National Forest dispersed camping at Bear Mountain provides access to high elevation areas around 7,500 feet near Cliff, New Mexico. The area contains several pet-friendly camping options within the Gila National Forest. Temperatures can vary significantly throughout the year, with summer highs typically in the 80s-90s°F and winter lows dropping below freezing, especially at higher elevations.
What to do
Hiking to Gila Cliff Dwellings: The campground area serves as a starting point to explore nearby archaeological sites. At Gila Hot Springs Campground, visitors can set up camp then head to the ancient cliff dwellings. "Great location for a must see visit to the Cave dwellings. Most camping in the valley is free but this is worth the fee for the hot springs and the owners, who are very welcoming," notes one camper.
Soaking in natural hot springs: Several natural thermal pools are available in the region. Gila Hot Springs Campground offers private access to three natural pools. As one visitor reports, "The three pools are cute, clean and have a natural look to them. Clothing optional after dark, so if you are there with a young family keep that in mind."
Stargazing after dark: The minimal light pollution creates exceptional night sky viewing. At Sapillo Dispersed Camping Area, campers can observe celestial objects rarely visible in urban areas. "It is worth staying just to see the beauty of the night sky!" remarks one reviewer.
What campers like
Natural seclusion: Camping spots around Cliff offer true wilderness experiences without the crowds. According to one Bear Mountain visitor, "The benefit is that you will not see hardly anyone else because of that lol. The other side of Pinos Altos is MUCH nicer roads, landscape and environment. Try Meadow Creek area."
Quieter alternatives to developed sites: While Bear Mountain offers primitive camping, other options exist for those seeking specific amenities. A guest at Cherry Creek Campground mentions, "Nice campground with about 10 sites. With concrete picnic tables, and a fire ring. Vault toilets, hiking trails, and with cell signal. No hookups."
Seasonal weather changes: The high elevation brings cooler temperatures during summer months. One Sapillo visitor notes, "It is cooler here so it was a nice respite from the heat of the desert. Trees provide shade no matter which spot you choose."
What you should know
Road access challenges: Many dispersed sites require navigating rough roads. A Bear Mountain camper warns, "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."
Limited facilities at primitive sites: Most dog-friendly campgrounds near Cliff lack developed amenities. One visitor to Continental Divide Park & Camp explains, "Nice Park just outside/south of the Gila National forest. Perfect spot if one wants to park and then drive into the Gila forest or cliff dwellings. Has clean showers and laundry, and a nice couple that runs the place."
Varying cell reception: Connectivity depends heavily on location and provider. A Bear Mountain camper notes, "Pretty stars, and 2 bars of service for Verizon." Meanwhile, Sapillo offers "zero cell signal with Verizon."
Tips for camping with families
Consider proximity to amenities: For families with children, established campgrounds offer more conveniences. Cherry Creek Campground provides basic facilities while maintaining a natural setting: "The bathroom was clean and trash cans were maintained. Beautiful drive."
Plan for temperature fluctuations: The elevation means nights can be cold even when days are warm. A Sapillo visitor advises, "Chilly nights and early mornings."
Explore multiple camping zones: Different areas offer varying experiences for families. As one Sapillo camper suggests, "What we especially enjoyed was being able to furrow way back in our 4x4 to a secluded spot. Halloween weekend and we could hear some revellers but enough distance made it a bit charming rather than annoying. So much open land for hiking and the CDT meanders through."
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: Larger vehicles face challenges at many sites near Cliff. A Rose Valley RV Ranch guest recommends, "We liked Rose Valley Ranch and would stay again. The sites are huge and feel very private, offering a little fenced in, personal yard at most sites."
Consider staying outside town for day trips: Some RVers prefer camping with hookups and making day trips to wilderness areas. A Continental Divide Park visitor noted, "Just a few miles north of silver city. Nice drive to get supplies in town."
Space between sites: For those with pets, space matters. A Rose Valley Ranch visitor mentions, "We liked Rose Valley Ranch and would stay again. The sites are huge and feel very private, offering a little fenced in, personal yard at most sites."
