Railroad Canyon Campground offers tent and RV camping options in a small forest setting with only 4 sites available. The campground sits near a creek that flows behind each site and provides access to multiple trails leading into the Gila National Forest wilderness. Open from April to November, the sites include fire pits, picnic tables, vault toilets and trash service. "Of the handful of formal places to camp, this is very small but very nice. Trees, a decent hike on a maintained trail. Only a few spots to take but cute if you get one," notes one camper.
What to do
Hiking the Mogollon Mountains: Access numerous trails from Railroad Canyon Campground where hikers can connect with wilderness paths. "This campground has many trails to access the wilderness from, and a small creek running behind each of the three campsites," explains a visitor who appreciated the trail access.
Explore historic mining areas: The forest contains remnants of mining operations accessible from several campgrounds. A visitor to Silver City KOA noted, "It's a perfect base for exploring Gila Cliff Dwellings and downtown Silver City. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a peaceful, comfortable stay in southwest New Mexico!"
Creek exploration: Many campsites sit near water features, providing recreation opportunities. "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," reports a Railroad Canyon visitor about the adjacent Iron Creek.
What campers like
Privacy and quietude: Iron Creek Campground receives praise for its peaceful atmosphere. "Clean, quiet campground not far from Emory pass. Pit toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables. Only a handful of people there on Friday night," notes a camper who found solitude here.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain serviceable amenities despite their remote locations. At Pueblo Park, a visitor found "11 large private sites, 2 single unisex vault toilets" though noted that during their 4-day stay "the toilets were not cleaned and no paper."
Strategic locations: Campsites serve as practical baselines for regional exploration. Regarding Cottonwood Campground, a camper stated, "Nothing special but a fine place to stay the night," acknowledging that while basic, it provides "clean pit toilet, fire rings and picnic tables, no fee."
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Many campgrounds in the Gila National Forest operate seasonally. One visitor to Railroad Canyon discovered, "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."
Limited connectivity: Cell service is virtually nonexistent throughout the region. A Bighorn Campground visitor noted it offers "dry camping only meaning no water and pit toilet. There are 12 sites with tables, fire pit, and barbecue reasonably level."
Road conditions: Many campgrounds require travel on unpaved roads. At Pueblo Park, a visitor reported, "6 mile dirt road that was in good condition passable with a car and trailer," indicating accessibility even without specialized vehicles.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with amenities: When traveling with children, facilities matter. Visitors to Continental Divide Park appreciate that it's "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 yurt camping options: Behr Art B&B offers yurt camping near Gila National Forest with additional comforts. A visitor described it as "A wonderland of flowering gardens, art, and stunning mountain views!" noting you can "Enjoy a soak in the hot tub, gaze at the starry night sky, and listen to the silence."
Plan for varied weather: Mountain elevations can create significant temperature fluctuations. At Cottonwood, campers appreciate that "Under tree canopy... solar looks to be pretty good in most sites," providing both shade and warmth options.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most forest campgrounds accommodate smaller rigs only. At Cottonwood, a visitor found it "good for all except the bigger rigs. Shaded, near road but little traffic."
Limited hookups: When seeking full-service camping, select private campgrounds. At Silver City KOA, an RVer previously wary of KOAs discovered, "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."
Consider cabin alternatives: For those wanting a yurt camping Gila National Forest experience without an actual RV, options exist. At Silver City KOA, a visitor found "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."
