Camping spots near Gamerco, New Mexico range in elevation from 6,500 to 8,000 feet, creating significant temperature variations between seasons and day-night cycles. The region sits within the Colorado Plateau, characterized by ponderosa pine forests at higher elevations and pinyon-juniper woodlands in lower areas. Winter closures affect several forest roads from December through March, with freezing temperatures possible even in late spring.
What to do
Hiking at El Morro: Explore the 2-mile loop trail around Inscription Rock at El Morro National Monument where ancient petroglyphs and historic inscriptions are visible. "The 200 ft stair climb wasn't bad at all and the views and trail up top were incredible. I would recommend going up this way and down the switchbacks instead of the reverse," reports Hayley K.
Mountain biking: Ride the network of trails near the Zuni Mountains starting from Quaking Aspen Campground. "We love this area. Amazing hiking and mtb'ing trails. And, a nice lake," notes Tommy B. The terrain offers both technical challenges and scenic routes through pine forests.
Wildlife viewing: Look for wild horses at Bluewater Lake State Park during early morning or evening hours. "Wild horses roaming around the lake were also pretty cool," writes Austin C. The park also supports populations of elk and mule deer, especially during sunrise and sunset.
What campers like
Secluded forest settings: Campers appreciate the quiet, wooded environments found at dispersed camping areas. "Six Mile canyon road off I40 is a bit rough in places... Beautiful spot once you find a place though," reports Haley S. about Six Mile Canyon Road Dispersed Site.
Affordable camping options: Many camping areas offer low-cost or free sites. "Great state run campground with options from primitive to full hook ups at great prices. The primitive camping is all along the lake so you can park and walk right in with your canoe or SUP," says Sara S. about Bluewater Lake State Park Campground.
Stargazing opportunities: The relative isolation from major cities creates excellent night sky viewing. "Quiet? Absolutely. Stars? All over the place. When summer heat was beginning to knock everywhere else in late May, it was serious blanket weather up here," writes Chip about Quaking Aspen Campground.
What you should know
Road conditions matter: Many forest roads become impassable when wet. "I drove my Prius in during the summer and it was fine. Granted, I could see how this would be hazardous if the ground was soft and muddy," notes Gordy Y. about Turkey Springs.
Seasonal closures: Several dispersed camping areas close during winter months. "The gate at the end of the road is closed Dec. 15 to March 31. Parked outside the gate for the night. Looks like a nice area if I could get there," reports Dan J. about Six Mile Canyon.
Limited facilities: Most dispersed sites lack amenities. "The sites are VERY close together and many of the picnic tables seem to need new boards for seats," writes Susan R. Pack extra supplies for primitive camping locations, especially water.
Weather extremes: Temperature swings of 30-40 degrees between day and night are common at higher elevations. "It was also extremely cold in February, like my water bottle froze overnight," warns Mara F. Bring appropriate gear for unexpected weather changes year-round.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: For families with children, select campgrounds with play areas. "Playground for the kiddos, lots of areas to explore with the puppers, and plenty of bathrooms and Ramadas available for day use," recommends Sara S. about Bluewater Lake State Park Campground.
Food delivery options: Some campgrounds near Gallup allow food delivery. "We were able to get pizza delivered to our RV site which was a big hit with the kids," shares Nicole B., making meal planning easier for families with young children.
Beware of desert hazards: Watch for natural obstacles when camping with small children. "Careful of the grass if you have small children. When the prickly pear cactus die and rot away their little hairy spines remain. My toddler fell in a patch of invisible spines and it was a challenge to remove them by lantern light," warns Court M.
Cultural education opportunities: Incorporate learning into camping trips. "El Morro has nine campsites, all of which are free and first come first serve," notes Ashe L. The nearby monument offers ranger programs during summer weekends.
Tips from RVers
Level site availability: Many campgrounds offer relatively level parking. "Our site was mostly level so we used our small curved levelers on one side," shares Susan R. about USA RV Park.
Dump station access: Plan where to empty tanks. "The RV dump was near our site with water to flush the system and top off water before the next adventure," notes John M. about Red Rock Park & Campground.
Size limitations vary: Check campground specifications before arriving with larger rigs. "The forest service website says 22' max trailer but that's not what we found! I'm in a 38' motor home and there were NO tight spots at all! Site 10 is back in but we had 30' to spare," reports Robert G., contradicting official size limits.
Utility reliability: Power connections work well at established campgrounds. "Water and electricity on our spot was fine, and only had to level 1 side," confirms Edie & Roy T. about Red Rock Park & Campground, though they note facilities are "outdated, not well kept."
