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This is an easily accessible campground between the Gila Visitors Center and the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument.
There are seven campsites just off NM Hwy 15. It is a good place for tent and car camping. This campground is not conducive to RV camping.
There is a 14 day stay limit.
OHV/ATV use is prohibited.
Hunting and target shooting is prohibited.
Dogs on leash only.
There is a paved parking area.
The Gila River is within walking distance. Please help keep the area beautiful and pack out all trash.
Closest Stores:
Doc Campbell's General Store is about 4 miles south. Phones are available there. They also have gas, groceries and sell hunting and fishing licenses. Hot springs showers are available for a fee.
Located on NM Hwy 15; 1/4 mile from Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument
To see the dwelling go to the trail that veers left at the sign behind the bathrooms. Then to see the cliff of petroglyphs (which are amazing) come back to the bathrooms and take the level trail that parallels the main road.
Super friendly, knowledgeable volunteer staff. Clean bathroom (vault). Saw wildlife while we were there. The native gourd buffalo smells terrible, which is unpleasant but interesting to see the plants that were used many generations ago to still be lively in the area. I gave this 4 stars instead of 5 because I wish there were more marked trails leading off the campsite.
Great primitive campground 40 miles from nowhere. Be prepared for changing weather. We were there in June 2005 and it was hot in the day but got down to 35 overnight. Don't eat the small watermelon looking plants. It will kill you.
