The Mimbres Valley and surrounding mountains in southwestern New Mexico feature a diverse range of camping environments, from free dispersed sites to full-service RV parks. Sapillo Dispersed Camping Area, located in the Gila National Forest about 15 minutes north of Mimbres, provides primitive camping with basic vault toilets and trash disposal. City of Rocks State Park Campground, approximately 20 miles south near Faywood, offers developed sites with electric hookups, showers, and picnic tables amid unique volcanic rock formations. Mountain Spirits RV Park in Mimbres itself provides full hookups for RVs, while numerous additional options exist in nearby Silver City, including the highly-rated Silver City KOA and Silver City RV Park.
Road conditions vary significantly throughout the region, with many forest roads requiring high-clearance vehicles, particularly after rain. According to Jorge G., "North Star Road is usually well maintained and most vehicles should make it to at least North Star Mesa. Nothing in terms of services and amenities, but nice hiking nearby. Very clear skies at night." Cell service is spotty or nonexistent at most forest service sites but generally reliable at developed campgrounds closer to towns. Summer brings monsoon storms from July through September, while winter nights can drop below freezing at higher elevations. Spring and fall typically offer the most comfortable camping conditions, though spring can bring high winds.
Wildlife viewing opportunities abound throughout the area's campgrounds. As Julie K. notes about Upper End Campground at Lake Roberts, "Sites are well spaced out under a stand of ponderosa. Deer, turkeys and javelins are regular visitors; several hiking trails are nearby." Fishing is popular at Lake Roberts, with trout being the primary catch. Sapillo Dispersed Camping Area becomes busy during summer with ATV enthusiasts but remains quiet in winter and shoulder seasons. Campers seeking stargazing opportunities appreciate the minimal light pollution, particularly at the more remote forest service sites. The Continental Divide Trail passes near several camping areas, providing excellent hiking and backpacking opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.
$15 - $30 / night
"Last week I visited Faywood, New Mexico which is located about halfway in between Silver City and Deming, and I came across a unique terrain with structures of Boulder rocks that are “formed of volcanic"
"Found out that if you sit behind the rocks there was no cell service. But step out and phone work well."
"This campground is a “little” more hidden from the road than other nearby campgrounds."
"This campground is a “little” more hidden from the road than other nearby campgrounds."
"Highly recommend for anyone looking for a peaceful, comfortable stay in southwest New Mexico!"
"Close to town and a ton of hiking! Super clean!! Would definitely stay here again."
"I really enjoyed the scenery here, there are restrooms and a long stream that you could sit next to and see all the creatures that are in the stream. The ground is solid for RV’s"
"Nice and close to get to a picnic table but I'd stay at one of the others before staying here."
"Easily accessible from NM-35 and near a couple of general stores in Lake Roberts (10 minute drive north) and Mimbres (15 minute drive south). "
"There are hiking trails close by and tons of ATV trails for the off road enthusiast. It is cooler here so it was a nice respite from the heat of the desert."
"Great little lake, camping is free. 14 day limit. Lots of fish. Catfish, , LMB, Trout."
"Nice hiking trails throughout. No cell signal. Most spots are fairly flat with slight adjustment."
"Great place and close to sights, yet nestled in a lovely spot."
"Nice RV park just outside of Silver City with large spaces and junipers between the spaces. We were in #16 which was huge. Full hookups, laundry. Only one bath with a shower."
"Walking around will also involve walking through dirt areas to reach your destination. All in all though it’s a nice, private, roomy park that puts you right near Silver City’s local shops!"
"The woman behind the counter was so accomodating and the spot we got for 2 nights was huge and very private. The showers were large and clean as well as the rest of the park."
GuideVarious dry camping dirt sites dispersed amoung the rocks. Most are well spaced. Many will require leveling blocks. Many on west side have both vast desert and rock views. Showers available at visitor's center.
TravelerEasy access thru BLM Gate just north of City of Rocks State Park. Decent road for 25' RV with at least 6 level spots to park or camp. Cell was spotty except at top of hill. Very private no other campers.
TravelerSpent an entire month here. It’s beautiful, the people are super nice
GuideOnly here for one night but the Mountain View’s and stars at night were incredible. Camp host Karen is very nice and does a great job getting to you for check in. Hiking trails are in the park.
TravelerWas able to pick up an after hours pull through after a week of off grid. All facilities are clean and convenient.
LegendBeautiful location in the tall pines. Sites were well spaced but little privacy, and close to the road which was not busy at all. Picnic table and fire ring at each site. Clean well-maintained vault toilets. We were there in the winter and there had been some rain and snow melt, and the creek was running over the road, but still crossable even in our Transit van. The sites themselves are a little small with lots of trees and you can see where many larger campers and RVs seem to have had a tree encounter. The drive up from Silver City was stunning.
LegendThree soaking pools fed by natural hot springs make this an amazing experience, especially in the middle of winter. Temperature in the pools is adjusted for maximum comfort depending on the time of year. Bathing suits are apparently optional after dark! No food or booze allowed in the springs, which keeps things pacific and relaxing. Several camping sites right down on the Gila River, with picnic tables, and fire rings. Fill up your water tank with fresh spring water. Composting toilet. No dumpster available. $12 per person per night with unlimited time in the pools. If you have a big rig or want full hookup, go to Becky's Gila Springs RV ranch, just across the street. Good gravel road, although it is a bit steep and narrow as you turn off the highway. Firewood available for sale. Great place to stay if you want to visit the cliff Dwellings, which are only 15 minutes away. Be sure to make reservations ahead of time to ensure a spot.
LegendTall pines, heavily wooded sites which make maneuvering any larger vehicle challenging. Vault toilets. Picnic table and fire ring at each site. Fording the creek that floods the road periodically is the same problem that Cherry Creek has!
RangerThere is no power, water or sewer nor is there a dumpster. The “host” is very helpful. There is drinking water on site and a composting toilet setup. The scenery and the Hot Springs make it truly special.
The Mimbres Valley area sits at elevations ranging from 5,500 to 7,000 feet in southwestern New Mexico's high desert terrain. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-95°F during daytime hours while dropping 30-40 degrees at night. The region features multiple designated camping areas with varied terrain within the Gila National Forest boundaries, all offering different levels of accessibility depending on vehicle type and weather conditions.
Explore volcanic formations: At City of Rocks State Park Campground, visitors can hike through unusual rock formations created by volcanic activity. "You can spend hours exploring all the rocks," notes Patricia N., who camped with her grandsons. The park offers designated trails leading through the formations.
Stargazing opportunities: Many campsites in the region provide excellent night sky viewing due to minimal light pollution. "Each site is named after a constellation you can see in the sky at night from the campground," explains Amaya L. about City of Rocks. The park is recognized for its dark skies, with stars visible from horizon to horizon on clear nights.
Trail access: Numerous hiking options exist throughout the camping areas. The Railroad Canyon Campground provides direct access to forest trails. Mark O. notes, "Railroad Canyon Campground has many trails to access the wilderness from, and a small creek running behind each of the three campsites." This small campground serves as an effective trailhead for longer wilderness hikes.
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the spacing between designated sites. At Rose Valley RV Ranch, "The sites are huge and feel very private, offering a little fenced in, personal yard at most sites," according to Brodie D. This arrangement allows for a more secluded camping experience despite being in a developed campground.
Wildlife viewing: The forest settings provide opportunities to observe local fauna. Mule deer, wild turkeys, and other wildlife regularly visit camping areas throughout the region, especially at dawn and dusk.
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention the maintenance level of facilities. The Silver City RV Park receives positive reviews for cleanliness. Greg R. states, "The site was clean and level. The bathrooms and showers were clean as well." Even at more rustic sites, visitors note the relative cleanliness of vault toilets and common areas.
Seasonal considerations: Spring brings high winds while summer brings afternoon thunderstorms. "Very unique landscape, great campsites but wow the wind was too much," reports Megan T. about her May visit to City of Rocks. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing at night, particularly at higher elevations.
Road access limitations: Many forest service roads require high-clearance vehicles. After rainfall, mud can make access difficult even for 4WD vehicles in some areas.
Water availability: Most forest service sites lack potable water. Visitors should bring adequate water supplies for their entire stay. Sapillo Dispersed Camping Area offers vault toilets but no water hookups. "One mile off the paved road, plenty of campsites. This campsite has five nice clean toilets. With hiking nearby," notes John A.
Vehicle traffic: Some areas experience regular ATV and dirt bike usage. Beth G. mentions about Sapillo Dispersed Camping Area: "This spot is popular with large crowds and off road vehicle enthusiasts. Expect music until 10pm and the sound of engines." Weekends typically see more traffic than weekdays.
Rock exploration for children: Formations provide natural playgrounds for supervised exploration. At City of Rocks, Patricia N. shares, "Our grandsons loved this place. We went without reservations so there was no open place but they allow the overflow to camp in the group sites if they are empty." The volcanic boulders create natural climbing and hiding features appealing to children.
Insect preparation: Spring and summer bring various insects. Bringing appropriate repellent, particularly for mosquitoes near water sources, is recommended for family comfort.
Vault toilet availability: For families with young children, knowing bathroom access is important. The Upper Gallinas Campground provides basic restroom facilities. According to Charlene H., this campground offers "Outhouses and trash cans available, but that's it. Countless spots to chose from."
Site accessibility: RV parking options vary significantly between campgrounds. The Manzanos RV Park has size limitations for larger rigs. "Park navigation a bit tight for big rigs. Not impossible just a bit of a nail brighter," notes Mary F.
Hookup availability: Full hookups are available at specific commercial sites but limited in forest service areas. James B. reports at Mountain Spirits RV Park: "Full hookups (30 amp) with water and sewer. Good cell coverage. Amazing Starlink speeds."
Leveling requirements: Many natural sites require leveling blocks. Cathy C. mentions about City of Rocks, "All dirt and some with a challenge to get level." Bringing leveling equipment is recommended even for developed sites.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Mimbres, NM?
According to TheDyrt.com, Mimbres, NM offers a wide range of camping options, with 103 campgrounds and RV parks near Mimbres, NM and 21 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Mimbres, NM?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Mimbres, NM is City of Rocks State Park Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 40 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Mimbres, NM?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 21 free dispersed camping spots near Mimbres, NM.
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