Whirlpool Dispersed Camping Area, Abiquiu, NM

Coyote Ranger District

Santa Fe National Forest

Free Camping Near Abiquiu, NM

This is a free, designated dispersed camping area offered by Santa Fe National Forest. It's a large, sandy riverbank near a bend in the river where whirlpools commonly form. There's enough room here for a dozen or so campers, but nothing for large RVs, The only amenity is a vault toilet on site.

Authority

Coyote Ranger District logo

Coyote Ranger District

Santa Fe National Forest

District Office

Tel: (575) 638-5526

Official campground webpage

Particulars

GPS: 36.3140, -106.5915

Elevation: 6,283 feet

Reservations: First come, first served

Camping Fee: None

Permit: None

Max stay: 14 days in a 45-day period

Amenities: Vault toilet

Submitted by

Admin Staff

Admin Staff

Boondocker's Bible

Camping at Whirlpool Dispersed Camping Area

Approached by Forest Road 151, a firm-packed dirt road suitable for any vehicle, this campground is located about 21 miles northwest of Abiquiu, NM, the closest town with fuel and supplies.

The roads inside the dispersed camping area are all dirt, but there are soft spots that a 2WD vehicle can get stuck in. It’s best to take a 4WD vehicle in here instead. The sites are generally small, suitable for no larger than a 24 foot trailer. These sites also get filled up quickly on the weekends during the Summer, so you may find it difficult to get turned around if everything is full.

Otherwise, this is a picturesque campground, right on the banks of the Rio Chama, with several sites offering a great deal of shade. Because it’s a large area, campsites can be spaced further apart for more privacy. There is also an abundance of wildlife here, particularly with snakes and lizards.

Other Campsites Within 20 Miles Radius

Associated Documents

Santa Fe National Forest Order 10-494, Occupancy rules, camping limits, alcohol possession, public nudity, (eff: June 10, 2021, term: December 31, 2026)
Motor Vehicle Use Map, Coyote, Cuba, & Espanola Ranger Districts, Illustrates dispersed camping restrictions & OHV restrictions, (eff: January 1, 2024)

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