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BLM Camping

Nambe Badlands Trail


The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.

The strange and beautiful scenery that you'll find along Nambe Badlands Trail is unlike anything you'll find elsewhere in the world. In fact, many visitors have said that the landscape seems to resemble images of the moon. Furthermore, it's a great place to go biking and climbing or to enjoy a wide range of other outdoor activities. Also, the site is managed by the Bureau of Land Management, which is part of the federal government. So you can expect this trail and the Bureau of Land Management campgrounds found here to be well-maintained. Just search for "BLM camping near me" once you get to the area.

The region's climate is dry and warm during the summer, but temperatures tend to be less extreme than the summertime highs in Albuquerque. However, winters tend to be quite cold and snowy. This makes it a great place to enjoy all four seasons. Trailside camping is allowed alongside Nambe Badlands Trail, but it's important to always follow the principles of Leave No Trace. Also, you cannot stay longer than two weeks in any particular location.

What to See and Do

What to See and Do

Hiking and BikingHiking and Biking

Nambe Badlands Trail

This iconic loop trail will take you through the unique, almost otherworldly landscape of the Nambe Badlands. Furthermore, the lack of vegetation and obstructions will make it possible to see for miles across the desert floor.

Length: 5.3 miles

Intensity: Moderate

ClimbingClimbing

You'll be able to find numerous spires and rock faces, which are perfect for technical climbing. These spots can be found throughout the trail.

Wildlife ViewingWildlife Viewing

The Nambe Badlands Trail is one of the best places to see the local wildlife, and some of the best viewing spots can be found on the trail's hilltops. Not only is the area home to golden eagles, northern harriers, short-eared owls, and hundreds of other bird species, but you'll be able to see plenty of terrestrial animals as well. In fact, it's a perfect place to spot bighorn sheep, oryx, Barbary sheep, and pronghorn antelope.

Picnicking

If you're looking for a unique and unforgettable place to have a picnic, Nambe Badlands Trail is the destination for you. That's because you'll be able to sit near massive stone spires and other strange sights that can be found along the trail. However, there are no designated picnic areas.

StargazingStargazing

If you're looking for a great place to view the night sky, Nambe Badlands Trail is one of the best destinations in the country. Not only will you be able to see a myriad of galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters in an incredibly dark sky, but the dry desert air and high elevation help to ensure optimal viewing conditions. Furthermore, the unique landscape of the park creates a unique stargazing experience.

Camping

Bureau of Land Management Camping

RV Camping Caravan Icon

RV camping is available at Cottonwood RV and Mobile Home Park. This RV and mobile home park is located in Espanola, New Mexico, and it offers convenient hookups for electricity and water as well as a dump station. Furthermore, prices are affordable. 

OhKay Lakes and RV Park is a private campground that offers a dump station, electric hookups, water hookups, and plenty of options for outdoor recreation. North Lake Campground in Santa Cruz Lake Recreation Area features affordable prices, a convenient dump station, electric hookups, and water hookups.

Free Camping Campground Icon

If you're hiking along Nambe Badlands Trail, you'll be able to enjoy Bureau of Land Management free camping. In fact, you'll be able to set up camp anywhere you wish alongside the trail. However, it's important to make sure that you do not stay for longer than two weeks at the same spot, never go out unprepared, and always practice the principles of Leave No Trace.

RV Rentals Near Nambe Badlands Trail Plan your next adventure

Planning Your Trip

Credit: Vanna Mae, @vannamaeart

Planning your Nambe Badlands Trail BLM trip

The trail offers some strange, incredible sights that you will not be able to see anywhere else in the world. However, it's essential to make sure that you never go out unprepared when BLM RV camping in the area. 

It's essential to check the weather before you go out on this iconic trail. While the climate of the region is fairly dry, sudden storms can kick up during the summer. If you're hiking during the winter months, a change in the weather could mean sharply dropping temperatures and heavy snow. Many people don't think of cold weather when they think of the desert, but it can get very cold and windy in New Mexico. 

You'll also want to make sure that you bring a knife, camp stove, fire starting kit, and other wilderness survival essentials. Furthermore, it's best to carry a GPS system, which can help to keep you from getting lost. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.

Leave No Trace Leaf

It's essential to do everything you can to minimize your impact on the environment, which will play a role in ensuring that future generations will be able to enjoy the natural beauty of this trail. In order to protect the pristine landscape, everyone needs to do their part.

Leave No Trace
Location

Nambe Badlands Trail Location

The closest major city is Santa Fe, New Mexico. You can get to this BLM site from Santa Fe by going north on New Mexico Route 285 until you reach New Mexico Route 503, which will be on your right. 

Ready to visit Nambe Badlands Trail? An RV rental is a great way to experience your destination. Not only will you be close to all the action, but at the end of a long day exploring, you’ll have your RV to return to for the night where you’ll enjoy a full kitchen, bathroom, and nice soft bed. Not sure about renting an RV? Here’s a step-by-step guide to renting an RV with RVshare.