Hikers tackling the Continental Divide Trail will find Coal Mine Campground positioned directly along their route, offering a convenient resupply stop at 7,000 feet elevation. Located within Cibola National Forest, this primitive campground operates seasonally from mid-May through mid-September and charges $10 per night for its 15 sites.
The campground accommodates RVs up to 45 feet, though several reviewers suggest smaller units fare better on the access road and within the site layout. All sites include picnic tables, fire rings, and grills, with vault toilets serving as the primary amenities. "No water available, no hook-ups, no dump station," notes Mark M., emphasizing the need for self-sufficient camping preparation. Cell service proves sporadic, with Verizon providing occasional 4G coverage that can be slow when available.
A hiking trail begins at the campground, though signage requires attention at the initial fork. The nearby La Mosca lookout provides mountain views within driving distance, while the Gooseberry Trailhead offers access to Mount Taylor, the region's highest peak. Despite its proximity to the highway, traffic noise remains minimal according to multiple visitors.
The campground accepts reservations through Recreation.gov, though walk-up availability often exists during weekdays. Campers seeking additional options in the area can explore campsites near San Mateo. Coal Mine works best for self-contained campers comfortable with primitive conditions and rough access roads.
Description
Overview
Coal Mine Campground is situated in the upper portion of the Cibola National Forest in west-central New Mexico. Visitors can enjoy hiking the Lobo Canyon Trail, as well as picnicking and scenic driving. This campground is located near the Continental Divide Trail as well as Mt. Taylor.
Recreation
The Lobo Canyon Trail begins in the campground and leads hikers access a network of trails in the area. Some trails are still under constuction.Visitors also enjoy picnicking in the surrounding area.
Facilities
The campground offers more than a dozen sites for tent or RV camping. Each site can accommodate up to 10 people. Utility hookups are not available. Parking spurs are paved.Each site is equipped with a table and campfire ring with grill. Accessible vault toilets are provided. Drinking water is not available in the campground; visitors must bring their own supply.
Natural Features
The campground is located northeast of the town of Grants at an elevation of 7,400 feet. It lies on the top of a hill, with campsites situated on gently sloping ground. A forest of mature pine, juniper and oak trees surrounds the campground.
Nearby Attractions
The El Malpais National Monument and Conservation Area can be accessed from various points within a short drive of the campground. Its extensive, ancient lava flow landscape and other scenic features draw tourists year-round. Points of interest within the monument and conservation area include the Northwest New Mexico Visitor Center, Sandstone Bluffs Overlook and La Ventana Natural Arch. A portion of the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail parallels the Zuni-Acoma Trail as it passes through the monument.The city of Grants is about 12 miles from the campground, offering dining and lodging options. The city also boasts a mining museum with gem and mineral displays and a self-guided tour into an underground world.
Charges & Cancellations
A $10.00 service charge will apply if you change or cancel your reservation. Late cancellations are subject to additional fees. For full details see NRRS Reservation Policy.
Fee Info
Payment in full will be charged to you credit card upon completion of the reservation. A $10.00 non-refundable on line reservation fee may be charged for some facilities.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsCoal Mine Campground is located in New Mexico near San Mateo
Directions
From Grants, take New Mexico State Highway 547 for 10 miles to the campground.
Address
1800 LOBO CANYON RD
Grants, NM 87020
Coordinates
35.2341667 N
107.7013889 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Tent Cabin
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
For Vehicles
- Pull-Through Sites
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 1 hr 24 min from Albuquerque, NM
- 2 hrs 13 min from Santa Fe, NM
- 2 hrs 31 min from Farmington, NM
- 4 hrs 13 min from Las Cruces, NM
