Cibola National Forest — Lobo Canyon Road Dispersed Camp
Lobo Canyon Road climbs north out of Grants into the Cibola National Forest on the flanks of Mount Taylor, New Mexico’s sacred volcano and the highest point in the region at 11,301 feet. Dispersed camping is permitted on National Forest land throughout this corridor — you’re looking at ponderosa pine and scrub oak, canyon walls of sandstone and volcanic rock, and a whole lot of quiet. The road gains elevation fast, so you’re out of the valley heat within a few miles. No developed facilities. Camp on durable surfaces and pack everything out.
Access via Lobo Canyon Road (USFS Road 193) off NM-547 north of Grants. The lower sections are passable for most high-clearance vehicles; upper reaches get rocky and narrow. Road conditions deteriorate significantly when wet — the clay surface gets greasy. Snow closes upper portions November through April. This is a legitimate shoulder-season camp when the lava field below is either frozen or baking.
Pine canyon camp on Mount Taylor's skirt.
Place Details
| Type | Dispersed Camping |
|---|---|
| Elevation (ft) | 7800 ft |
| Nearest town | Grants, NM |
| Miles from pavement | 4.1 mi |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 2WD |
| Access road surface | Rough dirt |
| Cell service | None |
| Cost (USD/night, 0 = free) | Free |
| Reservation required | No |
| Stay limit (nights) | 14 nights |
| Best season | May-October |
| Land manager | USFS |
| Permit required | No |
| Coordinates | Open directions |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |