Free Benson Ridge NM Boondocking Location
| ADDRESS |
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| Dark Canyon Road Cloudcroft, New Mexico GPS: 32.858212, -105.711097 Elevation: 9206′ |
| MANAGEMENT |
| Public – Forest Service 575-682-2551 This is a FREE campsite. |
Previous Reviews:
Benson Ridge NM boondocking location is a free dispersed camping site in the Lincoln National Forest’s Sacramento Ranger District. First come -> first served. No reservations accepted. This is a high elevation location. Benson Ridge is open all year.
We didn’t travel back as far as the GPS coordinates listed above, but we dispersed about the second major bend on FR 223. We had originally planned to stay near Bluff Springs, but there were way too many people.
This road saw more four-wheeler traffic than Bluff Springs, but it wasn’t too awful. They usually stayed on the rural roads. We were able to return very quickly in our 2WD Sprinter, and there were five or six decent level spots.
Because it being a Friday, the majority of them were already used, so we ended up parking beside a road closure sign instead. There was a large valley with occasional elk and other animals. And a lot of moles. The kids adored it.
About This Location
If you’re looking for a quiet, free spot to camp near Cloudcroft, the Benson Ridge area in Lincoln National Forest is a solid choice. This boondocking spot lets you camp without fees, surrounded by nature and away from the usual crowds.
Benson Ridge offers dispersed camping with easy access to forest roads. It’s perfect if you want a simple, no-frills outdoor experience.
You won’t find developed facilities here, so come prepared with everything you’ll need for a self-sufficient trip. The area draws off-roaders and campers who like exploring forest trails and enjoying peaceful nights under the stars.
It’s a good spot if you want to dodge busy campsites but still stay close to Cloudcroft’s amenities.
Location and Access
Benson Ridge sits in southern New Mexico, tucked inside the Lincoln National Forest. People come here for boondocking, camping without hookups or facilities.
You’ll reach the area by dirt roads, so a high-clearance vehicle will make life easier. Getting there means taking forest roads off the main highways.
The access feels pretty remote. Having a detailed topographic map or GPS is a smart move.
Cell service? Sometimes you’ll get it, but don’t count on it. If you’re traveling from Arizona or Utah, Benson Ridge makes a good detour.
It’s closer to Tucson and Flagstaff than some of the more crowded parks. You could even mix in a visit to Patagonia Lake State Park in Arizona or Zion National Park in Utah.
For longer road trips, Benson Ridge fits into a loop that can include Lake Powell or Dinosaur National Monument in Colorado. Wyoming and Colorado River sites could be part of your mountain state tour too.
Benson Ridge only offers primitive camping. There are no developed campgrounds like you’d find at Allegheny National Forest.
Bring all your supplies and plan ahead for safety and comfort.
Directions
To get to Benson Ridge, start from Cloudcroft, New Mexico. Head south on Highway 6563 (Sunspot Highway).
After about 8 miles, you’ll spot the turnoff for Benson Ridge. Turn onto Forest Road 223, also called Benson Ridge Road.
Follow this well-maintained road into the boondocking area. If you’re coming from Las Cruces, you’ll drive about 70 miles northeast.
Take US-70 east toward Alamogordo, then head south on NM-82. From there, connect to NM-6563 and follow the directions above.
Keep an eye on road signs and your map—some turns aren’t clearly marked. The area around Benson Ridge gives you access to trails like Bluff Springs Trail (#5006) and Benson Canyon Trail (#5005).
These trails start on or near the roads you’ll use. Drive carefully, especially if it’s wet or icy, since some road sections can get rough or narrow.
It’s best to use a vehicle with good clearance if you want to go deeper off-road.
Amenities and Activities
At Benson Ridge, you get the real boondocking experience: no running water, no full hookups, no fancy restroom facilities. You’ll need to be self-sufficient.
The Lincoln National Forest wraps you in quiet, with tall pine trees all around. Tent camping works great, or you can bring your RV for dry camping.
Picnic tables are rare, so bringing your own gear is smart. Hiking and ATV trails crisscross nearby.
If you’re into birding, you might spot hummingbirds or canyon towhees. Some local streams hold trout and bass, so fishing is an option.
If you want pools, observatories, or picnic areas, you’ll have to drive farther. Boondocking here means you’re close to nature in a true backcountry setting.
There’s no wifi or cell service, so don’t expect to be connected. No boat ramps, swimming beaches, or golf resorts here.
The focus is on quiet, nature-based activities—think hiking, bird watching, and exploring off-road trails.
Camping Regulations and Restrictions
When you set up camp at Benson Ridge, you need to follow a few rules to keep the area protected. Boondocking is allowed, but you have to use dispersed camping sites.
These sites don’t have water or toilets, so you’ll need to come prepared. You must get a free permit if you’re camping on public lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM).
This helps limit the number of campers and keeps things safe. Most areas let you camp for up to 14 days.
After that, you’re supposed to move at least 25 miles before camping again in the same zone. That way, the land doesn’t get overused.
A few basic rules: camp at least 200 feet from water sources, use existing fire rings or portable stoves, and pack out all your trash. Follow the Leave No Trace principles.
Keep noise down at night. Don’t block roads or trails with your vehicle.
Fires are usually only allowed in designated areas or fire pits. If you ignore the rules, you could get fined or asked to leave.
Always check the current regulations before you head out, since rules can change with weather and fire danger.
| AMENITIES: | ACTIVITIES: |
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| Wildlife Viewing |
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