Best Tent Camping near Hanover, NM
Hanover, New Mexico offers several tent campgrounds set within the scenic landscapes of the Gila National Forest region. Railroad Canyon Campground features a small creekside tent camping area with just four sites, providing a more secluded experience than nearby alternatives. Rocky Canyon Campground offers primitive tent sites accessible via Forest Road 150, though high-clearance vehicles are recommended due to rough road conditions. The Kingston Campground provides additional tent camping options with sites positioned along a seasonal creek.
Most tent sites in the Hanover area feature basic amenities including vault toilets, picnic tables, and established fire rings, though amenities vary by location. Many campgrounds operate seasonally, typically from April through November, with some areas closed during winter months. One camper reported, "Only 4 sites available with some privacy from the road, which was better than other campgrounds nearby." Campers should verify current status before arrival, as seasonal closures and controlled burns occasionally affect accessibility. Drinking water is generally unavailable at primitive sites, requiring tent campers to bring adequate supplies.
The tent camping experience near Hanover provides good access to hiking trails, including sections of the Continental Divide Trail. Tent sites at Railroad Canyon Campground sit between the road and Iron Creek, offering the peaceful sound of running water. Based on reviews from The Dyrt, the campgrounds remain relatively quiet, with one visitor noting that "it's a solid little campground with few amenities but many trails to access the wilderness." Summer months can bring hot temperatures to lower elevation sites, while spring and fall offer more moderate conditions. Free camping is available at several locations including Rocky Canyon Campground, though Lake Roberts and Silver City KOA provide more amenities for tent campers willing to pay for additional services.
