Camping in the Mogollon Mountains region near Buckhorn, New Mexico offers year-round opportunities at elevations ranging from 5,000 to 7,000 feet. The area experiences distinct seasons with summer temperatures typically reaching 85-95°F during day and cooling to 50-60°F at night. Winter camping requires preparation for occasional snow and freezing temperatures, particularly at higher elevations where conditions can change rapidly.
What to do
Catwalk hike access: Located near Bighorn Campground, this area provides easy access to the Catwalk National Recreation Trail. "It's dry camping only meeting no water and put toilet. There are 12 sites with tables, fire pit, and barbecue reasonably level. Why a good location, because it's between catwalk national recreational trail and the ghost town called Magpllon town," notes camper Brad H.
Hot springs exploration: Several natural hot springs are accessible within day-trip distance from Buckhorn area campgrounds. "Nearby attractions include the Gila National Forest, Cliff Dwellings, and hot springs for day trips," notes one camper staying at Continental Divide Park & Camp. The springs maintain consistent temperatures year-round, providing a welcome contrast during cooler months.
Mountain biking trails: The surrounding Gila National Forest offers numerous mountain biking opportunities. "There are biking trails, horse trails, hike trails, OHV trails all close," reports Shane W. about Riverview Campground. Most trails are accessible from April through November, with summer months requiring early morning rides to avoid afternoon heat.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campsites maintain well-kept amenities despite remote locations. "Very clean and quiet. Very friendly staff. Along the road, but it isn't that busy and not really a problem," writes Scott about Silver City KOA. Travelers consistently mention the cleanliness of restrooms and common areas.
Stargazing opportunities: The area's minimal light pollution creates excellent conditions for night sky viewing. "We came in after dark, but the roads were clear and it was easy to set up. Quiet," mentions Melissa S. about Gold Gulch Road. The higher elevation sites often provide the clearest views of stars and planets.
Wildlife viewing: The diverse ecosystem supports various wildlife species. "A place like from some safari movie, beautiful sunset, you can see a herd of cows. Plenty of room for everyone and an easy route," writes Dawid M. about Gold Gulch Road. Dawn and dusk offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities across all seasons.
What you should know
Water availability varies: Many sites have limited or no potable water. "6 mile dirt road that was in good condition passable with a car and trailer. 11 large private sites, 2 single unisex vault toilets, we stayed for 4 days and the toilets were not cleaned and no paper. No water available," reports Scott P. about Pueblo Park.
Road conditions: Access roads to some sites may challenge larger vehicles. "The road in turns to dirt for a brief minute, then back to paved. It winds and there are some tight turns. You turn off the pavement to dirt the last 1/4 mile. Wouldn't take anything over 35' 5th wheel," explains Shane W. about Riverview Campground.
Reservation requirements: Some sites require advance booking while others operate first-come, first-served. "We travel with our fifth wheel and a utility trailer aka triple tow. It's hard to find RV parks that can accommodate 60 plus feet rigs," notes Bill L. about Lordsburg KOA, highlighting the importance of checking ahead for larger setups.
Tips for camping with families
Budget-friendly options: Several campgrounds offer affordable rates with basic amenities. "Small campground not where dirt says, but it's marked with a sign and right along the road. Free, clean pit toilet, didn't see water, picnic tables, good for all except the bigger rigs. Shaded, near road but little traffic," shares Keith H. about Cottonwood Campground.
Activity centers: Some campgrounds provide dedicated spaces for group activities. "Very nice campground with full hookups and inexpensive prices. Quiet with many amenities like laundry and super nice room built to hang out with others," reports Mike M. about Continental Divide Park & Camp.
Swimming options: During warmer months, creek access points offer natural swimming holes. "Went and checked out campsite. Was certainly hot. Little bit of walk to river but not bad. Was post monsoon weather. River was flowing fast and looked like chocolate. A lot of side roads for 4x4, quads etc. The Bonita creek drive is gorgeous and provides creek water you can get in," explains Sara about Riverview Campground.
Tips from RVers
Hook-up availability: Electric and water connections vary significantly between campgrounds. "Nice place: water, sewer and electric. Picnic table at my site but not at others. No public washrooms or showers. Didn't see trash bins. Small place and close to town which is small also," reports Dallas W. about Bighorn Campground.
Site spacing: Some campgrounds offer more separation between sites than others. "Level gravel sites. FHU worked fine; appears to be maintained. Nice staff, well stocked store. Would stay here again," writes James P. about Lordsburg KOA.
Yurt camping options: For those seeking unique accommodations, yurt camping near Buckhorn, New Mexico provides an alternative to traditional tent or RV setups. Several properties offer yurt accommodations with varying levels of amenities, particularly suited for those wanting a glamping experience without sacrificing comfort during temperature extremes.
