Equestrian camping opportunities near Gila National Forest extend across 3.3 million acres of wilderness at elevations ranging from 4,500 to 10,900 feet. The region experiences significant temperature variations with summer daytime highs reaching 90°F while winter brings snowfall and freezing temperatures to higher elevations. Numerous dispersed sites and established campgrounds accommodate horse trailers with varying degrees of accessibility depending on road conditions.
What to do
Fishing at Lake Roberts: The 72-acre lake provides excellent trout fishing opportunities with convenient amenities for anglers. "This lake is great for paddle boarding, relaxing and taking in the views," notes Eva G. about Lake Roberts. The area includes a dedicated fish cleaning station near the boat launch.
Night sky viewing: The remote location offers exceptional stargazing conditions with minimal light pollution. "The night sky is incredible and you can see the Milky Way," reports Alisa P. about her stay at Sapillo Campground. Many campers recommend bringing binoculars or telescopes to fully appreciate celestial viewing opportunities.
Wilderness hiking: Multiple trailheads provide access to backcountry routes. "There is a hiking trail head near the back of the campground," mentions Alisa P. regarding Sapillo Campground. The surrounding Gila Wilderness contains over 550 miles of trails ranging from easy day hikes to challenging multi-day treks.
What campers like
Natural hot springs: The therapeutic mineral waters provide relaxation after outdoor activities. "The natural hot springs down by the river which is really rustic and relaxing. Especially after climbing the steps to the cave/cliff dwellings," shares Eugenie B. about her stay at Gila Hot Springs Ranch.
Wildlife viewing: The diverse ecosystem supports numerous animal species visible from campsites. "At sunset we watched deer in the pasture grazing happily. Then watched them hop right over the fence one by one," reports Eugenie B. from Gila Hot Springs Ranch. Many campers report sightings of deer, birds, and occasionally larger mammals.
Solitude in dispersed areas: Free camping options provide privacy away from developed sites. "There are plenty of nice spots to camp along North Star Road, north of Mimbres, NM. You'll find dispersed campsites with fire-rings all along the edges of the road and on spur forest roads sprouting from it," explains Jorge G. about North Star Mesa Dispersed Camping.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Most camping areas have no cellular connectivity. "There is no cell service here," confirms Alisa P. about Sapillo Campground. Travelers should download offline maps and inform others of their itinerary before venturing into remote areas.
Road conditions: Access roads vary significantly in quality and navigability. "North Star Road is usually well maintained and most vehicles should make it to at least North Star Mesa," notes Jorge G. However, some campgrounds require high-clearance vehicles or 4WD, especially after rainfall.
Temperature variations: The high elevation creates significant daily temperature swings. "Mornings were in the 30's. It warms up quickly so layering worked for us," advises Eugenie B. Campers should pack for both cold nights and warm days, particularly in spring and fall seasons.
Water availability: Many sites lack potable water sources. "Nothing in terms of services and amenities, but nice hiking nearby," mentions Jorge G. about North Star Mesa Dispersed Camping. Visitors must bring adequate water supplies or purification systems for natural water sources.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly boating: Several lakes offer safe conditions for children learning water activities. "This was my first experience in a boat, and the lake was a perfect place to learn. Had such an amazing experience with my family," shares Irving C. about his visit to Lake Roberts.
Free firewood opportunities: Some campgrounds provide cut wood from forest maintenance. "When we were here there was some guys with DNR and they were cutting back all of the dead trees from a fire. The wood they cut was all around in stacks for campers to use while camping," notes Alisa P. about Sapillo Campground.
Educational wildlife experiences: Children can observe animals in their natural habitat. "While walking down to the natural hot springs we were delighted to see sheep who had given birth to a couple sets of black & white faced twins," reports Eugenie B. These encounters provide valuable learning opportunities about local ecosystems.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Large rigs face significant challenges on forest roads. "We pulled right into our campsite with hot and cold water at our site. I pull a 37ft gooseneck horse trailer that is now used for camping," explains Eugenie B. about Gila Hot Springs Ranch, one of the few areas able to accommodate larger trailers.
Maneuvering challenges: Narrow roads and tight turning radiuses require careful navigation. "Maneuvering our 24ft sprinter was doable on the property but larger vehicles not advised," cautions Linda C. about Gila Hot Springs Ranch. RVers should research campground specifications before attempting access.
High-clearance requirements: Some roads demand vehicles capable of navigating rough terrain. "Don't even think of bringing an RV of any size unless it's a cab-over that you don't mind scratching up," warns Dennis P. about Bear Trap Campground. Many dispersed camping areas are best suited for truck campers or smaller trailers.
