Glamping sites near Glenwood, New Mexico sit at elevations around 5,000-9,000 feet in the Mogollon Mountain Range, offering respite from summer heat with temperatures typically 15-20 degrees cooler than surrounding lowlands. The region receives an average of 18 inches of precipitation annually, with summer monsoon season bringing afternoon thunderstorms that clear quickly. Campsites in this area provide access to diverse ecosystems ranging from desert scrub to alpine forests.
What to do
Hiking the Catwalk: Located near Bighorn Campground, this historic trail follows suspended walkways along canyon walls. "It's dry camping only meeting no water and put toilet. There are 12 sites with tables, fire pit, and barbecue reasonably level. Why a good location, because it's between catwalk national recreational trail and the ghost town called Magpllon town," notes Brad H.
Fishing at Big Lake: The Big Lake Campground area offers trout fishing with boat rentals available. "We rented a boat from the marina and spent about 3 hours fishing. Perfect weather. Wildlife: we saw blue jays, squirrels, chipmunks, as well as several elk who wandered through camp in the early evening," shares Mike C.
Ghost Town Exploration: Mogollon ghost town sits at 6,500 feet elevation and features preserved buildings from the 1890s mining era. "There are 12 sites with tables, fire pit, and barbecue reasonably level. Why a good location, because it's between catwalk national recreational trail and the ghost town called Magpllon town," mentions a Bighorn Campground reviewer.
What campers like
Natural Hot Springs: Several undeveloped hot springs dot the region within 30-45 minutes of glamping options in Glenwood, New Mexico. Temperatures range from 98-105°F depending on season and rainfall.
Wildlife Viewing: Rainbow Campground offers frequent wildlife sightings. "We enjoyed exploring the miles of scenic forest roads, and wildlife viewing. We saw 4 Mexican gray wolves which was very special," reports Rod D.
Stargazing Conditions: The minimal light pollution creates exceptional stargazing conditions with visibility of the Milky Way on clear nights. "Aspens, pines, and wildlife were all in abundance. Big Lake is a good fishing lake too," adds Rod D. from Rainbow Campground.
What you should know
Road Conditions: Access to some sites requires navigating unpaved roads that may become difficult after rain. "The road in turns to dirt for a brief minute, then back to paved. It winds and there are some tight turns. You turn off the pavement to dirt the last 1/4 mile. Wouldn't take anything over 35' 5th wheel," advises Shane W. about Riverview Campground.
Fire Restrictions: Seasonal fire restrictions frequently limit or prohibit open flames during dry periods. "Firewood and ice are available (stage 2 fire restrictions were in effect so no campfires), water was convenient as was gray water disposal," notes a Rainbow Campground visitor.
Cell Service: Most camping areas have limited or no cell service. "There is no cell service in this area," confirms Rod D. about the Rainbow Campground area, while Bighorn Campground reports similar connectivity limitations.
Tips for camping with families
Tent-Friendly Sites: Brook Char Campground offers dedicated tent camping areas close to water. "This tent walk in site has been our family favorite for decades. The sites have plenty of room for 2 tents. There is a clean bathroom in the campsite as well as water. This sites are across the small road from the lake," reports Candy P.
Wildlife Encounters: Prepare children for wildlife sightings with appropriate safety guidelines. "We even had visits from deer, a very bold skunk, chipmunks, squirrels, and blue jays," shares Renee H. about her stay at Rainbow Campground.
Water Activities: Big Lake offers family-friendly water recreation with rentals available. "It's only a 5-6 minute walk along the road to the general store and boat rental area, where there's also a fish cleaning station," explains a Brook Char Campground visitor.
Tips from RVers
Hookup Availability: Limited full-hookup sites exist near glamping accommodations in Glenwood, New Mexico. Continental Divide RV Park offers more amenities. "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," says Mike M.
Size Limitations: Many forest roads and campgrounds have tight turns unsuitable for larger rigs. "The road in turns to dirt for a brief minute, then back to paved. It winds and there are some tight turns. You turn off the pavement to dirt the last 1/4 mile. Wouldn't take anything over 35' 5th wheel," cautions Shane W. about Riverview Campground.
Weather Preparation: Elevation changes cause significant temperature fluctuations even in summer. "Over Memorial Day weekend, we saw highs close to 80 and lows in the high 30s/low 40s. Only sprinkled once!" reports a Brook Char visitor.
