Free Fort Wingate NM Boondocking Location
| ADDRESS |
|---|
| Fort Wingate, New Mexico GPS: 35.42214, -108.55003 Elevation: 7503′ |
| MANAGEMENT |
| Public – Forest Service (Official) You may stay 14 days at 191 off 400. This is a FREE campsite. |
Previous Reviews:
This Fort Wingate NM boondocking location is a boondocking encampment. We stayed here in a 42-foot toy trailer, and the nicest one for this size was the first one to the left that went straight in until we reached the gate. After March 31.
I loved this boondocking location. There are possibly eight camping areas here, all of which are separate, flat, and bordered by large pine trees. I saw a 40′ here. 8 miles from the interstate. All decent paved roads lead to 191, which is a wide, well-maintained gravel road. There’s no cell service.
About This Location
When looking for boondocking near Fort Wingate, NM, we find that the McGaffey Campground and dispersed sites like Six Mile Canyon offer some of the best options.
These locations provide access to quiet, undeveloped camping areas managed by the USDA Forest Service, allowing for a more rugged, off-grid experience.
The Fort Wingate NM boondocking location area stands out because it offers both free dispersed camping and a well-maintained campground at McGaffey, giving us flexibility depending on our camping style. Elevations around 7,700 feet also mean cooler temperatures and scenic forest surroundings, which many of us appreciate for a peaceful getaway.
Exploring these boondocking spots gives us the chance to enjoy solitude without sacrificing access to nearby amenities or easy highway routes, especially off State Road 400.
For those interested in a mix of adventure and convenience, Fort Wingate NM boondocking location is a practical choice.
Location And Access
The Fort Wingate boondocking area is located in northwestern New Mexico, near the town of Fort Wingate. It sits within the Cibola National Forest, an area known for its mix of rugged terrain and historical significance.
Access is primarily via State Road 400, which branches off from I-40 just east of Gallup.
From I-40, we take Exit 33 and head south through Fort Wingate. After about 8 miles on SR 400, we reach the dispersed camping sites.
Roads leading to these spots are mostly unpaved but accessible with standard vehicles in good weather conditions.
The surrounding region includes a variety of land uses, from nearby ranches and farms to historic mining operations. Though there are no vineyards or orchards immediately adjacent, the area shares New Mexico’s broader landscape, which supports solar and wind energy developments across the state.
Fort Wingate NM boondocking location is also centrally located relative to notable sites of the American West. Parks like the Petrified Forest and Saguaro National Park, while farther away, illustrate the diverse natural heritage connected by travel routes through this region. Our boondocking spot offers a practical base for exploring these cultural and geological landmarks.
We recommend preparing for limited services in the dispersed area, as it lacks the amenities found in established campgrounds like McGaffey or Quaking Aspen. The isolation highlights the more remote side of New Mexico’s outdoor offerings.
Directions
To reach the Fort Wingate NM boondocking location area, start by taking Exit 33 from I-40 near Gallup, New Mexico. From there, drive south through Fort Wingate on State Road 400.
Continue for about 8 miles until you find the entrance to the designated camping spots.
If we are coming from Fort Sumner, we head west on US-60, passing through small towns until reaching the junction with I-40 near Gallup. Then, we follow the directions south to Fort Wingate and SR 400 as described above.
For the dispersed camping near Fort Wingate, especially around areas like Six Mile Canyon or McGaffey Campground, we rely on well-marked dirt roads.
It’s important to watch for signage and use a detailed map or GPS to avoid getting off track.
Quick route overview:
| Step | Instruction |
|---|---|
| 1 | Take I-40 to Exit 33 near Gallup |
| 2 | Drive south through Fort Wingate |
| 3 | Continue on State Road 400 for 8 miles |
| 4 | Look for dispersed camping signs |
Traveling during daylight is advisable due to unpaved road sections. We should carry supplies and be prepared for limited facilities once near the boondocking area.
Amenities And Activities
At the Fort Wingate NM boondocking location, we find a basic but functional setup. There are 22 campsites available, with some offering electric and sewer hookups.
Vault restrooms are provided, but no potable water on site, so we bring our own supply.
The area around the campground features picnic tables, BBQ grills, and trash cans. These amenities support a comfortable stay while maintaining the rustic boondocking experience. It is important to plan for a self-sufficient visit, especially with water access limited.
For outdoor activities, hiking is a prominent option. The landscape includes wingate sandstone formations and scattered sagebrush, offering a distinctive desert feel.
Nearby trails allow us to explore diverse terrain, such as red rock outcrops and forest service lands.
Mountain biking is also feasible on local dirt roads. Though there is no dedicated biking trail, the open space provides room for varied rides.
We can access several forest service campgrounds and state parks in the region to extend our exploration.
While the area lacks direct river or kayaking options, the surrounding national forest campgrounds and desert varnish-covered rocks give us unique natural sights. The views here highlight the rugged beauty typical of New Mexico’s high desert.
Camping Regulations And Restrictions
When camping near Fort Wingate NM boondocking location, we need to follow specific regulations to protect the environment and ensure safety. For instance, it is important to follow the leave no trace rules.
Most dispersed camping areas allow boondocking, but we must respect stay limits and vehicle size restrictions.
For example, at nearby campgrounds like McGaffey, there is a 14-day stay limit. We should park trailers no longer than 22 feet in length. These rules help manage traffic and reduce the impact on natural resources.
Fire regulations are important. We should only use established fire rings or pits where provided. Open fires may be prohibited during dry conditions to prevent wildfires.
Trash disposal is our responsibility. We must pack out all garbage and leave no trace. Some sites may offer trash receptacles, but we cannot rely on them.
Generators, if allowed, should be used during daylight hours to minimize noise disturbance. Quiet hours often start in the evening to respect other campers.
Before setting up, check for any temporary closures or seasonal restrictions with local authorities or land managers.
| AMENITIES: | ACTIVITIES: |
|---|---|
| Pets Welcome | RV Parking Tent Camping Hiking Wildlife Viewing |
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