Tent campsites near Reserve, New Mexico provide access to the Gila National Forest at elevations typically ranging from 6,000-8,000 feet. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during days with cooler 50-60°F nights, while winter brings freezing temperatures and occasional snow at higher elevations. The region experiences a monsoon season from July through September with afternoon thunderstorms common.
What to do
Hike canyon trails: Near Lower Scorpion Campground, visitors can access hiking trails that lead into nearby canyons. "There is a canyon that we hiked up behind the campground," notes one camper at Lower Scorpion Campground.
Explore hot springs: Some camping areas provide access to geothermal features. "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," reports a visitor who enjoyed watching "coyotes traverse the canyon" during their morning soak.
Fish local waters: Small lakes and ponds in the region offer fishing opportunities. While some water bodies may be modest in size, they provide quiet recreation spots. A camper at Pratt Lake Dispersed notes it's "more of a pond than a lake" but describes it as a "nice quiet area."
What campers like
Uncrowded camping: Many sites in the Reserve area provide considerable space between campsites. At Blue Crossing Campground, a visitor noted there are "only 3 sites, two with lean to's" and described "plenty of trees and shade" with "plenty of downed trees for firewood."
Wildlife viewing: The remote setting creates opportunities for animal sightings. One camper at Lower Scorpion Campground described watching "coyotes traverse the canyon" during an early morning hot spring visit.
Accessible winter camping: Some lower elevation campgrounds remain open during colder months. A winter visitor to El Caso I-IV Campground described it as a "winter wonder land" with "snow on the ground since it had snowed recently" while noting it remained accessible and peaceful.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many campgrounds require navigating challenging roads. A visitor to Willow Creek warns the "road up is very sketchy! Single lane on a cliff, glad we didn't pass a car on the way up or back down." Similarly, at Pratt Lake Dispersed, a camper mentions the "road is a little rough going in, in places."
Facility limitations: Most sites have minimal or no amenities. A camper at Lower Scorpion Campground describes it as having "no individual marked sites" but notes "water is available and clean pit toilet." Another visitor clarifies: "I don't believe there's water or electricity here."
Seasonal access: Higher elevation sites have limited access during winter months. At Blue Crossing Campground, a visitor who camped in March noted: "water was still running across road" due to snowmelt and heavy rains, suggesting potential access issues during wet periods.
Tips for camping with families
Choose established sites with facilities: For families, campgrounds with at least basic amenities provide more comfort. "There are designated spots around installed fire pits with grills. There is one bathroom that is handicap assessable," notes a camper at Lower Scorpion.
Look for water features: Campsites near water can provide activities for children. At El Caso I-IV Campground, a visitor noted "an amazing trail that lead from the grounds to the lake" and mentioned plans to "come back to this spot to kayak in the summer."
Consider campsite layout: Some campgrounds offer more spacious sites. Upper Blue Campground is described as "small and spread out, only 3 sites" with a "minute walk to blue river" where there are "lots of fun to play and climb/hike" opportunities.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Many campgrounds have significant limitations for larger vehicles. A camper in a Sprinter van at Willow Creek cautions the site is "not safe for large RVs or trailers" due to the challenging access road.
Parking configurations: Some campgrounds have specific layouts that affect RV camping. At Lower Scorpion Campground, a visitor explains why larger vehicles are discouraged: "The campground is a small parking lot surrounded by walk-in campsites. If you are tenting it, a beautiful place!"
Winter accessibility: Some sites remain accessible to smaller RVs year-round. A winter visitor to El Caso I-IV noted they "pulled into a pull thru spot" despite recent snowfall, suggesting the site maintains reasonable access for smaller rigs even in winter conditions.
