Tent camping near Cliff, New Mexico offers access to diverse ecosystems within the Gila National Forest, where elevations range from 4,500 to 10,900 feet. The region's semi-arid climate creates stark temperature contrasts, with summer days reaching 90°F while nights can drop below 50°F even in July. Seasonal monsoons typically bring afternoon thunderstorms from July through September, creating flash flood risks in canyon areas.
What to do
Fishing at Lake Roberts: Cast for trout and catfish at this mountain lake where camping spots provide easy water access. "This lake is great for paddle boarding, relaxing and taking in the views," notes one visitor to Lake Roberts. The location also offers opportunities for beginners to learn boating skills, as another camper shares: "This was my first experience in a boat, and the lake was a perfect place to learn."
Hike to hot springs: Several natural hot springs can be found within hiking distance of campsites near the Gila Cliff Dwellings. One camper at Lower Scorpion Campground describes: "Just a short hike from the visitor's center are a series of hot springs... I was able to set up a tent on the creek and dig down in the sand to find the hot water."
Access the Continental Divide Trail: Multiple campgrounds serve as gateways to this iconic long-distance trail. "Right on the continental divide trail. Very quiet," reports a visitor to Rocky Canyon Campground, though they caution the access road "gets pretty rough" and recommend "4wheel drive, motorcycle or atv."
What campers like
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The riparian environments support diverse animal species not typically seen elsewhere in New Mexico. At Gila Lower Box Canyon, one camper explains you can "watch bands of coatimundis grazing through the bosque" but advises to "watch out for rattlesnakes and Gila monsters during the warmer months."
Stream-side camping: Many tent sites in the Cliff area feature the soothing sounds of flowing water. Railroad Canyon Campground offers "large trees and flat camping spots" with a reviewer noting it has "a small creek running behind each of the three campsites." Similarly, Rocky Canyon features "a nice little mountain stream running through it."
Trout fishing access: For anglers, certain campgrounds provide special access to native fish. Black Canyon Campground stands out as "the only place where you can camp next to a gila trout stream," according to one fisherman who simply states: "Great spot water is great."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many camping areas require navigating rough forest service roads. Willow Creek Campground offers "beautiful views and a cool windmill on a dry creek bed" but a camper warns the "road up is very sketchy! Single lane on a cliff, glad we didn't pass a car on the way up or back down."
Limited facilities: Most campgrounds provide only basic amenities. At Railroad Canyon Campground, a visitor notes: "The campground does have a toilet, fire pits, picnic tables, and trash service." Lower Scorpion offers similarly minimal facilities with "one bathroom that is handicap assessable" but "no water or electricity."
Seasonal closures: Several campgrounds operate on limited schedules. Railroad Canyon, Rocky Canyon, and other sites typically open "April to November," with one visitor reporting in December 2021 that "the four campgrounds in this area are all closed... Perhaps just for the season. Contact NFS for status."
Tips for camping with families
Choose Lake Roberts for first-time experiences: This accessible location works well for introducing children to camping and outdoor activities. One family shares: "Had such an amazing experience with my family" at Lake Roberts, particularly praising the lake as "a perfect place to learn" boating skills.
Watch for weather changes: Summer thunderstorms can arrive quickly in the Gila region. At Black Canyon Campground, a camper reports: "It even hailed on us hard one day" during an August visit, recommending families pack warm sleeping gear as "it is cool at night, even in August, due to the elevation."
Consider campgrounds with running water: When tent camping with children near Cliff, prioritize sites with reliable water sources. Black Canyon Campground - Lower receives praise from visitors noting that "camp hosts were absolutely wonderful" and "bathrooms were just pit toilets, but man... they were CLEAN!"
Tips from RVers
Size limitations affect campground selection: Many Gila National Forest campgrounds cannot accommodate larger vehicles. A visitor to Lower Scorpion Campground explains: "We didn't actually stay there but leaving this review to explain why RVs and camper vans are discouraged. The campground is a small parking lot surrounded by walk-in campsites."
KOA option for full hookups: For RVers seeking more amenities when camping near Cliff, the Silver City KOA provides full services within driving distance. A visitor notes it's "maybe the nicest one I've stayed at so far" with "excellent customer service, clean sites, bathrooms and a nice area."
Use caution on forest roads: High-clearance vehicles are essential for accessing many campgrounds. One Rocky Canyon visitor advises this area is "definitely tents only" and recommends "4wheel drive, motorcycle or atv" for safe access through the rough forest service roads.
