Silver City, New Mexico's high desert landscape sits at over 6,000 feet elevation where temperature swings of 30°F between day and night occur regularly. This mountainous region experiences distinct seasonal changes with snow possible from November through March, while summer monsoon rains typically arrive in July and August. Most campgrounds remain accessible year-round, though winter travelers should prepare for occasional road closures at higher elevations.
What to do
Trail access: Continental Divide Trail: Continental Divide Park & Camp serves as an excellent base for hikers, sitting just outside the Gila National Forest. "Perfect location to leave our trailer and go out exploring! Cliff Dwellings, hot springs, cat walk, farmers market, super cute old fashion bar and opera house Pinos Altos," notes Diane M.
Hot springs soaking: Clothing optional after dark: Gila Hot Springs Campground features three natural hot pools along the Gila River. According to Kristen R., "The three pools are cute, clean and have a natural look to them. Clothing optional after dark, so if you are there with a young family keep that in mind."
Hiking loop trail: On-site recreation: Some campgrounds offer walking paths without leaving the property. At Ridge Park RV, "There is a great hiking trail, about 1/2 mile, that makes a loop. It is comfortably wide so you and your dog can see the trail and won't accidentally run into cactus."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Rose Valley RV Ranch offers separated camping areas with personal outdoor spaces. Brodie D. explains, "The sites are huge and feel very private, offering a little fenced in, personal yard at most sites."
Weekly social events: Several rv parks near Silver City organize regular gatherings. Manzanos RV Park hosts community meals, with Mark M. noting, "Free pulled pork BBQ every Saturday evening garnered this place the 5th star! John keeps things in good order."
Clean facilities: Hygiene standards remain high at most Silver City rv parks. At Gila Hot Springs Campground, Josiah J. reports it's "a great place to relax and recover. Not a party spot. Well managed, and a respectable surrounding community."
What you should know
Limited shower access: Some campgrounds charge extra for shower facilities. One camper noted about Ridge Park RV: "If a person wants to take a shower, let's say for 5 minutes, that cost you $3, for yourself, and three more dollars for your spouse."
Road conditions: Access roads to several campgrounds require navigating unpaved terrain. Laura M. describes reaching Butterfield Station RV Park: "Follow the washboard dirt road down and you'll find 18 sites with some pull-thru for large rigs."
Cell coverage variability: Digital connectivity depends heavily on location. Faywood Hot Springs has limited service, with Meghan D. mentioning, "Though about 15 miles off the interstate, this park is WORTH the detour."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Silver City RV Park offers convenient access to town amenities. Heather K. reports, "I stayed here during CDT Days. It's close to downtown. There's a grocery store within walking distance as well as a Dairy Queen and a Lottaburger."
Dog-friendly areas: Many campgrounds accommodate pets with designated exercise spaces. At Little Vineyard RV Park, one visitor notes they have "dog off lease area" and the park is within "walking distance" to food options.
Weather preparation: Temperature variations require proper gear. At Gila Hot Springs Campground, Elisa P. advises, "Can get cold at night if you are in a tent, bring warm clothing."
Tips from RVers
Satellite connectivity: For digital nomads and remote workers, internet access varies widely. At Little Vineyard RV Park, Michael C. notes, "Starlink works great here!" which can be essential for those needing reliable connectivity.
Site selection strategy: Dream Catcher RV Park offers different site configurations. Trevor H. advises, "The park has 117 sites with about half being pull through. All of them appear to be full hookup with the rear row given over to long term guest."
Hook-up options: For budget-conscious travelers, basic services are available at lower price points. At Butterfield Station RV Park, Laura M. reports, "30 amp, water and sewer hook ups. No other amenities. No 50 amp," but notes the $12/night rate is "not at all bad for what you get."
