Rover Location Database

Grid Field DM

66 locations - Old Seaplane Base - Bombay Beach - Le Fevre Overlook - Gray Cliffs Campground - Brownfield Picnic Area - Jewett Mesa - DM66-76 Grid Line - Heron Lake - Silio Picnic Area - North Truches Roadside Shelter - I-40 Rest Area - Torrance County Dump - Grand Mesa Scenic Byway - Grand Mesa Scenic Byway - Lybrook Mesa - Angel Peak Overlook - Moriarty Industrial Area - Moriarty Airport Road - Grand Mesa Scenic Byway - Fort Lancaster Scenic Overlook - Dawn Cattle - DM55-65 Grid Line - Mummy Cave Overlook - Brazos Summit - DM70-71 Grid Line - Sunset Reef - Massai Point - Twin Peaks Campground - DM08-09-18-19 - Fish Lake Overlook - Black Mtn - DM77-DM87 Line - DM89-DN80 Line - Gringo Pass - DM56-66 Line - Valley of Fires - Little Pilot Peak - Cibola NWR - Ella Mtn - West Mtn Peak - Chuckwalla - Apache Creek - Summit Mtn - Wahweap Overlook - La Veta Pass - DM85-86 Line - Cerro Gordo Peak - Salt Tram Summit - Dante's View - Borax Bill Park - Owl Hole - Palo Verde - Bradshaw Trail - Black Mtn - Wupatki - DM07-08-17-18 - Smokey Mtn Overlook - Kris Eggle Campground - Burr Trail - Picacho Peak - George Davis Park - Fort McKavett - Caudle Park - Tillotson Trailhead - Bluewater Lake - Delta Desert

Potential VHF rover sites in grid DM. Be careful.
DM dimensions are 1655.8 by 1623.5 miles.
Hover mouse over a map marker for more about the grid and site.

Old Seaplane Base, DM23ce06

Latitude, Longitude
33.194047, -115.832226
Map Location Near city of Salton City, Imperial County, CA, Altitude -233
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2023-03-06
Comments by: John NA6L

Old Seaplane Base 1 Old Seaplane Base 2 Old Seaplane Base 3

We found a great spot for DM 23 although the wind hasn't cooperated for two days. Search for "Navy Base Salton Sea". We are right on the water at the old seaplane base. Actually, search for "navy auxiliary air station salton" and read the very interesting story. We visited on Mar 5, 2023. There are no people for miles. - John NA6L

Bombay Beach, DM23di14

Latitude, Longitude
33.351417, -115.741279
Map Location Near city of Niland, Imperial County, CA, Altitude -230
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2022-12-29
Comments by: Petr AG6EE

Le Fevre Overlook, DM36ut99

Latitude, Longitude
36.830138, -112.254600
Map Location Near city of Fredonia, Coconino County, AZ, Altitude 6824
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2024-03-16
Comments by: Jack W0XR

Gray Cliffs Campground, DM28vx37

Latitude, Longitude
38.990228, -114.223310
Map Location Near city of Baker, White Pine County, NV, Altitude 7149
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2023-09-21
Comments by: Chuck NJ6D / N7KU

Brownfield Picnic Area, DM83we73

Latitude, Longitude
33.180989, -102.107895
Map Location Near city of Brownfield, Lynn County, TX, Altitude 3180
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2022-08-07
Comments by: Robert W5AJ

Jewett Mesa, DM53px89

Latitude, Longitude
33.995905, -108.675811
Map Location Near city of Quemado, Catron County, NM, Altitude 7650
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2022-07-15
Comments by: Andy Goss AA5JF

Jewett Mesa 1 Jewett Mesa 2

This is a large pull-off on NM Hwy 32 just south of Jewett Mesa Airport, at the intersection with Forest Road 23, almost exactly half-way between Quemado and Reserve. It's on a high-altitude plain on the west side of the continental divide, and with mostly flat land to the east and northeast.

It is a short ways to the DM53-DM54 grid line, where you might be able to find a spot to park, although it would be closer to a power line.

Driving directions: Easily accessible from either Apache Creek or Quemado on paved roads.

Restrictions:

Very little traffic at night, so perhaps a low-profile overnight stay would go unnoticed. This is not on Apache National Forest land.

You will likely get local ranchers visiting, wondering what you are doing, as I did in July 2022.
Catron County, famously, polices itself: New Mexico County Endorses Mandatory Gun Ownership

DM66-76 Grid Line, DM76ap08

Latitude, Longitude
36.660486, -106.000000
Map Location Near city of Tres Piedras, Rio Arriba County, NM, Altitude 8400
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2022-07-15
Comments by: Andy Goss AA5JF

Grid line site in Carson National Forest, near to Tres Piedras, with excellent cell coverage. North of US Hwy 64.

Near US-64, the grid line runs in creek bed, so it's necessary to get far north of the highway to reach higher ground on the grid line.

Driving directions:

  • From Tres Piedras, head west on US Hwy 64.
  • About 1.5 mile past the ranger station, look for obvious but unmarked turn-off on right just before the grid line.
  • This was likely once maintained, but no longer.
  • The turn is not on map, but easily visible on Google map satellite.
  • Follow unpaved road north, bearing left at the two splits.
  • Drive as far as makes sense. In 2022, there was a sign where it was obvious that it was impossible to go further, maybe .75 mile or so.
  • I stopped just before the road dipped down towards a pond.
  • Grid line is a few hundred feet to the west, up the slope.

Restrictions:

Requires navigating a primitive unpaved dirt road, and is not appropriate for a sedan. I had a high-clearance SUV, but did not need 4-wheel drive in 2022.

In July 2022, there were three campers close to the highway, clearly staying the night, and in plain view (and thus not hiding). That may mean camping is permitted. Easy to find out at the ranger station in Tres Piedras.

Heron Lake, DM66qq06

Latitude, Longitude
36.692212, -106.660333
Map Location Near city of Brazos, Rio Arriba County, NM, Altitude 7170
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2022-07-15
Comments by: Andy Goss AA5JF

Heron Lake 1

In the middle of beatiful Chama Valley, on top of a hill, with good sight lines in all directions (except NW). Not quite as good as the Brazos Summit.

This is the Blanco electric campground, where the best spots for VHF are #24 and #26. Bathroom and showers nearby. Includes electrical hookup.

Book ahead in summer, as it's popular with long-term RVers.

In 2022, the camp host Bryan was next door, who was very friendly and supportive. Call ahead or bring gas; there were very few restaurants in Chama open in 2022.

Restrictions:

This campground can only be reserved using the official reservation system of the New Mexico State Parks. $14 plus reservation fee. Even if you drop in and find available spots, you must call (or use the web portal) to reserve your spot.

Bring a Verizon phone; T-Mobile worked okay at #26. Fires not permitted in summer of 2022, and that may be standard in summers in this arid climate.

Silio Picnic Area, DM74ao93

Latitude, Longitude
34.598313, -105.919275
Map Location Near city of Willard, Torrance County, NM, Altitude 6110
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2022-07-15
Comments by: Andy Goss AA5JF

Silio Picnic Area 1 Silio Picnic Area 2 Silio Picnic Area 3

At the Laguna Del Perro Historical Marker on Hwy 60 is a great rover spot with shade and picnic bench.

This is a few miles east of Willard, NM on US Hwy 60 and next to the very busy BNSF railroad track. Covered picnic table in a large pull-off among a series of salt ponds. Google calls it Silio, but I saw no reference to "Silio" while I was there. Historical marker references the largest salt pond as Laguna del Perro. We suggest visiting the Willard Cantina and Cafe while you're there, open seven days a week in 2022.

This picnic site is conveniently at one of the highest points, although there's a small mound to the NE. No apparent interference from the trains. A cellphone tower is less than 5 miles away.

Driving directions: From Willard, NM, go east on US 60. Accessible from Mountainair, Moriarty, or Encino.

Restrictions: People stop regularly but it's a large pull-off, so if the picnic area is taken, there's still plenty of room. Camping is likely not allowed as this is NMDOT maintained.

North Truches Roadside Shelter, DM76cb23

Latitude, Longitude
36.057917, -105.810146
Map Location Near city of Truches, Rio Arriba County, NM, Altitude 8010
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2022-07-14
Comments by: Bill Schwantes W7QQ

I've operated here four times and was able to reach stations in Albuquerque and communities east of Albuquerque as well as Los Alimos on all bands 50 through 1296 with good signal strength. I've also worked a station in Grand Junction CO DM59 from there on 144 and 222. It's been excellent on 50 Mhz during band openings to the Pacific Northwest and Midwest.

The site is quiet and has good takeoff angles in every direction except northeast.

Driving directions:

  • Take the scenic high road to Taos.
  • In Espanola, find Hwy 76, the high road to Taos.
  • Follow Hwy 76 west to the famous little town of Chimayo.
  • Continue on Hwy 76 north, climbing steadily through the villages of Cordova and Truchas on a prominent east west ridge.
  • Stay on Hwy 76 in Truchas by turning sharply north again.
  • As the highway leaves Truches, it descends toward the east into a canyon then curves back toward the west as it climbs the north side of the canyon.
  • At the top of this canyon the road curves north again.
  • The operating site is on the west side of the Hwy in a broad pullout marked by a roofed shelter on posts. It's a very large area suitable for a swarm of rovers.

I-40 Rest Area, DM75ba81

Latitude, Longitude
35.006270, -105.842330
Map Location Near city of Moriarty, Torrance County, NM, Altitude 6580
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2022-07-14
Comments by: Bill Schwantes W7QQ

The main attraction at this site is it's one of four operating sites close to the confluence of four grids, DM65, 64, 75 and 74. Moving from one grid to another may be accomplished within 10 to 15 minutes which makes this site attractive to rovers.

The site is a rest area near the westbound lanes of Interstate 40. The rest area forms a loop with shelter structures spaced at regular intervals around the loop. The best operating site is found at the northeastern most shelter because the signal strength is better than some of the other shelters in the loop. This shelter is a few feet higher than the others. I sometimes park behind the shelter to the northeast.

I've operated there several times and was able to reach stations in Albuquerque and communities east of Albuquerque as well as Los Alimos on all bands 50 through 1296 with good signal strength. Working into north Texas and southern New Mexico from this spot is possible on 144 MHz. I've also worked stations in Grants NM on I-40 with surprising signal strength. Working stations in Albuquerque is sometimes difficult due to the 10,600 foot Sandia Peak on the eastern edge of Albuquerque. I found that signal strength from stations there varied greatly depending on those station's location in Albuquerque. For the most part, Albuquerque stations are workable. The site is quiet and has good takeoff angles in all directions.

Driving directions:

  • From the west, on Interstate 40, drive east past Moriarty.
  • Pass the eastbound rest area on the right.
  • Take exit 208 at Wagon Wheel Road, 1.3 miles past the eastbound rest area.
  • Cross over I-40
  • Drive west on I-40 0.9 miles to the exit for the westbound portion of the rest area.

Torrance County Dump, DM74bx66

Latitude, Longitude
34.987274, -105.864172
Map Location Near city of Albuquerque, Torrance County, NM, Altitude 6480
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2022-07-14
Comments by: Bill Schwantes W7QQ

The main attraction at this site is it's one of four operating sites close to the confluence of four grids, DM65, 64, 75 and 74. Moving from one grid to another may be accomplished within 10 to 15 minutes which makes this site attractive to rovers.

DM74 is a fairly rare grid. When 50 MHz e-skip is open, you'll be in demand.

I've operated there several times and was able to reach stations in Albuquerque and communities east of Albuquerque as well as Los Alimos on all bands 50 through 1296 with good signal strength. Working into north Texas and southern New Mexico from this spot is possible on 144 MHz. I've also worked stations in Grants NM on I-40 with surprising signal strength. Working stations in Albuquerque is sometimes difficult due to the 10,600 foot Sandia Peak on the eastern edge of Albuquerque. I found that signal strength from stations there varied greatly depending on those station's location in Albuquerque. For the most part, Albuquerque stations are workable. The site is very quiet and has good takeoff angles in all directions except east, where it is diminished somewhat.

Driving directions:

  • The site is located near the Torrance County Landfill (dump).
  • From the west, on Interstate 40, drive east past Moriarty.
  • Take exit 203 south to a frontage road (also Old Route 66) and travel east.
  • Turn right (south) on Pueblo Road, best identified by a sign to the Torrence County Dump and a large gate.
  • Continue south 1.2 miles and turn left (east) on Sidewinder Road. This looks just like the main road has turned left.
  • Continue 1.5 miles east and select an operating spot on the road.

Restrictions: Pueblo Rd is compacted dirt and can become impassible during heavy rainfall.

Grand Mesa Scenic Byway, DM69aa01

Latitude, Longitude
39.007577, -107.993693
Map Location Near city of Grand Mesa, Delta County, NM, Altitude 9505
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2022-07-06
Comments by: Jay Morehouse W9RM

This is one of several good to excellent sites in the DM69 corner for working from a southeast heading, all the way around through south, to a point west. This site is blocked by higher terrain from approx 315 degrees around through north, to about 60-70 degrees. To the south and southwest, it is several thousand feet HAAT (height above average terrain), dropping off beyond the roadside and continuing mostly down-slope into the valley. There are some trees in your direct line of sight. There are other options to the west and north on highway 65 that may offer comparable lines of sight - choose which one works best for you.

At this location, there is a pull-out on the south side of highway 65 which gets one out of traffic, which can be considerable on a summer day in June or July. No more then two vehicles will fit in this pull-out. While a superb location from May through early November, I would NOT suggest trying to use it when there is snow pack at higher elevations. This point routinely sees several hundred inches of snow during the winter season, with 24 hour snow fall totals exceeding 30-40 inches common.

This site is proven to produce QSO's and is an excellent location to the south or southwest. One should have coverage well into NM, UT and, possibly, the front range of CO from this location. This site has been used by rovers such as W7QQ and W0VOA. There are only a few VHF/UHF fixed stations active from DM69's western end.

Grand Mesa Scenic Byway, DM68ax39

Latitude, Longitude
38.997810, -107.972762
Map Location Near city of Cedaredge, Delta County, NM, Altitude 9275
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2022-07-06
Comments by: Jay Morehouse W9RM

The best one of several excellent sites in the DM68 corner for working from a southeast heading, all the way around through south, to a point west. This site is blocked by higher terrain from a little north of west, through north, to about 60-70 degrees. To the south and southwest, it is several thousand feet HAAT (height above average terrain), dropping off quickly beyond the roadside and continuing mostly down-slope into the valley. There are other options to the west and north on highway 65 that may offer comparable lines of sight of this is busy - choose which one works best for you.

At this location, there is a large pull-out on the south side of highway 65 which gets one out of traffic, which can be considerable on a summer day in June or July. Several vehicles can easily fit in this space, but be advised it can be crowded with sightseers on a busy summer day. While a superb location from May through early November, I would NOT suggest trying to use it when there is snow pack at higher elevations. While down slope over 1000' from the top of Grand Mesa, snowfall and snow pack can be heavy at times.

This site is proven to produce QSOs and is an excellent location to the south or southwest. One should have coverage well into NM, UT and, possibly, the front range of CO from this location. This site has been used by rovers such as N0IO ( through 24 GHz), W7QQ and W0VOA. There are few active VHF/UHF stations in the west part of DM68.

Lybrook Mesa, DM66ff20

Latitude, Longitude
36.210442, -107.563846
Map Location Near city of Nageezi, Sandoval County, NM, Altitude 7487
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2022-07-14
Comments by: Bill Schwantes W7QQ

One of these sites forms a broad flat area with good site lines in all directions. This operating site is in Sandoval County but the cell tower is in Rio Ariba County.

I've operated there twice and was able to reach stations in Albuquerque on all bands 50 through 1296 with good signal strength. Distance is about 95 miles on a bearing of 145 degrees true. This is a good 6 meter site when the band is open. It's very quiet.

Driving directions:

  • Turn south off US Hwy 550 on an unnamed dirt road that rises abruptly off the Hwy 550 surface then crosses a cattle guard at a fenceline that parallels Hwy 550.
  • A cell phone tower is visible south of Hwy 550 when approaching from the north or south.
  • Passing an oil production site on the left, the road deteriorates and climbs toward the cell tower but is easily passable in good conditions.
  • Just before reaching the cell tower, bear right on a smaller road which leads to a narrow mesa with more oil and gas sites.

Restrictions: A high clearance vehicle is recommended but not required in good road conditions. The access road is not recommended in rain or snow. In 2015, the road surface was dirt with spots of gravel.

Angel Peak Overlook, DM66am85

Latitude, Longitude
36.522870, -107.931880
Map Location Near city of Bloomfield, San Juan County, NM, Altitude 6551
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2022-07-14
Comments by: Bill Schwantes W7QQ

The terrain to the north, west and east drops several hundred feet into the badlands. Terrain to the south is flat.

I've operated there 3 times and each time I found I could reach most of Colorado except Denver which is in the "Rocky Mountain Shadow". Most of Western Colorado some of eastern Utah and most of northwestern New Mexico is reachable on frequencies from 50 through 432. Signal reports from DM58 stations while operating there are unusually strong.

Driving directions:

  • From US 550 turn east on NM State Road 7175 at the sign identifying the Angel Peak Recreation Area.
  • The road surface is gravel and easily passable with any vehicle having moderate ground clearance.
  • Drive east through the "Land Farm" about one mile.
  • Look for a curve to the south and two covered picnic tables.
  • The site is near the picnic tables at the Badlands Overlook.

Moriarty Industrial Area, DM65xa60

Latitude, Longitude
35.000967, -106.025404
Map Location Near city of Moriarty, Torrance County, NM, Altitude 6193
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2022-07-14
Comments by: Bill Schwantes W7QQ

The main attraction at that it's one of four operating sites close to the confluence of four grids, DM65, 64, 75 and 74. Moving from one grid to another may 10 to 15 minutes and which makes this spot attractive to rovers.

This is not a great operating spot but it gets the job done for anyone circling the grid confluence. Propagation on all bands is notably worse (but still not bad) from here than from other nearby grids.

For a rover staying close to the grid confluence, this spot is as good as it gets. It's close to food and fuel. You'll be able to reach stations in Albuquerque and communities east of Albuquerque as well as Los Alimos, Santa Fe and Taos on all bands 50 through 432. Working stations in Albuquerque is sometimes difficult due to the 10,600 foot Sandia Peak on the eastern edge of Albuquerque. The site is reasonably quiet and has good takeoff angles in all directions but it is on flat land with no possibility of a nearby high point.

Driving directions:

  • This is located in the Moriarty industrial area just inside the southern edge of DM65.
  • From the west, on Interstate 40, take exit 196 south.
  • This puts you on 5th street which is also Hwy 41.
  • Travel south on Hwy 41 0.7 miles to Martinez Road.
  • Turn east (left) on Martinez road.
  • Travel east 1.2 miles to Cam Oriente Rd.
  • Turn left (north) and drive to the first right turn opportunity.
  • Turn right on Industrial Loop Rd.
  • Drive a short distance to a wide dirt intersection.
  • This is the operating spot.

Moriarty Airport Road, DM64xx89

Latitude, Longitude
34.996600, -106.008860
Map Location Near city of Moriarty, Torrance County, NM, Altitude 6193
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2022-07-14
Comments by: Bill Schwantes W7QQ

The main attraction at this site is it's one of four operating sites close to the confluence of four grids, DM65, 64, 75 and 74. Moving from one grid to another may be accomplished within 10 to 15 minutes which makes this site attractive to the rover.

This is near the Moriarty Airport. From the west, on Interstate 40, take exit 196 south. This puts you on 5th street which is also Hwy 41. Travel south on Hwy 41 0.7 miles to Martinez Road and turn east (left). On Martinez Road, travel east 2.3 miles to the entrance of the Moriarty Airport, also called Applebay Way. Turn South (right) and find an operating spot on the shoulder.

I'll be the first to say that this is not a great operating spot. Propagation on all bands is notably worse from here than other nearby grid spots. I've spent a lot of time searching for a better spot and haven't found one nearby. For a rover staying close to the grid confluence, this spot is as good as it gets. You'll be able to reach stations in Albuquerque and communities east of Albuquerque as well as Los Alimos, Santa Fe and Taos on all bands 50 through 432. Working stations in Albuquerque is sometimes difficult due to the 10,600 foot Sandia Peak on the eastern edge of Albuquerque The site is reasonably quiet and has good takeoff angles in all directions but it's on flat land with no possibility of a nearby high point.

Grand Mesa Scenic Byway, DM59xa88

Latitude, Longitude
39.034117, -108.014413
Map Location Near city of Grand Mesa, Delta County, CO, Altitude 10655
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2019-10-01
Comments by: Jay Morehouse W9RM

This is an excellent site for working from slightly south of a easterly heading, all the way around through south, to a point northwest. This site is blocked by higher terrain from approx 315 degrees around through north, to about 60-70 degrees. To the south and southwest, it is several thousand feet HAAT (height above average terrain), dropping off immediately beyond the roadside and continuing down-slope into the valley.

There is a wide and long pull-out on the south side of highway 65 which gets one well away from traffic, which can be considerable on a summer day in June or July. Several (or more) vehicles will easily fit in this pull-out. While a superb location from May through early November, I would NOT suggest trying to use it when there is snow pack at higher elevations. This point routinely sees several hundred inches of snow during the winter season, with 24 hour snow fall totals exceeding 30-40 inches common.

This site is proven to produce QSO's and is an excellent location for microwave operations to the south or southwest. One should have coverage well into NM, UT and the front range of CO from this location. This site has been used by rovers such as N0IO (up through 47 GHz), W7QQ and W0VOA. There is NO VHF/UHF fixed station activity from DM59 above 2M and very little on 6 and 2.

Fort Lancaster Scenic Overlook, DM90dq92

Latitude, Longitude
30.677803, -101.672768
Map Location Near city of Iraan, Crockett County, TX, Altitude 2600
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2022-06-20
Comments by: Alan N5NA

Fort Lancaster Scenic Overlook 1

Dawn Cattle, DM84vx06

Latitude, Longitude
34.986534, -102.247043
Map Location Near city of Amarillo, Deaf Smith County, TX, Altitude 3800
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2022-06-10
Comments by: Jim K5ND

Dawn Cattle 1

DM55-65 Grid Line, DM56as07

Latitude, Longitude
36.780516, -109.999900
Map Location Near city of Dennehotso, Apache County, AZ, Altitude 5200
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2022-06-08
Comments by: Barry K7BWH

Mummy Cave Overlook, DM56hf64

Latitude, Longitude
36.228545, -109.361628
Map Location Near city of Chinle, Apache County, AZ, Altitude 6800
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2022-06-08
Comments by: Barry K7BWH

Brazos Summit, DM66tq65

Latitude, Longitude
36.691493, -106.361806
Map Location Near city of Brazos, Rio Arriba County, NM, Altitude 10500
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2022-06-03
Comments by: Jeff Smith K5TIT

DM70-71 Grid Line, DM71va60

Latitude, Longitude
31.000000, -104.192361
Map Location Near city of Van Horn, Jeff Davis County, TX, Altitude 4400
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2022-05-08
Comments by: Robert W5AJ

DM70-71 Grid Line 1

The highway was about three feet higher than setup site as seen in photo. Traffic on HW118 was very light on Saturday, several friendly bikers later in the day. Friendly as in we waved to each other. Station was 90 watts out to HB 4 element up about 15 feet. The site had below S1 power line noise. The power line is on other side of highway and I suspect did produce some RFI. There was cell service with data at site. Initially the data was SLOW as tar but locating phone on north end of the truck (Interstate 10 was to north) the data link improved substantially.

Robert W5AJ

Sunset Reef, DM72sc98

Latitude, Longitude
32.119310, -104.424570
Map Location Near city of Carlsbad, Eddy County, NM, Altitude 3600
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2022-01-27
Comments by: Barry K7BWH

Sunset Reef 1

Sunset Reef Campground is BLM land between Carslbad Caverns and Guadalupe NP. This campground was top-rated by Campendium in 2021. There are more campgrounds nearby, such as Chosa campground (also highly rated) and Parks Ranch primitive campground.

Massai Point, DM52ia21

Latitude, Longitude
32.007351, -109.312242
Map Location Near city of Chiricahua National Monument, Cochise County, AZ, Altitude 6800
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2022-01-20
Comments by: John NA6L

Massai Point 1 Massai Point 2 Massai Point 3 Massai Point 4 Massai Point 5

The peak is called Massi Point trail head. There are some blocked directions but the east and west look good. In addition to this spot there are many other options, like on the dirt road to Portal. There's a nice camp ground just down the road, Bonita CG.

John NA6L

Twin Peaks Campground, DM31ow25

Latitude, Longitude
31.939583, -112.810417
Map Location Near city of Ajo, Pima County, AZ, Altitude 1700
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2021-12-28
Comments by: John NA6L

Twin Peaks Campground 1 Twin Peaks Campground 2 Twin Peaks Campground 3

Twin Peaks Campground in the Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument area is an easy stop at a very well maintained area. It's not the best for 6m propagation but it's safe, comfortable and good hiking. Easy walk to the Desert View Trailhead and the Victoria Mine Trailhead.

Make reservations and get status and closures from the NPS website Twin Peaks Campground.

Amenities include flush toilets, good water supply and even some solar heated showers in modern bathrooms. Large pull-through sites. No electricity, water or sewer at sites but there is water throughout and a fresh water fill station at the dump station. Showers are closed due to Covid19.

Restrictions:
Beginning January 1, 2022 reservations are required for all sites and group campsites.
Park entrance fee $25. Campground is $20/night.

DM08-09-18-19, DM19aa00

Latitude, Longitude
39.000000, -118.000000
Map Location Near city of Middlegate, Nye County, NV, Altitude 5000
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2021-12-28
Comments by: Petr AG6EE

DM08-09-18-19 1

Fish Lake Overlook, DM48dm46

Latitude, Longitude
38.527388, -111.714202
Map Location Near city of Salena, Sevier County, UT, Altitude 9500
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2021-11-05
Comments by: Barry K7BWH

Black Mtn, DM13od27

Latitude, Longitude
33.156966, -116.809314
Map Location Near city of Ramona, San Diego County, CA, Altitude 2560
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2010-10-18
Comments by: Barry K7BWH

DM77-DM87 Line, DM77xv98

Latitude, Longitude
37.909722, -104.000100
Map Location Near city of Timpas, Otero County, CO, Altitude 4500
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2021-12-07
Comments by: David NJ0W

DM89-DN80 Line, DM89vx39

Latitude, Longitude
39.999990, -102.222450
Map Location Near city of Wray, Yuma County, CO, Altitude 3500
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2021-08-18
Comments by: Barry K7BWH

If you want to park exactly on a grid line, then just off from Hwy 385 south of Wray, CO, are some possible places to park on the DM89 to DN80 grid line. Note that County Road 30 runs east-west and has dirt roads going N-S that can be explored to find a place to park without power lines. This coordinates listed here is one example; you should scout to find a spot you like.

Gringo Pass, DM31ov21

Latitude, Longitude
31.880600, -112.813200
Map Location Near city of Lukeville, Pima County, AZ, Altitude 1400
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2021-07-01
Comments by: Wyatt AC0RA

Gringo Pass 1 Gringo Pass 2 Gringo Pass 3 Gringo Pass 4

This is the RV Park on the east side of the Highway in Lukeville, AZ. It was pretty well abandoned when we were here on June 7th, 2021 - but you could still buy a site for a night. So all I did, was walk into the Gas station and was like ‘hey dude, I wanna setup a portable radio station, anyplace I can do that?’ He was like ‘sure thing, 20 bucks go over there'.

From the east side of the RV Park (towards the far end) it is pretty quiet on 6m except when pointing directly at a nearby cell phone tower or at CBP checkpoint. Very quiet from about Due North to the Southeast - where most of the people you'll be looking for are found.

It is very close to the border, so vigilance is appropriate - but it seems safe with such a large CBP presence within a few hundred yards. Sitting here for a day we haven't been approached by anyone.

I’m not going to lie, this place looks kinda sketch. I'm pretty sure it’s straight out of a Fallout game.

There was a gate and sometimes a thick chain over the road to RV park. Ask at the gas station and they opened it for us. We can walk to the Gas Station for toilets.

It seems like there is no reason that DM31 should ever be rare after this. This is the recipe: drive to Lukeville, pay 20 bucks, go QRO.

If we get into a running gun fight with cartels later tonight then I reserve the right to change my story, but right now, it’s been extremely chill.

There's a Verizon cell tower site nearby. I could throw a rock and hit the cell site.

Driving directions: Go to Lukeville, AZ. Go into the Gas station and ask for a RV spot, get the permit then go across the road (it's the only road) and pick a spot. The road to Lukeville is 2-lane highway, the RV park itself is flat and level gravel. Passenger cars will have no trouble.

Restrictions:

You'll need to be fairly self sufficient, as there is no water. There is 120vac power at each site, but no 220vac power. Some sites have plugs but no power - bring a multi-meter and test before setting up camp.

$20 + tax for the RV site which you buy at the Gas Station. Appears to be open 24/7 - and no restrictions really that we came across for noise or anything else.

DM56-66 Line, DM56xo93

Latitude, Longitude
36.596403, -108.000100
Map Location Near city of Huerfano, San Juan County, NM, Altitude 6216
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2021-05-15
Comments by: John AA5PR

Valley of Fires, DM73aq94

Latitude, Longitude
33.684067, -105.922014
Map Location Near city of Carrizozo, Lincoln County, NM, Altitude 5200
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2021-04-06
Comments by: Gene KB7Q

Valley of Fires 1 Valley of Fires 2 Valley of Fires 3

Valley of Fires Recreation Area (link) is located adjacent to the Malpais Lava Flow. Approximately 5,000 years ago, Little Black Peak erupted and flowed 44 miles into the Tularosa Basin, filling the basin with molten rock. The resulting lava flow is four to six miles wide, 160 feet thick and covers 125 square miles. The lava flow is considered to be one of the youngest lava flows in the continental United States.

This is an interesting diversion on the long cross-state journey on US 54. From El Paso to Santa Rosa on I-40 is 270 miles on a route which passes much barren scenery of grassy prairie, stark mountains and sandy desert.

Amenities range from tent camping to RV hookups at good prices. You can get mains power and water at half price, $9 a night, with a Senior pass.

Restrictions: First-come first-served campsites.

Little Pilot Peak, DM18cm28

Latitude, Longitude
38.535904, -117.813401
Map Location Near city of Gabbs, Nye County, NV, Altitude 7600
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2021-02-23
Comments by: Barry K7BWH

Exploration needed. Satellite view suggests possible access to the ridge line.

Maybe this Nevada wildfire webcam from across the valley current conditions.

Cibola NWR, DM23qh09

Latitude, Longitude
33.329540, -114.659940
Map Location Near city of Cibola, La Paz County, AZ, Altitude 270
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2021-02-12
Comments by: Curt K7ZOO

Cibola NWR 1

Curt writes: In DM23, I like to operate on BLM land just east of Cibola National Wildlife Refuge, . Easy access for any vehicle, flat and clear view of the horizon. I think it's about a half mile from the two-lane highway, not much traffic at all, so the acoustic noise was hardly noticeable. You can driver further east on the dirt road (it was in good shape) and find slightly higher spots, too.

I used to enjoy activating DM23 out of Kofa NWR, especially the cabin on the NE corner. But the Refuge management changed recently, and last year they denied an SUP application for any radio antennas. It seemed like a very narrow interpretation of their mission and policies, but so be it.

Curt / K7ZOO

Driving directions: Cibola National Wildlife Refuge

Ella Mtn, DM27sl30

Latitude, Longitude
37.459549, -114.467014
Map Location Near city of Las Vegas, Lincoln County, NV, Altitude 7400
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2021-07-04
Comments by: Petr AG6EE

Ella Mtn 1

There are only three lookouts standing in Nevada, and Ella Mountain is the most active. One of a handful of lookouts in the U.S. that are operated by the BLM. It lies in the Clover Mountains south of Caliente, NV 80 miles north of Las Vegas near the Utah border. It was constructed in 1962.

West Mtn Peak, DM37bd37

Latitude, Longitude
37.155062, -113.883546
Map Location Near city of St George, Washington County, UT, Altitude 7400
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2021-07-03
Comments by: Barry K7BWH

Chuckwalla, DM23il68

Latitude, Longitude
33.495660, -115.275347
Map Location Near city of Blythe, Riverside County, CA, Altitude 2700
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2021-02-16
Comments by: John NA6L

Chuckwalla 1 Chuckwalla 2 Chuckwalla 3 Chuckwalla 4

Don't go here, it's gated off.

This is an ideal example of a long slow drive to a perfect-looking-from-a-distance site. It's an activation location with buzz-kill gates. We only mention it to save you a trip. There is not much worse than having to turn around a 19.5’ vehicle on a 12’ wide road. The Chuckwalla Mountains Wilderness Area might have a good hilltop but this isn't it.

John NA6L

Apache Creek, DM53rs51

Latitude, Longitude
33.755280, -108.536110
Map Location Near city of Apache Creek, Catron County, NM, Altitude 7800
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2021-02-09
Comments by: John NA6L

Apache Creek 1 Apache Creek 2 Apache Creek 3 Apache Creek 4 Apache Creek 5 Apache Creek 6 Apache Creek 7 Apache Creek 8 Apache Creek 9

John writes: This spot is along Five Springs Canyon, a reasonable camping area but without great elevation.

This was the first day of deer hunting season. After spending an entire day following many leads (some from nice locals) while looking for a "great" location we settled on a "suitable" spot to transmit. It was a long day and we were tired.

Five Springs Canyon has a reasonably clear horizon in most directions, is fairly easy to reach on dirt roads and we could camp there for the night. Not hearing too many gunshots was a definite plus. Being able to camp on site and prepare almost everything the night prior was very helpful for a predawn 6m MSK144 effort.

I put together an 8 element cellphone Yagi attached to an industrial sized cell booster system that we use in the boonies – but this location really does not have any service, at least on AT&T.

73 John NA6L and Denise KJ6JAL

Note this might seem to be a good waypoint on a possible route to Eagle Peak Lookout, DM53rq02sk (33.676778, -108.576931), but that road is gated off. Eagle Peak is not recommended.

Summit Mtn, DM35wd31

Latitude, Longitude
35.131376, -112.135299
Map Location Near city of Williams, Coconino County, AZ, Altitude 7777
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2021-02-09
Comments by: John NA6L

Summit Mtn 1 Summit Mtn 2 Summit Mtn 3 Summit Mtn 4 Summit Mtn 5 Summit Mtn 6 Summit Mtn 7

John writes: Summit Mountain offers great horizons in most directions. For you summertime activators this summit is attractively cool at 7,777 feet.

We had hoped to reach the top of Bill Williams Mountain but it was gated due to fire danger – plus the location may have precluded camping and even transmitting due to the huge commercial transmitter site. We kept looking for another activation site option and ended up navigating on a 4x4 trail (in our too tall, too long, too low, and too heavy camper van) to the top of Summit Mountain.

In the pine forest at the top we found a great site where we spent the night and were able to get an early predawn start on meteor scatter.

After the activation we drove directly to SoCal in temperatures as high as 119* -- we soon missed this cool mountain perch.

73 John NA6L

Driving directions: Almost like a labyrinth there are dirt roads everywhere, so plan your route carefully in advance.

Wahweap Overlook, DM46gx02

Latitude, Longitude
36.969013, -111.499111
Map Location Near city of Page, Coconino County, AZ, Altitude 4210
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2021-02-09
Comments by: John NA6L

Wahweap Overlook 1 Wahweap Overlook 2 Wahweap Overlook 3 Wahweap Overlook 4 Wahweap Overlook 5 Wahweap Overlook 6

The Wahweap Overlook is a rest area above Lake Powell, AZ, an extremely easy place to reach with an open horizon.

This is a wonderful activation location that checks all boxes. It has a clear horizon and great drop-offs in almost all directions. It’s a very short drive from the highway to the mesa above the marina with a wonderful view of Lake Powell – even a passenger car will have no problem getting there.

Although it would be a bit hot and toasty in June, this spot would be great for Es season.

We operated using 400w to 700w for about 4 hours (good sun for the solar panels) with a steady flow of callers.

73 John NA6L and Denise KJ6JAL

Restrictions: There is no camping on-site and the access gate may be closed from dusk to dawn (it was open early on the day we went).

La Veta Pass, DM77jo52

Latitude, Longitude
37.593540, -105.203890
Map Location Near city of Walsenburg, Huerfano County, CO, Altitude 9400
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2021-02-09
Comments by: John NA6L

La Veta Pass 1 La Veta Pass 2 La Veta Pass 3 La Veta Pass 4 La Veta Pass 5 La Veta Pass 6

La Veta Pass, CO, is the home of an old ghost town appropriately-named "Uptop".

What this site lacks as a great activation location (has good east and west) for 6m it makes up as a fun and historic destination to explore.

Cool images and history from Bing: La Veta Pass, "Uptop"

There are some better locations for radios nearby but we were happy to setup and transmit in the mornings right where we camped. Because this was our first activation using our new van we needed an easy-to-get-to, easy-to-find and easy-to-setup location for starting a shake-down cruise. Even with the limitations of being nestled in a mountainb pass, we worked a great deal of stations.

We were able to spend the two nights on-site and even met the current owner's family (the town was for sale at the time) who were visiting the town for the weekend.

73 John NA6L and Denise KJ6JAL

DM85-86 Line, DM86ra10

Latitude, Longitude
36.000063, -102.567233
Map Location Near city of Dalhart, Hartley County, TX, Altitude 3984
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2021-02-08
Comments by: John NA6L

DM85-86 Line 1 DM85-86 Line 2 DM85-86 Line 3 DM85-86 Line 4 DM85-86 Line 5 DM85-86 Line 6

John writes: The DM85-86 grid line includes a broad farmland area in the Rita Blanca National Grasslands around the local airport in Dalhart, TX.

We parked by this pasture/agricultural field, flat for many miles around, offering the delicious prospect of activating two grids at once.

It was so oppressively hot and humid that we rented a giant air conditioner for the night (it came with a free hotel room), allowing us to pre-assemble our antenna and get the other gear ready. The day before our activation, we scouted potential grid-line sites until well after dark to allow a predawn activation.

The easy part is to find a road that runs roughly north south, and then drive it until the GPS shows you are on the center of the gridline, then find a suitable safe location to operate while still staying on the exact gridline.

The difficult part is finding a great location on that exact grid line without nearby electric cattle fences, overhead power lines, huge diesel powered water pumps, active farming/ranching and fields that look like miles of mud but are actually something from the backside of a cow! A long stay at the quarter carwash was our friend.

Although this spot was on flat ground it was one of our most successful operations. There was nothing blocking our signal to the horizon in all directions. I would also guess that being on damp rich soil helps.

Regards, John NA6L

Cerro Gordo Peak, DM16cn31

Latitude, Longitude
36.549601, -117.802739
Map Location Near city of Lone Pine, Inyo County, CA, Altitude 9200
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2021-02-06
Comments by: Petr AG6EE

There are more places on the ridge above Saline Valley to operate from, but they require 4WD with low + differential lock, while these two spots in DM16cn and DM16bo are relatively accessible.

Salt Tram site is cool, but it's not for beginners. But if you try to get there from Swansea, it is insanity.

There is a house structure where you can get shelter in a pinch.

Salt Tram Summit, DM16bo75

Latitude, Longitude
36.607886, -117.853589
Map Location Near city of Lone Pine, Inyo County, CA, Altitude 8720
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2021-02-06
Comments by: Petr and John AG6EE and NA6L

Salt Tram Summit 1 Salt Tram Summit 2 Salt Tram Summit 3 Salt Tram Summit 4 Salt Tram Summit 5 Salt Tram Summit 6

The Salt Tram Summit Station is at the highest point of the old salt transportation tram running from Saline Valley to Swansea. The historical wooden structure still stands along with the historical Summit House structure.

This is a well-documented but difficult-to-reach destination; search for current information, such as here and blm.gov.

Driving directions:
From Lone Pine California take Highway 136 East Toward Keeler.
Turn Left onto Cerro Gordo Road. Note road is primitive and unmaintained.
The Salt Tram is approximately 14 miles ahead.

Restrictions: Portions of the road north of Swansea are subject to washouts and even when in good condition requires high clearance four-wheel-drive. The route is very remote and for experienced off-road drivers only. Inquire with the Forest Service and/or locally before attempting this climb. It may be better to approach from the Cerro Gordo Mine.

Dante's View, DM16pf22

Latitude, Longitude
36.220555, -116.726467
Map Location Near city of Death Valley Junction, Inyo County, CA, Altitude 5450
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2021-02-05
Comments by: John NA6L

Dante's View 1 Dante's View 2 Dante's View 3 Dante's View 4 Dante's View 5 Dante's View 6 Dante's View 7

John writes: Dantes View parking lot is an easy-to-reach overlook in Death Valley National Park in rare grid square DM16.

This site was as easy as DM15 was difficult. We "boondock" camped down the road From Dantes Vew overlook and headed up the mountain well before sunrise. When we arrived for setup there were very few cars in the parking lot so we staged the van right in the SE corner of the lot as close as possible to a very good drop off, a truly wonderful VHF location.

We were operating before the sun came up and had steady Meteor Scatter activity. As the parking lot filled we had more and more curious spectators. When I went out to rotate the antenna I usually fielded several interested parties questions --- a quick "we are bouncing radio signals off of meteor tails" would quickly get me back in the van and operating again.

There is zero electrical noise at the site and luckily we had no wind at all. Several rangers drove by and did not say a thing – we are self-contained using 360 amp-hour AGM batteries to feed the inverter, and the mast and antenna mount on the van.

We activated using 6m FT8/MSK144 as a rare grid for FFMA chasers with great results.

The location is great for a bored family/spouse in central Death Valley with fantastic views and plenty of hiking, etc. A public bathroom is a quarte-mile down the road.

73 John NA6L

Driving directions: Nice paved road all the way up from Death Valley Junction.

Borax Bill Park, DM15be91

Latitude, Longitude
35.171068, -117.837698
Map Location Near city of California City, Kern County, CA, Altitude 2640
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2022-11-16
Comments by: Barry K7BWH

Borax Bill Park 1 Borax Bill Park 2 Borax Bill Park 3 Borax Bill Park 4

Borax Bill Park is a large OHV (off-highway vehicle) recreation area. In fact, it's so large that California City is the third-largest (by land area) in the state. The large flat valley with distant hills offers a fairly low horizon to VHF operation.

Borax Bill has free dry camping on a first-come, first-served basis. Power and water hook-up campsites are also available for $25/day.

See the California City website for maps, designated camping areas, fees and more.

Driving directions: 16363 20 Mule Team Pkwy, California City, CA 93504, visitor info 760-373-7297

Owl Hole, DM15nr30

Latitude, Longitude
35.710243, -116.889236
Map Location Near city of Baker, San Bernardino County, CA, Altitude 4000
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2021-02-05
Comments by: John NA6L

Owl Hole 1 Owl Hole 2 Owl Hole 3 Owl Hole 4 Owl Hole 5

John writes: We always wanted to go to this mountain top in Death Valley National Park, but 90 miles (round-trip pavement to pavement) of rough dirt roads discouraged us until we saw that plenty of operators needed DM15 for FFMA.

This site is a truly excellent VHF location but it is remote, very remote.

The mountain location was flattened to install a huge microwave relay station (now appears to be abandoned) and this gives a nearly 360* horizon which is especially good toward most of the nation with great drops offs in all directions. More like cliffs on all sides, actually.

The hiking in the area is great and you could even hike down into Wingate Wash, the site of an old monorail used for mining operations.

We camped overnight on top of the mountain and during the night the wind came up rocking the van. In the morning we reduced the Yagi to just 3 elements and shortened the mast by 5’ plus added guys. The site is so good that even a dipole would have worked.

73 John NA6L

Driving directions: Search "Owl Hole Spring road" for directions, advice and conditions. The dangerous roads website mentions frequent flooding, unexploded ordinance and military bases.

Restrictions: First nine miles a high-clearance vehicle is required, then becomes 4WD. A 4x4 is required for at least the last mile to the top but the views and operating location are worth it. Some of the road borders the Fort Irwin bombing/testing range and that makes for some very interesting observations.

Palo Verde, DM23pl08

Latitude, Longitude
33.492037, -114.746830
Map Location Near city of Blythe, Riverside County, CA, Altitude 350
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2021-02-04
Comments by: John NA6L

Palo Verde 1 Palo Verde 2 Palo Verde 3 Palo Verde 4 Palo Verde 5 Palo Verde 6 Palo Verde 7

DM23pl is much easier to get to than the deep-wilderness spot at DM23mj.

We camped on site and setup the station on the night prior to the activation. We were located on a small hill giving us a nice horizon from North to South looking East. The site is about 150’ above agricultural fields giving a nice drop-off.

If you are activating grids on vacation, as we did, you should continue west on the Bradshaw trail to our deep-wilderness spot at DM23mj and the Hauser Geode beds. Note the Bradshaw Trail borders a US Navy bombing area.

73 John NA6L

Driving directions: This spot is located very near the town of Palo Verde CA at the beginning of the Historic Bradshaw Trail.

Restrictions: 4x4 vehicle is suggested.

Bradshaw Trail, DM23mj66

Latitude, Longitude
33.403299, -114.944431
Map Location Near city of Palo Verde, Imperial County, CA, Altitude 800
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2021-01-04
Comments by: John NA6L

Bradshaw Trail 1 Bradshaw Trail 2 Bradshaw Trail 3 Bradshaw Trail 4 Bradshaw Trail 5 Bradshaw Trail 6

This is a semi-wilderness spot in rare grid square DM23 located alongside the Historic Bradshaw Trail.

I would not suggest this remote location for a quick contest rover site but it is a good vacation/explorer/activator/meteor-shower-viewing location. There is great sightseeing and even geode hunting in the area, a "desert rat heaven".

This area is BLM land, you can camp almost anywhere and the Wiley’s Well campground is not far away from our activation site (South of Hwy 10). See Wiley's Well Campground | Bureau of Land Management (blm.gov) .

We setup on a small hill giving us a nice horizon in many directions.

73, John NA6L

Restrictions: A 4x4 vehicle is recommended.

Black Mtn, DM23nb95

Latitude, Longitude
33.063863, -114.835347
Map Location Near city of Glamis, Imperial County, CA, Altitude 2000
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2020-12-22
Comments by: Petr AG6EE

Black Mountain Road, off Ogilby Road, runs along a high ridge about 130 miles east of San Diego. It's an unpaved road in very poor condition that runs to the KECY-TV tower.

Wupatki, DM45gm77

Latitude, Longitude
35.531250, -111.436905
Map Location Near city of Flagstaff, Coconino County, AZ, Altitude 5600
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2020-12-07
Comments by: John NA6L

Wupatki 1 Wupatki 2 Wupatki 3 Wupatki 4

DM45gm is north of Flagstaff, close to or in the Wupatki National Monument, provides several good spots for VHF, camping, and sightseeing. This location has a good North, East and South but the South West has some distant mountains that could affect very low level takeoff angles. This location is near the Wupakti Visitor Center which is well worth a visit. Note that this area is on National Forest land and not in the park so you can setup and camp.

Driving directions: From Hwy 89 take the North entrance to Sunset Crater-Wapatki Loop road and head South West on FS150 until you find a nice flat spot to activate and if interested maybe camp (there may be some better spots for radio with elevation in the nearby hills a little further on).

DM07-08-17-18, DM18aa00

Latitude, Longitude
38.000000, -118.000000
Map Location Near city of Coaldale, Esmeralda County, NV, Altitude 4550
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2020-10-06
Comments by: Barry K7BWH

DM07-08-17-18 1 DM07-08-17-18 2 DM07-08-17-18 3 DM07-08-17-18 4 DM07-08-17-18 5 DM07-08-17-18 6 DM07-08-17-18 7 DM07-08-17-18 8

DM07/08/17/18 is a rare good spot to activate four grids at once.

This location gets a B grade for horizon, flat and open in most directions but hey, you don't have any other options to activate this four-fer-one. Of the 4 grids DM07 is the most needed but it's fun to activate all four at once from the same location (FFMA rule).

We camped at a nearby hot spring and broke camp at 5am to get here. The biggest challenge was finding the little trail in the dark that leaves Hwy 773. We drove up and down the deserted road about 5 times while shining our giant flashlights off to the east.

Driving directions: The grid intersection is just east of Hwy 773 and south of Hwy 60 in Nevada.
A good way way to get there is to turn off of the HWY at the white marker about 200' south of the latitude of the corner.
There is a nice almost level drain diversion to follow to the corner that is also fairly firm sand and you don't have to go over the bladed berm to get off the roadside.

Restrictions: Note that you must be at the the exact intersection of the 4 grids for a legal FFMA "4 grids at once" activation; this cannot be done from the road. You will need 4x4 and will need to use the little soft sand "trail" that is just south (100 yards?) of the activation location. Although there's a bladed berm directly between the Hwy and the activation location, it's too large to easily cross with a normal SUV or our 4X4 camper van.

Smokey Mtn Overlook, DM47ge55

Latitude, Longitude
37.189236, -111.452431
Map Location Near city of Lake Powell, Kane County, AZ, Altitude 5600
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2020-11-02
Comments by: John NA6L

Smokey Mtn Overlook 1 Smokey Mtn Overlook 2 Smokey Mtn Overlook 3 Smokey Mtn Overlook 4

Smokey Mtn Overlook, also known as Kelly Grade, is fantastic for sightseeing and exploring. This may well be the best radio location in DM47 and camping is just above the official Kelly Grade Overlook.

This is very close to the amazing "Coal Seam Fires" which is worth a trip on its own to the "Burning Hills Wilderness Area". The route to the Coal Seam Fires is just slightly north then head east and follow the best (most used road) to the active vents and/or to where a huge effort was made many years ago to extinguish the subterranean coal fires.

Driving directions:

To start at Big Water, find the Visitor Info Center (a great place) and ask questions (like how deep is the river crossing) and get another map if needed. From the Visitor Center Cross Hwy 89 onto NP230 and on to "Smokey Mountain Rd" (remember the Coal Seam Fires?)

There are lots of other roads in the area so surf around on Google Earth to examine Smokey Mountain Rd.

Kris Eggle Campground, DM31ow39

Latitude, Longitude
31.957639, -112.807639
Map Location Near city of Gila Bend, Pima County, AZ, Altitude 1700
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2020-11-01
Comments by: John NA6L

Kris Eggle Campground 1 Kris Eggle Campground 2 Kris Eggle Campground 3 Kris Eggle Campground 4

John NA6L activated DM31 for 4 days and 3 nights in early November 2020. Two of the mornings we operated from the SE end of the Organ Pipe Campground and the last morning we operated from the Tillotson Trailhead rest area 2.5 miles north of the CG entrance. We tried to activate from the rest area on the first morning but the wind was too strong.

We used only the RV's batteries from the campground (we have no generator) and usually ran between 400w and 700w for around 3 hours. The rangers had no issues with us while quietly operating from the mostly empty CG.

Because we were there for several days we got to really consider the advantages of both common locations (Campground vs Rest Area). IMHO, if you can run on batteries (or on generator during allowed hours) the Campground is the better site - especially in the SE corner. The CG has a better horizon in more directions and there are are some saddles in the hills to the NW to make contacts possible with the PNW.

The Rest Area is nearly surrounded by nearby hills with just a little opening to the NW and South. I'd give the campground's SE corner a 66% score and the Rest Area a 33% score (but you could run a generator at dawn at the rest area).

Burr Trail, DM47ku91

Latitude, Longitude
37.839915, -111.088471
Map Location Near city of Torrey, Garfield County, UT, Altitude 6800
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2020-10-27
Comments by: John NA6L

Burr Trail 1

Burr Trail, and the Burr Trail Switchbacks, are a famous one of the few passages across the Grand Staircase, a long and deep canyon which was a great problem for early stagecoach travelers crossing the plains. As a VHF rover in a modern and comfortable horseless carriage, you will enjoy the scenic Burr Trail Road along the western rim.

There are likely many good spots to stop and set up a station; here's one such place that appears to have a little more altitude and might possibly have rugged off-road trails up onto Wagon Box Mesa. Have fun exploring!

Driving directions: Burr Trail Switchbacks are pretty wild if you don't like cliff edges.

Picacho Peak, DM23nb95

Latitude, Longitude
33.063298, -114.834992
Map Location Near city of Imperial Gables, Imperial County, CA, Altitude 1700
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2020-01-19
Comments by: Petr AG6EE

This is a large turnout and great place to park along Black Mountain Road high on the ridge.

Don't try to drive up to the very top - it has no additional benefit. This parking area is just a little bit lower and far from all the radio transmitter, and you have nice two row of hooks to secure antennas (there used to be something) and a portable toilet close by.

This is all BLM land, so no problem, the main mountain take only a small portion of clear visibility to SSE, but you can drive over the hill and setup on the other side should this be critical to your needs. This place turned to be noise free, with only some noise coming from El Centro and Desert Cities (Palm Springs etc.), but this is not a big deal, any station from these locations will be pretty close because then there is a water.

You will not feel completely alone there, there are always some technicians coming up the hill. The place would be hell hot in summer, that's for sure, but driving RV there could turn to be a very risky business.

Driving directions:

Approach from CA 78 and Black Mountain road you would notice place from far because there are countless number of radio towers - surely not the best place to operate from in DM23.

The road has two parts, the first unpaved which takes you through flats to wash, easily drive-able even in sport car, and the second half, paved road, with potholes 2 feet deep, which require 4WD and high clearance, it is total 5 mph hell.

Restrictions:

Setup on top of the mountain is impractical - tons of radio equipment, high voltage lines etc., but before reaching the top, there is a small place to the left where used to be some equipment. You need a good tires and clearance to get there, but once there, you can find old attachment cables - park right in the middle and you have no issue to secure your antenna.

George Davis Park, DM83xo90

Latitude, Longitude
33.583507, -102.008333
Map Location Near city of Lubbock, Lubbock County, TX, Altitude 3310
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2020-01-10
Comments by: Gary KG5THG

Fort McKavett, DM90wt67

Latitude, Longitude
30.824826, -100.111111
Map Location Near city of Fort McKavett, Menard County, TX, Altitude 2140
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2020-01-10
Comments by: Gary KG5THG

Caudle Park, DM94bb86

Latitude, Longitude
34.069444, -101.842014
Map Location Near city of Hale Center, Hale County, TX, Altitude 3420
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2020-01-10
Comments by: Gary KG5THG

Tillotson Trailhead, DM31ox38

Latitude, Longitude
31.992890, -112.805990
Map Location Near city of Lukeville, Pima County, AZ, Altitude 1800
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2020-01-10
Comments by: Larry, Petr WO7R, AG6EE

Tillotson Trailhead 1 Tillotson Trailhead 2 Tillotson Trailhead 3 Tillotson Trailhead 4

This is the Tillotson Peak Wayside parking area along AZ state Hwy-85, N Ajo Sonoita Hwy, in the Organ Pipe Cactus Wilderness area. It's one-half mile south of the DM31-DM32 grid line.

Outside the park, don't go on tribal land without arranging permission in advance from Tohono O'odham tribes. They have a police force which has no obligation to be polite to outsiders.

Larry WO7R related his understanding of the Tillotson Trailhead spot: It's very easy to access, and as long as you operate with "wilderness rules" in mind, you should not expect trouble with the rangers.

  • The Tillotson site is 100 per cent paved roads, including the site itself.
  • You should go further into the park to pay fees at the Visitor Center.
  • Must use battery power, not generators. This is key.
  • The campground has some generators-allowed hours. Generators are not allowed anywhere else in the park (wilderness rules).
  • Must use sandbags or weights to anchor guy lines. Do not pound stakes.
  • The rangers do not want or allow us to park in places like the campground or the visitor center parking lot. The rule is, we can operate as long as we don't bother others. At those locations (visitor center, campground), they deem that we do.
  • The area is pretty quiet. We had a couple hikers come by and park. They left to go hiking. We bothered noone and noone bothered us.
  • A photo above is one I took as I left the park, so it shows the turnout/wayside from the northbound lane. One would normally approach from the southbound lane.
  • Personally, if I (Larry WO7R) returned with a friend who has the gear, this is the one and only place to try.

John NA6L and Petr AG6EE commented on this operating location:

  • The Tillotson Trailhead Lot was the only location we were sure would work because we've operated from there before.
  • It is easy to access and has a great horizon in most directions.
  • It is safe and secure being next to the main road.
  • Summer temperaturs can reach 120F.
  • In the summer they've seen people sitting under their RV awnings in the parking lot while their engine/generator was running.
  • There are so few people there in the warmer months that rangers might not even care about some running machinery for their "a/c".
  • Even if you just cooled your vehicle down and charged your batteries every hour for 20 minutes you might get away with it.

Restrictions:

Most of this broad area in DM31 is tribal land. This is their home and you are basically an invader. Always get advance permission from the Tohono O'odham tribal government before entering the reservation, even if "it's just a few minutes" or to pull off to the side of a tribal road somewhere.

Check for pandemic restrictions before travel. The tribal lands may be closed due to coronavirus.

Bluewater Lake, DM55xh16

Latitude, Longitude
35.319570, -108.068230
Map Location Near city of Prewitt, McKinley County, NM, Altitude 7570
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2008-12-01
Comments by: James Duffey KK6MC

KK6MC: This is a good site which is easily accessible from I-40 by car. There is a fair amount of traffic on 412 going to and from Bluewater, but you can get far enough off the highway so it is not a problem.

This has good sight lines from the Southeast around to the West and from the Northwest around to the East. There isn't much topography higher to the east or west on the ridge, so propagation in those directions should be OK too. It is easy to work into Albuquerque and Los Alamos from here on all bands to at least 1296.

I have not operated from here when there was a lot of activity, but Stan, W5ZF has worked a lot of 6M sporadic-E from here to all over. There is not much VHF/UHF activity in DM55, so you will be in demand. I have operated twice from this site.

Source: New Mexico VHF Society, www.nmvhf.org/DM55xh.pdf with more rover locations in NM at www.nmvhf.org/reference.html

Driving directions: From I-40 take the Prewitt exit 63, Highway 412.
Take 412 south towards Bluewater State Park.
You will steadily climb until you reach the top of the ridge, about 3 to 4 miles.
At the top of the ridge on the west side of the road is a cell tower.
Across the highway to the east is a long wide pullout area which is fairly level but a few feet lower than the road surface. Operate from there.

Delta Desert, DM58xs87

Latitude, Longitude
38.781778, -108.013561
Map Location Near city of Delta, Delta County, CO, Altitude 5120
Map See Google, Bing, OpenStreetMap, Beam heading

Last update: 2021-02-17
Comments by: James Duffey KK6MC

Jay W9RM: One of the better sites for microwave work up to the Grand Mesa grid corner (DM58/59/68/69). This is a proven microwave site through 24 GHz to the top of the Mesa. It's also relatively high above average terrain and, better yet, almost deserted. Bring hydration of you're planning on staying here long in the summer.

This site is proven to produce microwave QSO's with the other three grids in this corner. This site has been used by rovers such as N0IO ( through 24 GHz), W7QQ and W0VOA. There is only one well set up VHF/UHF station in DM58 and that station (W9RM) is reachable on all bands from this location. There are NO other microwave stations in range, so bring a rover buddy or three.

This location is only minutes away from a excellent and accessible all-around location situated DIRECTLY on the DM58/DM68 grid line. This site is located about 2 miles east at the following coordinates: 38°46'30.1"N 107°59'59.9"W (38.775032, -107.999983). This location is accessed by turning right off CO highway 65 on to IRIS ROAD immediately after crossing the Gunnison River while heading north. Climb the hill and pull off at the 'U' bend. Use your GPS to access DM58 or DM68. DM58 requires you to pull over very close to the drop on the west – be careful ! This site still gives good sight lines to Grand Mesa and improves your horizon to the south.

Source: New Mexico VHF Society, www.nmvhf.org/DM58xs.pdf with more rover locations in NM at www.nmvhf.org/reference.html

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