Sandia District Campsite
Tijeras NM Boondocking Location
| ADDRESS |
|---|
| Tijeras, New Mexico GPS: 35.063549, -106.368335 Elevation: 6686′ |
| MANAGEMENT |
| Public – Forest Service (Official) This is a FREE campsite. |
Previous Reviews:
Sandia District Campsite Tijeras NM boondocking location: The road in is Dirt. There are 1-5 campsites at this location. There are allocated dispersed campsites in this area, only a couple off road 462 and four off road 542, there is a sign for the sites like 462DC1.
It is completely primitive camping, there is a bathroom near 462CD1 at a trailhead parking on the left before you get to the road. It is somewhat rough road, high clearance vehicle recommended, 4×4 needed for road 542.
About This Location
Looking for a quiet spot to camp near Tijeras, NM? The Sandia District Campsite could be just the ticket for boondocking.
This one’s all about dispersed camping, so you’re away from packed campgrounds and tucked into nature with some actual privacy.
The Sandia District campsite is open all year. You won’t find hookups here, but if you’re after a simple, off-grid experience close to Albuquerque, it’s hard to beat.
You’ll have easy access from roads like FS 542. The Sandia Ranger District manages the area, and they do a solid job keeping it open and in good shape.
Hiking trails and scenic views are close by. So if you want to pair your camping with some outdoor exploring, you’re in luck.
Location And Access Of Sandia District Campsite Tijeras NM Boondocking Location
The Sandia District Campsite sits near Tijeras, New Mexico, inside the Sandia Ranger District.
You’ll find it just off Highway 337—a main road that gets you right into the area.
If you need a hand with directions or permits, swing by the Sandia Ranger District office at 11776 Hwy 337. Their number is 505-281-3304 if you want to call ahead.
It’s a dispersed camping zone, so there aren’t set sites or developed facilities. Pick your spot, but stick to the forest rules about campfires and trash.
You can drive to the site, but depending on weather and road conditions, a high-clearance or 4WD vehicle might make life easier. Always good to check the road status before heading out, just in case.
Other camping spots and stuff like hiking or OHV riding are nearby. Bring all your own water and supplies—there are zero services at the campsite.
If you want help from the ranger district, weekdays during office hours are your best bet. That’s a good time to double-check for any seasonal closures, too.
Directions: How To Get There And What To Expect From Sandia District Campsite Tijeras NM Boondocking Location
To get there, hop on Highway 337. That’s your main route into the Sandia Ranger District.
The district office is at 11776 Hwy 337, Tijeras, NM 87059. Handy if you need info or get a bit lost.
Watch for signs for dispersed camping areas as you drive. Sites are usually marked by little rectangular boxes with a number—check the Manzanita Mountains Trail System Map for the details.
You’re in for a boondocking experience—so, no hookups, no water, no bathrooms. Bring what you need and plan to pack out your trash.
Camping spots are spaced out for privacy. The landscape’s mostly forested and a bit rugged.
Roads can be dirt or gravel, so a high-clearance vehicle is a smart move. Cell phone service? It might be spotty or totally gone.
There are 11 dispersed camping locations near Tijeras with real reviews online if you want more choices. Always check current conditions and fire restrictions before you go.
The Sandia Ranger District office can give you the latest updates.
Amenities And Activities At Sandia District Campsite Tijeras NM Boondocking Location
There really aren’t any amenities here. No restrooms, no running water, no picnic tables—none of that.
You’ll want to bring everything you need, including water and food. Don’t count on cell phone coverage, either; it’s iffy at best.
A paper map or GPS device is a good idea since your phone might not work. You’re on your own for navigation out here.
You get dispersed camping, so you’re outside developed campgrounds for a more natural, quieter experience. Leave No Trace is the rule—pack out everything, don’t mess with the plants.
Outdoor activities? Absolutely. It’s great for hiking, wildlife watching, and stargazing. The Sandia Mountains are right there, so the views are something else.
Into off-highway vehicles? OHV riding is allowed nearby if you’ve got the right gear.
Bring your own firewood and check fire regulations before lighting up. Pack out all your trash—there’s no one cleaning up after you.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Amenities | None |
| Cell Phone Coverage | Not guaranteed |
| Camping Type | Dispersed / Boondocking |
| Activities | Hiking, Wildlife, Stargazing, OHV Riding |
| Firewood | Must bring your own |
Camping Regulations And Restrictions For Sandia District Campsite Tijeras NM Boondocking Location
Camping at the Sandia District near Tijeras, NM? There are a few rules you’ll want to know.
Camping’s capped at 14 days—after that, you’ve gotta move on. No exceptions.
Fire restrictions can be strict. Always check the current fire danger before you go at nmfireinfo.com or call the Sandia Ranger District at 505-281-3304. During high fire risk, campfires might be off-limits.
Stick to Leave No Trace. That means packing out all your trash and not damaging plants or trees. Keeps the place nice for the next folks.
Some areas need an Amenity Pass. It’s $30 for the year, available at the Sandia Ranger Station in Tijeras or the Forest Service Supervisor’s Office.
Boondocking is allowed, but only in designated areas. Don’t go making new fire rings or disturbing wildlife.
Quick reminders:
- Stay up to 14 days, then move
- Follow all fire restrictions
- Get an Amenity Pass if you need one
- Camp in approved spots only
- Clean up after yourself
Follow the rules, and you’ll help keep the Sandia District wild and welcoming.
Leave No Trace At Sandia District Campsite Tijeras NM Boondocking Location
When you camp at Sandia District Campsite, it’s honestly pretty important to stick to Leave No Trace principles. That way, the spot stays clean and wild for whoever wanders in next.
Always pack out all trash you bring. There aren’t really any services at this boondocking site, so whatever you haul in, you need to haul back out.
Do not dig new fire pits or damage vegetation. If fires are allowed, use the fire rings that are already there. Keep any fire small, and double-check that it’s out cold before you leave.
Watch wildlife from a distance—tempting as it is, don’t feed the animals or drop food scraps. Stash your food somewhere critters can’t get to it.
Stick to established roads and campsites. Try not to trample plants or disturb fragile soils; the land is more delicate than it looks.
Noise travels out here. Keep voices down and leave the big music for somewhere else.
You might need a permit to camp here. It’s worth checking with the Sandia Ranger District about rules and fees before you pack up and go.
| AMENITIES: | ACTIVITIES: |
|---|---|
| Pets Welcome | RV Camping Tent Camping Wildlife Viewing |
Have you been to this location?Please help us and future travelers by |