Gallo Campground
4.37541 reviewsP.O. Box 220, Nageezi, NM, 87037, USA
Gallo Campground
$20.00 - $60.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$60.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Individual sites are priced at $20 per night, while group sites (tent-only) accommodate 10-30 people for $60 per night. Additional reservation fees may apply, ranging from $3-$9, depending on the booking platform.
About this campground
Escape to the raw beauty of Gallo Campground, where 32 individual sites and two group camping areas nestle within the mystical landscape of Chaco Culture National Historical Park. This remote desert sanctuary invites adventurous souls to sleep under infinite stars while surrounded by thousand-year-old petroglyphs, mysterious inscriptions, and ancient cliff dwellings that whisper stories of the past. Here, modern camping meets ancient history in one of the Southwest's most captivating archaeological wonderlands.
Gallo Campground offers a mix of camping options suitable for both individuals and groups, with accommodations for tents, RVs, and group camping.
Historical SignificanceCamp in the shadows of one of North America's most sophisticated ancient civilizations. The surrounding landscape serves as an open-air museum where Ancestral Puebloan ruins stand as monuments to human ingenuity, while petroglyphs and inscriptions etched into canyon walls tell stories spanning centuries. Every sunrise at Gallo Campground offers campers a front-row seat to the same vistas that inspired the Chacoan people to create their remarkable cultural center over a millennium ago.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Gallo into a land of dramatic contrasts, where blazing desert days give way to refreshingly cool nights perfect for stargazing. Winter brings its own fierce beauty with bone-chilling temperatures that demand proper preparation. Throughout the year, powerful winds sweep across the open landscape, carrying the essence of the high desert. Be aware that seasonal rains and winter snows can transform access roads into impassable muddy channels, adding to the campground's remote, adventurous character.
ElevationSpecific elevation details are currently unavailable for this high desert location.
Natural Features and SceneryGallo Campground embraces visitors with the stark, breathtaking beauty of the high desert. Canyon walls rise like ancient sentinels while serpentine arroyos carve dramatic pathways through the landscape. The absence of trees creates an unobstructed canvas where hardy southwestern desert vegetation paints subtle textures across the terrain. This wide-open expanse offers unparalleled views of dramatic sunsets and some of the darkest, most star-filled skies in the Southwest.
Geological RegionNestled within a lowland desert basin, Gallo Campground sits at the intersection of geological wonder and desert resilience. Towering canyon walls frame the camping area while ancient arroyos and washes create a natural amphitheater of stone and sand. The landscape showcases classic southwestern desert flora—hardy brushes and resilient plants that thrive in this treeless expanse. This geological tapestry provides campers with an authentic high desert experience where every rock formation tells a story millions of years in the making.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThere is one campsite designated as handicapped-accessible. Roads within the campground are paved, ensuring easier navigation for visitors with mobility aids.
Sites SizeSites vary in size, with accommodations for tents, small RVs, and travel trailers. RVs must be under 35 feet in length.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is limited at this campground, as sites are described as being close together with little vegetation or natural barriers between campsites. Several reviewers mention the lack of privacy as a drawback.
Total Campsites32 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose a site near the canyon walls for scenic views and proximity to ancient ruins. Bring shade structures for protection from the sun.
Best CampsitesSites near the canyon walls, such as #26 and those at the far ends of the loop, offer proximity to ruins and enhanced privacy.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
12:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 consecutive nights during a visit and up to 30 total nights per calendar year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Two small vehicles per individual campsite
- group sites accommodate 10-30 people.
Groups
Group sites accommodate 10-30 people with picnic tables and fire grates. These sites are for tent camping only.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes individual and group sites arranged in a loop. Sites closer to canyon walls are preferable for views and proximity to ruins.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round, with reservations available on a rolling 3-month basis. Certain sites may close during winter months or due to safety issues like rockfalls.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov or via their mobile app, contact center, or website.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not guaranteed; the campground is typically full, and reservations are strongly recommended.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made online or through the contact center before the check-in date. Late cancellations incur a $10 fee plus the first night's recreation fee. No-show customers are charged a $20 fee and forfeit the first night's fees.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors to Gallo Campground can enjoy stargazing, hiking, and exploring ancient ruins. The campground is a great base for exploring the Chaco Culture National Historical Park, including its many archaeological sites and hiking trails.
Hiking
Hiking is one of the most popular activities, with trails leading to ancient ruins and other cultural sites such as Pueblo Bonito. Visitors can also access backcountry trails that provide unique views of the canyon. Reviews mention the ease of access to trails from the campground.Biking
Cycling is possible, with some visitors using bikes to explore Chaco Canyon's ruins and trails. However, the rough roads leading to the campground make transporting bicycles challenging.Wildlife viewing
The campground provides opportunities to view desert wildlife, including coyotes and birds of prey. Reviews mention the unique experience of hearing coyotes and other wildlife at night.Cultural and Educational Programs
Ranger-led tours and evening programs are available to educate visitors about the Chacoan culture and archaeological significance of the area. Astronomy programs highlighting the area's dark skies are a particular highlight.Winter Activities
Winter visitors can enjoy heated restrooms and the scenic beauty of Chaco Canyon under a blanket of snow. However, the roads to the campground can be challenging or impassable during inclement weather.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires permitted in designated fire grates. Wood gathering is prohibited.
- Quiet hours are Noise restrictions are enforced from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsRoad conditions are hazardous during wet weather, and extreme heat or cold can pose risks. Wildlife such as coyotes may be present.
Active alertsSome campsites are closed due to rockfalls. Campers are advised to check road conditions prior to arrival.
Weather forecast
66
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Light drizzle
Precipitation: 0.4%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 65%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 8.4 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Very Light Rain - (0.40% chance)
Slight drizzle possible
Light drizzle
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are located in Nageezi, NM, about 16 miles (approximately 30 minutes drive), depending on road conditions. Emergency response may be delayed due to the remoteness of the area.
Good to know
Peak season datesYear-round peak pricing of $20 per night applies to individual campsites.
Trash and recyclingTrash dumpsters and recycling facilities are available at the campground.
Proximity to water featuresNo significant water features are near the campground.
Common complaintsFrequent complaints include noisy neighbors, lack of shade, and the poor condition of access roads. Late site arrivals often disrupt quiet hours.
HostCampground hosts are praised for their helpfulness and knowledge about the park. Hosts provide water and support during emergencies.
Campground Map
P.O. Box 220, Nageezi, NM, 87037, USA
Driving directionsFrom the North: Driving from Albuquerque or Farmington, NM, take Highway 550, exit to County Road (CR) 7900 at mile marker 112; drive CR 7900 then turn westbound to CR 7950, which becomes a dirt road after three miles. Drive thirteen miles of dirt road to reach Chaco Culture National Historical Park. From the South: Exit Highway 9 to State Road 57, which is a rough dirt road for about twenty miles before reaching Chaco Culture National Historical Park. South entrance is not recommended during inclement weather.
Access to the campground is challenging, with rough, unpaved roads for 16 miles from the north and 20 miles from the south. In wet conditions, roads can become impassable due to mud and slippery surfaces. Travelers often report severe washboarding and potholes on CR 7950 and NM Rt. 57.Nearby places
Farmington, NM - approximately 75 miles (1.5 hours drive)
Albuquerque, NM - approximately 150 miles (3 hours drive)
Cuba, NM - approximately 50 miles (1 hour drive)
Nearby supplies
Groceries and fuel can be found in Cuba, NM (approximately 50 miles away) and Farmington, NM (approximately 75 miles away). Campers should bring all essentials, as the park does not offer food services or supplies.
Camper Reviews
4.4
541 reviews
Gallo Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews of Gallo Campground are mixed, with many praising its proximity to Chaco Canyon's ruins and its dark sky designation for stargazing. However, recurrent complaints include the rough roads leading to the campground, lack of shade, and limited privacy.
Review Summaries
Based on 541 reviews
What Campers Love
Highlights include clean and heated bathrooms, excellent stargazing opportunities, and proximity to archaeological sites. Many reviewers also commend the helpfulness of the campground hosts.
Based on 541 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints focus on the washboard and poorly-maintained roads leading to the campground, lack of shade structures, and the close proximity of campsites leading to limited privacy.
Based on 541 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring plenty of water, food, and shade structures as there are no nearby services. The roads can be challenging, so drive a high-clearance or 4WD vehicle if possible. Campers recommend visiting...
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Seasonal Insights
Summer visits are marked by extreme heat and high winds, making shade essential for comfort. Winter campers appreciate the heated bathrooms, but note challenges with frozen pipes and occasional...
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Camper Quotes
"The stars!" - Teresa D. "Best volunteer camp host ever!" - Martha B. "Road in was rough, but the camp was worth it." - John H. "Clean bathrooms and a dark sky park make this a must-visit." - Sheila...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews highlight group sites as being noisy but well-equipped. Campsites near the cliffs, such as #25, are praised for their views. Site #10 is noted for its proximity to bathrooms but...
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Accessibility Features
One campsite is wheelchair accessible. Reviews of accessibility features are limited but note the paved roads and heated bathrooms as helpful.
Based on 541 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but reviews emphasize the need for leashes and note that some areas restrict pets. Noise from dogs is occasionally mentioned as a concern.
Based on 541 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025