We recently did some exploring and dispersed camping in the Manzano Mountains, which are located in the Cibola National Forest of central New Mexico. This rugged 30 mile long mountain range is located east of Belen and northwest of Mountainair, with Manzano Peak (10,098′) and Bosque Peak (9,610′) being the highest points.
Our favorite dispersed camping site was located near the Ox Canyon trailhead, at 8,050′ elevation. There the stars at night were amazing and we had lots of fun making some long range contacts with our ham and GMRS radios.
Dispersed Camping in The Manzano Mountains (Cibola National Forest)
Dispersed vehicle camping is allowed in most of the Cibola National Forest, including this section that contains the Manzano Mountains. According to the ranger district, vehicle camping is allowed within 300′ of the main (dirt) park roads. Certain other restrictions, such as prohibitions on camping within a certain distance of water sources may be in effect, so be sure to check beforehand with the Mountainair Ranger District at 505-847-2990 for more information.
So as not to disturb any new seedlings that were emerging post-fires, we camped only in places that had been obviously used for dispersed vehicle camping. Some of these informal dispersed camping areas even had rock fire rings set up, though we didn’t use them. At the time we visited the Manzano Mountains there were no fire restrictions in place; however, this is subject to change.
Forest Recovering From Recent Fires
When we revisited this part of the Cibola National Forest in the Manzano Mountains in June of 2023, we found a much different scene than when we’d witnessed in 2021. At that time, much of the area was either burned or actively burning. Due to the severe drought and a beetle infestation, there were many more dead and dying trees then.
Since then, rainfall has increased somewhat, and thanks to more moisture, along with selective cutting by the Forest Service, the area was looking much better. Unfortunately, like many other parts of the Cibola National Forest, the trees here are still under relentless attack from pine and spruce beetles.
Above: We saw several mule deer near our campsites, who didn’t seem that bothered by our presence.
According to a forest ranger with whom we spoke, the deer are increasing in number due to an abundance of acorns growing on young oaks, which are filling in some of the recently burned areas. We also saw lots of evidence of foraging black bears, with many upturned rocks and logs near our campsite.
When dispersed camping in the Manzano Mountains or anywhere else in New Mexico for that matter, it’s important to be “bear aware” – to lock and store food items, and to practice good campsite hygiene.
Lots of Trails To Explore
In the week that we spent in this part of the Cibola National Forest, we explored several of the smaller forest roads, including 422, 205, 205A2, 275 and 522E. Most of the dirt roads we traveled in this part of the Cibola National Forest were fairly well maintained and were accessible by a full-width 4×4.
On one occasion, we had to remove a fallen tree that was blocking our exit from one of the smaller forest roads, so carrying a chainsaw along for this purpose isn’t a bad idea.
We recommend using either OnX Offroad or Gaia GPS, with maps preloaded for off-grid, since there is little cell phone reception in the Manzano Mountains.
Below: We hiked some of the uncrowded single-track there, including part of the beautiful Manzano Crest Trail, which we accessed from the Ox Canyon trailhead.
New Mexico National Forest Dispersed Camping Tips
- Check with the ranger district before camping for fire and other restrictions that may have changed.
- Bury or pack out all human and animal waste.
- Leave No Trace
- Stay within 300′ of main forest roads, away from water sources.
- Avoid camping under dead or unhealthy trees.
- Don’t overstay the maximum number of days. (Normally 14)
Resources:
For more information about camping and recreation in the Cibola National Forest, see the U.S. National Forest Website
