Dispersed camping near Mimbres, New Mexico provides access to the higher elevations of the Gila National Forest, ranging from 6,000 to 7,500 feet. These primitive sites offer temperature relief during summer months, with areas like Bear Mountain typically 5-10 degrees cooler than nearby Silver City. Winter camping requires preparation for overnight lows that can drop below freezing from November through March.
What to do
Hiking the CDT access points: Several free camping areas provide direct access to portions of the Continental Divide Trail. Comfort Well Dispersed Camping sits near excellent CDT access points. As one camper notes, it's "close to great hiking around the CDT and fishing in Lake Roberts."
Wildlife watching in canyon areas: Dawn and dusk offer prime wildlife viewing opportunities in the meadow areas. At Cattlemen Trail, one camper shared that "cows were all around minding their own business" while another mentioned "heard some cows but never seen them." Wildlife sightings change seasonally.
Night sky observation: The elevation and distance from urban light pollution create exceptional stargazing conditions. A camper at Bear Mountain reported "Pretty stars, and 2 bars of service for Verizon," making it possible to use star-charting apps while enjoying the night sky.
What campers like
Remote seclusion: The challenging access to some sites creates remarkable privacy. At Meadow Creek Dispersed Camping, a visitor explained, "This trail requires 4x4 and high clearance. It is a bumpy road for all 3+ miles into the mountainside. But it is far worth the drive for the seclusion."
Cell service in select areas: Despite the remote location, certain spots maintain usable connectivity. At the BLM land near City of Rocks, a camper reported, "I have good cell service, and my home fi hot spot is working great." Coverage varies by provider and exact location.
Year-round accessibility: Different elevations allow camping throughout the year. Comfort Well campsites remain "quiet during the winter, but gets busy during the summer as evidenced by how well worn the dirt paths around the area are."
What you should know
Fire safety protocols: Follow current fire restriction notifications carefully. At many sites including Pine Flats Campground, "a few level spots with fire rings" are available but should only be used when permitted. The Forest Service posts updates at district offices.
Road conditions vary drastically: Some sites require significant vehicle capability. For Roadside Pullouts along Route 15, a camper advised, "No-one but a masochist would drive along Route 15 at night (slow, steep, winding)."
Cattle grazing presence: Many dispersed sites sit on mixed-use public lands. At Cattlemen Trail, a visitor mentioned meeting "Pat this morning- she has the grazing rights through here" and cattle may pass through camping areas.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible options for younger children: Some areas provide easier access for families. At Bear Mountain, a camper noted "Right off the road, 4 campsites. The last one is a little more open and we will def be coming back."
Safety considerations: Hazards require supervision. One camper at Bear Mountain warned, "Please remember to clean up after yourself! Unfortunately there was a lot of old glass, among other trash."
Navigation assistance: GPS coordinates are essential as signage is minimal. A camper at Pine Flats Campground reported "No road signs off of highway 15. Just need to use the GPS coordinates" to successfully locate the camping area.
Tips from RVers
RV size limitations: Large rigs face significant challenges. At Bear Canyon Road Camp, a camper explained, "Pulled my 24 foot (tip to tip) travel trailer up the mountain. Curvy, narrow roads... just be careful and go slow."
Alternative routes matter: Approach directions significantly impact drive difficulty. At Cattlemen Trail, a camper advised, "If coming from the east your gps might try to take you via White Water Rd -DONT! Instead take the 90 unless you want to spend an hour driving over bone jarring washboard roads."
Clearance requirements: Even smaller rigs need adequate clearance. Bear Mountain campers report "a narrow, rocky road with some low-hanging trees. Our sprinter made it but it was tight."
