Best Dispersed Camping near Cliff, NM
Dispersed camping opportunities abound near Cliff, New Mexico, with several free primitive sites available in the surrounding Gila National Forest and BLM lands. Bear Mountain offers 4-5 dispersed sites along Forest Road 4242d at approximately 7,500 feet elevation, providing cooler temperatures during summer months. Meadow Creek Road features about a dozen well-spaced sites marked by fire rings within the first quarter mile, with additional sites along two main spurs before the road becomes too rough for standard vehicles. Pine Flats Campground provides shaded sites beneath tall ponderosa pines, while Cattlemen Trail offers multiple accessible sites with established clearings.
These dispersed camping areas require self-sufficiency as no amenities are provided. No drinking water, toilets, or trash disposal facilities exist at any of these locations. According to reviews, "The Gila is exceptionally remote and all trash is difficult to remove," making it essential to pack out everything you bring in. Fire rings are present at many sites, but campers must check current fire restrictions before burning. Cell service varies significantly by location and carrier; T-Mobile users report spotty reception at Meadow Creek with service available only in clearings and higher areas.
Road conditions vary considerably between sites. Bear Mountain access involves "a narrow, rocky road with some low-hanging trees" that may challenge larger vehicles. Gold Gulch Road provides easier access with well-maintained dirt roads suitable for most vehicles. Meadow Creek Dispersed Camping requires 4WD and high clearance for the "bumpy road for all 3+ miles into the mountainside." Wildlife and livestock are common throughout the area; cattle grazing occurs near many sites, and bears have been reported in the region. The standard 14-day stay limit applies to all dispersed camping in national forest lands.