Iron Creek Campground
05 reviewsIron Creek Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
No fees are mentioned, but it is noted as free camping.
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About this campground
Nestled in the heart of the Black Range Mountains along scenic Highway 152, Iron Creek Campground offers an intimate mountain retreat with just twelve thoughtfully spaced campsites. Each site sits approximately 150 feet from its neighbors, creating a perfect balance of community and solitude. The gentle murmur of Iron Creek accompanies your stay as it winds parallel to the camping area, while the easily accessible location ensures you can reach this mountain sanctuary without sacrificing modern conveniences and well-maintained facilities.
Iron Creek Campground is a primitive campground offering basic facilities suitable for tent camping and small RVs. It is free and operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Weather and SeasonsMountain weather here tells its own dramatic story, with conditions that can shift from crisp autumn mornings to winter's first whispers. Recent visitors have experienced the full spectrum of high-country climate, including very cold temperatures accompanied by light rain and snow, with moderate winds sweeping through the pines. The dry mountain air and variable conditions create an ever-changing canvas that rewards prepared adventurers with stunning atmospheric displays.
ElevationPerched at approximately 7,000 feet above sea level, Iron Creek Campground invites you into a refreshing alpine environment where summer heat becomes a distant memory. This elevation brings naturally cooler temperatures year-round, offering relief from desert heat below while creating the perfect conditions for restful nights under star-filled skies. Seasonal road conditions can add an element of adventure to your journey, particularly during winter months when the mountain shows its wilder side.
Natural Features and SceneryThe Black Range Mountains embrace Iron Creek Campground with spectacular scenery that shifts with each season. Crystal-clear Iron Creek serves as the campground's centerpiece, its gentle waters creating a soothing soundtrack for your wilderness escape. When autumn arrives, the surrounding forest explodes into a painter's palette of golds, oranges, and crimsons, transforming the landscape into one of New Mexico's most photographed destinations. The mountainous terrain provides endless vistas and intimate forest scenes that capture the raw beauty of the high country.
Geological RegionIron Creek Campground sits within the majestic Black Range Mountains, a stunning segment of the vast Gila National Forest. This rugged landscape showcases millions of years of geological artistry, where ancient volcanic activity and erosion have sculpted dramatic peaks and valleys. The region's clear mountain streams, including Iron Creek itself, have carved their signatures into the terrain while supporting an incredible diversity of plant and animal life. From towering ponderosa pines to delicate wildflowers, the area represents one of the Southwest's most ecologically rich mountain environments.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned; the campground is described as being off the highway and in a moderately remote location.
Sites SizeThe campsites appear to be medium-sized, accommodating both tents and small RVs.
Sites Privacy"There are twelve camping spots that are about 150 feet apart," providing some level of privacy according to user reviews.
Total Campsites12 campsites
Reserving a campsite
Groups
Group camping is not specifically mentioned for this campground.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutTwelve camping spots are spaced approximately 150 feet apart, offering some privacy.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Iron Creek Campground offers a serene environment ideal for camping, picnicking, and enjoying the natural surroundings. Activities include hiking along nearby trails, creek exploration, and wildlife observation. The setting is especially picturesque in the fall when the leaves change color, as noted by one reviewer.
Hiking
The campground is situated in a forested area with trails nearby, making it a good spot for hiking and exploring the natural surroundings.Wildlife viewing
The campground's forested location offers opportunities for observing local flora and fauna.Winter Activities
No specific winter recreation activities are mentioned.Water Sports
No non-motorized water sports are mentioned due to the lack of a large water body nearby.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
Hazards
General hazardsSome users have noted that one restroom was out of service during a previous visit, and roads to access the campground can have rocks.
Weather forecast
68
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 28%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 7.1 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
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
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Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Good to know
Trash and recyclingNo information provided about trash and recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresA small creek runs parallel to the campsites, providing an aesthetic and natural water feature.
Common complaintsUser reviews mention issues with restroom availability and accessibility, particularly a long walk to a functional restroom when others are out of order.
Campground Map
Driving directionsThe campground is located east of Silver City in the Black Range Mountains on the south side of New Mexico Highway 152, between mile markers 28 and 29.
Located off NM State Highway 152, a mountain road with scenic sites at every curve. Watch for rocks on the road.Camper Reviews
0.0
5 reviews
Iron Creek Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Iron Creek Campground is noted for its scenic beauty, peaceful environment, and basic amenities. While the vault toilets are appreciated, maintenance issues have been reported in the past. Visitors enjoy the creek and the spaciousness between campsites. The campground is described as ideal for both short stops and overnight stays.
Review Summaries
Based on 5 reviews
What Campers Love
Scenic forested setting, peaceful atmosphere, fire rings and picnic tables available, creek nearby, spacious campsites that are 150 feet apart, and a good fall foliage experience.
Based on 5 reviewsCommon Concerns
Maintenance issues with vault toilets, such as one being out of service during a visit from May 30 to June 1, 2019. Lack of potable water and no shower facilities are other concerns reported by users.
Based on 5 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring potable water as none is available on-site. The campground is at a high elevation, so prepare for cooler temperatures. Early arrivals are recommended to secure a spot as it operates on a...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Fall is highlighted as a particularly beautiful time to visit due to the changing foliage. Summer visits may require careful planning regarding water and toilet facilities.
Based on 5 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Great free camping or day trip spot with fire rings and picnic tables with several public restrooms." - Joshua Klima. "Nice small, great for tents but room for RVs. Vault toilets. The creek is...
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Site-Specific Reviews
There are twelve campsites, each spaced about 150 feet apart, providing privacy and access to the creek.
Based on 5 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific accessibility-related reviews are available.
Based on 5 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but no specific reviews mention pet-related experiences.
Based on 5 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025