Laguna Larga Tierra Amarilla NM
Boondocking Location
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ADDRESS |
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Forest Road 78A Tierra Amarilla, New Mexico GPS: 36.884203, -106.107326 Elevation: 9004′ |
MANAGEMENT |
Public – Forest Service (Official) (575) 758-8678 This is a FREE campsite. |
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Previous Reviews:
Laguna Larga Tierra Amarilla NM boondocking location: There are 1-5 campsites at this location. You may stay 14 days at Laguna Larga. Four dispersed campsites are set on fishing water’s edge at 9000′, dispersed camping elsewhere around lake.
About This Location
If you’re hunting for a quiet, free spot to boondock near Tierra Amarilla, NM, Laguna Larga is a pretty solid pick. Laguna Larga Tierra Amarilla NM boondocking location gives you dispersed camping with easy access to wide-open land and hardly any thick vegetation, so it’s a chill place to just soak up some nature. It sits inside Carson National Forest, so you won’t be fighting crowds or dealing with noisy campgrounds.
You won’t find developed facilities here—no hookups, no bathrooms. You’ll need to be ready for off-grid camping. The area works well for folks who like solitude and a simple setup, with plenty of room for all sorts of rigs, trailers, or RVs. Whether you’re itching to explore or just want to kick back, Laguna Larga is a peaceful base close to the outdoors.
Location And Access
Laguna Larga Tierra Amarilla NM boondocking location sits tucked inside the Carson National Forest. The landscape is mostly flat, dotted with sparse brush, so it’s easy enough to find a good spot.
Getting there means traveling some dirt roads. Most vehicles can handle these, but they can get bumpy, especially after a rainstorm or snow. It’s smart to check the road conditions before you go.
The Laguna Larga Tierra Amarilla NM boondocking location is remote—services are basically nonexistent. Bring everything you need: water, food, fuel, the works. Don’t count on cell reception, either; it’s hit or miss out here.
Feature | Details |
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Nearest Town | Tierra Amarilla, NM |
Forest Area | Carson National Forest |
Road Type | Dirt roads, mostly accessible |
Terrain | Flat with sparse vegetation |
Facilities | None (boondocking only) |
If you want to go off the main path, make sure your vehicle’s up for off-road conditions. Winters can get pretty cold—lows around 20°F—so keep an eye on the forecast and prep for the season.
Directions: How To Get There And What To Expect
To find Laguna Larga Tierra Amarilla NM boondocking location, hop off Interstate 40 at Exit 39 by Jamestown. Head north on County Road 118. Camping spots pop up on both sides of the road. Plug in GPS coordinates N 35.46445, W 108.44220 if you want to be sure.
You’ll find mostly flat ground and not much in the way of trees. Red rock views along the Continental Divide are a nice bonus. The roads are dirt, so a vehicle with some clearance is a good idea, especially if it’s been wet recently.
Don’t expect marked campsites or any kind of amenities—this is dispersed camping, or boondocking. Bring your own water, food, and everything else you’ll need. Odds are you’ll have the place mostly to yourself.
Weather swings a lot. Winters dip to around 20°F, while summer days can climb past 80°F. Plan for whatever the season throws at you.
What to expect:
- No bathrooms or running water
- Spotty or zero cell service
- Quiet, remote camping
- Sweet views of the Continental Divide
Pack out everything you bring in, and respect the local camping rules. It’s one of those places that’s only as nice as the people who visit.
Amenities And Activities
Laguna Larga Tierra Amarilla NM boondocking location is about as simple as it gets for boondocking. It’s pet-friendly, so bring your dog if you want. No hookups, no frills—just you and your gear.
You can launch a boat here since the Chama River is close by. That makes fishing or boating pretty easy if that’s your thing. The land is open and flat—lots of space to spread out.
There are hiking trails nearby, plus places like the Bandera Ice Caves and El Malpais if you’re feeling adventurous. Lava tubes, hunting in the forest, or just poking around—there’s a bit of everything.
Night skies are super dark and clear. Stargazing here is kind of unreal. If you’re into that, you’ll love it.
Activity | Description |
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Hiking | Trails nearby with various difficulty levels |
Fishing | Available at the Chama River launch point |
Boating | Boat launch provided for river access |
Exploring Caves | Bandera Ice Caves and lava tubes close by |
Hunting | Allowed in the surrounding forest areas |
Stargazing | Clear, dark skies for observing stars |
Bring all your own stuff—there’s nothing here but open space and whatever you haul in.
Camping Regulations And Restrictions
Camping at Laguna Larga Tierra Amarilla NM boondocking location means following a few basic rules to keep the place nice and safe. Dispersed camping is allowed, so you’re not stuck in a developed campground.
Set up camp at least 200 feet from water sources and roads. That helps protect the environment and keeps the area better for everyone.
Open fires are usually restricted. Always check fire danger levels before you even think about lighting one. If it’s too risky, use a camp stove instead.
Follow the Leave No Trace principles—pack out all your trash and waste. It’s the only way this spot stays wild.
There aren’t any amenities like water or toilets, so you’ll need to manage your waste on your own.
You can generally stay up to 14 days within a 30-day period. That’s the usual rule to keep things fair and prevent overuse.
Keep your vehicle on designated roads and parking areas. Off-roading damages the soil and plants, so it’s just not worth it.
Respect quiet hours, usually 10 PM to 6 AM. It’s all about keeping things peaceful.
Check for seasonal restrictions or rule changes before you show up. Fire risk and wildlife activity can change things up, so it pays to double-check.
Leave No Trace
When you’re camping at Laguna Larga Tierra Amarilla NM boondocking location, following Leave No Trace principles really matters. This place is fragile, and what you do out here sticks around.
Follow the Leave No Trace principles. Pack out all your trash and food scraps. Don’t burn trash or leave waste behind. Bring a trash bag—trust me, you’ll need it.
If fires are allowed, stick to the fire rings you find. But double-check the local rules first. Keep fires small, and make sure they’re completely out before you leave. Please don’t chop live trees or rip up plants for firewood.
Stick to the roads and paths that already exist. Walking or driving over plants? That just messes up the land and can hurt wildlife.
Give wildlife their space—watch from a distance. Don’t feed them or mess with their homes. It’s better for them, and honestly, for you too.
Use biodegradable soap, and dump any wastewater at least 200 feet from water sources. That way, the streams and lakes stay clean for everyone—animals and people alike.
For human waste, dig a little hole—about six to eight inches deep—at least 200 feet from water, trails, and campsites. Cover it up well when you’re done.
If you take care out here, Laguna Larga Tierra Amarilla NM boondocking location stays wild and beautiful. Isn’t that what we all want?
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AMENITIES: | ACTIVITIES: |
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Near Water | RV Camping Tent Camping Hiking Fishing Boating Stargazing Wildlife Viewing |
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