Gila National Forest encompasses Cosmic Campground, a free dispersed camping area that serves as an International Dark Sky Sanctuary. Managed by the US Forest Service, this elevated site sits on a hilltop with minimal light pollution, drawing astronomers and stargazers from across the region.
The campground features about ten designated sites arranged around a loop, each with compacted gravel parking, picnic tables, and fire rings. AdventureMo notes that "all the sites were clean" during their visit. Four concrete telescope pads provide stable platforms for serious astronomy equipment. Sites offer little to no shade, making summer afternoons particularly challenging without portable shelter. Free-ranging cattle graze the area regularly, contributing to both the rural atmosphere and occasional overnight vocalizations.
Two vault toilets serve the campground, consistently described as well-maintained across reviews. No water is available on-site, requiring campers to pack in all supplies. Cell service proves surprisingly reliable, with multiple visitors reporting full Verizon coverage. The gravel access road can become difficult during wet conditions, though it accommodates RVs of various sizes under normal circumstances.
Fire restrictions vary seasonally, and campers should verify current burn ban status before arrival. The remote location means no trash collection, following pack-it-in, pack-it-out principles. Matthew emphasizes the site's unique character: "You'll never experience anything like it, seeing the stars like how they should be." Bear safety precautions are recommended, as the area supports active wildlife populations.
Dispersed sites beyond the main loop offer additional solitude for those preferring distance from the vault toilets and telescope pads. The campground serves as a base for exploring nearby hot springs, hiking trails, and abandoned mining areas throughout this section of the forest.
Description
Cosmic Campground is one of many sites on the Gila NF where night sky photography is at it's best. Late May - late October are the best times to see the Milky Way and get some premium photos.
Cosmic Campground International Dark Sky Sanctuary (CCIDSS) is the first International Dark Sky Sanctuary located on National Forest System lands and also in North America. It is also one of only 10 certified IDA Sanctuaries in the world. International Dark Sky Sanctuaries are lands possessing an exceptional or distinguished quality of starry nights. For more information on dark skies or the International Dark Sky Association -http://www.darksky.org/. The CCIDSS offers a 360-degree, unobstructed view of the night sky, and often hosts “star parties” in cooperation with the partner group “Friends of the Cosmic Campground.” This site is situated where there nearest significant source of artificial light is more than 40 miles away, and across the state line in Arizona. . Night vision is necessary to enjoy the night sky. If you look at white light from either your flashlight or your cell phone you will not be able to enjoy the wonders of the natural night sky for 20-30 minutes. In order to respect your fellow star gazers the Forest Service recommends: No parking on the observation/telescope pads No camp fires on observation pads Use a red filter over your flashlight lens Try to arrive before dark so that your headlights won’t distort your night vision Quiet times (no generator use) between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. CCIDSS is a primitive campground with minimal site amenities including an information kiosk, a pit toilet, and four concrete telescope/observation pads. Currently, there is very minimal shade available however, future planning developments intend to erect a shade pavilion as well as improve individual campsite amenities as funding comes available.
Reservation Info
No reservations are necessary. First come, first served. All Gila NF camping is subject to the 14-day stay limit.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsCosmic Campground is located in New Mexico near Glenwood
Directions
The campground is located 8 miles north of Alma, NM off US Highway 180. There is a brown Forest Service sign opposite the entrance; and there are two other signs along US Highway 180 indicated the campground is ahead. Turn, cross the cattle guard, and drive about 1.3 miles. Cosmic CG Locator Map Parking: Please do not park on the telescope pads.
Coordinates
33.47961562143566 N
108.92252171645414 W
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 4/30/26
- VerizonLTEGood CoverageVerified by 66 usersLast on 5/11/26
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 4/30/26
- VerizonLTEGood CoverageVerified by 66 usersLast on 5/11/26
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Picnic Table
- Phone Service
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Pull-Through Sites
- Big Rig Friendly
FREE established camping
Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Cosmic Campground needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 2 hrs 52 min from Las Cruces, NM
- 3 hrs 23 min from Sierra Vista, AZ
- 3 hrs 25 min from Tucson, AZ
- 3 hrs 31 min from Albuquerque, NM



















































