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Established Camping

Cosmic Campground - Dark Sky Sanctuary

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Cosmic Campground - Dark Sky Sanctuary is located near the Gila National Forest in New Mexico. The terrain consists of open spaces with sparse vegetation, providing clear views of the night sky. Temperatures can range from 30°F in winter to 90°F in summer, and nearby attractions include the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument and the Catwalk Recreation Area.

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Location

Cosmic Campground - Dark Sky Sanctuary is located in New Mexico

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

33.47918258 N
108.9219554 W

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Connectivity

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    T-Mobile5G
    Good Coverage
    Verified by 5 users
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

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Drive Time

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Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Good Coverage
    Verified by 5 users
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Dispersed

Features

For Campers

  • Picnic Table
  • Phone Service
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Big Rig Friendly


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Reviews

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4.0

out of 5

3 Reviews

Reviewed Apr. 18, 2025

Good location open view of sky

Only about 7 small trailer sites, 2 tent sites,pit toilet, no trash. Dispersed sites around campground. Dark sky. 5g cell. We camped dispersed one night.

Sitedispersed
Month of VisitApril
  • Review photo of Cosmic Campground - Dark Sky Sanctuary by Renee T., April 18, 2025
  • Review photo of Cosmic Campground - Dark Sky Sanctuary by Renee T., April 18, 2025
  • Review photo of Cosmic Campground - Dark Sky Sanctuary by Renee T., April 18, 2025
  • (7) View All
Reviewed Nov. 27, 2024

Loved it. Easy to get to.

Arrived just after dark.  Kept my headlights off as I drove in as I didn't want to disturb others.  I saw a small pull off for a spot, and I took it.  In the morning, I discovered I hadn't gone all the way to the actual campground.  Lots of places for people and almost no one here on a lovely Friday evening in November.  Easy access for my 25' RV.  Highly recommend.  We were able to see the milky way (faint), satellites, and 3 shooting stars, all in about an hour.

Reviewed May. 2, 2024

Dark Skys, Telescope Pads, and Scenery

International cosmic campground: Beautiful scenery. Beautiful views. No water availability. Concrete pads for telescopes. (Scale 1- bad, 5-Very good

(71 yr olds in 17’ trailer.)

Overall Rating: 3 for camp site layout 5 for dispersed sites Security: No Usage during visit: very full during weekday Site Privacy: No Site Spacing: close Pad surface: Gravel Outside Road Noise: far from highway , no highway noise problem Through Traffic in campground: No Electric Hookup: No Sewer Hookup: No Dump Station: no Potable Water Available: i did not see available water. Generators: yes Bathroom: Pit toilet Showers: no Pull Throughs: All are back in.
Solar: Good in sites Insects: not an issue during our Spril visit Sites: sites in the campground are tight. Some dispersed camping nearby looks pretty nice. Some are close enough to use the bathroom.

SiteDrive Through
Month of VisitApril
  • Review photo of Cosmic Campground - Dark Sky Sanctuary by Roger W., May 2, 2024
  • Review photo of Cosmic Campground - Dark Sky Sanctuary by Roger W., May 2, 2024
  • Review photo of Cosmic Campground - Dark Sky Sanctuary by Roger W., May 2, 2024
  • (7) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Cosmic Campground located in New Mexico?

Cosmic Campground is situated in a remote area of western New Mexico. The campground is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery with stunning views of the landscape. Its isolated location contributes to its value as a dark sky sanctuary, as it's positioned far from urban light pollution sources. The area features dispersed camping opportunities beyond the main campground area.

What amenities and facilities are available at Cosmic Campground?

Cosmic Campground offers basic facilities with a focus on astronomy rather than comfort. The site includes approximately 7 small trailer sites, 2 dedicated tent sites, and concrete pads specifically designed for telescopes. A pit toilet is available, but there is no trash service or water supply. The campground has 5G cell coverage. Additional dispersed camping opportunities exist around the main campground area. Visitors should come prepared with all necessary supplies, especially water, as none is available on-site.

What makes Cosmic Campground an International Dark Sky Sanctuary?

Cosmic Campground earned its designation as an International Dark Sky Sanctuary due to its exceptional stargazing conditions and minimal light pollution. The campground features specially designed concrete telescope pads to facilitate serious astronomy. Its remote location and protected status create ideal conditions for night sky observation, making it a premier destination for astronomers and stargazers. The sanctuary designation helps preserve the natural darkness of this special area for scientific, educational, and recreational purposes.

What do visitor reviews say about Cosmic Campground?

Visitors highlight Cosmic Campground's beautiful scenery and exceptional views. Many appreciate the excellent stargazing opportunities with minimal light interference. The campground can get very busy during peak viewing times, though some weekdays see lower usage. Campers note the peace and serenity of the location, particularly enjoying morning views after nighttime arrivals. Overall, the camping experience earns high marks for its unique dark sky features and natural setting, despite limited amenities.