Yes, you can legally camp on public land in New Mexico, but there are important rules and restrictions depending on the type of public land and your purpose for camping.
Types of Public Land and Camping Rules
1. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and US Forest Service (USFS) Land
Dispersed Camping Allowed: Dispersed camping (camping outside designated campgrounds) is generally permitted on BLM and USFS lands.
Stay Limits: You may camp for up to 14 days within a 28-day period on BLM land. After this, you must move at least 25 miles before returning to the same area.
USFS Land: In most national forests, you may camp for up to 14 days in any 30-day period, though some districts (like Lincoln National Forest) allow up to 16 days in a 30-day period, after which you must move at least 5 road miles.
No Permit Needed: Generally, no permit is required for dispersed camping, but check local regulations as some areas may have special restrictions or require permits.
Leave No Trace: Campers must follow Leave No Trace principles, stay at least 100–900 feet from water sources (varies by agency), and avoid camping in sensitive or restricted areas.
Fire Regulations: Always observe current fire restrictions, which can change with weather and fire danger.
2. New Mexico State Trust Land
Recreational Camping Not Allowed: The New Mexico State Land Office does not permit recreational camping on state trust lands. However, camping is allowed for hunters with a valid hunting license during hunting season and only in designated areas.
Permission Required: Most state trust land is leased to private parties, so you must have permission from the lessee unless you are a licensed hunter.
Pilot Programs: Some limited pilot programs (like in the White Peak area) allow dispersed camping for hunters.
3. New Mexico State Parks
Developed Campgrounds: Camping is allowed in designated state park campgrounds for a fee. Stay limits apply, typically 7 or 14 days depending on the season.
Primitive Camping: Some parks allow primitive camping, but you must reserve and pay for your site.
Key Restrictions and Guidelines
Stay Limits: Do not exceed the maximum stay limits for your type of public land (usually 14 days in a 28- or 30-day period).
Water Source Proximity: Camp at least 100–900 feet from water sources, depending on the land management agency.
Private Property: Do not camp on private land without explicit permission.
Fire Safety: Always check for fire restrictions and extinguish all fires completely.
Permits: While generally not required for dispersed camping, some areas may require permits—always check with local offices.
Summary Table
| Land Type | Camping Allowed? | Stay Limit | Permit Needed? | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BLM/USFS Land | Yes | 14 days/28 days | Generally no | Must move after limit; follow fire rules |
| State Trust Land | Only for hunters | Hunting season | Hunting license | No recreational camping; check pilot areas |
| State Parks | Yes | 7–14 days/20 days | Yes (fee) | Must reserve site; follow park rules |
What You Should Know
Dispersed camping is legal and free on most BLM and USFS lands, with strict stay limits.
No recreational camping is allowed on state trust land unless you are a licensed hunter.
Always follow local regulations, leave no trace, and respect fire restrictions.
Check with local offices for the latest information before heading out.
By following these guidelines, you can enjoy camping on public land in New Mexico responsibly and legally.
Sources:
- https://www.blm.gov/programs/recreation/recreation-activities/new-mexico
- https://tmbtent.com/new-mexico-dispersed-camping/
- https://tuffstuffoverland.com/blogs/blog/the-best-dispersed-camping-spots-in-new-mexico
- https://www.discoverruidoso.com/lincoln-national-forest-dispersed-camping