Santa Clara, New Mexico camping areas sit at elevations ranging from 6,000 to 8,000 feet, resulting in dramatic temperature variations between day and night. The Gila National Forest surroundings provide diverse terrain for tent camping with access to pine forests, mountain streams, and historic mining towns. Many camping areas remain accessible year-round at lower elevations, though higher sites close seasonally.
What to do
Fishing at Lake Roberts: The lake offers good fishing opportunities with multiple species available. One camper noted, "This lake is great for paddle boarding, relaxing and taking in the views" while another mentioned their first boating experience: "This was my first experience in a boat, and the lake was a perfect place to learn."
Hiking the Continental Divide Trail: Access points near Rocky Canyon Campground connect to this famous long-distance trail. A visitor shared that it's "Right on the continental divide trail," though they recommend "4wheel drive, motorcycle or atv" for access as the forest service road "gets pretty rough."
Wildlife viewing: The riparian areas support diverse wildlife populations. At Gila Lower Box Canyon, one camper described it as "one of the lushest, most verdant riparian environments left in the desert southwest" where you can "watch bands of coatimundis grazing through the bosque" but warns to "Watch out for rattlesnakes and Gila monsters during the warmer months."
What campers like
Peace and quiet: The remote location means minimal crowds at most sites. Kingston Campground offers accessibility when "the weather is too cold to go further up the mountains to other campgrounds in the Gila." A visitor noted it has a "small creek bed" with "nice water depending on the time of year."
Clean facilities: Despite being rustic, many campgrounds maintain good standards. Silver City KOA receives consistent praise for cleanliness with one camper mentioning "excellent customer service, clean sites, bathrooms and a nice area" while another noted facilities are "very clean" with "friendly service."
Stream access: Many campsites feature creek or stream proximity. At Railroad Canyon Campground, visitors appreciate that it's "right next to the water" and has "a small creek running behind each of the three campsites" making it particularly appealing during hot weather.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many forest roads require high-clearance vehicles. The route to Rocky Canyon Campground "gets pretty rough" and definitely requires "4wheel drive, motorcycle or atv."
Limited facilities: Most forest service sites offer minimal amenities. Lower Scorpion Campground is described as "a small parking lot surrounded by walk-in campsites" with only a "clean pit toilet" available, though water can be found on site.
Small campgrounds: Many established sites have limited capacity. Railroad Canyon is described as "a solid little campground with 3 (maybe 4?) campsites and few amenities" but offers some privacy as it's "a 'little' more hidden from the road than other nearby campgrounds."
Seasonal closures: Winter access may be limited in some areas. One camper noted, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Temperature planning: Prepare for significant day/night temperature swings. A camper at Black Canyon Campground - Lower advised: "Nights here are cool. You can plan for at least a 30 degree delta between daytime high and nighttime low."
Wildlife education: The area offers excellent animal spotting opportunities. A visitor to Kingston Campground mentioned "cute wild or domesticated animals walk the space not aggressive just cute and helpful with the leafs and cycle of vegetation foods/leafs in the area."
Water recreation: Lake Roberts provides family-friendly water activities. One camper shared their experience: "This was my first experience in a boat, and the lake was a perfect place to learn. Had such an amazing experience with my family."
Tips from RVers
Limited big rig access: Most forest service campgrounds accommodate smaller RVs only. Railroad Canyon Campground has "flat surface ground for RVs" according to one visitor, though space is very limited.
KOA convenience: For full hookups and amenities, Silver City KOA provides the most comprehensive services. A camper noted it's "a perfect base for exploring Gila Cliff Dwellings and downtown Silver City" with "sites are well-maintained with plenty of space."
Alternative lodging: Consider cabin options at developed campgrounds. One visitor to Silver City KOA mentioned their "KOA Kabin was better than I expected" with "Wi-Fi password available. Tv in cabin, heated, toilet and shower."
