Cedar Springs Campsite
Blanco NM Boondocking Location
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| ADDRESS |
|---|
| Blanco, New Mexico GPS: 36.6727, -107.2591 Elevation: 7288′ |
| MANAGEMENT |
| Public – USDA Forest Service (Official) 505-632-2956 This is a FREE campsite. |
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Previous Reviews:
Cedar Springs Campsite Blanco NM boondocking location: Cedar Springs Campground is open May-November. There are 1-5 campsites at this location. This Carson National Forest campground sees light usage.
It’s a long walk back to the campground over a sandy dirt road that is mostly solid but has some ruts to avoid. We attempted to reach the campground via County Road 314, but the hills were too steep and sandy. This campground was quite dry, with no water in the creek. Surprisingly for a legitimate Forest Campground, the roads were awful and rutty, making getting to the campground much more difficult.
Aside from the dry weather and poor roads within the park, it is a beautiful Ponderosa Forest. It does have a pit toilet. We opted to relocate to a less densely populated location nearby for more privacy because we have pets. There aren’t as many dispersed locations as you’d expect in the national forest, and be cautious because the first five or six miles on 10/357 are on the Jicarilla Apache Reservation, where camping is prohibited. We were swamped with flies and hornets at this time of year, and a game warden dropped by to remind us that it was bow and archery season.
About This Location
p>If you’re after a quiet, remote spot to camp in New Mexico, Cedar Springs is a solid pick. Cedar Springs offers boondocking in a natural setting within Carson National Forest, giving you a peaceful experience away from crowded campgrounds.
The Cedar Springs Campsite Blanco NM boondocking location sits at about 7,300 feet, so it’s a cool getaway during the hot months. You won’t find many amenities here, so you’ll need to rely on your own gear and resourcefulness.
The campground doesn’t get much use these days and the US Forest Service no longer maintains it, but folks who want a more rugged adventure still make their way out here. Whether you pull up in a camper or pitch a tent, Cedar Springs puts you right near hiking and horse trails.
Location And Access
Cedar Springs Campsite Blanco NM boondocking location sits in northern New Mexico, tucked inside the Carson National Forest. It’s surrounded by the Jicarilla Apache Nation and the Navajo Nation, giving it that extra-remote vibe.
You’ll find it close to Blanco, New Mexico. It’s only about 6 miles from the Aztec Ruins National Monument, so it’s a handy base if you want to mix in a little history.
You’ll need to take Forest Service roads to get here. Those roads are mostly gravel, and after a storm, you might need a high-clearance vehicle.
Since the Forest Service stopped maintaining the campground, road and site conditions can be unpredictable. If you’re coming from Colorado Springs, expect to spend several hours on the road as you head south into rural northern New Mexico.
It’s a remote area, so make sure your vehicle can handle rougher roads and bring plenty of supplies.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Northern New Mexico, Carson NF |
| Nearest Town | Blanco, NM |
| Nearby Landmark | Aztec Ruins National Monument |
| Road Access | Forest Service gravel roads |
| Vehicle Recommendation | High-clearance vehicle suggested |
Plan ahead, because services are few and far between out here. Cell signal is spotty at best, and you won’t find much in the way of amenities, so get ready for a true boondocking experience.
Directions
To get to the Cedar Springs Campsite Blanco NM boondocking location, aim for the South Fork region in northwestern New Mexico. This part of the state is known for its remote camping and wide open land for dispersed camping.
From the nearest town, take the main highway until you reach South Fork Road. Follow that until you spot signs for Cedar Springs Campground or look out for the Cedar Springs Loop trail.
The trail has several entry points to the boondocking areas. Roads out here are mostly dirt or gravel, so expect some bumps.
If it’s been raining, or if the weather looks iffy, a vehicle with good clearance or four-wheel drive will make your life easier. When you reach Cedar Springs Loop, you’ll see a handful of dispersed camping spots.
Look for clearings off the main trail—those are your best bets for camping. Always check for any posted rules or restrictions before you set up.
GPS apps or downloaded maps can help track your route, but don’t count on cell service. Bring a paper map or save your route offline before you head out.
Weather can shift fast in these parts, and road conditions change right along with it. Keep an eye out as you travel through the South Fork area and up to Cedar Springs.
Amenities And Activities
At Cedar Springs Campsite Blanco NM boondocking location, you’ll find a mix of boondocking and basic camping options. The site works well for tent camping, motorhomes, or RVs.
There aren’t any hookups for water or electricity, so you’ve got to come prepared to handle your own needs. The campground has a few fire pits, some picnic tables, and vault toilets.
Drinking water is available, but there’s no dump station. The road in is paved, so trailers and RVs up to 40 feet can get in without too much trouble.
The scenery here is honestly pretty great, with forest and desert views all around. Trails and trailheads nearby make it easy to get out and explore.
These trails are moderate, so you don’t have to be an expert hiker to enjoy them. If you’re into fishing or kayaking, you’ll need to head to nearby lakes and rivers—nothing right at the campground, but it’s not far if you bring your own gear.
This Cedar Springs Campsite Blanco NM boondocking location isn’t a full-service RV park, so it’s best for campers who like things simple and don’t mind roughing it a little. You’ll get a peaceful environment, natural beauty, and just enough basics to keep your adventure on track.
Camping Regulations And Restrictions
When you camp at Cedar Springs Campsite Blanco NM boondocking location, you’ve got to stick to the rules from Carson National Forest. Dispersed camping’s allowed, so you can camp outside of the developed campgrounds.
Just remember, you need to follow the dispersed camping rules listed on the official Travel Management map. There are also a few specific restrictions you should keep in mind.
You can’t camp too close to water sources or trails. Depending on the season, campfires might be off-limits—so it’s smart to check the fire restrictions before you go.
The roads to Cedar Springs get pretty narrow and sometimes have steep grades. Take it slow and drive carefully.
Speed limits on those access roads tend to be low, mostly to protect the area and other campers. It’s not the place to rush, honestly.
Expect limited facilities. There aren’t any developed services—no water taps or bathrooms.
You’ll need to bring everything you want and, of course, pack out all your trash. Follow the Leave No Trace principles.
If you’re bringing a vehicle or trailer, check for size limits and road conditions before you head out. Some stretches just aren’t friendly to big rigs.
Respecting local rules matters. It’s the best way to help keep the Cedar Springs Campsite Blanco NM boondocking location wild and beautiful for everyone.
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| AMENITIES: | ACTIVITIES: |
|---|---|
| Picnic Tables Restrooms Drinking Water |
Camping Horse Trails Picnicking |
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