BLM Lordsburg Playa — Boot Heel Desert Dispersed Camp

This is classic southwest BLM nothing — creosote flats stretching to the horizon, the Florida Mountains off to the northeast, and more stars than you’ve earned in a long time. Pull off any of the two-track spurs off NM-9 or Animas Road and you’re legal and alone. No facilities, no signage, no neighbors. Ground is hard-packed caliche most of the year with some sandy wash crossings. Fires are almost always restricted — check with BLM Las Cruces Field Office before you strike a match.

Access is straightforward on most stock 4x4s. Rain turns the clay sections slick fast, so watch the forecast. Cell service is effectively zero out here — satellite comms are a good idea. The TAT runs right through this corridor on its way to Antelope Wells. Stock up in Lordsburg before heading south; there is nothing between here and the border.

Empty desert flats on the Mexican border run.