Camping near Silver City, New Mexico, offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family getaway, this area has something for everyone.
What to do:
- Explore the Gila Cliff Dwellings: Just a short drive from the Upper Scorpion Campground, you can hike to the cliff dwellings and learn about the ancient inhabitants of the area. One camper mentioned, "The Gila cliff dwellings are awesome. Well worth the 1.5 hour drive in from Silver City."
- Hike the Trails: The City of Rocks State Park Campground offers amazing trails that wind through unique rock formations. A visitor shared, "You could just walk around the rocks and campground or take one of the trails out into the desert landscape."
- Soak in Hot Springs: At Faywood Hot Springs, you can enjoy relaxing hot springs. One guest noted, "The hot springs bathing areas are nice. They have clothes optional and required areas."
What campers like:
- Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful landscapes. One reviewer at Forks Campground said, "Forks Campground is at the top of a cliff. It has a phenomenal view of the river."
- Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds, like Gila Hot Springs Campground, are praised for their cleanliness. A visitor remarked, "The bathrooms were very clean and also private feeling."
- Friendly Hosts: Campers appreciate the welcoming atmosphere. At the Silver City KOA, one guest mentioned, "The staff are top notch! Young energetic and as helpful as can be."
What you should know:
- Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Lower Scorpion Campground, have minimal facilities. A camper noted, "There is no cell service here or pretty much anywhere in the forest."
- Crowded During Peak Season: Popular spots can get busy, especially in summer. One visitor at Forks Campground mentioned, "The campground is not very big... some of the folks that frequent it aren't very nice."
- Wildlife Encounters: Be prepared for wildlife sightings. A camper at City of Rocks State Park Campground shared, "I also saw the most wildlife from this site (marmot, roadrunner, jack rabbit, and more)."
Tips for camping with families:
- Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Silver City KOA, which offers a variety of amenities. One family said, "Very friendly staff and owner. I’ve steered clear of KOA before but will check them out after this visit."
- Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities, like hiking and exploring, to keep everyone entertained. A visitor at Gila Hot Springs Campground mentioned, "Love the hot springs, great hosts, calm, and not too many people."
- Pack for All Weather: Nights can get chilly, so bring warm clothing. One camper advised, "Can get cold at night if you are in a tent, bring warm clothing."
Tips from RVers:
- Check Site Sizes: Some campgrounds, like Cattlemen Trail, are big rig friendly. A reviewer noted, "Entry road was very good. Good cell service also."
- Be Prepared for Limited Services: Many spots lack full hookups. A visitor at Rose Valley RV Ranch mentioned, "The sites are huge and feel very private, offering a little fenced in, personal yard at most sites."
- Plan for Trash Disposal: Some campgrounds do not have trash services, so be ready to pack out your trash. A camper at Lower Scorpion Campground said, "It is within walking distance of several trailheads in the national forest... prepare to pack out all trash."
Camping near Silver City, New Mexico, offers a mix of adventure and relaxation, making it a great destination for all types of campers.