Springtime Campground
4.138 reviews203 First St., Magdalena, NM 87825
Springtime 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
The campground is free to use, as noted in a user review: 'This place is free so it's really nice.'
About this campground
Tucked away in the rugged mountains, Springtime Campground offers an authentic wilderness escape where six intimate campsites await beneath protective Adirondack shelters. This hidden gem serves as your gateway to the legendary Apache Kid Wilderness, where trails wind toward the historic San Mateo Peak Lookout, beckoning hikers and equestrians alike. Best of all, this secluded mountain retreat comes without a price tag – a rare find for adventurers seeking solitude in today's crowded outdoor spaces.
Springtime Campground is primarily a primitive camping site suitable for tents and small pop-up trailers. It is not accessible for large RVs or trailers due to the rough road conditions.
Historical SignificanceStanding as sentinels over this remote landscape, the San Mateo Peak Lookout and the surrounding Apache Kid Wilderness carry stories of the Old West in every weathered stone and ancient trail. These historic landmarks transform your camping experience into a journey through time, where the spirit of frontier exploration lives on in the very paths you'll walk and the vistas you'll witness.
Weather and SeasonsThe mountain climate here tells a tale of dramatic seasonal shifts. Winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland, with temperatures dipping to a brisk 25-30°F and occasional snowfall dusting the peaks. As spring awakens the wilderness, temperatures climb into the comfortable 40-80°F range, creating perfect conditions for exploration. Summer brings warm days ideal for hiking, though afternoon thundershowers occasionally roll through, adding drama to the mountain vistas and refreshing the forest floor.
ElevationPerched high in the mountain realm, this elevated sanctuary offers the crisp, clean air that only high-altitude camping can provide. The lofty setting creates a natural cooling effect that brings relief during summer days and adds an extra layer of adventure to winter camping, where the thin mountain air seems to bring the stars closer to your campfire conversations.
Natural Features and SceneryNature has painted a masterpiece of resilience here, where the forest has triumphantly recovered from past wildfire challenges. Vibrant greenery now carpets the mountainsides, with one recent visitor noting the remarkable transformation: 'The area is greening up and no major sediment issues' remain from previous fire runoff. This rejuvenated landscape plays host to an impressive cast of wildlife – from graceful deer browsing in meadows to the occasional bear lumber through camp, while mountain lions patrol their ancient territories and free-roaming cattle add a touch of Western authenticity to the scene.
Geological RegionThe Apache Kid Wilderness embraces the campground in a dramatic tapestry of mountain peaks, deep forests, and rugged terrain that defines this corner of the American Southwest. Ancient geological forces have sculpted a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, where every ridge reveals new vistas and every canyon holds secrets. The crown jewel remains the trail to San Mateo Peak Lookout, offering both a physical challenge and spiritual reward for those who make the journey from their basecamp at Springtime.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned for this site.
Sites SizeStandard-sized campsites with Adirondack shelters.
Sites PrivacySites are described as secluded and remote, offering a high degree of privacy.
Total Campsites6 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAdirondack shelters are available at each site, offering a level gravel foundation and some protection from the elements.
Best CampsitesNo individual campsites were specifically highlighted as the best.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Null
Check-out
Null
Stay Limit
Null
Guests Allowed Per Site
Null
Groups
Group camping facilities are not mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layout6 campsites with Adirondack shelters arranged in a remote and peaceful setting.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not required; the campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe campground is first-come, first-served. User reviews emphasize the remoteness of the location and the low likelihood of overcrowding except during holidays: 'Except holidays. Then it is full of people.'
Cancellation Policynull
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Springtime Campground is an excellent base for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking, horseback riding, and hunting opportunities. The remote and quiet environment enhances the experience for wildlife spotting.
Hiking
The campground provides access to the Apache Kid Wilderness and San Mateo Peak Lookout via hiking trails. These trails are noted for their scenic beauty and accessibility.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as deer and cows are commonly observed, and bears and mountain lions have been mentioned in user reviews. Campers are advised to pack food away securely.Winter Activities
No specific winter recreation options are detailed, but the location's high altitude and 'cool in winter' description suggest it could be a suitable area for cold-season camping.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not mentioned as being available.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire pits are available at each site, as noted in a user review: 'They have fire pits for each site.'
- Quiet hours are null
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include bears, mountain lions, and rough road access. Wildlife sightings are common, and campers must store food securely.
Active alertsNo current alerts were mentioned in the authoritative or user reviews.
Weather forecast
65
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 67%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 6.3 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
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
Magdalena Ranger District Office (Address: 203 First St., Magdalena, NM 87825, Phone: 575-854-2281).
Good to know
Peak season datesnull
Trash and recyclingNo information regarding trash and recycling facilities is available.
Proximity to water featuresNo nearby water features were mentioned in the source materials.
Common complaintsRough road conditions leading to the campground are frequently mentioned in user reviews, such as 'FR225 is extremely rough right now.'
Hostnull
Campground Map
203 First St., Magdalena, NM 87825
Driving directions12 miles south of I-25 exit #115 via NM 1, FR 225
The roads leading to the campground are described as rough and challenging, with one review noting: 'FR225 is extremely rough right now. Be very very cautious on the drive into the campground.' High-clearance vehicles are recommended, as evidenced by a user review stating, 'I got there in my Honda CR-V so nothing too crazy, but don't drive a Prius to here and think that you will make it to the campsite.'Nearby places
Magdalena, NM (approximately 12 miles south)
Nearby supplies
null
Camper Reviews
4.1
8 reviews
Springtime Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews commend Springtime Campground for its remote and serene setting, as well as its well-maintained Adirondack shelters and vault toilets. However, the rough access roads and lack of amenities such as water and electricity are noted drawbacks.
Review Summaries
Based on 8 reviews
What Campers Love
- Remote and quiet setting.
- Well-maintained vault toilets.
- Adirondack shelters at each site.
- Proximity to Apache Kid Wilderness and San Mateo Peak trails.
- Free camping.
Based on 8 reviewsCommon Concerns
- Rough and challenging access roads.
- Lack of basic amenities such as potable water and flush toilets.
- Bears and other wildlife necessitate caution with food storage.
Based on 8 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
- Use a high-clearance vehicle due to the rough road conditions.
- Bring plenty of water and pack all necessary supplies as no services are available on-site.
- Store food securely to avoid...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Warm seasons are preferred for camping due to dry and comfortable weather. Winter camping is possible but requires preparation for cooler temperatures.
Based on 8 reviewsCamper Quotes
- 'We stayed here overnight to get an early head start on San Mateo Peak first thing in the morning.'
- 'They have fire pits for each site, picnic tables, and even a hut to retreat under.'
-...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific site numbers are not mentioned, but all sites are equipped with Adirondack shelters, fire pits, and picnic tables.
Based on 8 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically addressing accessibility features are available.
Based on 8 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet policies are not discussed in the user reviews.
Based on 8 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025