El Rito Creek NM Boondocking Location
| ADDRESS |
|---|
| County Road 437 Vallecitos, New Mexico GPS: 36.579431, -106.168588 Elevation: 8009′ |
| MANAGEMENT |
| Public – Forest Service 575-581-4554 This is a FREE campsite. |
Previous Reviews:
El Rito Creek NM boondocking location: El Rito Creek is open Apr-Nov. This free campsite is located within the Carson National Forest’s El Rito Ranger District. This is a high elevation location.
We loved the Continental Divide Trail. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 39 min to complete. This trail is great for backpacking, camping, and hiking, and it’s unlikely you’ll encounter many other people while exploring. The best times to visit this trail are April through October. Dogs are welcome and may be off-leash in some areas.
About This Location
If you’re after a quiet spot to boondock near El Rito, New Mexico, check out the El Rito Creek NM boondocking location at GPS: 36.579431, -106.168588. This spot gives you free, off-grid camping and some pretty great natural surroundings.
It’s honestly a solid choice if you just want a simple place to park your RV or pitch a tent far from the crowds. The open space and peaceful views around El Rito Creek are perfect for relaxing or wandering.
You get a real backcountry vibe out here, but you can still reach it with most vehicles. Nature feels close, and you won’t find many restrictions or fees to worry about.
Location at And Access
You’ll find the El Rito Creek NM boondocking location tucked away in northern New Mexico. The GPS coordinates—36.579431, -106.168588—will get you right there.
It’s not far from El Rito, a tiny town that’s got its own kind of natural beauty. If you can, bring a high-clearance vehicle.
The access road is a mix of dirt and gravel, and it can get rough after rain. That’s just how it goes out here.
You’ll spot Carson National Forest and El Rito Creek nearby, which helps with finding your bearings. Here’s a quick rundown:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| GPS Coordinates | 36.579431, -106.168588 |
| Road Type | Dirt and gravel |
| Vehicle Suggestion | High clearance preferred |
| Nearby Town | El Rito, NM |
| Closest Forest | Carson National Forest |
The El Rito Creek NM boondocking location sits well off the main highways, so privacy comes easy. Cell service? It’s hit or miss—plan for that.
There’s not much signage, so bring a map or GPS. It’s smart to check the weather before you roll out.
Directions
To reach El Rito Creek NM boondocking location, head toward El Rito, New Mexico. Plug in GPS coordinates 36.579431, -106.168588—it’ll save you some guesswork.
From the town center, take County Road 19 north. Stay on it for about six miles.
The road’s mostly gravel, but most vehicles can handle it unless it’s just rained a ton. Watch for a small dirt turnout on your right.
That’s your spot—right near El Rito Creek, with access to the boondocking area. There aren’t any signs, so keep an eye on your GPS.
Go slow on those narrow stretches, especially if it’s been raining. If there’s snow or a storm, maybe wait it out—mud here can get real slick.
Park in the designated spots along the creek. This place is primitive, so bring everything you need—there’s no water, no hookups, no nothing.
Keep your map or GPS handy during the drive. Cell service fades out as you get closer to the creek.
If you’re coming from Santa Fe, take US-84/285 north to Española, then NM-503 west to El Rito. Follow the same steps from there.
Check the weather and road conditions before you go. It’ll make your trip smoother.
Amenities And Activities
At El Rito Creek NM boondocking location, things stay simple. You won’t find running water, electricity, or dump stations here.
Bring your own supplies for drinking, cooking, and waste. It’s pretty much primitive camping, so self-sufficiency is the name of the game.
You won’t get fancy facilities, but you do get plenty of natural beauty and open space. Here’s what you can do:
- Hike in the nearby forests
- Watch for wildlife
- Try fishing in El Rito Creek (just double-check the local rules)
- Stargaze at night—the sky’s dark and clear out here
Bring whatever gear you need for outdoor fun. The creek area’s nice for short walks or just sitting by the water.
Stick to Leave No Trace principles. Pack out your trash and don’t mess with the plants.
That way, this spot stays wild for whoever comes next.
Camping Regulations And Restrictions
You need to camp only in designated areas near El Rito Creek. Setting up outside these spots isn’t allowed, since it helps protect the land.
Campfires are allowed, but only in established fire rings. If it’s dry out, fire bans might be in place—always check the current fire rules before you strike a match.
You can stay up to 14 days within a 30-day period. After that, you’ll need to move at least 25 miles away before coming back.
There are no trash services at this site, so you have to pack out your own trash. Follow the Leave No Trace principles—nobody wants to stumble across someone else’s mess.
Pets are welcome, but keep them on a leash at all times. Don’t let them chase wildlife or bug other campers.
You can run generators only during the day, usually from 8 AM to 8 PM. Try not to blast your neighbors with noise; a little courtesy goes a long way.
Vehicles need to stay on established roads or parking spots. Off-roading is a no-go, since it really messes up the vegetation.
Alcohol use is regulated by local laws. Public intoxication? Not a great idea, and it’ll get you in trouble.
No permanent structures, digging, or wood cutting are allowed. These rules keep the site natural, which honestly makes it better for everyone.
Before you head out, check with local ranger stations for any updates or changes to the rules. It never hurts to double-check.
| AMENITIES: | ACTIVITIES: |
|---|---|
| Restrooms | Hiking Fishing Stargazing Wildlife Watching |
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