Camping near Corona, New Mexico offers access to the Cibola National Forest at elevations around 8,000 feet. The area features ponderosa pine and juniper forests with hiking trails and wildlife viewing opportunities. Summer temperatures typically range 70-80°F during daytime and drop to 40-50°F at night, providing relief from desert heat.
What to do
Night sky viewing: Red Cloud Campground provides exceptional stargazing due to minimal light pollution. "After hours and hours of driving through flat desert 100 degree oil country we were so glad to find this place of refuge," notes one camper at Red Cloud Campground.
Wildlife observation: Early mornings and evenings offer opportunities to spot elk, deer, and other forest animals. "I observed elk crossing my campsite. A very nice place to camp in the summer to escape the heat," reports a camper about dispersed camping at Gallinas Site.
Off-road exploration: Forest roads beyond the main camping areas provide additional adventure opportunities. "If you are wanting more dispersed camping with better views, I recommend going past the site entirely and camping off the road somewhere. You should only go on the trail if you have 4x4 though," advises a Red Cloud visitor.
What campers like
Temperature relief: The higher elevation provides cooler conditions during hot summer months. "This campground is at approximately 8000 ft. A very nice place to camp in the summer to escape the heat," notes a visitor to the area.
Privacy and seclusion: Many sites offer separation from other campers. "Lots of dispersed camping along A027, with some being very private. The main site mentioned here also has bathroom facilities. It was a bit crowded, so I chose a private spot up the road with no issues," shares a visitor to Gallinas Site.
Natural setting: The forest environment creates a peaceful camping experience. "Small free campground, pit toilets, no water, grazing livestock," succinctly describes one visitor to Red Cloud, highlighting the rustic nature of the area.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads require careful driving, especially for larger vehicles. "Google Maps takes you to the right spot. It doesn't exist on Apple Maps and Dyrt has it marked wrong. There is no cell coverage but there are also plenty of signs. Roads were solid with some snow and my 2wd sedan got in/out easy. Would only need 4wd if it's muddy," explains a visitor to Red Cloud Campground.
Livestock presence: Free-range cattle frequently move through camping areas. "We did have a peculiar invasion from a cow family at 8pm. They just quietly walked on in our campsite and then quietly left once the dogs let them know they were not welcome," recounts a camper.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies throughout the Corona camping areas. "I had a couple of bars of service (Verizon) in the camping area," notes a visitor to Gallinas Site, offering useful information for those needing to stay connected.
Tips for camping with families
Bring entertainment: Limited amenities mean families should pack activities. "The site is secluded and remote set in a beautiful pine forest. Only 5 camp sites that are spread apart. The sites have a fire ring, grill, and picnic table," explains a visitor to Valley Of Fires Recreation Area.
Pack extra supplies: No drinking water is available at most forest sites. "No water except at camp host when you drive in - several miles before campground. Site was $7. Pay at self service kiosk," advises a camper at Aquirre Springs Campground.
Plan for temperature changes: Significant day-to-night temperature swings require appropriate clothing and bedding. "Chilly and rained hard at night while I was there. Great shelters and concrete pad at each site and fire ring," notes an Aquirre Springs visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many forest campsites require leveling equipment. "The sites slope front to back AND to the side. A recipe for a real leveling challenge. We walked around the campground and saw lots of very precariously propped-up rigs," warns a visitor to Manzano Mountains State Park Campground.
Length restrictions: Some forest roads have limitations for larger RVs. "Although it is remote and I have to travel down gravel roads, I easily got our RV to the camp grounds," shares a visitor about Red Cloud, indicating accessibility for moderate-sized vehicles.
Amenities vary by location: Check ahead for hookup availability. "They have redone the bathrooms and showers as of about 2023. They also have a very cool ADA compliant scenic trail into the lava flow field. They have electric and water hookups at this recreation area," notes a visitor to Valley of Fires Recreation Area.
