USFS•Tres Piedras, NM•9.5h from Austin

Carson NF — Tres Piedras Dispersed

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Accessibility baseline: Sites on this platform are reviewed for access with a standard 2WD pickup truck towing a 21-foot travel trailer unless otherwise noted below.

Fee

Free

Hookups

No hookups

Trailer

Accessible (2WD pickup + trailer)

Cell Signal

Poor

Water

Bring your own

Toilets

None

Best Season

May–Oct

Reservations

None — dispersed (14-day limit)

Max Length

25 ft

Highlights

▶ 374+ miles of dispersed-camping roads on the Tres Piedras Ranger District — the closest free camping to Taos for trailers
▶ High-desert ponderosa and piñon at 7,000 ft; elk, mule deer, and raptors throughout
▶ Gateway to Rio Grande Gorge, Taos Pueblo, and the broader Carson NF

Planning Notes

Take the first 4–5 flat sites at the FS Rd 578 entrance — the road degrades beyond those to high-clearance only. 25 ft practical trailer limit before the road becomes unsuitable. Fire restrictions frequent in summer — check InciWeb before departure. 14-day stay limit. Self-contained rigs strongly recommended (no services).

Contact: (575) 758-6200

Always call ahead to confirm conditions, closures, and road accessibility.