Sierra Grand Rest Stop
Des Moines NM Boondocking Location
| ADDRESS |
|---|
| Des Moines, New Mexico GPS: 36.682187, -103.785911 |
| MANAGEMENT |
| Public – Rest Area (Official) This is a FREE campsite. |
Previous Reviews:
Sierra Grand Rest Stop Des Moines NM boondocking location: Rest area with lots of parking.
About This Location
If you’re searching for a decent boondocking spot near Des Moines, NM, the Sierra Grande Rest Stop might just do the trick. You can park overnight here for up to 24 hours, which is handy if you just need a break or a quiet place to crash for the night.
The lot is big, with picnic shelters, bathrooms, and a spot to walk your dog. It’s not fancy, but it’s comfortable enough for a night.
Getting here’s straightforward off US-64, and there’s enough room to keep your distance from noisy trucks if you’re picky about your spot. Sure, you’ll hear some highway noise, but honestly, it tends to quiet down after dark.
Location And Access Of Sierra Grand Rest Stop Des Moines NM Boondocking Location
You’ll spot the Sierra Grande Rest Stop by mile marker 392 on New Mexico US-64. The rest stop is accessible from either direction, so no weird U-turns required.
The lot is wide open, plenty of space for RVs or any regular vehicle. Overnight parking’s common here, but tents? Not allowed.
There are two bathroom blocks, some picnic shelters, and a dog walking area. If you just want basic amenities and a spot to rest, you’re set.
Highway noise is usually light, but a few trucks do stick around overnight. If you’re sensitive to sound, try the top gravel area—it’s usually quieter.
You’ve got a 24-hour parking limit, so don’t plan on a long stay. It’s smart to check the New Mexico Department of Transportation website before heading out, just in case anything’s changed.
Directions: How To Get There And What To Expect From Sierra Grand Rest Stop Des Moines NM Boondocking Location
To get here, take US Route 64 and watch for Mile Marker 392. You can pull in from either side of the highway—super simple.
When you arrive, you’ll see a big parking area. It’s nothing fancy, but it works for boondocking. Overnight parking is allowed, but remember, 24-hour limit.
There are two bathroom blocks, picnic shelters, and a spot for walking dogs. No tent camping here, so RVs and vans only.
The lot has both paved and gravel spots. If you want less light and a bit more peace, head for the gravel up top.
No hookups or water, so bring your own supplies and be self-sufficient. Plan to be fully self-contained.
Before you leave, check the New Mexico Department of Transportation website for updates. This is a popular quick stop for folks needing a breather or a free overnight stay.
Amenities And Activities At Sierra Grand Rest Stop Des Moines NM Boondocking Location
Sierra Grande Rest Stop covers the basics pretty well. Restrooms are clean, warm, and you can lock the doors.
There’s water, and picnic tables if you want to eat outside or just hang out. The parking lot is roomy, so finding a spot away from trucks isn’t tough.
Picnic shelters are scattered around, and there’s a dog walking area for your furry friends. No full campground here, but for a night or a quick lunch, it works.
If you’re into sightseeing, there’s a national monument nearby—worth a look if you have time to stretch your legs.
Need food? There’s a gas station close by with a little restaurant. The food’s nothing fancy, but it’s hot and quick.
Amenities summary:
| Amenity | Details |
|---|---|
| Restrooms | Clean, warm, lockable |
| Water | Available |
| Parking | Large, for cars and RVs |
| Picnic Tables | Multiple |
| Dog Walking Area | Yes |
| Food Options | Gas station with basic restaurant |
Camping Regulations And Restrictions For Sierra Grand Rest Stop Des Moines NM Boondocking Location
Camping isn’t officially allowed at Sierra Grande Rest Stop. The area’s really meant for short breaks or day stops.
You’ll see parking spots, picnic shelters, and bathrooms, but the posted rules are clear: overnight camping or extended stays are prohibited.
If you do stay overnight, just know it’s more like informal or dispersed camping, and there’s always a chance someone could ask you to move along.
Don’t set up tents, campfires, or try to plug in like it’s a full campground.
| Allowed Activities | Not Allowed Activities |
|---|---|
| Parking for breaks and rest | Camping or overnight staying |
| Using picnic shelters | Setting up tents or shelters |
| Walking dogs | Starting fires or cooking setups |
Be respectful—don’t push the boundaries. If you want to stay longer, look for designated campgrounds or proper dispersed camping outside the rest stop.
Rules change from state to state, so always double-check local signage before settling in for the night.
Leave No Trace At Sierra Grand Rest Stop Des Moines NM Boondocking Location
When you boondock at Sierra Grande Rest Stop, you really need to respect the area to keep it clean and safe for everyone. Always pack out all your trash and leftover food.
This helps keep wildlife from poking around the site. Use the provided bathrooms and try to leave them as you found them.
Avoid leaving any waste on the ground—nobody wants to stumble across that. The rest stop has warm, lockable bathrooms that make it easier to manage waste responsibly.
Keep noise to a minimum out of respect for other visitors and the local critters. Trucks sometimes stay overnight, so if you want more peace, parking away from them is a good idea.
Stick to existing parking spots and don’t drive off-road. That way, you won’t damage the plants or soil, and the place stays more natural for everyone.
Be careful with fire. If you use a camp stove, keep it stable and don’t leave it alone.
Check the local rules about fires before you light anything. Sometimes, it’s just not worth the risk.
Here’s a quick checklist for leaving no trace:
| Action | What to Do |
|---|---|
| Trash | Pack out everything you bring |
| Bathrooms | Use provided facilities only |
| Parking | Stay on paved or gravel spots |
| Noise | Keep it low, be respectful |
| Fires | Use camp stove, no open fires unless allowed |
| AMENITIES: | ACTIVITIES: |
|---|---|
| Restrooms | Overnight Parking |
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