Scattered across Bureau of Reclamation land above Abiquiu Dam, dozens of primitive sites occupy red sandstone shelves with commanding views over the turquoise reservoir and surrounding badlands. No facilities except vault toilets at the boat ramp below, but the setting is classic New Mexico high desert at 6,100 feet. Sites range from pull-through spots for big rigs to tucked-away nooks for smaller setups. Wind can howl across these exposed mesas.
Access via Highway 96 west of Abiquiu village, then follow various dirt spurs north toward the lake. Roads are generally good for any vehicle in dry conditions but can get slick when wet. Popular with anglers and as a staging area for exploring Ghost Ranch country to the north.
Red rock dispersed camping above turquoise lake.
Place Details
| Type | Dispersed Camping |
|---|---|
| Elevation (ft) | 6100 ft |
| Nearest town | Abiquiu, New Mexico |
| Miles from pavement | 2.1 mi |
| Minimum vehicle | Any vehicle |
| Access road surface | Dirt |
| Cell service | Partial |
| Cost (USD/night, 0 = free) | Free |
| Reservation required | No |
| Stay limit (nights) | 14 nights |
| Best season | April-November |
| Land manager | Other |
| Permit required | No |
| Amenities | Cell signal, Fire ring |
| Coordinates | Open directions |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |