Glamping in Deming, New Mexico offers travelers a base camp at 4,335 feet elevation in the high desert region known for its moderate rainfall of around 10 inches annually. The area features notable temperature variations between day and night with summer highs averaging in the 90s and winter lows occasionally dipping below freezing. Located between the Chihuahuan Desert and the Gila National Forest, camping options range from established parks to dispersed sites on Bureau of Land Management land.
What to do
Hike the Gila wilderness trails: Railroad Canyon Campground provides access to multiple wilderness trails with varying difficulty levels. One camper noted, "Railroad Canyon Campground has many trails to access the wilderness from, and a small creek running behind each of the three campsites."
Explore historic mining sites: Within a short drive from Gold Gulch Road, visitors can discover remnants of the region's mining history. "A place like from some safari movie, beautiful sunset, you can see a herd of cows. Plenty of room for everyone and an easy route," reports one camper about the area.
Visit nearby natural hot springs: Several natural hot springs are accessible from Continental Divide Park & Camp. A recent visitor shared, "Perfect location to leave our trailer and go out exploring! Cliff Dwellings, hot springs, cat walk, farmers market, super cute old fashion bar and opera house Pinos Altos."
Stargazing opportunities: The minimal light pollution around Deming makes for exceptional night sky viewing. The clear desert air and elevation create ideal conditions for amateur astronomers to observe celestial objects not visible in more populated areas.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the cleanliness of facilities at Iron Creek Campground. "Clean, quiet campground not far from Emory pass. Pit toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables. Only a handful of people there on Friday night," one visitor reported.
Peaceful atmosphere: The relative seclusion of camping areas near Deming provides a quiet experience. A camper at Iron Creek noted, "Usually peaceful and quiet. Nice hiking trails throughout. No cell signal. Most spots are fairly flat with slight adjustment."
Proximity to attractions: Locations near Silver City offer convenient access to regional highlights. A visitor at Silver City KOA commented, "Great place to stay on the way out of town if on the way to get on CDR. Stayed in camping cabin. Can Uber to town if needed. Clean all heating worked."
Year-round accessibility: Many camping areas remain open throughout different seasons, though visitors should verify specific campground operating schedules. The climate allows for extended camping seasons compared to higher elevation locations in New Mexico.
What you should know
Limited amenities at dispersed sites: Most dispersed camping areas lack facilities. Railroad Canyon offers basic services: "The campground does have a toilet, fire rings, picnic tables, and trash service. Please clean up after yourself, and leave no trace."
Seasonal closures affect availability: Some forest service campgrounds close during winter months. One traveler noted, "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."
Water availability varies: Bring adequate water supplies, especially for dispersed camping. At established sites like Railroad Canyon Campground, water sources may be unreliable: "By a creek, which is nice. Vault toilet. There was a trail along the creek that eventually crossed it, but the water was too high to cross."
Cell coverage is spotty: Prepare for limited connectivity in wilderness areas. As one camper mentioned, "No cell signal" at Iron Creek Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Choose established campgrounds for convenience: Families often prefer sites with more amenities. Continental Divide Park & Camp offers family-friendly features: "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."
Consider noise factors: Some campgrounds are located near roadways. A visitor to Railroad Canyon observed, "I gave it 3 stars because it's right next to the road, but also next to the water. It has large trees and flat camping spots. It even has a vault toilet."
Look for shaded campsites: The desert sun can be intense, making shade valuable. One camper at Railroad Canyon mentioned, "We enjoyed how small this campsite is and we were the only people there during our visit."
Pack for temperature fluctuations: Desert areas experience significant temperature changes between day and night. Bring appropriate clothing layers and sleeping gear rated for potentially cold nights, even during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Scout access roads: Some forest roads can be challenging for larger rigs. A visitor to Gold Gulch Road shared, "We came in after dark, but the roads were clear and it was easy to set up. Quiet."
Use Silver City KOA as a base: This established campground offers amenities that make longer stays comfortable. "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," noted one RVer.
Reserve luxury glamping experiences: For those seeking upgraded comfort while glamping in New Mexico, several options exist. One visitor to Silver City KOA shared, "Friendly staff, great area. Campgrounds clean. KOA Kabin was better than I expected. Wi-Fi password available. TV in cabin, heated, toilet and shower."
Verify site sizes before arrival: Many smaller campgrounds have limited spaces for larger vehicles. At Railroad Canyon, a camper noted, "Only 4 sites available. Some privacy from the road, which was better than the other campgrounds near by."
