Pajarito Spring Campsite Los Alamos NM Boondocking Location

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Pajarito Spring Campsite Los Alamos NM
Boondocking Location

Previous Reviews:

Pajarito Spring Campsite Los Alamos NM boondocking location: The road in is dirt and 1.4 miles from a paved road. There are 6-15 campsites at this location. Pajarito Spring is a series of free, open campsites 3 miles east on Highway 4 from the southwestern-most corner of Los Alamos National Laboratory. The road is not fit for large RVs.

Pretty great little area. Lots of primitive campsites along the dirt roads. And, it’s only about 20-25 minutes from Bandelier! There was a lot of trash at our campsite, but I guess I could have expected that going camping the weekend after fourth of July. Lots of greenery. We found a nice site in the pines.

About This Location

If you’re after a simple, free spot to boondock near Los Alamos, Pajarito Spring is worth considering. This Pajarito Spring Campsite Los Alamos NM boondocking location has about 6 to 15 spots and sits just 1.4 miles down a dirt road from pavement, so most vehicles can get there without much trouble.

There aren’t any developed facilities, so you’ll want to come prepared and stick to Leave No Trace. With its spot in New Mexico, you’re tucked away from crowds and right up against nature—perfect if you’re craving some quiet or want to hit the nearby trails.

Location And Access

Pajarito Spring Campsite Los Alamos NM boondocking location sits close to Los Alamos, New Mexico, at roughly 35.8343° N and 106.3766° W. It’s a genuine boondocking spot—raw and natural, just how some folks like it.

You’ll drive about 1.4 miles on a dirt road after leaving the pavement. That road can get rough, especially after it rains, so a high-clearance vehicle really helps.

There are somewhere between 6 and 15 campsites here, spread out enough to give you a bit of elbow room. Since it’s all dispersed camping, don’t expect amenities; bring everything you need.

To find the Pajarito Spring Campsite Los Alamos NM boondocking location, look for the turn near Pajarito Ski Hill. If you use local maps or plug the coordinates into your GPS, you’ll be fine. Services are sparse nearby, so stock up before you arrive.

Directions: How To Get There And What To Expect

To get to the Pajarito Spring Campsite Los Alamos NM boondocking location, head toward Los Alamos, New Mexico, to start your journey to Pajarito Spring for boondocking. From town, take Highway 4—it’ll point you in the right direction.

Keep an eye out for Forest Road 181 in the Santa Fe National Forest. That’s your access road for dispersed camping near the spring. It’s unpaved, so you’ll want a vehicle with some clearance.

You’re not getting hookups or facilities out here. Bring your own water, food, and everything else you’ll need. There aren’t marked campsites—just pick a spot and settle in.

Cell signal is spotty at best, and the weather can flip on you. Plan for basic, sometimes unpredictable camping.

Here’s a quick checklist to keep you on track:

Expect a peaceful stay among pine trees and wildlife. If you want to unplug and just be outdoors, this spot might do the trick.

Amenities And Activities

Pajarito Spring Campsite Los Alamos NM boondocking location is pure dispersed camping—no restrooms, water, or electricity. Bring everything you’ll need, and a high-clearance vehicle will make the drive easier.

You can set up a tent or park an RV, but the conditions are basic. The pine trees offer shade and a bit of solitude. Wildlife is around, so keep your eyes peeled.

Camp May is nearby if you’re after more facilities, like picnic tables or fire pits. It’s open May through October. Maybe check it out if you want a break from roughing it.

Here’s a quick packing list for Pajarito Spring:

• Water and food supplies
• Camping gear (tent, sleeping bag, chairs)
• Firewood or a portable stove
• First aid kit
• Trash bags to pack out all waste

You can spend your days hiking or exploring the area. It’s quiet and remote—great for anyone who wants to disconnect for a bit.

Camping Regulations And Restrictions

If you’re camping at Pajarito Spring Campsite Los Alamos NM boondocking location, Los Alamos County sets the rules.

You can stay up to 14 days in any 30-day period—that helps keep the area from getting overused.

There aren’t any formal facilities, so bring your own supplies and take everything out with you.

Some sites allow RVs or trailers, but check local rules and permits first.

You might need a permit or pay a fee for overnight camping in certain areas. Make sure you’ve sorted that out before you set up camp.

A few tips to help keep things nice for everyone:

• Use existing fire rings if fires are allowed
• Leave plants and wildlife alone
• Keep your camp small and tidy
• Park only where it’s allowed for dispersed camping

Always check for seasonal closures or any special restrictions before you go. That way, you’re not caught off guard.

Leave No Trace

When you’re camping at Pajarito Spring Campsite Los Alamos NM boondocking location, it’s important to stick to Leave No Trace principles. These aren’t just rules—they’re how we all keep the forest clean and safe for everyone who comes after.

Always pack out your trash. That means every bit, even food scraps or tiny pieces of litter. Don’t leave anything behind, not even something you think will break down naturally. Honestly, carrying a trash bag makes this way easier.

Try to camp only in established spots or on tough surfaces. Making new fire rings or trampling plants does more harm than you’d think, so just use what’s already there.

Wildlife is best admired from a distance. Feeding animals or leaving food out isn’t just risky—it messes with their natural habits. Keep your food packed away so you don’t end up with unexpected visitors.

A camp stove? Way easier than building a fire, and safer too. But if you do make a fire (and it’s allowed), keep it small and use only the little sticks you find on the ground. Put it out completely before you leave. No one likes coming across someone else’s forgotten ashes.

Take care of human waste the right way. If there’s a toilet, use it. If not, dig a cathole at least 6-8 inches deep and 200 feet from water. When you’re done, cover and hide it—no one wants to see that.

Keep noise down. The quiet is part of what makes places like this special. Plus, it’s just courteous to others who are out here for the same reason.

Honestly, these habits aren’t hard, and they really do help keep Pajarito Spring Campsite Los Alamos NM boondocking location and the Santa Fe National Forest wild and beautiful. It’s your turn to look after this place—why not leave it even better than you found it?