Gilman Tunnels Jemez Pueblo NM
Boondocking Location
| ADDRESS |
|---|
| Jemez Pueblo, New Mexico GPS: 35.72994, -106.75855 Elevation: 6056′ |
| MANAGEMENT |
| Public – Forest Service This is a FREE campsite. |
Previous Reviews:
Gilman Tunnels Jemez Pueblo NM boondocking location: A few scattered camping areas in the Santa Fe National Forest near the Rio Guadalupe and the Jemez and Gilman Tunnels. There are several tent sites and fire rings about a half mile south of the tunnels, just off the road on both sides.
There are one or two sites that I believe an RV could fit into, as well as several pull-offs for those who don’t mind camping beside the road. The road in is paved, but it’s narrow and has a significant dip at one point, so larger RVs should check it out beforehand. It’s a lovely location, rather popular during the day, but we were the only ones there overnight.
About This Location
Looking for a boondocking spot near Jemez Pueblo? The Gilman Tunnels area in New Mexico has a vibe you won’t find everywhere. This Gilman Tunnels Jemez Pueblo NM boondocking location offers dispersed camping close to the Santa Fe National Forest, with a handful of tent spots tucked near the Rio Guadalupe. You get the forest, rocky outcrops, and a bit of peace—without the usual crowds.
Getting here is a breeze. The Gilman Tunnels sit just off the road, near some small towns and historic sites. Temperatures swing a bit, so pack layers. Hike the short Gilman Tunnels Trail (it’s only 1.2 miles), or just kick back by your campfire and take in the scenery. Not a bad way to unplug for a while.
Location And Access
The Gilman Tunnels Jemez Pueblo NM boondocking location sits near Jemez Pueblo, New Mexico, down in the southwestern Jemez Mountains, hugging New Mexico State Road 485 and close to the Rio Guadalupe.
To get to Gilman Tunnels Jemez Pueblo NM boondocking location, start at the intersection of NM 4 and NM 485. Head northwest on NM 485 for about 5 miles—easy enough. The tunnels are right by the road, so you don’t have to go off-roading just to park your camper.
You’ve also got another route: take State Forest Road 376 from Jemez Springs, about 15 miles south of Soda Dam. Either way, you get a scenic drive through forest and rocky canyons.
Dispersed camping spots scatter along the road near the tunnels. They’re basic—no frills, no hookups, just you and the trees. Tents and smaller rigs fit best here.
The terrain jumps between forest patches and chunky rock. Nights get chilly, since you’re up at a decent elevation.
Quick Access Info:
| Starting Point | Direction | Distance | Road |
|---|---|---|---|
| NM 4 & NM 485 Intersection | Northwest | ~5 miles | NM 485 |
| Jemez Springs (via SF Rd 376) | South to North | ~15 miles | State Forest Road 376 |
Most vehicles do fine on these roads, but watch for tight spots, especially by the tunnels.
Directions: How To Get There And What To Expect
To reach the Gilman Tunnels Jemez Pueblo NM boondocking location, hop on I-25 north. Take exit 242 at Bernalillo and head west on Highway 550 for about 20 miles until you hit San Ysidro.
From San Ysidro, turn north (right) onto Highway 4 and keep going for about 4.5 miles. Look for the turnoff to Forest Road 376, which leads straight toward the tunnels.
Stick with Forest Road 376 for about 5 miles. It’s paved but gets narrow—just take it slow.
The Forest Service manages this spot, and you can camp here for free. Elevation’s about 6,056 feet, so nights can get cold.
Camping is dispersed: park your rig or pitch your tent wherever there’s space. No formal campsites, no hookups.
You can drive through the Gilman Tunnels themselves. They’re short and wide enough for most cars, but if you’ve got a big rig, take it easy.
No facilities—bring your own water, food, and trash bags. Haul out everything you brought in.
There’s a mellow 1.2-mile out-and-back trail near the tunnels. It’s not tough, and you get some great views of the rocks.
Amenities And Activities
At Gilman Tunnels Jemez Pueblo NM boondocking location, don’t expect much in the way of built-in comforts. No restrooms, showers, or trash cans right at the site. You’ll need to bring all your own stuff—water, food, everything.
Some nearby camping areas are ADA accessible, but the boondocking spots right around the tunnels are wild and undeveloped. It’s primitive camping, so plan for that.
What do you do here? Mostly just soak in the natural and historic setting. Drive through the tunnels, take in the mountain views, and maybe wonder what it took to carve these out of the rock. The road can be twisty and tight, so stay alert.
There are hiking trails and cool rock formations nearby—great for exploring, fishing, or snapping photos. There aren’t dedicated facilities for these activities, but sometimes that’s part of the charm.
| Amenity | Availability |
|---|---|
| Drinking Water | Not provided onsite |
| Restrooms | Not available |
| BBQ Grill | Nearby dispersed campsites |
| Picnic Tables | Limited in surrounding areas |
| Boat Ramp | Not at Gilman Tunnels |
Take everything you brought with you when you leave. It’s the only way to keep this place wild for everyone else.
Camping Regulations And Restrictions
Camping at Gilman Tunnels Jemez Pueblo NM boondocking location means you’re on your own. No hookups for water, electricity, or sewer—so you’ll need to be self-sufficient.
The dirt roads can get rough. SUVs usually handle it, but if you’re hauling a big RV or trailer, you might have some trouble. It’s doable, but not always easy.
Always follow Leave No Trace principles. Bring all your supplies and take every bit of trash with you. No trash bins around here.
Permits might be required for camping, depending on the season or current rules. It’s a good idea to check with local authorities or the land office before you go.
No showers or trash bins here—just the basics. You might find vault toilets in nearby areas, but don’t count on them at the actual campsites.
Campfires are sometimes allowed, but only in established fire rings. Always double-check for fire restrictions, especially if it’s been dry.
Give wildlife plenty of space. Don’t mess with plants or animals—just let them be.
Stick to the main roads and existing campsites. Don’t go off-roading or try to carve out a new spot. It’s about keeping this place as wild as it’s always been.
Leave No Trace
When you’re camping at Gilman Tunnels Jemez Pueblo NM boondocking location, sticking to Leave No Trace principles is key. These simple rules help keep the natural area in good shape for everyone.
Bring out everything you bring in—trash, leftover food, gear, all of it. Seriously, don’t leave any waste behind.
If fires are allowed, use the fire rings that are already there and keep the flames small. Always douse your fire until it’s cold before you head out. Local rules can change, so it’s smart to double-check if fires are okay.
Set up camp only on durable surfaces like rock, gravel, or dry grass. Try not to trample plants or disturb wildlife—stick to established sites or open patches.
Give wildlife plenty of space. Watch from a distance and resist the urge to feed or approach animals. It might feel harmless, but it can mess with their instincts and well-being.
Here’s a handy checklist for Leave No Trace at Gilman Tunnels:
| Action | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Pack out all trash | Keeps the area clean |
| Use designated fire rings | Prevents wildfires |
| Camp on durable ground | Protects plants and soil |
| Respect wildlife | Avoids harm to animals |
| AMENITIES: | ACTIVITIES: |
|---|---|
| Fire Rings | RV Camping Tent Camping |
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