Tent camping opportunities near Deming, New Mexico extend beyond the city limits into the surrounding Chihuahuan Desert and mountain terrain. Located at around 4,300 feet elevation, the area experiences dramatic temperature shifts between seasons, with summer highs regularly exceeding 95°F and winter nights dropping below freezing. Campers should prepare for arid conditions with limited natural water sources across most sites.
What to do
Wilderness hiking access: At Railroad Canyon Campground, multiple trailheads provide direct wilderness access, making it a practical base for day hikes. "This is a solid little campground with few amenities. Railroad Canyon Campground has many trails to access the wilderness from," notes camper Mark O.
Mountain exploration: The Gila National Forest offers numerous hiking opportunities within a 90-minute drive from Deming. A visitor at Railroad Canyon mentioned, "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. There was a trail along the creek that eventually crossed it."
Wildlife observation: Early mornings and evenings are prime times for desert wildlife viewing near camp. "No javelinas this time, just a jackrabbit. Gap Tank was dry but nearby Mesquite Tank had water and even a little ice on the edges," reports one camper who visited the area in winter.
What campers like
Dark sky viewing: The minimal light pollution creates exceptional stargazing conditions throughout the region. At Gap Tank dispersed camping, a camper noted, "The sky was dark at night and we couldn't see any electric lights. Kind of cool so close yet so far from El Paso."
Small, uncrowded sites: The limited number of established campsites provides quieter camping experiences. According to a camper at Kingston Campground, "The campground is really just a couple of spots with a picnic table and not a destination but worthy of stopping if the mountains are cold."
Creek access: Several campgrounds feature seasonal water access. A Railroad Canyon visitor shared, "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. It even has a vault toilet."
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Many campgrounds in the higher elevations close during winter months. "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," advises one camper.
Limited amenities: Tent camping near Deming requires self-sufficiency. At Gap Tank, "Very primitive. No campground. Little to no shade. Close to Mexican border but I didn't have any problems. Probably not conducive to RVs because difficult to pull off county road."
Temperature variations: The area experiences significant seasonal and day/night temperature differences. "Too hot in the summer. Gets cold in the winter, but it is a nice place when the weather is too cold to go further up the mountains to other campgrounds in the Gila," notes a Kingston Campground visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife education opportunities: The desert environment provides natural learning experiences. At Silver City KOA, located about an hour from Deming, one visitor mentioned, "Clean sites, bathrooms and a nice area. Just not liking the noisy geese at a pond nearby."
Consider cabin options: For families new to tent camping near Deming, cabins provide a transitional experience. "KOA Kabin was better than I expected. Wi-Fi password available. TV in cabin, heated, toilet and shower. Great place to stay whether just passing through, or staying awhile," reports an Eric G.
Plan around water access: Most sites have limited or no water sources, requiring careful planning. A camper at Railroad Canyon noted, "The small creek bed has nice water depending on the time of year," highlighting the seasonal nature of water availability.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most dispersed camping areas near Deming have challenging access for larger rigs. Regarding Kingston Campground, one visitor shared, "We tent camp, but I think you'd be able to park a small camper or trailer."
Consider established campgrounds: For RVers seeking more amenities, established sites offer better facilities. "Very friendly staff and owner. I've steered clear of KOA before but will check them out after this visit. Very quiet stay and spots were very nice," notes a visitor to Silver City KOA.
