Dispersed camping options near Salt Flat, Texas center primarily on BLM land alongside Highway 62/180. The desert terrain in this region sits at approximately 3,700 feet elevation with dramatic temperature fluctuations between day and night. Most campsites provide strategic access to both Guadalupe Mountains National Park and Carlsbad Caverns National Park while requiring self-sufficiency from campers due to the lack of facilities.
What to do
Explore Carlsbad Caverns: Located about 20 minutes from Chosa Campground, Carlsbad Caverns offers underground explorations with established trails through limestone formations. "Close to Carlsbad Caverns, Rattlesnake Springs and Cottonwood Day Use Area with had a spring fed pool. Saw several Rio Grand Turkey near the two springs. Saw Pronghorn Antelope," notes one camper who stayed at Chosa.
Visit Sitting Bull Falls: This desert oasis with swimming areas makes a refreshing day trip from dispersed camping locations. As a camper at Mile 10 Dispersed suggests, "Another cool nearby place worth checking out is Sitting Bull falls."
Wildlife viewing: The Salt Flat area hosts surprising wildlife diversity including pronghorn antelope and wild turkeys. Early morning or evening provide the best viewing opportunities when animals are most active.
What campers like
Dark skies for astronomy: The minimal light pollution creates exceptional stargazing conditions year-round. One visitor described the experience: "The stars were amazing and we were about 20 mins from the Carlsbad National Park visitor center. The town of Whites City is maybe 5 minutes."
Quiet surroundings: Despite proximity to the highway, many sites offer peaceful settings. "I can hear the occasional semi down the highway, but it's dead silent for the most part," reports a camper who stayed at Mile 10.
Cellular connectivity: Reliable service enables remote work or emergency communications in this otherwise remote area. According to one camper at Wilderness Ridge Wilderness Campground: "AT&T and Sprint: 3 bars LTE" making connectivity surprisingly strong for such a remote location.
What you should know
Wind conditions: The exposed terrain offers minimal natural windbreaks, creating challenging camping conditions. "It was extremely windy! We would have possibly stayed again if Pine Springs in Guadalupe Mountains NP was full," notes a camper who experienced the area's typical weather patterns.
Road quality concerns: Some access roads deteriorate after rain, creating muddy conditions. According to a visitor: "I tried to make it all the way down. There was a spot that not safe, it only rained a little and there was a mud pit. Had to turn around."
Temperature extremes: Winter nights drop below freezing while summer days regularly exceed 100°F. Desert temperature swings require appropriate clothing and gear for both hot and cold conditions.
Supply planning: No potable water exists at these free sites. The nearest reliable water source is in White City or Carlsbad. "We needed to refill our water and use a dump station, so I called around. White City RV charges $15 for dump and refill."
Tips for camping with families
Explore sinkholes safely: The karst topography creates interesting geological features for educational opportunities. One family mentioned: "Our kids even found a sinkhole with what looked like a small cave near our campsite."
Timing considerations: Plan activities around temperature patterns, with cave explorations providing cool refuge during hot afternoons. Morning hikes work best for younger children before temperatures rise.
Security considerations: The open terrain offers minimal privacy between campsites. "We shared the site with 2 other vehicles. Some existing fire rings and pull offs," notes a Chosa Campground visitor, indicating the communal nature of these sites.
Tips from RVers
Level parking: Most dispersed sites offer naturally level terrain suitable for larger rigs. "Very large open lot with large bin for trash collection. It's easy to drive in/out off a main paved road," reports an RVer who found the setup convenient.
Rig size considerations: While the areas can accommodate larger vehicles, specific site selection matters. "Two 40 ft toy haulers fit great place," confirms one camper about the spaciousness available.
Wind protection: Position RVs strategically to block prevailing winds, especially for outdoor living spaces. The unprotected terrain leaves campers exposed to regular 20+ mph gusts that can impact awnings and outdoor equipment.
