The Cliff, New Mexico area sits at an elevation of about 4,600 feet in the foothills of the Mogollon Mountains, creating a transition zone between desert and forest ecosystems. Summer temperatures typically reach the high 90s while winter nights can drop below freezing, with most precipitation falling during the July-September monsoon season. Many campsites near Cliff provide access to multiple hiking trails and historic sites within a 30-minute drive radius.
What to do
Hiking the Catwalk Trail: Located near Glenwood, this national recreation trail offers a 1.1-mile metal walkway built along the walls of Whitewater Canyon. "Nice place, close to town which is small also. Near Catwalk hike area in NM," notes a visitor to Bighorn Campground.
Explore ghost towns: The area contains several abandoned mining settlements from the late 1800s. "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," explains a camper at Bighorn Campground.
Soak in hot springs: Natural thermal springs are scattered throughout the region, with some requiring moderate hiking to reach. A camper at Continental Divide Park & Camp shared, "Nice Park just outside/south of the Gila National forest. Perfect spot if one wants to park and then drive into the Kila forest or cliff dwellings."
What campers like
Privacy and quiet settings: Many campgrounds offer secluded sites away from crowds. At Railroad Canyon Campground, a camper noted, "We enjoyed how small this campsite is and we were the only people there during our visit. It has large trees and flat camping spots."
Year-round accessibility: The region's varied elevation allows for camping in different seasons. "Clean, quiet campground not far from Emory pass. Pit toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables. Only a handful of people there on Friday night," reports a visitor to Iron Creek Campground.
Stargazing opportunities: Limited light pollution creates exceptional night sky viewing. A reviewer at Continental Divide Park & Camp mentioned, "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."
What you should know
Limited services: Most dispersed camping areas lack water or electric hookups. At Pueblo Park, a camper reported, "6 mile dirt road that was in good condition passable with a car and trailer. 11 large private sites, 2 single unisex vault toilets... No water available."
Seasonal closures: Several campgrounds operate seasonally. "The four campgrounds in this area (Iron Creek, Railroad Canyon, Upper and Lower Gallinas) are all closed in December 2021. Perhaps just for the season. Contact NFS for status," warns a visitor to Railroad Canyon Campground.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity is sporadic throughout the region. A reviewer at Iron Creek Campground stated, "About 10 sites, most of them shaded with picnic tables and fire rings. Has garbage collection, and a vault toilet. Usually peaceful and quiet. Nice hiking trails throughout. No cell signal."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with amenities: For glamping close to Cliff, New Mexico with children, campgrounds with basic facilities offer more comfort. "Only 4 sites available. Some privacy from the road, which was better than the other campgrounds near by. By a creek, which is nice. Vault toilet," notes a visitor to Railroad Canyon Campground.
Bring sufficient water: Many sites lack potable water sources. At Cottonwood Campground, a camper mentioned, "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."
Plan for weather changes: The area can experience sudden temperature shifts and summer monsoons. "Only three spaces, 1 up front closer to Hwy 180, 2 in the back. Clean pit toilet, fire rings and picnic tables, no fee. Dry wash along side that looks to carry water sometimes," observed a visitor to Cottonwood.
Tips from RVers
Check road conditions: Some access roads can be challenging for larger rigs. At Iron Creek Campground, a reviewer noted, "Most spots are fairly flat with slight adjustment."
Consider site spacing: Some campgrounds offer more room than others. A visitor to Silver City KOA shared, "I've been hitting KOAs across the SW and this is maybe the nicest one I've stayed at so far. Excellent customer service, clean sites, bathrooms and a nice area."
Reserve during peak seasons: The limited number of developed sites with RV access can fill quickly. "We came in after dark, but the roads were clear and it was easy to set up. Quiet," commented a camper at Gold Gulch Road about their luxury glamping near Cliff, New Mexico experience.
