Tent campsites near Winston, New Mexico provide primitive accommodations at elevations between 6,000-8,500 feet in the Gila National Forest. Many sites feature seasonal access restrictions due to weather conditions, with higher elevation campgrounds typically closing from November through April. Roads to remote campgrounds often require high-clearance vehicles and become impassable during rainy periods.
What to do
Fishing at nearby lakes: Lake Roberts offers stocked fishing opportunities in a mountain setting. "This lake is great for paddle boarding, relaxing and taking in the views," reports Eva G. about Lake Roberts.
Explore hot springs: Natural hot springs can be found with short hikes from some campgrounds. "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," notes Anna R. about her stay at Lower Scorpion Campground.
Hiking access: Many tent campsites connect to wilderness trail systems. "A trail starts from the last campsite that climbs in altitude to some awesome views," mentions Dennis P. about his experience at Springtime Campground.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: The forested settings provide opportunities for bird and animal watching. "The birds are abundant here. I wore a red winter hat and had at least 10 hummingbirds buzz my head in one day. I could hear their wings and feel the breeze from them they came so close," shares Court M. about Black Canyon Campground - Lower.
Stream sounds: Many campsites feature proximity to running water. "We enjoyed how small this campsite is and we were the only people there during our visit... It has large trees and flat camping spots. It even has a vault toilet," notes Beth G. about Railroad Canyon Campground.
Stargazing: Clear mountain skies offer excellent night sky viewing. "We saw several deer and caught a few fish. Definitely worth the drive from Albuquerque," reports Karen N. about Lake Roberts.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to remote tent sites vary significantly. "The road in may require 4x4 depending on any precip or how one drives. Once there, you're rewarded with Adirondack shelters and shaded sites," warns Dennis P. about Springtime Campground.
Fire restrictions: Fire rules change seasonally and vary by location. "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," notes Mark O. about Black Canyon Campground.
Wildfire impacts: Recent wildfires have affected some areas. "The area has been burned in the 2022 fires. The road was closed for a long time, and if it is open now, there will be floods in the burn scar. Check with the Forest Service for more info before you go," cautions Dennis P. about Bear Trap Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Consider lower elevation sites in shoulder seasons: Temperature variations can be extreme at higher elevations. "The campground is right off the highway, but not too much traffic. The small creek bed has nice water depending on the time of year. Too hot in the summer. Gets cold in the winter," advises Lara S. about Kingston Campground.
Pack for temperature swings: Day-to-night temperature differences can be significant. "We were so cozy in our wool socks and sleeping bags in a tent. It even hailed on us hard one day," explains Tracy C. about Black Canyon Campground.
Select small campgrounds for easier supervision: Many tent sites near Winston are small with limited capacity. "Only 4 sites available. Some privacy from the road, which was better than the other campgrounds near by. By a creek, which is nice," notes Ginae L. about Railroad Canyon Campground.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations for remote sites: Many tent campsites near Winston cannot accommodate larger RVs. "This campground is a small parking lot surrounded by walk-in campsites. If you are tenting it, a beautiful place!" explains Cathy C. about Lower Scorpion Campground.
Consider road clearance for smaller trailers: Some sites can accommodate small trailers with proper vehicles. "The drive up to the camp ground is rough and narrow with some hair-pin turns (and spectacular views!), but it is passable (we have an old Honda CRV AWD and pull a small trailer)... I would not recommend trying the road with an RV," advises Kristine C. about Bear Trap Campground.
Bring leveling equipment: Many tent camping areas have uneven terrain. "A mix of flat spots (slightly too close to the toilets) or tilted spots, further away/up the hill," notes Leah W. about Lower Scorpion Campground.
