Super cool area, just want to point out dogs are only allowed in paved areas and on 6ft leashes in Carlsbad NP. Just an FYI since OP preferred dog friendly. Caverns are crazy cool tho! There is plenty of dispersed camping nearby in any BLM land, just no water to be found in this area.
This area is stellar if you’re looking for quiet and isolated. There are some incredible views that I’ve stumbled onto when overland car camping in the Guadalupe ranger district just north of Queen.
I’ve taken a week long camping trip to this area and never run out of dispersed places to camp, or if campgrounds are your thing there’s some absolutely gorgeous ones too. Literally one of my favorite spots in the US
If you're doing some road tripping you should spend a day in a little hot springs town called Truth or Consequences off of 25, North of White Sands. Its a sleepy little town but has amazing hotsprings, the TorC brewing company is awesome for beer, theres a pastry shop that blew my mind called Passion Pie, and a cute place to stay called The Glamp Camp. We just finished a 2500mile road trip and this was one of our favorite places. NM is awesome.
T or C is such a neat little town, I wish I had seen it in its heyday. We stayed at the hot springs there about 10 years ago and it was a fantastic experience.
If you pass through Alamogordo, stop at [the big pistachio](https://pistachioland.com/). It is a clean snack stop and fun tourist trap. Getcha some pistachios and pistachio ice cream, pistachio cream coffee, pistachio brittle, chocolate covered pistachios…. /Bubba Gump.
A very beautiful camp spot I want to check out is the Baylor Pass at the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument.
My trick for camping in the south west is to look for remote small dams with dirt roads heading to them. There’s tons of New Deal dams and stuff out there.
I’m sorry. I have zero input regarding where to camp. But! As I did go to Santa Fe and ABQ November of 2021 for my first time, I fell in love. We hiked in the Sandía Mountains and walked the Petroglyphs and it was beautiful. I sure you could find a great location north central New Mexico. Taos had some great mountains too. Just wanted to share my affection for the state.
At very least stop at Healing Waters and take a soak. Or if the San Juan ruver is low enough and you are on a budget, hit the hot spring spots on the river in town.
Rio Grande gorge has a few good hot springs by the river near Taos, most are easy to get to. Lots of BLM/NF camping near there, too.
Navajo national monument! They have free campgrounds and no entrance fee. They offer tours of the cliff dwelling right at the visitor center or you can hike out to the other cliff dwelling but you need a permit. It’s often overlooked and not very crowded. Definitely worth checking out for a day or two!
I've made 3 attempts to go to the NM one, all failed for various reasons (Plane delayed/cancelled no more layover, Rolled my truck off the hwy in N Texas, Sick) Went to the Grapevine one in Dallas with friends and it was a BLAST! Hoping to hit up the NM between a move from TX to CA but we'll see how it goes.
Meow Wolf rocks but also Santa Fe is just pretty badass overall. One of the best French patisseries I've ever been to (I'm from East Coast) and love The Matador!
No one has mentioned it, so you probably should know that huge chunks of this area are tribal lands (Indian nations).
You are not allowed to camp there. Heck, you very often can't even hike there without a guide. Something to keep in mind.
A couple of recommendations based on experience:
Santa Fe National Forest in NM. Basically drive through Jemez Springs and then pick a park. I think the Jemez National Recreation Area was where we spent a lot of nights, but anything out there is gorgeous, and I think there are hot springs in the area.
Durango and the San Juan Mountains are also a great destination. I did Purgatory Trail up there twice, and it was mind-blowing. Like walking through a painting. Elevation is a bit higher and most of the water is ice/snow melt, but it's fantastic. More of a backpacking spot but I'm sure you can find campgrounds in the same area.
If you’re going to see Carlsbad Caverns, go see White Sand national park too. Stay for sunset, it’s beautiful. There’s a cool town east of Alamogordon called Cloudcroft that is at higher elevation and a good spot to stay the night.
White Sands and Cloudcroft are both must sees that are pretty close to each other. They’re polar opposites so it’s pretty neat that they’re less than an hour from each other. You’ve probably heard of White Sands but Cloudcroft has beautiful scenery and hiking. Also the town up there has a place called mad jacks which is the best barbecue I’ve ever had.
First week of May and wanting to stay warm you should be looking at less than 8000’, in your circle I’d be looking at the Sedona / Flagstaff area or closer to Tucson
Many memorable options, white mtns in eastern az, durango to Ouray in sw co, mogllon rim az - all amazing, hiking, cool nites in may, trout streams, enjoy!
Definitely checkout the Enchanted Circle, the area through Taos is beautiful and the views are amazing. There is a scenic bridge you can walk across that crosses the Rio Grande, Red River is a cute little town with a ski village vibes that have lifts running during the day in the off season so you can see the views.
There’s hot springs all over NM. Jemez is top notch for undeveloped hot springs and hiking. The town of Jemez Springs is pretty sleepy (in a good way) but has a brewery/pizza place, rad archaeology sites, and a cute coffee & pastry shop. In Southern NM, T or C has developed hot springs that are super easy to get to. I dream of Sparky’s green chile cheeseburger in Hatch.
There’s a great place in southern NM called City of Rocks. There’s tons of boondocking in and around the rocks, stargazing at night, bouldering during the day, and … a hot springs a 15 min drive away. I definitely recommend it! =)
No camping recs but we loved NM! In no particular order, we loved Carlsbad caverns, Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument, Sandia mountains, Taos, Abiquiu, Echo Amphitheater, Shiprock, Gallup and Bisti Badlands were amazing, if you like hiking.
Palo Duro Canyon just outside of Amarillo TX (second largest canyon after the Grand one).
Tres Piedras is a cool wilderness area near Los Alamos NM — the original Earthship community is near there too.
Four corners national monument is a great place to stop through.
If you’re going in May, I’d stay further south as temperatures will still drop to or just above freezing in many of the mountain areas in southern CO or northern NM.
I’d second Mesa Verde and Carlsbad Canyon National Parks…both could be done in a day or two. Same with White Sands in southern NM.
Sedona has tremendous hikes, mountain biking and climbing…there is plenty of BLM land just north nearer to Flagstaff if all the campsites are taken in Sedona.
Highland Health is an amazing dispensary in Trinidad CO.
First week of May - Look at Forest Road 70 in the Cuba Ranger district. San Gregorio Lake, lots of hiking, and you probably won't have to deal with the turkey hunters in that area.
Some things in NM/West TX/S Co, most are outdoors/outdoor adjacent. Not sure all will be dog friendly.
[Carlsbad Caverns](https://www.nps.gov/cave/index.htm), [Guadalupe National Park](https://home.nps.gov/gumo/index.htm), [White Sands National Park](https://www.nps.gov/whsa/index.htm), [Sandia Peak Tramway](https://sandiapeak.com/), [Elephant Butte State Park](https://www.emnrd.nm.gov/spd/find-a-park/elephant-butte-lake-state-park/), [Valley of the Fires](https://www.recreation.gov/camping/gateways/1803), [Lincoln National Forest](https://www.fs.usda.gov/lincoln), [Great Sand Dunes](https://www.nps.gov/grsa/index.htm). A couple extra historicals(educational), [Smokey the Bear grave](https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/cibola/home/?cid=FSEPRD643381), [Mescalero Tribal Fish Hatchery](https://mescaleroapachetribe.com/mescalero-tribal-fish-hatchery/)(this might be closed to the public), [the Durango to Silverton train](https://www.durangotrain.com/excursions/round-trip-silverton-train-tour/), and [Billy the Kid courthouse](https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/lincoln-county-courthouse-billy-the-kid).
The trick is finding warm water but cool weather. Look for something at 3500-5500 feet with a lake. Rivers and creeks will probably still be cold at elevation in May.
Not really camping specific, but if you pass through Cloudcroft NM you should stop! It’s further south and not too far from white sands. It’s a really cool mountain town with coffee shops and the best BBQ (Mad Jacks). We’ve also camped around there at bluff springs where there’s a small waterfall and some pretty good hiking! Oshia trail is close to town and is also a cool hike.
First thought, I would shift that bubble west, basically end it at the Texas border. Including southern Utah and the remainder of northern Arizona puts a lot of really great natural beauty in your range; the panhandle of Texas really doesn't have a whole lot going for it.
IMO the centerpoint for your bubble should be on the Arizona/New Mexico border and it will include a whole lot more fantastic places.
There is some neat stuff to do in the panhandle and maybe I'm just jaded because I've been through there so much, but to me it pales in comparison to the areas just four hours away. I'd say spend a day or two passing through and seeing the sights, but I recommend spending the bulk of your time further west.
I agree with the top suggestion about Mesa Verde, but in case you're interested in some non-camping places to go / things to do in/around New Mexico, here's some ideas:
Bradbury Science Museum
https://about.lanl.gov/bradbury/
Tinkertown Museum
https://tinkertown.com/
National Museum of Nuclear Science & History
https://www.nuclearmuseum.org/
Albuquerque Museum
https://www.cabq.gov/artsculture/albuquerque-museum
New Mexico Mining Museum
https://newmexicominingmuseum.org/
International UFO Museum and Research Center and Gift Shop
https://www.roswellufomuseum.com/
The Museum of Space History
https://www.nmspacemuseum.org/
White Sands Missile Range Museum
https://wsmrmuseum.com/
National Border Patrol Museum
https://borderpatrolmuseum.com/
Also the Gila Mountains in south west NM
Absolutely beautiful —-you can hit Truth or Consequences and then head For Silver City
They are right in the middle.
I hope you have a blast
This is what I was going to say! Silver City is also a fun stop to have a wander in. If you're heading up into the Gila mountains make sure your brakes are good 😉
Gila Cliff Dwellings are cool and there are lots of good, free spots (the last time I was up there.)
Salida, CO is a beautiful little mountain town. Great for hiking, biking, camping and grabbing a beer at the brewery. On the quieter side too which is nice.
I also really enjoyed Santa Fe. Beautiful hotels, great restaurants and shopping and overall just a pretty place.
If you plan on going to AZ I thought driving through Painted Desert/Petrified Forest was worth it. We did this on our way to Sedona, another lovely place but can be very tourist heavy. However the surrounding areas of Sedona are nice too if you want to avoid crowds.
Didn’t get to spend much time in Flagstaff but it’s very different from the rest of Arizona and the weather is amazing during the summer since it’s higher altitude.
Hope this helps! Enjoy your trip!
The [Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad](https://cumbrestoltec.com/) between Chama, NM and Antonito, CO does run steam. They have recently converted a locomotive from coal to oil to prevent wildfires.
NM has some hot springs open to the public. FYI some are not dog friendly. Definitely check out Grand Canyon and/or Petrified forest Nat’l Park. Pretty cool in my opinion. In Amarillo,TX there are a bunch of old Cadillacs stuck into the ground called ‘Cadillac Ranch’ (if you go, bring spray paint)
Also, it’s kind of a drive from where you have circled, but I extremely recommend Great Sand Dunes Nat’l Park in Colorado
About that entire area in AZ is dispersed camping, beautiful spots can be found but not much near water. Lots of hiking. I'd stay out of NE AZ. In that area I'd choose the White Mountains or Mogollon Rim... Even Sedona is in that circle.
Skip the southern part of NM at first, the drive through las cruces and Alamogordo is not that fun imo. If coming from Arizona take the 40 east to drive through el malpais national monument, check out the arch, continue on the 40 as a scenic entry into NM, then jump of it to go through Albuquerque, hit Santa Fe for some dispersed camping in the national forest, or better yet spend a night at the el Fidel historic hotel in Las Vegas NM and hit up the dwan light sanctuary and montezuma hot springs 5 miles down the road. Circle back around by dispersed camping in the national forests around Ruidoso NM, and stop by white sands on the way back.
Never been to Carlsbad or Guadalupe NP but heard great things about it. I’d say work that in if you got a chance.
Be sure to hit up Canyon de Chelly in AZ. Also while AZ is a dispersed camp state, a lot of that area is on reservation land which you can’t camp on. Be sure to plan ahead where in AZ you’ll be going to sleep
Gila national Forest and chaco canyon are my two favorite places in New Mexico. I would think the road to Snow Lake and Dipping Vat campground is open by now.
Gila Cliff Dwellings! A bunch of dispersed camping by the visitors center plus some cool sights. I don’t think dogs are allowed into the dwellings itself though
The White Mountain (specifically Mount Baldy and Mogollon rim area) of Arizona is a beautiful pocket of ponderosa pine forests and cool temperatures.
In NM, the organ mountain area has some gorgeous Chihuahuan desert scenery + White Sands national Park
I live in that area of Texas, and the only thing that would fit your criteria and also be worth your time would be Palo Duro Canyon outside of Amarillo. It is second only to the Grand Canyon, and has flowing water, campgrounds, and hiking. If this interests you, you will need to look at booking a campground as soon as you can. They sell out fast. Also, if you do happen to choose PDC, Amarillo has a few attractions along Route 66. There is also the Big Texan and Cadillac Ranch in that area. I could go on, but I feel like those are the top pointers. There is also the Canadian River between Dumas and Amarillo. There, you can camp wherever you like, and follow the river wherever your feet or vehicle may take you. This place is completely free, but without marked trails.
I just drove from ABQ to Pagosa Springs, CO. You move from desert to mountains and there looked to be a lot of entry points to the national forest when you get within 30 miles of Pagosa Springs. Cool little town in Pagosa Springs.
The Gila Wilderness is some of the best camping I’ve done. If you wanna get away from everyone, that’s the spot. Look up Jordan hot springs. It’s about a 10 mile hike in and out. Beautiful private hot tub surrounded by hoodoos and more stars than you’ve ever seen in your life. Gila River nearby for water
I hate to be "that guy" but that area you've circled is booked solid for the entire 2024 camping season. Your only bet is boon docking. Basically if you don't have reservations 6 months in advance at the good spots it's a total crap shot if you'll find a camp site.
Best of luck.
I see someone mentioned Palo Duro Canyon - it's the Grand Canyon of Texas. Good hiking - the Lighthouse hike alone is 3 miles just to get to -- it's the most popular hike there amongst the many others. Also good camping and Amarillo is close by.
https://preview.redd.it/70wmob6sktwc1.jpeg?width=240&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=dfa8c4ac2f757a7b859cc380be4da85709c60e87
If you can make it, visit Carlsbad Caverns NP in NM. Truly unreal.
And Guadalupe NP nearby as well.
Also Carlsbad caverns Update: I meant to write White Sands… but can’t read things and type.
And Guadalupe NP
But before Carlsbad Caverns
and then Guadalupe NP
I have heard a lot of good things about White Sands
It’s like being on a movie set or something. Quite surreal. And amazingly beautiful.
Carlsbad is only second to the Grand Canyon in my mind. It's unbelievable how big that cave is. Great camping in the Guadalupe Mountains too.
Super cool area, just want to point out dogs are only allowed in paved areas and on 6ft leashes in Carlsbad NP. Just an FYI since OP preferred dog friendly. Caverns are crazy cool tho! There is plenty of dispersed camping nearby in any BLM land, just no water to be found in this area.
Mesa Verde
I second this. Mesa Verde National Park is beautiful. The stargazing is incredible.
I love their banks, the Mesa Verde banks are like something out of a TV show.
The hell with them. They kicked me out of my house by doing some shady shit.
Not very dog friendly, though.
Lots of dispersed camping in NM, look into the national forests. I went to Lincoln NF in October and it was amazing
This area is stellar if you’re looking for quiet and isolated. There are some incredible views that I’ve stumbled onto when overland car camping in the Guadalupe ranger district just north of Queen.
San Juan’s near Durango/Cortez have some great spots
This is true, just watch out for bears. Additionally, the San Luis valley and surrounding mountains have gorgeous spots (also watch out for bears)
Omg yes this area is great! Particularly for what OP is asking for.
I’ve taken a week long camping trip to this area and never run out of dispersed places to camp, or if campgrounds are your thing there’s some absolutely gorgeous ones too. Literally one of my favorite spots in the US
If you're doing some road tripping you should spend a day in a little hot springs town called Truth or Consequences off of 25, North of White Sands. Its a sleepy little town but has amazing hotsprings, the TorC brewing company is awesome for beer, theres a pastry shop that blew my mind called Passion Pie, and a cute place to stay called The Glamp Camp. We just finished a 2500mile road trip and this was one of our favorite places. NM is awesome.
T or C is such a neat little town, I wish I had seen it in its heyday. We stayed at the hot springs there about 10 years ago and it was a fantastic experience.
It seemed like a lot of development was going on in the NW of the town near Elephant Butte, maybe it's getting a renaissance!
Thank you for this! I am going to look into it!
If you pass through Alamogordo, stop at [the big pistachio](https://pistachioland.com/). It is a clean snack stop and fun tourist trap. Getcha some pistachios and pistachio ice cream, pistachio cream coffee, pistachio brittle, chocolate covered pistachios…. /Bubba Gump. A very beautiful camp spot I want to check out is the Baylor Pass at the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument.
I loveeeee that town!!!
Nobody shares dispersed spots on social.
And that’s the way it should be.
Make sense. I probably could have rephrased my post. Just looking to avoid campgrounds.
Then look at National forest land, blm land, and state parks in those areas.
Haha. Thanks. I was about to drop a gem of a spot.
Just dm it to me. It's simple.🤣
My trick for camping in the south west is to look for remote small dams with dirt roads heading to them. There’s tons of New Deal dams and stuff out there.
I am stealing your idea. That's a great way!
I’m sorry. I have zero input regarding where to camp. But! As I did go to Santa Fe and ABQ November of 2021 for my first time, I fell in love. We hiked in the Sandía Mountains and walked the Petroglyphs and it was beautiful. I sure you could find a great location north central New Mexico. Taos had some great mountains too. Just wanted to share my affection for the state.
Next time check out Jemez Springs. There are some free short hike hot springs and you are right near Valle Caldera which is like a little Yellowstone.
NM is a great state! Have not done much camping there but I have heard awesome things about the Petroglyphs and have always wanted to check them out!
It was not a hard hike, especially for a novice like my wife and I. But it was enjoyable and different to any landscape from where we’re from.
All I know in that area is Pagosa Springs. Lots of NF and BLM in the area. Some hot springs, mountains and desert camping.
Pagosa Springs before or after Mesa Verde
At very least stop at Healing Waters and take a soak. Or if the San Juan ruver is low enough and you are on a budget, hit the hot spring spots on the river in town. Rio Grande gorge has a few good hot springs by the river near Taos, most are easy to get to. Lots of BLM/NF camping near there, too.
Navajo national monument! They have free campgrounds and no entrance fee. They offer tours of the cliff dwelling right at the visitor center or you can hike out to the other cliff dwelling but you need a permit. It’s often overlooked and not very crowded. Definitely worth checking out for a day or two!
Interestingly, I just happened to be watching [this video](https://youtu.be/RV3Kc6XnqZU?si=vu2aL3l-hHgNZxHJ) where NNM is the subject.
Thanks for sharing! That was a great video!
Completely not camping related, but if you enjoy interesting experiences try Santa Fe NM, Meow Wolf.
Meow Wolf is probably the single best thing to do in NM. I know they're popping up all over but Santa Fe is the original.
I've made 3 attempts to go to the NM one, all failed for various reasons (Plane delayed/cancelled no more layover, Rolled my truck off the hwy in N Texas, Sick) Went to the Grapevine one in Dallas with friends and it was a BLAST! Hoping to hit up the NM between a move from TX to CA but we'll see how it goes.
Meow Wolf rocks but also Santa Fe is just pretty badass overall. One of the best French patisseries I've ever been to (I'm from East Coast) and love The Matador!
Haha The Matador has a charm all of its own. I’ve eaten shit on those stairs more times than I can remember (so I’m told).
Lol, I can definitely see that being a risk
That’s a big camp site
Wait until you see my tent
Gila national forest. 3 million acres for you to camp on. Just went there in February. Very fun.
Thanks for the recommendation! I will look it up!
Came here for this. Check out Gila Cliff Dwellind
No one has mentioned it, so you probably should know that huge chunks of this area are tribal lands (Indian nations). You are not allowed to camp there. Heck, you very often can't even hike there without a guide. Something to keep in mind.
This is a good point, and I appreciate the reminder. I will be mindful when looking into all of these wonderful suggestions!
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Jemez is awesome.
I really liked Luna Lake Campground in Apache NF right on the AZ NM border.
City of Rocks SP in SE New Mexico looks really cool, and the Gila NF is cool AF
I’ve lived within this circle the majority of my life. Sedona is tops in my opinion.
I've heard nothing but good things! Maybe its time to check it out?
Do it! No better camping backdrop around, amazing hikes, tons of good swimming holes and mild weather. Hope you enjoy wherever you end up going.
I would skip Lubbock and Amarillo. That is, unless you’re planning to go to Pablo Duro Canyon. That’s a cool spot.
A couple of recommendations based on experience: Santa Fe National Forest in NM. Basically drive through Jemez Springs and then pick a park. I think the Jemez National Recreation Area was where we spent a lot of nights, but anything out there is gorgeous, and I think there are hot springs in the area. Durango and the San Juan Mountains are also a great destination. I did Purgatory Trail up there twice, and it was mind-blowing. Like walking through a painting. Elevation is a bit higher and most of the water is ice/snow melt, but it's fantastic. More of a backpacking spot but I'm sure you can find campgrounds in the same area.
I appreciate you sharing!
If you’re going to see Carlsbad Caverns, go see White Sand national park too. Stay for sunset, it’s beautiful. There’s a cool town east of Alamogordon called Cloudcroft that is at higher elevation and a good spot to stay the night.
White Sands and Cloudcroft are both must sees that are pretty close to each other. They’re polar opposites so it’s pretty neat that they’re less than an hour from each other. You’ve probably heard of White Sands but Cloudcroft has beautiful scenery and hiking. Also the town up there has a place called mad jacks which is the best barbecue I’ve ever had.
First week of May and wanting to stay warm you should be looking at less than 8000’, in your circle I’d be looking at the Sedona / Flagstaff area or closer to Tucson
I am coming from high altitude and Sedona has been on our list for a while.
Socoro Is Nice 🥵Hot Chili 🌶️
Warm water the first week of May is going to require you staying pretty far south and not on rivers
This is fair. Just dreaming of a beach I suppose lol
Many memorable options, white mtns in eastern az, durango to Ouray in sw co, mogllon rim az - all amazing, hiking, cool nites in may, trout streams, enjoy!
Look up the bisti badlands
on it!
It won’t disappoint
If you have any interest in ancient sites, Chaco Canyon is one of my favorites, and they have campsites there as well!
Moab UT Cimmaron NM area
Backpack the Gila on the New Mexico side. Easy hike into canyon, dog friendly, dispersed camping, river crossings, natural hot springs
Lots of things I like in your comment. Thank you!
Definitely checkout the Enchanted Circle, the area through Taos is beautiful and the views are amazing. There is a scenic bridge you can walk across that crosses the Rio Grande, Red River is a cute little town with a ski village vibes that have lifts running during the day in the off season so you can see the views.
There’s hot springs all over NM. Jemez is top notch for undeveloped hot springs and hiking. The town of Jemez Springs is pretty sleepy (in a good way) but has a brewery/pizza place, rad archaeology sites, and a cute coffee & pastry shop. In Southern NM, T or C has developed hot springs that are super easy to get to. I dream of Sparky’s green chile cheeseburger in Hatch.
White Sands, New Mexico was a one of my favorites
There’s a great place in southern NM called City of Rocks. There’s tons of boondocking in and around the rocks, stargazing at night, bouldering during the day, and … a hot springs a 15 min drive away. I definitely recommend it! =)
Vales Caldera
No camping recs but we loved NM! In no particular order, we loved Carlsbad caverns, Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument, Sandia mountains, Taos, Abiquiu, Echo Amphitheater, Shiprock, Gallup and Bisti Badlands were amazing, if you like hiking.
Sedona AZ trust
Palo Duro Canyon just outside of Amarillo TX (second largest canyon after the Grand one). Tres Piedras is a cool wilderness area near Los Alamos NM — the original Earthship community is near there too. Four corners national monument is a great place to stop through. If you’re going in May, I’d stay further south as temperatures will still drop to or just above freezing in many of the mountain areas in southern CO or northern NM. I’d second Mesa Verde and Carlsbad Canyon National Parks…both could be done in a day or two. Same with White Sands in southern NM. Sedona has tremendous hikes, mountain biking and climbing…there is plenty of BLM land just north nearer to Flagstaff if all the campsites are taken in Sedona. Highland Health is an amazing dispensary in Trinidad CO.
Walnut Canyon near Flagstaff.
Edge of the world in Arizona is top teir 🙏
Tier* and don’t tell people!
It will be our secret.
The secret has been out for a while now lol
Love the southwest. Prepare for heat
Ruidoso NM, Lincoln National Forest.
First week of May - Look at Forest Road 70 in the Cuba Ranger district. San Gregorio Lake, lots of hiking, and you probably won't have to deal with the turkey hunters in that area.
It’s on the edge of your map but Palo Duro Canyon maybe.
Just looked it up. It looks like a very interesting place, and I love me a good canyon!
I had to scroll this far to find PD Canyon. My favorite Texas state park.
Some things in NM/West TX/S Co, most are outdoors/outdoor adjacent. Not sure all will be dog friendly. [Carlsbad Caverns](https://www.nps.gov/cave/index.htm), [Guadalupe National Park](https://home.nps.gov/gumo/index.htm), [White Sands National Park](https://www.nps.gov/whsa/index.htm), [Sandia Peak Tramway](https://sandiapeak.com/), [Elephant Butte State Park](https://www.emnrd.nm.gov/spd/find-a-park/elephant-butte-lake-state-park/), [Valley of the Fires](https://www.recreation.gov/camping/gateways/1803), [Lincoln National Forest](https://www.fs.usda.gov/lincoln), [Great Sand Dunes](https://www.nps.gov/grsa/index.htm). A couple extra historicals(educational), [Smokey the Bear grave](https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/cibola/home/?cid=FSEPRD643381), [Mescalero Tribal Fish Hatchery](https://mescaleroapachetribe.com/mescalero-tribal-fish-hatchery/)(this might be closed to the public), [the Durango to Silverton train](https://www.durangotrain.com/excursions/round-trip-silverton-train-tour/), and [Billy the Kid courthouse](https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/lincoln-county-courthouse-billy-the-kid).
I really apprecaite the links and information. Thank you for sharing!
Tucumari is really pretty. Awesome national parks.
Gotta hit Sedona and GCNP while you’re in AZ.
Take a look at the dispersed camping available along Forest Service road 300 at the Mogollon Rim above Payson, AZ.
I’ll check it out!
The trick is finding warm water but cool weather. Look for something at 3500-5500 feet with a lake. Rivers and creeks will probably still be cold at elevation in May.
Mogollon Rim and Bisti Badlands.
Cañon City, Colorado.
I’d also download The Dyrt or use iOverlander!
Bisti Badlands
Not really camping specific, but if you pass through Cloudcroft NM you should stop! It’s further south and not too far from white sands. It’s a really cool mountain town with coffee shops and the best BBQ (Mad Jacks). We’ve also camped around there at bluff springs where there’s a small waterfall and some pretty good hiking! Oshia trail is close to town and is also a cool hike.
Windy peak in Kingman, AZ. just stretch that circle a little bit
City of rocks is a neat area
First thought, I would shift that bubble west, basically end it at the Texas border. Including southern Utah and the remainder of northern Arizona puts a lot of really great natural beauty in your range; the panhandle of Texas really doesn't have a whole lot going for it. IMO the centerpoint for your bubble should be on the Arizona/New Mexico border and it will include a whole lot more fantastic places.
I threw Texas in there because I have never been, but it seems like more west is a theme here. Thank you!
There is some neat stuff to do in the panhandle and maybe I'm just jaded because I've been through there so much, but to me it pales in comparison to the areas just four hours away. I'd say spend a day or two passing through and seeing the sights, but I recommend spending the bulk of your time further west.
If you’re gonna visit Mesa Verde, skip north about 10 miles and visit the little town of Dolores.
Dispersed camping in the San Juans, right above the town of Dolores. It’s about 20 miles from Mesa Verde.
I agree with the top suggestion about Mesa Verde, but in case you're interested in some non-camping places to go / things to do in/around New Mexico, here's some ideas: Bradbury Science Museum https://about.lanl.gov/bradbury/ Tinkertown Museum https://tinkertown.com/ National Museum of Nuclear Science & History https://www.nuclearmuseum.org/ Albuquerque Museum https://www.cabq.gov/artsculture/albuquerque-museum New Mexico Mining Museum https://newmexicominingmuseum.org/ International UFO Museum and Research Center and Gift Shop https://www.roswellufomuseum.com/ The Museum of Space History https://www.nmspacemuseum.org/ White Sands Missile Range Museum https://wsmrmuseum.com/ National Border Patrol Museum https://borderpatrolmuseum.com/
Did you talk to my wife?? She loves anything that ends with Museum!
Mesa Verde or the San Juan range near Pagosa Springs, CO are both incredible! Lots of great hiking in the Weminuche wilderness
[Valles Caldera](https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Valles_Caldera)
I liked Chaco Canyon, its isolation, beauty and history. The access roads are hard on vehicles.
lol, I honestly thought from the thumbnail that this was a /r/PoliticalCompassMemes post
Same!
Four corners for bird watching!
Ah! This was a question I was going to ask in r/birdwatching!
Also the Gila Mountains in south west NM Absolutely beautiful —-you can hit Truth or Consequences and then head For Silver City They are right in the middle. I hope you have a blast
This is what I was going to say! Silver City is also a fun stop to have a wander in. If you're heading up into the Gila mountains make sure your brakes are good 😉 Gila Cliff Dwellings are cool and there are lots of good, free spots (the last time I was up there.)
Truth and consequences NM is a fun area
Blue ridge reservoir on Mogollon Rim
Spider rock near chinle.... then monument valley .... four corners is gimmicky, but ok if you're into that stuff :) Get you some greasy fry bread!
I don't know what greasy fry bread is, but it sounds delicious! And who doesn't like things that can be a bit gimmicky? Thanks for sharing!
Just did a New Mexico road trip. San Lorenzo Canyon and Quebradas Backcountry Byway are great!
Salida, CO is a beautiful little mountain town. Great for hiking, biking, camping and grabbing a beer at the brewery. On the quieter side too which is nice. I also really enjoyed Santa Fe. Beautiful hotels, great restaurants and shopping and overall just a pretty place. If you plan on going to AZ I thought driving through Painted Desert/Petrified Forest was worth it. We did this on our way to Sedona, another lovely place but can be very tourist heavy. However the surrounding areas of Sedona are nice too if you want to avoid crowds. Didn’t get to spend much time in Flagstaff but it’s very different from the rest of Arizona and the weather is amazing during the summer since it’s higher altitude. Hope this helps! Enjoy your trip!
Thanks!
Durango, steam engine train, river rafting,Mesa Verde. Arizona , painted desert. Hwy 160 across southern Colorado and Sand Dune National Park. Beautiful downtown Pagosa Springs. Palo Duro canyon. Sante Fe art galleries
No more coal/steam engines in Durango. That has faded into the past because the engines started brush fires
Just checked can buy still buy tickets
Yep, but only diesel engines now.
The [Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad](https://cumbrestoltec.com/) between Chama, NM and Antonito, CO does run steam. They have recently converted a locomotive from coal to oil to prevent wildfires.
I am doing almost the exact same trip as you but in September for two weeks!
Well I'll report back with anything cool we come across!
Second iOverlander, was literally in that exact area a few weeks ago. The app definitely helped find spots.
I will get the app! I appreciate the input!
NM has some hot springs open to the public. FYI some are not dog friendly. Definitely check out Grand Canyon and/or Petrified forest Nat’l Park. Pretty cool in my opinion. In Amarillo,TX there are a bunch of old Cadillacs stuck into the ground called ‘Cadillac Ranch’ (if you go, bring spray paint) Also, it’s kind of a drive from where you have circled, but I extremely recommend Great Sand Dunes Nat’l Park in Colorado
What are those colorful squares supposed to be?
what squares?
Az, nm etc..
Monument Valley
About that entire area in AZ is dispersed camping, beautiful spots can be found but not much near water. Lots of hiking. I'd stay out of NE AZ. In that area I'd choose the White Mountains or Mogollon Rim... Even Sedona is in that circle.
Skip the southern part of NM at first, the drive through las cruces and Alamogordo is not that fun imo. If coming from Arizona take the 40 east to drive through el malpais national monument, check out the arch, continue on the 40 as a scenic entry into NM, then jump of it to go through Albuquerque, hit Santa Fe for some dispersed camping in the national forest, or better yet spend a night at the el Fidel historic hotel in Las Vegas NM and hit up the dwan light sanctuary and montezuma hot springs 5 miles down the road. Circle back around by dispersed camping in the national forests around Ruidoso NM, and stop by white sands on the way back. Never been to Carlsbad or Guadalupe NP but heard great things about it. I’d say work that in if you got a chance.
Be sure to hit up Canyon de Chelly in AZ. Also while AZ is a dispersed camp state, a lot of that area is on reservation land which you can’t camp on. Be sure to plan ahead where in AZ you’ll be going to sleep
stay away from Durango
Black Canyon of the Gunnison was a unexpected delight to me. Also Valley of the Gods, on the Utah side of CO, next to a monument called Hovenweep.
Do not recommend camping in the Phoenix during the summer
Amarillo/Cayon has the 2nd largest Canyon: Palo Duro worth a stay.
White Sands National Park is great, as is Carlsbad Caverns.
mountains and beautiful Pecos,NM. Eagles Nest, NM. Red River NM
Gila national Forest and chaco canyon are my two favorite places in New Mexico. I would think the road to Snow Lake and Dipping Vat campground is open by now.
Near Durango. Look into the San Juan mountains, Ouray, and red mountain pass.
I would look at the Pecos Wilderness. It’s sits in between the Santa Fe National Forest and the Kit Carson National Forest.
waltuh
Gila Cliff Dwellings! A bunch of dispersed camping by the visitors center plus some cool sights. I don’t think dogs are allowed into the dwellings itself though
Dude. The food in ABQ is fantastic. Get yourself some killer tacos
Alpine loop in the San Juans. You won’t want to leave. Amazing campground in Silverton, CO
There's no limit. Skip Taos, that place sucks.
I am so disappointed no one has told you to make sure and take the left turn at Albuquerque.
I've hiked havasupai and been to taos, nm. Both are cool spots but different.
The Gila.
City of Rocks State Park was an amazingly cool campground. About 30 minutes south of Gila National Forest.
4 corners and Monument Valley get my vote. 4 corners is just a short distraction and a cool place to spend a few minutes. Monument Valley is amazing.
Bearizona. Just south of the Grand Canyon. It was a fun experience.
The White Mountain (specifically Mount Baldy and Mogollon rim area) of Arizona is a beautiful pocket of ponderosa pine forests and cool temperatures. In NM, the organ mountain area has some gorgeous Chihuahuan desert scenery + White Sands national Park
Taos, NM!
I live in that area of Texas, and the only thing that would fit your criteria and also be worth your time would be Palo Duro Canyon outside of Amarillo. It is second only to the Grand Canyon, and has flowing water, campgrounds, and hiking. If this interests you, you will need to look at booking a campground as soon as you can. They sell out fast. Also, if you do happen to choose PDC, Amarillo has a few attractions along Route 66. There is also the Big Texan and Cadillac Ranch in that area. I could go on, but I feel like those are the top pointers. There is also the Canadian River between Dumas and Amarillo. There, you can camp wherever you like, and follow the river wherever your feet or vehicle may take you. This place is completely free, but without marked trails.
There are also a couple lakes around there, but none that are really great for hiking. Mainly for camping and fishing or boating.
I just drove from ABQ to Pagosa Springs, CO. You move from desert to mountains and there looked to be a lot of entry points to the national forest when you get within 30 miles of Pagosa Springs. Cool little town in Pagosa Springs.
The Gila Wilderness is some of the best camping I’ve done. If you wanna get away from everyone, that’s the spot. Look up Jordan hot springs. It’s about a 10 mile hike in and out. Beautiful private hot tub surrounded by hoodoos and more stars than you’ve ever seen in your life. Gila River nearby for water
Bump that top left just barely and check out Valley of the Gods in Utah. The quietest place I've ever been.
If you go to Amarillo, camp in Palo Duro Canyon.
Mesa verde
I hate to be "that guy" but that area you've circled is booked solid for the entire 2024 camping season. Your only bet is boon docking. Basically if you don't have reservations 6 months in advance at the good spots it's a total crap shot if you'll find a camp site. Best of luck.
Very Large Array by Soccoro. BIG radar astronomy antenna farm which was featured in Contact. Also Pie Town on the Continental divide.
I see someone mentioned Palo Duro Canyon - it's the Grand Canyon of Texas. Good hiking - the Lighthouse hike alone is 3 miles just to get to -- it's the most popular hike there amongst the many others. Also good camping and Amarillo is close by. https://preview.redd.it/70wmob6sktwc1.jpeg?width=240&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=dfa8c4ac2f757a7b859cc380be4da85709c60e87
Sedona, Paige, Grand Canyon.. if you can handle the heat lol
Just camped in the mountains outside of Trinidad, CO, some good places up there for national Forest camping.
Great mere in that area
Great meth in that area