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Established Camping

Iron Gate Campground

Iron Gate Campground, near Tererro, New Mexico, is a fantastic spot for those looking to escape into nature. This place is perfect for tent camping, RVs, or even glamping, and it’s surrounded by stunning scenery that makes you feel miles away from the hustle and bustle.

The campground is known for its beautiful hiking trails and proximity to the Pecos River, making it a great base for backpacking adventures. Visitors have raved about the wildlife in the area, with one camper noting, “Wildlife everywhere,” which adds to the charm of the location. Just keep in mind that the road leading in can be a bit rough, so a sturdy vehicle is recommended.

Amenities include picnic tables and fire pits, allowing for cozy evenings under the stars. While there are no showers or electric hookups, the clean restrooms and drinking water make it a comfortable stay. Campers have mentioned the peacefulness of the area, often enjoying fewer crowds, which is a big plus for those seeking solitude.

If you’re up for some adventure, the nearby trails offer breathtaking views and a chance to connect with nature. Just be prepared for a bit of a trek to get there, as some reviewers have pointed out that low-clearance vehicles might struggle on the way in. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer stay, Iron Gate Campground is a solid choice for a memorable outdoor experience.

Description

National Forest

Located above 9,000 feet, Iron Gate Campground is an excellent spot to access the Pecos Wilderness for day hiking and horseback riding. Uses: camping, hiking, horseback riding. Facilities: 14 units, vaulted toilets, trash bin, tables, fire pit/grill, 4 horse corrals. NO WATER. Special Instructions: Maximum recommended length for vehicle and horse trailer is 30 feet. Forest Road 223 very rough and not recemmeded for low clearance vehicles. Users are encouraged to recycle and pack out trash. Please visit the Leave No Trace website for more information about frontcountry and backcountry outdoor ethics at www.lnt.org. NO ATVs ALLOWED IN CAMPGROUND

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Location

Iron Gate Campground is located in New Mexico

Detail location of campground

Directions

23 miles north of Pecos on Highway 63 and Forest Road 122

Coordinates

35.83907682 N
105.62184918 W

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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Stay Connected

  • WiFi
    Available
  • Verizon
    Good
  • AT&T
    Available
  • T-Mobile
    Unknown

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Group
  • Tent Cabin
  • Equestrian

Features

For Campers

  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Drinking Water
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

Reviews

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5.0

out of 5

7 Reviews

Reviewed Apr. 10, 2022

Ruff road ahead

It's a nice little place tucked away in the woods. The road to get there is a bit rough, hence the title. By no means, Not a road for a large trailer or 5th wheel. Wild life everywhere..

Month of VisitNovember
  • Review photo of Iron Gate Campground by Frank and Olga C., April 10, 2022
Reviewed Jul. 8, 2021

The best campground in NM

We camp here as often as possible! Often we use it as a base camp to start over night backpacking trips in the Pecos. It's tucked away, so there are usually few other campers. It's a nice hike down to the river from Iron Gate, too. If there is mud, it could be very difficult getting into the campground without a 4x4.

Month of VisitApril
Reviewed Sep. 23, 2020

Solid Spot

Road isn’t terrible going up, saw many 2WD vehicles. Good amount of spots but many have no shade/not level. Decent amount of traffic too. For being way out there there’s a lot of day hikers. Overall a fun weekend spot though.

  • Review photo of Iron Gate Campground by Nathan M., September 23, 2020
  • Review photo of Iron Gate Campground by Nathan M., September 23, 2020
Reviewed Apr. 5, 2020

Remote campground

Enjoyed the hiking trails. Definitely difficult in a car. We made it barely. A nice remote campground. Saw quite a few backpackers   Looking forward to camping there again this year now that we have a truck

Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Iron Gate Campground by Karen  N., April 5, 2020
  • Review photo of Iron Gate Campground by Karen  N., April 5, 2020
  • Review photo of Iron Gate Campground by Karen  N., April 5, 2020
  • (4) View All
Reviewed Apr. 21, 2019

Great Base Camp for Backpacking Trips

We spent one night in Iron Gate before embarking on a three-day backpacking/camping adventure. Campground was well maintained, had plenty of clean restrooms and parking. Agree with the other reviewer... a low-profile vehicle will have a tough time making it up the hill to the campground, especially in rainy/snowy weather.

Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Iron Gate Campground by Lisa C., April 21, 2019
  • Review photo of Iron Gate Campground by Lisa C., April 21, 2019
Reviewed Sep. 28, 2017

Great campground

Site isn't easy to get to for low clearance vehicles. During rainy seasons, ruts form with deep mud on some spots driving up. Once at site, there are about 14 spaces, reasonably spaced apart in some areas.The trees are beautiful and wild flowers grow around. Great hiking trails are near by taking you up to some great scenic outlooks over the mountain sides. The toilets are scary, not my first choice but good to have I guess. I don't recall the fee being too much per night, I want to say $4/day. Tent camping and popups/small campers are fine. No room for RV's and larger travel trailers.

Month of VisitAugust

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Are fires allowed at Iron Gate Campground?

    Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Iron Gate Campground, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.

  • Does Iron Gate Campground have wifi?

    No, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, Iron Gate Campground does not have wifi.

  • Is there cell phone reception at Iron Gate Campground?

    According to campers on TheDyrt.com, Verizon signal is good, AT&T is available, and T-Mobile is unknown.