Juniper Campground (Quemado Lake) — Gila National Forest

Within Apache National Forest, Juniper Campground sits along Quemado Lake with electric and water hookups for RVs alongside tent sites. The US Forest Service manages this $15-25 per night facility, which provides toilets, picnic tables, and trash service in a forested setting with ample shade.

Site layout presents challenges, with reviewers noting cramped spacing where three RVs occupy areas designed for two. Middle sites lack lake views, and campers must walk through neighboring picnic areas to reach their own tables. End sites offer better space and positioning. The campground fills quickly during hunting season, and cell service remains limited, preventing online fishing license purchases for those planning to fish the lake. For broader options in the region, consider campgrounds near Apache National Forest.

Fee Info

Payments made for first come, first served sites must be made using cash or check. Exact change is required. There is a self-pay fee station at the entrance of the campground.

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Warning 2 Alerts are In Effect

There are 2 alerts for this campground. Camp safely!

IMPORTANT : Until further notice please be prepared to bring your own water due to well maintenance and state water testing being done. Sorry for the inconvenience. Thank you, Quemado Ranger District

The Gila National Forest is currently in STAGE 1 FIRE RESTRICTIONS. Forest Service Stage 1 Restrictions essentially restrict campfires and cooking or "stove" wood/ briquet fires to designated developed recreation sites and within provided fire rings and grills.

RV Road Trip Guides

Location

Public Campground

Juniper Campground (Quemado Lake) — Gila National Forest is located in New Mexico

Detail location of campground

Directions

The campground is located 14.2 miles south of Quemado. Take NM 32 south to Quemado Lake/NM 103 sign. Turn left onto NM 103 and drive 4 miles to Quemado Lake/Forest Road 13. NM103 ends when the paved road turns to gravel. The gravel road is an indication that you are now driving on Forest Road 13. Continue driving on Forest Road 13 for 1 mile to reach the Juniper Campground. Turn right into the campground. \_\_Latitude : 34.137543 Longitude : -108.48919 Elevation : 7,712 Feet

Coordinates

34.137543 N
108.48919 W

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Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 5 users
    Last on 4/15/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

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Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 5 users
    Last on 4/15/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Boat-In
    Sites accessible by watercraft.

Site Types

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

Features

For Campers

  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Reservable
  • Electric Hookups
  • Toilets
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Water Hookups

Contact

Reservations

Drive Time


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Reviews

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3 Reviews

Guests frequently mentioned the beautiful lakeside location and clean facilities, but several reviews cited serious overcrowding issues with poorly designed site layouts. The campground fills rapidly during hunting season, and connectivity for services like fishing licenses can be problematic.

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Juniper Campground on Quemado Lake?

Juniper Campground offers clean toilet facilities (though it's advisable to bring your own toilet paper as supplies may run low), picnic areas, and plenty of shade from juniper trees. The campground accommodates both tents and RVs with full hookup options available. The layout is somewhat compact with sites positioned close together. Each camping area includes a picnic spot, though the proximity of sites means these areas are not particularly private.

How do I make reservations for Juniper Campground at Quemado Lake?

Juniper Campground at Quemado Lake offers both drive-up spots for tents and full RV hookups on a first-come, first-served basis. No advance reservations are available for this Gila National Forest campground. During hunting season, the campground fills up quickly, so arriving early is recommended to secure a spot. For the most current reservation information, contact the Gila National Forest office or check the USFS website before your trip.

What fishing opportunities are available at Quemado Lake near Juniper Campground?

Quemado Lake offers beautiful fishing opportunities right next to Juniper Campground. The lake is scenic and accessible from the campground. While specific fish species aren't detailed, the lake is maintained as a recreational fishing destination in the Gila National Forest. Day use of the lake is permitted, though non-campers are discouraged from using the campground facilities. Be sure to have a valid New Mexico fishing license before casting your line.

Are there cabin accommodations available at Quemado Lake?

There are no cabin accommodations available at Juniper Campground on Quemado Lake. The campground only offers tent camping and RV sites with hookups. For those seeking more substantial shelter in the area, you may need to look into lodging options in nearby communities such as Quemado or other sections of the Gila National Forest. The campground itself is strictly for traditional camping in tents or recreational vehicles.