Bisti Badlands Camping

Bisti Badlands Camping

Located 36 miles from the heart of Farmington, visitors can discover the most unique landscapes found in New Mexico in the Bisti Badlands. Camping is permitted in the Bisti, and offers a  rewarding experience for those looking to explore the mesmerizing 41,000+  acres.  Please note, as a protected Wilderness Area, special rules and regulations apply.   

Road 7297, (off Highway 371) Farmington, NM

(505) 564-7600

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While camping in the Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness Area is a rewarding experience, visitors should take special note to ensure their trip is safe and does no harm to the environment. There are no developed campsites or facilities. Dispersed camping is permitted on BLM managed land for 14 days. After this time period, campers should relocate to another site to prevent damage caused by the continual use of any particular areas.
 
Because of the climate, the Bisti is open year-round. Late spring, early summer, and fall are the most popular seasons to visit.  Visitors with campers often camp in the parking lot at the entrance of the Wilderness Area.  It is important to understand that there are no marked trails or water sources.  Visitors must carry all the water they will need for the duration of the trip. 

Directions to the Bisti

Access the Bisti Badlands from NM Highway 371.  Turn east on Road 7297 (gravel road), 36 miles south of Farmington.  Travel on Road 7297 for approximately 2 miles to a T-intersection and turn left.  Drive just under one mile to the Bisti parking area.  The parking area is just south of a broad wash on the east side of the road.  There is another, smaller parking area ¼ mile further north. 

Bisti Maps

BLM Special Rules

  • Camping is permitted within all units of the National Wilderness Preservation System administered by the BLM in New Mexico.  
  •  The Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness Area is closed to motorized vehicles and mechanical forms of transportation (mountain bikes included).
  • Also prohibited are campfires, collecting fossils or petrified wood, climbing on delicate geologic features, traveling in groups of more than eight people, and trespassing on adjacent tribal lands.
  • Tread lightly on the land and leave no trace of your visit.
  • When using a motorized vehicle for camping, limit your parking and vehicle-based camping to parking areas and set-up no more than 300 feet from an established road.
  • Permits are required for uses such as grazing, scientific research, and commercial guiding.
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