Free Alien Run NM Boondocking Location
| ADDRESS |
|---|
| Aztec, New Mexico GPS: 36.87804, -107.89841 Elevation: 6129′ |
| MANAGEMENT |
| Public – Bureau of Land Management (Official) 505-564-7600 This is a FREE campsite. |
Previous Reviews:
The road in is dirt for this Alien Run NM boondocking location. Dispersed camping is allowed in the area.
Alien Run Mountain Bike Trail consists of two looped mountain bike trails that cover over 26 miles. The original loop and the OuterLimits trail circle around a rumored UFO crash site. Dispersed camping is allowed in the area.
We pitched a tent in the soft dirt near the parking lot. Except for a few mountain bikers in the morning, we had the entire location to ourselves. There are two covered picnic tables. The bathroom was quite clean. We walked a little along the mountain bike path, and it looked really amazing. AT&T and Verizon customers enjoy excellent cell service. As others have stated, it’s directly next to a power plant, so there’s always an industrial drone, however it kind of lulled me to sleep. If you need a somewhere to stay in a hurry, this is definitely worth stopping by.
About This Location
If we’re looking for a remote and affordable spot to boondock near Aztec, the Alien Run NM boondocking location is a solid option. This dispersed camping location sits along Road 2770, offering a quiet setting with no fees or amenities.
Alien Run NM boondocking allows for extended stays in a natural environment, making it ideal for those who want to camp off the grid without strict regulations.
The area is known for its connection to UFO folklore, adding a unique twist to the experience. With open space for tents, RVs, and vehicles, we can choose our own campsite here, although we should come prepared as there are no facilities.
Whether we’re looking to explore local trails or simply disconnect, Alien Run provides a simple, no-frills boondocking opportunity.
Location And Access
Alien Run is located near Aztec, New Mexico, northeast of the city along highway NM 550. From the junction of NM 173 and NM 550, we travel about 2.9 miles northeast to reach County Road 2770, which leads to the dispersed camping area.
The terrain around Alien Run NM boondocking location includes flatlands and rocky zones, typical of this high desert environment. Temperatures vary widely, ranging from around 20°F in winter to highs near 90°F in summer, so we should prepare accordingly.
Access is suitable for most vehicles, but some sections on the county road may be rough. The site is popular with cyclists due to proximity to the Alien Run Mountain Bike Trail system, which offers over 26 miles of looped trails.
While not close to Carlsbad Caverns, Alien Run NM boondocking location provides a different experience—more focused on quiet camping and outdoor recreation in northern parts of the state. Noise from nearby oil and gas facilities is present but generally not disruptive at night.
For us, Alien Run serves as a practical boondocking spot with good access and natural views, especially if we are traveling through northwest New Mexico or using it as a base to explore local trails.
Directions
To reach the Alien Run NM boondocking location near Aztec, New Mexico, we start by heading toward the town of Aztec.
From the center of Aztec, we take Road 2770, which leads directly toward the dispersed camping area.
The GPS coordinates to guide us are 36.87804, -107.89841. These help us locate the campsite precisely at an elevation of about 6,129 feet.
The route mainly follows unpaved roads, so we recommend a vehicle that can handle light off-road conditions. Driving carefully on dirt roads is important, especially after rain.
Once on Road 2770, we continue until the main dispersed camping zone on BLM land appears. The area is free to camp, so no permits or fees are required.
We suggest bringing a detailed map or a GPS device for navigation, as signage can be limited near the site. Cell service may be spotty, so preparation is key.
There are a few nearby trails like Alien Run Trail and Outer Limits Trail if we want to explore the surroundings after setting up camp. These trails start close to the camping location and offer moderate hikes.
Amenities And Activities
At this Alien Run NM boondocking location, the main style of camping available is boondocking. There are no developed campgrounds or hookups, so we rely on dispersed camping practices. This means no propane hookups, water, or electrical service.
Tent camping works well here due to the open space and relatively flat ground. We should bring our own skylights or lanterns to brighten our campsite at night since there is no built-in lighting.
The area welcomes pets and offers a quiet setting, although occasional noise from nearby oil and gas facilities may be noticeable.
For activities, Alien Run NM boondocking location is excellent for biking and hiking. The 9.5-mile loop trail nearby suits both beginners and experienced riders. Wildlife viewing is also a common pastime, as the high desert surroundings support various animals.
Since this location is not managed by the U.S. Forest Service, amenities are minimal, so packing essential supplies is necessary for safety and comfort. It’s a great spot for those who prefer a more primitive and independent camping experience.
Camping Regulations And Restrictions
When camping at Alien Run in New Mexico, we must follow specific regulations designed to protect the environment and local wildlife.
Dispersed camping is allowed, but it requires us to comply with restrictions aimed at conservation and habitat preservation. A free permit from the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) may be required before camping. We should always check current permit requirements to avoid penalties and support proper land use.
This ensures we respect designated areas and reduce impacts on critical habitats. Because the area borders habitat important to endangered and threatened wildlife, including species covered by the Endangered Species Act, we must minimize disturbances.
Following leave-no-trace principles is essential to protect sensitive wildlife and their environments. Restrictions may include staying on established roads and campsites, limiting campfire use, and packing out all waste.
This lower-impact camping practice helps with wildlife management and meets conservation goals set by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. We also acknowledge ongoing habitat designations and public comment periods related to the area.
These processes involve peer review and risk management strategies to balance recreation with protection of species. Adhering to current regulations supports these efforts. By cooperating with rules and respecting restrictions, we contribute to maintaining the area’s ecological health and safeguarding threatened species for future visitors.
| AMENITIES: | ACTIVITIES: |
|---|---|
| Pets Welcome | Biking Wildlife Viewing |
Have you been to this location?Please help us and future travelers by |