Fuel before turning off US 380
Roswell lies to the west and Tatum to the east. BLM names both for food and fuel. Its amenities section gives approximately 38 miles to Roswell and 35 to Tatum; its directions give 45 and 27. Until the endpoints are clarified, use those as broad planning context and route to the signed entrance, not as exact trip mileage.
Bring all drinking water. Buy enough food, drinks and snacks for the whole stay, with a return fuel reserve and the batteries or charging equipment the group needs. Cottonwood’s shelters and restroom are not a store or water refill station.
BLM services and direction descriptions · Checked September 10, 2026
Save regional emergency-care information
Emergency: call 911. Give the dispatcher your actual location and access road. Follow dispatch instructions about transport.
Eastern New Mexico Medical Center: 405 W. Country Club Road, Roswell, New Mexico. Hospital information: 575-622-8170.
This is a regional facility reference, not a claim of the shortest route from every campsite. Route distance and receiving facility depend on your exact location and road conditions.
Hospital emergency services · Checked September 10, 2026
Independent visitor guide. Published by MCKINNEY DIGITAL HOLDINGS LLC. Not affiliated with or endorsed by BLM Roswell.
Sources reviewed September 10, 2026. Current agency notices and on-site signs control.