The Gila National Forest offers numerous primitive camping options near Buckhorn, New Mexico at elevations ranging from 5,000 to 8,000 feet. These dispersed sites typically provide no facilities beyond established fire rings and require visitors to be self-sufficient. Roads in this remote region vary significantly in quality, with some requiring high-clearance 4x4 vehicles while others remain accessible to standard passenger vehicles.
What to do
Hiking Continental Divide Trail: Access segments of this iconic trail from Celebration Well Dispersed Camping, where campers can explore the surrounding mountains. "Close to great hiking around the CDT and fishing in Lake Roberts. Most of the sites sit on the shades of ponderosa and there's plenty of space for group camping," notes Jorge G.
Fishing for bass: Bill Evans Lake provides excellent fishing opportunities approximately 25 miles southwest of Buckhorn. "If you are a fish man it boast award winning bass here and has several spots where you can walk out on man-made fishing platforms to fish so you aren't on shore fishing," shares Alisa P.
Canyon exploration: The Mineral Creek Trail offers a 6-mile round-trip hike with multiple creek crossings to historic mining ruins. "The hike itself is amazing--about 3 miles one way through a beautiful canyon and 32 creek crossings (if I counted correctly!) to old mining ruins," reports Meghan B.
What campers like
Cooler temperatures: Free campsites at higher elevations provide relief from summer heat. At Bear Mountain, campers appreciate the climate benefits: "Stopped here to spend the night in July because it was cooler (~7500 ft elevation), free, quiet and beautiful. It's just a place to camp in the National Forest. No amenities," writes Darrin R.
Dark skies for stargazing: The remote location creates excellent night sky viewing conditions. One camper at Cattlemen Trail notes: "I'm getting 3 bars on AT&T which is pretty good I think. Streamed a movie last night with no issues," demonstrating how you can enjoy both connectivity and wilderness.
Privacy and isolation: Many sites offer significant separation from other campers. "Road is a little rough but well worth it. No one camped near us. Was able to let the dogs roam without fear. Lots of wood in the area," reports Todd S. about Meadow Creek.
What you should know
Road conditions vary dramatically: Some areas require significant vehicle capability. At Meadow Creek Dispersed Camping, "This trail requires 4x4 and high clearance. It is a bumpy road for all 3+ miles into the mountainside. But it is far worth the drive for the seclusion," cautions Sierra N.
Water access is limited: No potable water exists at these sites. Plan to carry all water needed for your stay. At Pine Flats Campground, a reviewer notes: "No facilities, but a beautiful spot. Lots of shade. Dirt road in decent shape."
Cell service is inconsistent: Coverage varies widely across the region. Jorge G. reports about Mineral Creek sites: "T-Mobile cell service was spotty, but somehow still available in some clearings and higher areas."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with natural features: Look for spots with streams or open areas for play. "A small creek along the road. Good hiking area. Will definitely go back," notes Todd S. about the family-friendly atmosphere at Meadow Creek.
Consider access road difficulty: Routes to some sites may be challenging with children. Kenny R. warns about Bear Mountain: "Not the prettiest area... and a pretty rough road. You won't need 4x4 or high clearance necessarily, but just not fun to drive on at all."
Pack trash bags: With no facilities, be prepared to pack out all waste. "This is as bare as it gets. No services, no cell signal, no trash disposal, not even a pit toilet," explains Jorge G. about Comfort Well Dispersed Camping.
Tips from RVers
Scout pullouts before committing: Many sites lack turnaround space for larger vehicles. "Pulled my 24 foot (tip to tip) travel trailer up the mountain. Curvy, narrow roads… just be careful and go slow," advises Kenny R. about Bear Canyon Road Camp.
Watch for entrance hazards: Cattle guards and sudden dips can damage RVs. About Celebration Well, Alisa P. warns: "The cattle guard at the beginning does have a pretty good bump on the right so be careful! But the rest of the road is fine."
Consider solar capabilities: With no hookups, alternative power is essential. "I chose the more overgrown one with big open sky for Starlink signal," shares Kenny R. about finding the right balance of shade and sun exposure for power needs.
