If you want to camp for free near the Bisti Badlands, you’ve got a handful of boondocking options. These spots sit on public lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management, so you can stay close to the wild rock formations and desert views—without paying for a site.
Eight boondocking locations near the Bisti Badlands let you access the area’s unusual landscapes and enjoy a quiet, off-grid camping experience. Some are big, some are a bit harder to reach, but most let you park and camp with an RV or tent for a peaceful night under the stars.
Knowing where to park without damaging the environment or breaking rules is important. This guide points you to the best spots so you can focus on exploring the Bisti Badlands and its strange, beautiful terrain.
Location And Access
You’ll find the Bisti Badlands off New Mexico Highway 371. From Farmington, head south for about 36 miles.
Watch for Road 7297, a gravel road that turns east. The entrance sits roughly 2 miles down this road.
A large parking lot waits near the trailhead, with plenty of space for your vehicle. The area’s flat, so it’s easy to park and set up camp.
This spot offers dispersed camping on public land. Bring all your supplies—there’s no water or services out here.
Access roads get rough sometimes, but most vehicles can handle them. If it’s wet, you’ll want high clearance or four-wheel drive.
Here’s a quick overview:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Nearest highway | NM Highway 371 |
| Distance from Farmington | 36 miles south |
| Road to entrance | Road 7297 (gravel road) |
| Parking lot | Large, flat, ample space |
| Services | None |
| Vehicle advice | High clearance advised |
Expect no cell service and bring extra water. This place is remote, so let someone know your plans before you head out.
Directions: How To Get There And What To Expect
To reach the Bisti Badlands, drive south from Farmington on NM Highway 371. After about 36 miles, look for the turn onto Road 7297, a gravel road heading east.
Follow this road for roughly 2 miles to reach the parking lot and trailhead. You’ll need to hike from there into the badlands.
No motorized vehicles or bikes are allowed inside the wilderness area. Carry everything you need on foot.
The parking lot fills up fast during busy times. Day users get priority, so you might not always snag a spot.
Check road and weather conditions before you go. Here’s what to expect:
- Road type: Mostly gravel; most vehicles can make it, just drive carefully.
- Parking: Limited spaces, and no overnight parking at the trailhead.
- Hiking: Required to get into the formations.
- Facilities: None at all; bring your own water and supplies.
Be ready for remote conditions. Cell service is spotty, and you’re on your own for supplies. Your safety really depends on your planning and gear.
Amenities And Activities
Boondocking in the Bisti Badlands is about as basic as it gets. No water, restrooms, or hookups—just you and the desert.
The campsites are free and scattered across public BLM land. You’ll find flat spots with plenty of room for your vehicle or tent.
Parking areas usually sit near trailheads, so it’s easy to start hiking right away. The rock formations here—sandstone, shale, mudstone, coal—look like something from another planet.
If you’re into photography, you’ll love it. Hiking’s the main thing to do, and every turn brings a new view.
Bring your dog if you like; there’s space for off-leash running, but keep your pet under control and follow local rules.
| What You Get | What You Need to Bring |
|---|---|
| Free camping areas | Water and food |
| Hiking trails | Shelter and camping gear |
| Photography spots | Trash bags (Leave No Trace) |
There are no shops or services nearby. Make sure you’re fully self-sufficient—maps or a GPS help a lot out here.
Camping Regulations And Restrictions
Camping in the Bisti Badlands means following a few important rules. There aren’t any developed campsites or facilities.
You’ll need to be ready for a primitive experience—no water, bathrooms, or trash services. Dispersed camping is allowed on BLM-managed land for up to 14 days.
After that, move to a new spot at least 25 miles away. This helps protect the environment.
Carry all your own water—there’s none out here, not even a trickle. Bring enough for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.
Important Guidelines:
- Pack out all trash and waste. Don’t leave a trace.
- Campfires might be restricted—check with the local BLM office before you light one.
- Some areas may require a permit. Double-check before your trip.
Stick to established trails and campsites if you can. Don’t disturb plants, animals, or the rock formations.
Leave No Trace
Camping in the Bisti Badlands means following Leave No Trace principles. These help keep the land wild for everyone.
Pack in, pack out—it’s non-negotiable. Take everything you bring, including trash and food scraps.
Don’t disturb plants, rocks, or wildlife. Stay on established trails and campsites to avoid damage.
Campfires are usually not allowed (or at least discouraged). Use a camp stove for cooking.
Keep noise down, especially at night, so wildlife and other campers aren’t bothered.
Here’s a quick list:
| Leave No Trace Tips | What to Do |
|---|---|
| Trash | Pack out all waste |
| Campfires | Use camp stoves, avoid open fires |
| Trails and vegetation | Stay on paths, avoid trampling plants |
| Wildlife | Observe but don’t approach |
| Noise | Keep quiet, respect others |
You help keep the Bisti Badlands wild and beautiful by following these steps.
Resource Information Sources
Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness Overview – Bureau of Land Management:
New Mexico Climate Data – U.S. Climate Data:
Wildlife in New Mexico – New Mexico Game and Fish Department:
Camping in New Mexico – New Mexico State Parks:
Free Bisti Badlands Boondocking Locations
Farmington Glade Run OHV Boondocking Farmington New Mexico
This boondocking location at Glade Run OHV Area sits northwest of Farmington and caters to campers looking for open space with easy access to off-road recreation. Managed by the BLM, the area covers about 19,000 acres and offers multiple dispersed sites along dirt pullouts and access roads. The terrain is high desert, with scattered junipers, sandstone outcroppings, and open arroyos. It’s well-suited for those seeking a dry camping experience close to town while enjoying the outdoor landscape.
Things to Do: This location is especially popular with OHV riders due to the extensive trail network for ATVs, motorcycles, and side-by-sides. Rock crawling, mountain biking, and hiking are also common activities. Chokecherry Canyon and Brown Springs offer some of the most rugged and scenic riding in the region. The area is also known for stargazing and peaceful desert sunsets.
Directions: From Farmington, head north on Pinon Hills Boulevard or take Glade Road west from town. Numerous access points lead into the OHV area, and dispersed sites can be found just off these dirt roads.
Vehicle Access: Best for high-clearance vehicles, small RVs, and off-road capable rigs. The dirt roads can become rough or soft, especially in wet weather. No services are available—bring water, food, and pack out waste.
Bisti Badlands Boondocking Farmington New Mexico
This boondocking location near the Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness offers dry camping options on BLM land about 36 miles south of Farmington. Dispersed camping is permitted along County Road 7297, outside the designated wilderness boundary. The terrain is mostly flat with wide-open views, desert soil, and limited vegetation, making it suitable for basic setups including vans, truck campers, and small RVs.
Things to Do: The main attraction is hiking through the Bisti Badlands, known for its alien-like hoodoos, eroded clay mounds, petrified wood, and formations like the Cracked Eggs. There are no marked trails, so GPS is highly recommended. It’s a popular destination for photographers, hikers, and geology enthusiasts. Wildlife viewing is occasional, with birds of prey and desert mammals in the area.
Directions: Travel south from Farmington on NM-371. After approximately 36 miles, turn left (east) on County Road 7297. Follow the road for several miles until you reach the small parking area just outside the wilderness entrance. Dispersed campsites are located along the route.
Vehicle Access: Accessible to most high-clearance vehicles. Some sedans and vans may manage in dry weather, but the road becomes muddy and impassable when wet. There are no amenities or services—campers must be fully self-sufficient.
Angel Peak Boondocking Aztec New Mexico
Angel Peak Scenic Area offers a remote boondocking experience atop the mesa south of Aztec, with views overlooking eroded badlands and layered rock formations. The area includes dispersed camping along the rim road that leads to Angel Peak Campground, with multiple pullouts and small clearings suitable for tents, vans, or smaller travel trailers. The boondocking sites are free and situated on BLM-managed land.
Things to Do: Angel Peak is ideal for photography, short hikes, and watching sunrises or sunsets over the canyon. The scenic drive through the area leads to multiple overlooks and quiet stops along the canyon rim. This location offers solitude and a quiet retreat from more crowded areas. Wildlife, including jackrabbits and birds of prey, are common.
Directions: From Bloomfield or Aztec, take US-550 south and turn west onto County Road 7175, following signs for Angel Peak. Dispersed sites begin along the dirt road before reaching the developed campground.
Vehicle Access: Gravel roads are generally passable in dry weather. Most vans, SUVs, and small RVs will be fine. Larger rigs may have difficulty turning around, and steep grades can be a challenge. No water, no restrooms, and no trash removal—bring all supplies and pack out.
Farmington Dunes Boondocking
Farmington Dunes is a remote boondocking area located on BLM land just west of Farmington. It’s a popular spot for off-road riders and dispersed campers looking for a quiet desert location with loose sand and rugged trails. The terrain includes small dunes, sandy patches, and some open areas suitable for dry camping. There are no designated campsites, but there are several pullouts and clearings.
Things to Do: Off-roading is the primary activity at Farmington Dunes. ATVs, dirt bikes, and side-by-sides are frequently seen here. The sandy terrain also attracts visitors for hiking and exploring the surrounding desert washes. While the dunes are relatively small, they still provide a fun area for recreation and a scenic, secluded place to camp.
Directions: From Farmington, head south on NM-371. Turn west onto one of the dirt access roads that lead into the dunes area. There are no official signs, so using GPS coordinates or satellite maps may be necessary to locate the best spots.
Vehicle Access: High-clearance and 4WD vehicles are recommended due to soft sand and uneven terrain. Not suitable for large RVs unless specifically off-road capable. No amenities—bring all supplies and practice Leave No Trace principles.
Paid Camping For the Bisti Badlands
Ruins Road RV Park Aztec New Mexico
Ruins Road RV Park sits just south of downtown Aztec, offering full hookup camping with convenient access to town and nearby attractions. The park features gravel pads, picnic tables, and pull-through sites that can accommodate both small and large rigs. Located near the Animas River, the property provides a mix of shaded and open sites with views of cottonwood trees along the riverbank.
Things to Do: The park is within walking distance to the Aztec Ruins National Monument, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with preserved structures from the ancestral Puebloan people. Visitors can explore a reconstructed Great Kiva, trails, and museum exhibits. The nearby Animas River offers fishing and walking trails, while downtown Aztec provides local dining and shops. This campground is also a good base for day trips to Farmington or the San Juan River.
Directions: From downtown Aztec, head south on US-550. Turn west onto Ruins Road. The entrance to the park is just before the Aztec Ruins visitor center on the left-hand side.
Vehicle Access: Suitable for all RV sizes. The park has paved roads leading in and offers full hookups including 30/50-amp electric, water, and sewer. Amenities include laundry, restrooms, showers, and Wi-Fi. Reservations recommended year-round.
McGee Park RV Camping Farmington New Mexico
McGee Park RV Camping is located within the San Juan County Fairgrounds east of Farmington. It offers over 500 RV sites, many with full hookups, on a large flat open lot. This location is best suited for travelers attending events or passing through who need easy access and utility hookups rather than scenic camping.
Things to Do: McGee Park hosts regular events including rodeos, fairs, livestock shows, and concerts. When events are not in progress, the grounds provide a quiet place to stay with access to Farmington’s services. Nearby attractions include the Riverwalk trails, B-Square Ranch Museum, and local shopping and dining. The San Juan River is also a short drive away for fishing and kayaking.
Directions: From US-64, head east out of Farmington toward Bloomfield. Turn north onto County Road 5500 (McGee Park entrance road). The RV area is clearly signed within the park complex.
Vehicle Access: Accessible for all RV types. Pull-through and back-in sites available. Full hookups include 30/50-amp electric, water, and sewer. Dump station and restroom facilities on-site. Reservations may be needed during events; otherwise, space is usually available.
Farmington Dunes Campground Farmington New Mexico
Farmington Dunes Campground is a small, developed camping area located west of Farmington within the broader Farmington Dunes OHV area. It provides basic camping infrastructure for off-road users looking to stay close to trails and sandy play areas. The campground includes a few designated spaces, vault toilets, and room for tents or smaller RVs. This site is managed by the BLM and free to use.
Things to Do: Primarily used by OHV riders, the campground gives direct access to a network of sandy trails and dunes ideal for off-road recreation. The area is also used for hiking and exploring desert terrain. While facilities are minimal, the views of the surrounding badlands and the opportunity for quiet, informal camping make it attractive for weekend riders and desert explorers.
Directions: Take NM-371 south from Farmington. Look for an unsigned dirt road turning west into the dunes area around mile marker 5. Follow the road into the dunes, where signage directs you toward the developed campground area.
Vehicle Access: Best suited for high-clearance vehicles, vans, or small RVs. The roads are sandy and can become difficult after rain. No water, no hookups, and no trash services—campers must be self-contained and pack out waste.
Navajo Lake State Park – Cottonwood Campground Navajo Dam New Mexico
Cottonwood Campground is one of several camping areas within Navajo Lake State Park, located on the west side of Navajo Dam near the San Juan River. This campground is known for its proximity to world-class fly fishing waters and provides developed sites with electric hookups, picnic tables, fire rings, and restrooms. Cottonwood is more sheltered and forested than some of the other park areas, offering a more private feel.
Things to Do: The San Juan River below Navajo Dam is famous for its trout fishing, especially the Quality Waters section. Anglers travel from all over to fish this stretch. Boating, hiking, and bird watching are also popular. Navajo Lake is just a short drive away for water sports. The area is managed by New Mexico State Parks and includes ranger presence and maintained facilities.
Directions: From Aztec, drive east on NM-173 toward Navajo Dam. Continue until you reach NM-511 and turn south. Follow signs for Cottonwood Campground, located along the river below the dam.
Vehicle Access: Suitable for RVs and trailers of all sizes. Sites offer 30-amp electric hookups, and a dump station is nearby. Vault toilets and water spigots are available. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during fishing season and summer weekends.
Frequently Asked Questions
There are several places where you can set up camp along dirt roads and near the unique rock formations. Knowing the best times to visit, the distance from Albuquerque, and what services are (or aren’t) available will help you prepare.
What are the best boondocking spots near Bisti Badlands?
Some of the best spots are along the dirt roads east of the “Badlands Wall.” These areas have flat ground and plenty of space.
Another good option sits near the trailhead parking lots about 2 miles off the highway.
How do I find the Bisti Badlands boondocking locations on a map?
Look for marked BLM land about 36 miles from Farmington, New Mexico. Most boondocking spots are near the Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness area.
Use a GPS or mapping app to find the dirt roads and trailheads.
What is the best season to go boondocking in the Bisti Badlands area?
Spring and fall offer the most comfortable weather—mild temperatures, good for hiking and camping. Summers get very hot, and winters can bring cold and snow.
Are permits required for camping in the Bisti Badlands region?
No permits are needed for dispersed camping on BLM land here. Just follow all BLM rules and Leave No Trace practices.
How far is the Bisti Badlands from Albuquerque, and what is the best route?
The Bisti Badlands are about 300 miles northwest of Albuquerque. Usually, you’ll take I-40 west toward Farmington, then follow local roads to the Bisti area.
What facilities are available for campers at Bisti Badlands?
There aren’t any water sources out there, and you won’t find restrooms or trash bins either. You’ll need to bring your own water and carry out all your trash.
Campsites are primitive. On the bright side, they’re free.