you first arrive to the end of the road and the beginning of the public land - you have the option to go left, straight, or right."

    5. Mile 10 - Dispersed Camping

    33 Reviews
    Whites City, NM
    Website

    "We pulled in close to midnight without an issue locating the fire rings to set up camp. We were camping in a truck bed tent and it was great."

    "Very easy to find right off the highway! There is no turn off if you are headed west. You'll have to make a Uturn about a mile up the highway."

    6. Sierra Vista

    30 Reviews
    Organ, NM

    "BLM managed area . Drive to the trailhead has about four areas set up for camping. Plus room for more at the cul-de-sac at the end."

    "The “roped” is BLM area in nice enough, pull outs, but not much room to maneuver. Big rigs beware- we were able to just turn around as there were quite a few vehicles."

    7. Six Mile Canyon - Dispersed Camping

    29 Reviews
    Jamestown, NM
    Website

    "No amenities but very close to Flying J! The dirt road was dry but you could tell after a rain it would be impassable."

    "We drove 3 miles down a dirt road before picking our spot. You could easily park anywhere but they have some spots with fire-pits, there are no hook ups or water so be prepared."

    8. Santa Fe BLM Dispersed Campsite

    26 Reviews
    Santa Fe, NM

    "As you drive down the road the BLM land is clearly identified by the 14 day camping limit signs."

    "I was towing a Uhaul cross country so needed some place close-ish to the free way and with an easily accessible road: this location had both."

    9. Carlsbad BLM Land Dispersed

    23 Reviews
    Whites City, NM
    Website
    +1 (575) 234-5972

    "If you have high clearance (4wd not needed but high clearance is) the sites farther in are amazing! The first three sites were fine but nothing really special."

    "Great spot right off the highway. Only 25 minutes from Carlsbad NM, and 20 minutes from the NP.

    The road is a bit rough and may need a higher clearance the further you drive in."

    10. Dispersed Camping off FS 542

    23 Reviews
    Tijeras, NM
    Website
    +1 (505) 346-3900

    "This dispersed camping is a great spot to stop. There are multiple site identified with lot signs and fire rings. Some of the spots are Easier to access than others."

    "No facilities. Dry camping only. The sights are not well defined but there's enough clearings between the trees to make do."

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Showing results 1-10 of 162 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews in New Mexico

704 Reviews of 162 New Mexico Campgrounds



Guide to New Mexico

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping in New Mexico, where vast landscapes and serene environments await outdoor enthusiasts. With numerous options for free camping, you can enjoy the great outdoors without breaking the bank.

Top Activities While Free Camping in New Mexico

  • Experience stunning sunsets and spacious sites at Mile 10 - Dispersed Camping, perfect for those looking to unwind after a day of exploration.
  • Enjoy the proximity to both Guadalupe Mountains National Park and Carlsbad Caverns while staying at Chosa Campground, making it an ideal base for hiking and sightseeing.
  • Engage in wildlife watching and stargazing at Dog Canyon, where the quiet surroundings enhance your outdoor experience.

Top Attractions for Dispersed Campers

  • Visit the breathtaking White Sands National Park, just a short drive from Raptor Lake Dispersed / Holloman Lake, where you can explore unique gypsum sand dunes.
  • Discover the historical significance of the area while camping at Sierra Vista, which offers beautiful views and access to nearby attractions.
  • Explore the scenic trails and natural beauty surrounding Forest Road 568 - Dispersed Camping, perfect for hiking and enjoying the outdoors.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping in New Mexico