Tent camping opportunities near Silver City, New Mexico extend beyond the Gila National Forest into diverse terrain at elevations between 6,000-8,000 feet. The region experiences dramatic temperature swings, with summer days reaching 90°F while nights can drop below 50°F even in July. Campgrounds in this area typically close seasonally from November through March due to colder conditions, though some lower-elevation sites remain accessible year-round.
What to do
Fishing at stocked lakes: Lake Roberts offers excellent fishing opportunities for recreational anglers. As one visitor noted, "This lake is great for paddle boarding, relaxing and taking in the views." The lake is regularly stocked and provides a peaceful setting for both beginners and experienced fishers.
Bird watching at riparian zones: Gila Lower Box Canyon provides exceptional birding opportunities in a protected riparian environment. According to one camper, it's "one of the lushest, most verdant riparian environments left in the desert southwest" where you can "sit on the edge of the cliffs, 20-30 feet above the tops of the cottonwoods and watch all the bird activity below."
Hiking the Continental Divide Trail: Rocky Canyon Campground offers direct access to the Continental Divide Trail. "Right on the continental divide trail. Very quiet," notes one reviewer. The rough access road limits traffic, creating a more secluded hiking experience for serious backpackers.
What campers like
Small, secluded campgrounds: Kingston Campground offers a quieter alternative to larger forest service sites. One camper described it as having "only a couple of camp spots" with a "small creek bed has nice water depending on the time of year." The limited number of sites creates a more intimate camping experience.
Walk-in tent sites: Lower Scorpion Campground features tent-specific walk-in sites that provide greater separation from vehicles. A visitor explained the layout: "The campground is a small parking lot surrounded by walk-in campsites. If you are tenting it, a beautiful place!" Another added there are "designated spots around installed fire pits with grills."
Natural water features: Many tent campers appreciate the streams running through or near campgrounds. At Black Canyon Campground, campers enjoy "the sounds of a running stream" which creates a "peaceful" atmosphere according to reviewers. The sound of flowing water adds a natural soundtrack to the camping experience.
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Fire bans are frequently implemented throughout summer months, particularly during drought conditions. One camper at Black Canyon Campground - Lower noted, "No campfires are currently permitted except for in designated metal fire pits maintained by the forest service. Just a guess, but this is probably the norm throughout the summer in the Gila."
Road conditions: Forest service roads leading to remote campgrounds often require high-clearance vehicles. A camper at Rocky Canyon Campground warned the access "gets pretty rough. Definitely tents only. Recommend that you have 4wheel drive, motorcycle or atv."
Temperature fluctuations: Plan for significant day-to-night temperature changes when tent camping. One visitor to Black Canyon observed, "Nights here are cool. You can plan for at least a 30 degree delta between daytime high and nighttime low."
Tips for camping with families
Best beginner-friendly water activities: Lake Roberts provides gentle water experiences suitable for children. One visitor shared, "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."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children often enjoy observing the diverse wildlife in the Gila region. At Gila Lower Box Canyon, families can "watch bands of coatimundis grazing through the bosque" according to one camper. Always supervise children closely as the same reviewer cautioned to "Watch out for rattlesnakes and Gila monsters during the warmer months though."
Consider cooler seasons: Summer heat can be challenging for families with young children, while shoulder seasons offer more comfortable temperatures. A Kingston Campground visitor advised it "gets cold in the winter, but it is a nice place when the weather is too cold to go further up the mountains to other campgrounds in the Gila."
Tips from RVers
KOA option for full amenities: Silver City KOA provides the most comprehensive facilities for RVers seeking hookups near Silver City. A recent visitor remarked, "Very friendly staff and owner. I've steered clear of KOA before but will check them out after this visit. Very quiet stay and spots were very nice."
Limited RV access at forest sites: Most forest service campgrounds have restrictions for larger vehicles. One visitor to Lower Scorpion Campground explained why: "We didn't actually stay there but leaving this review to explain why RVs and camper vans are discouraged. The campground is a small parking lot surrounded by walk-in campsites."
Consider camper cabins for convenience: The KOA offers cabin options that provide comfort without needing an RV. A guest reported, "KOA Kabin was better than I expected. Wi-Fi password available. TV in cabin, heated, toilet and shower. Great place to stay whether just passing through, or staying awhile."
