Railroad Canyon Campground provides a quiet camping experience in the Gila National Forest near Hillsboro, New Mexico. The elevation ranges between 7,000-9,000 feet, creating a cooler climate than surrounding desert areas. Sites sit adjacent to a small creek that flows depending on seasonal rainfall, with access to wilderness trails for hiking and exploration.
What to do
Trail hiking from camp: Access the wilderness directly from Railroad Canyon Campground where hiking paths follow creek routes. "Railroad Canyon Campground has many trails to access the wilderness from, and a small creek running behind each of the three campsites," notes one visitor who appreciated the immediate trail access.
Lake recreation: Enjoy water activities at Elephant Butte Lake, the largest body of water in New Mexico. "Only a few minutes to the lake. October is a great month for this lake. The weather is great however the lake is pretty low. The sunsets were beautiful!" reports a camper at South Monticello Campground.
Mineral spring soaks: Experience natural hot springs in Truth or Consequences near Hillsboro. "Multiple hot springs tubs, private and not private. New water every time you soak," describes a visitor to the local glamping scene. The mineral waters maintain consistent temperatures year-round regardless of outside weather conditions.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campers appreciate thoughtful site design at Iron Creek Campground where "Clean, quiet campground not far from Emory pass. Pit toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables. Only a handful of people there on Friday night," according to a recent visitor. The spacing between sites provides a sense of solitude not found at more crowded campgrounds.
Clean facilities: Consistent maintenance standards impress visitors at many campgrounds. "Lions Beach Campground was very clean. The view from our spot was very nice and the site had water and electricity," mentions a camper at Elephant Butte Lake State Park, highlighting the well-kept amenities.
Affordability: Budget-conscious travelers appreciate reasonable pricing at Continental Divide Park & Camp. "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," notes a reviewer who found value in the services offered.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Forest Service campgrounds typically close during winter months. "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," advises one camper who found locked gates during off-season travel.
Limited site availability: Small campgrounds fill quickly during peak periods. "Only 4 sites available. Some privacy from the road, which was better than the other campgrounds near by. By a creek, which is nice. Vault toilet," explains a visitor to Railroad Canyon, emphasizing the limited capacity.
Water level fluctuations: Lake conditions vary significantly by season at Elephant Butte Lake State Park. "Note that it has a boat launch except there's no more water in this area," reports a recent camper who found diminished shorelines. Water levels depend on rainfall and upstream reservoir management.
Tips for camping with families
Select sites with shade structures: Summer temperatures reach 90°F+ regularly. "Great campground. Good size spots with good distance between sites. Ramadas at each site provide precious shade," recommends a visitor to South Monticello Campground, highlighting the importance of sun protection.
Pack supplies before arrival: Limited shopping options exist near remote campgrounds. "No stores nearby so go in fully stocked. Each campsite has water and electricity, a dump is easy to utilize on your way out," advises an experienced camper who planned ahead for their stay.
Consider wildlife viewing opportunities: The area hosts diverse desert and mountain species. "Wildlife: Qual, Dove, Lizards, Rabbits, Deer and more. The lake front was crowded with campers and people. Water was clear and cool with lots of carp," notes a visitor to Caballo Lake RV Park who enjoyed nature observation beyond water activities.
Tips from RVers
Secure level sites: Positioning concerns matter for comfortable stays. "I'm staying in the 'blue' or blue bell which is a circa 60's 1-bedroom aluminium rig. No TV - fine. No 12V outlets for charging - I didn't think about that," shares a glamping visitor who noted electrical considerations at upscale accommodation options.
Check access road conditions: Some locations require appropriate vehicles. "The road in may require 4x4 depending on any precip or how one drives. Once there, you're rewarded with Adirondack shelters and shaded sites," warns a visitor to Springtime Campground about access challenges.
Reserve specific sites for space needs: Site configurations vary significantly. "We travel with 3 dogs, so they moved me from site 23 to site 27. It was a site with plenty of room for our dog fence. It was in a nice corner of the park with immediate road access," explains an RVer who found the right spot for their specific requirements.
