Gila National Forest Road 861 Dispersed, near Silver City, New Mexico, is a rugged spot for those who appreciate the beauty of nature without the frills of a developed campground. This area offers a chance to escape the hustle and bustle, with flat, cleared sites that are perfect for setting up camp and soaking in the stunning views.

Visitors have noted the peacefulness of the location, which is far enough from the highway to keep the noise at bay. It’s a great place for boondocking, with ample space for RVs and tents alike. One camper shared, “We cleaned up the beer cans, bottles, and trash left from others before us,” highlighting the community spirit among those who care for the land.

While there are no amenities like drinking water or toilets, the freedom to have campfires and the ability to bring your pets make it a favorite for many. Just be prepared to pack out what you pack in, as there are no trash services available. As one reviewer put it, “Will burn the wood and haul the rest off,” emphasizing the importance of leaving no trace.

For those looking to explore, the surrounding Gila National Forest offers numerous trails and roads leading into the wilderness. Just keep an eye out for wildlife, as one camper mentioned a bear sighting nearby. If you’re ready for a back-to-basics camping experience, Gila National Forest Road 861 Dispersed is waiting for you.

The majority of campgrounds on the Gila National Forest are primitive and offer dispersed camping. You may camp outside of developed campgrounds anywhere on the Forest at no charge. The Gila National Forest implemented Travel Management and we recommend you stop in to one of our six ranger stations and pick up travel management maps so that you are aware where vehicles are and are not permitted. Potable water, toilets, and other amenities are not generally available. If you choose to camp outside developed areas, be sure to bring adequate water or be prepared to purify any water source before drinking. No permits are required to camp in wilderness areas. The Gila National Forest has a 14-day stay limit, in any 30 day period, on all camping. Areas designated as “Day Use Only” are limited to posted hours, no overnight use.

Gila National Forest Road 861 Dispersed

Searching for the best camping near Silver City, NM? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Silver City camping trip.

Silver City

The Best Camping Near Silver City, New Mexico

This is a Gila National Forest Access Road just west of the Continental Divide on highway 90.  It has multiple fairly level and easily accessible boondocking sites. It's far enough from the highway to be quiet. The only real drawback is the Cattle droppings here and there. We spent the night, so can't comment on other activities in the area, but there are roads and trails leading out of the location and into the Forest.

Nice Overnight Boondocking location

Closed

 Off Chisholm trail , previous coordinates are for CDT NO VEHICLE TRAFFIC.  Great sites, I think I had the best one. First on right just before Cattlemans road. Met Pat she has the grazing rights here. She was very apologetic about the trash the last campers left. I just said well some are scum and showed her the two trash bags full and the 4x6 platform I cut up  so it's manageable. Will burn the wood and haul the rest off. Only saw her cattle one afternoon. I'm a country boy so seeing cow poop is not a big deal. She said a bear was just shot yesterday a few miles north of here. Be vigilant. #leavenotrace

Awesome boondocking 

A number of flat cleared areas not far off of hwy90.  We cleaned up the beer cans, bottles, and trash left from other before us.  We plan on being here for several more days.  30ft class A with toad.

Photos of Gila National Forest Road 861 Dispersed

Real photos from real campers