Tent campsites near Glenwood, New Mexico sit at elevations between 5,000-7,000 feet in the Gila National Forest, creating significant temperature swings of 30-40 degrees between day and night. The area receives approximately 15 inches of annual rainfall, with July and August bringing monsoon storms that can cause flash flooding in canyons and creek beds. Camping options range from primitive sites with no facilities to basic established campgrounds with minimal amenities.
What to do
Hot springs exploration: Visit the hot springs near Lower Scorpion Campground. As one camper reports, "Just a short hike from the visitor's center are a series of hot springs. The first spring is really just a trickle and can only be found by touch moving through the stream." The thermal waters provide a unique opportunity for natural therapy, especially during cooler months.
Creek wading: Spend time at Blue Crossing Campground where seasonal water provides cooling relief. A visitor noted, "Was there in March when snow melt was just starting along with heavy rains so river was running good. Went back in April and water was still running across road." Water levels vary significantly by season, with spring offering the most reliable flow.
Wildlife observation: Watch for local fauna throughout the camping areas. At Owl Creek Campground, campers report, "We saw some coatimundi and lots of evidence of other wildlife!" Early morning and dusk provide optimal viewing times, with higher elevations offering chances to spot elk and deer.
What campers like
Isolation and quiet: Tent camping areas around Glenwood offer genuine solitude. A camper at Upper Blue Campground shared, "I camped here on the 4th of July. Although I planned to go somewhere higher, I couldn't pass on this site when I saw it." Most sites receive minimal visitors even during holiday weekends.
Streamside locations: Many campers appreciate sites positioned near water sources. At Upper Blue Campground, visitors note the "Small and spread out, only 3 sites. Minute walk to blue river. Lots of fun to play and climb/hike." Water access becomes particularly valuable during hot summer afternoons when temperatures can exceed 90°F.
Small campground size: The limited number of campsites enhances the wilderness experience. Blue Crossing Campground offers "Only 3 sites, two with lean to's," according to reviews. This small footprint means campers rarely contend with noisy neighbors or overcrowding, even during peak season from May through September.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to many camping areas requires high-clearance vehicles. One camper at Willow Creek Campground warns, "Road up is very sketchy! Single lane on a cliff, glad we didn't pass a car on the way up or back down." Forest roads often deteriorate after rainfall, with washouts common during summer monsoon season.
Facility limitations: Most camping sites provide only basic amenities. At Lower Scorpion Campground, a visitor noted, "Quiet, free, small campground. No individual marked sites. Paved parking lot with wooded area. Water is available and clean pit toilet." Campers should bring all necessary supplies as the nearest stores are 30+ miles away in Silver City.
Seasonal considerations: Water availability changes dramatically throughout the year. Many streams run high during spring but dry completely by early summer. Fire restrictions typically begin in May and can last through October, limiting cooking options during peak camping season.
Tips for camping with families
Campsite selection: Choose established campgrounds with basic facilities for family comfort. A camper at Lower Scorpion Campground advised, "A mix of flat spots (slightly too close to the toilets) or tilted spots, further away/up the hill. Pit toilet is available. Picnic tables and fire pits available." Sites with level ground provide easier tent setup for families with young children.
Activity planning: Incorporate short hikes appropriate for children. Blue Crossing offers "Hiking trails and petroglyphs" according to visitors. Most trail systems lack signage, so carry detailed maps for day hikes.
Weather preparation: Pack for extreme temperature variations. Daytime temperatures often reach 85-95°F in summer while dropping to 40-50°F overnight. Layered clothing and extra blankets remain essential even during summer camping trips with children.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most forest camping areas cannot accommodate large RVs. At Lower Scorpion Campground, a visitor explains why: "The campground is a small parking lot surrounded by walk-in campsites. If you are tenting it, a beautiful place!" RVs longer than 25 feet will find few suitable options in the immediate Glenwood area.
Alternative parking: Consider camping at Willow Creek with smaller conversion vans. One visitor shared their experience: "We stayed here in our Sprinter van. Not safe for large RVs or trailers. Beautiful views and a cool windmill on a dry creek bed." Sites lack hookups but provide natural surroundings for self-contained campers.
Generator etiquette: Be mindful of noise in quiet camping areas. At Owl Creek, a camper complained about disruptions: "A resident construction camper is occupying one of three sites and he ran his super loud generator nonstop from 5pm onward." Forest Service rules generally restrict generator operation to daytime hours only.
