How much does camping cost at Coal Mine?

Camping fees at Coal Mine range from $10/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Coal Mine first-come first-served or reservation?

Coal Mine accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Coal Mine before I book?

Yes! Coal Mine has 7 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Coal Mine?

Coal Mine is open May 15 to October 14. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Coal Mine?

Coal Mine does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

How many campsites does Coal Mine have?

Coal Mine has 12 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Coal Mine?

Pets are not allowed at Coal Mine. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What amenities are available at Coal Mine?

Coal Mine offers: Restrooms. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Coal Mine?

Popular activities at Coal Mine include Hiking. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Coal Mine

Q: Can I have a campfire at Coal Mine?

Fire policies at Coal Mine: Don't Move Firewood: Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by obtaining firewood near your destination and burning it on-site. For more information visit dontmovefirewood.org.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.10

67 reviews

1800 LOBO CANYON RD, GRANTS, NM, USA 87020

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

7,400 ft

Price

$10/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

12 campsites

Season

Open from May 15 to ...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Book on Cibola National Forest Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

7,400 ft

Price

$10/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

12 campsites

Season

Open from May 15 to ...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Book on Cibola National Forest Official Website

Get Directions

Coal Mine

$10.00 - $10.00 / night

Campsite Fees

RV NONELECTRIC: $10.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

Standard Site Fee$10.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

505-287-8833

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

1800 LOBO CANYON RD, GRANTS, NM, USA 87020

Coal Mine

1800 LOBO CANYON RD, GRANTS, NM, USA 87020

Nearby places

Grants (12 miles, approximately 15 minutes)

Weather at Coal Mine

Current alerts(2)

Click here for more information on the Cibola National Forest
Drinking water is not available

Best Time to Camp at Coal Mine

Best season: summer. Summer offers the most reliable mild weather and fullest access to trails and facilities at this 7,400-ft forest campground — expect daytime highs roughly 65–80°F and nighttime lows in the 35–50°F range. Long daylight hours and cool mountain days make hiking, wildlife viewing, and stargazing especially pleasant; mid‑July through August also brings afternoon monsoon showers that freshen the forest and lower daytime temperatures. Crowds are moderate (weekends busier, weekdays quiet), so you can享 a Peak months: July, August, September, June Avoid: November, December, January, February

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Summer temps 65–80°F; campground popular in summer and is open during this season.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 15 to October 14. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open from May 15 to October 14 annually.

About Coal Mine

Coal Mine Campground sits in Cibola National Forest near Grants, New Mexico, at 7,400 feet elevation. This Forest Service campground offers small-scale tent, RV, and primitive camping with vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables. Visitors come for quiet forest atmosphere, stargazing, and hiking access during the seasonal operating window.

Coal Mine Campground primarily caters to primitive camping experiences, offering facilities for both RV and tent camping. No utility hookups or luxury accommodations are provided, making it ideal for those seeking a rustic, back-to-nature experience.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers the most reliable mild weather and fullest access to trails and facilities at this 7,400-ft forest campground — expect daytime highs roughly 65–80°F and nighttime lows in the 35–50°F range. Long daylight hours and cool mountain days make hiking, wildlife viewing, and stargazing especially pleasant; mid‑July through August also brings afternoon monsoon showers that freshen the forest and lower daytime temperatures. Crowds are moderate (weekends busier, weekdays quiet), so you can享 a Peak months: July, August, September, June Avoid: November, December, January, February

Elevation7400 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground occupies a forested transition zone where ponderosa pines mix with juniper and oak at 7,400 feet. The gently rolling terrain sits above sedimentary and volcanic geology visible in the distance. Canopy cover varies by site. Some campers report finding level ground challenging for larger tents. The forest creates good conditions for stargazing when skies are clear, and wildlife sightings are common according to visitor feedback.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodging is available on-site.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are described.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Each site accommodates up to 10 people.

Groups

Group camping facilities are not explicitly described.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.

AccessibilityThe campground offers accessible vault toilets, and some parking spurs are paved, accommodating individuals with mobility needs.

Site SizeSites are described as spacious and can accommodate up to 10 people per site. Some sites are suitable for small tents, but larger tents may face challenges in finding level ground. Driveways can fit trailers up to about 22 feet in length.

PrivacyPrivacy levels vary, with most sites being described as "secluded" and "quiet." Some, however, are closer to neighboring sites or roads.

Total Campsites12 campsites

Recommended SitesBack-in spaces are recommended for smaller RVs and trailers. Sites with mature trees are ideal for shade and hammock camping.

Best CampsitesSites #002, #005, #010, and #011 receive specific mentions in reviews for shade and privacy. Most sites are described as secluded, though some sit closer to roads or neighboring campers. Driveways accommodate trailers up to about 22 feet.

Need help booking Coal Mine?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

Drinking water is not available in the campground; visitors must bring their own supply.

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Coal Mine Campground provides limited but enjoyable recreational opportunities. The main attraction is the Coal Mine Canyon Nature Trail, a scenic half-mile trail beginning at the campground. The nearby Sandia and Manzano Mountains offer scenic drives and additional hiking. Wildlife viewing is possible in the surrounding forested area. While no formal programs or organized activities are described, the natural setting and nearby attractions provide plenty of exploratory potential.

Hiking

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Fire PolicyDon't Move Firewood: Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by obtaining firewood near your destination and burning it on-site. For more information visit dontmovefirewood.org.

Trash & RecyclingTrash facilities are not explicitly mentioned, though some reviews highlight issues with trash left by previous campers. Campers are expected to pack out their trash.

Cell CoverageCell phone service is limited. Verizon service is described as "almost nonexistent," with occasional 1-2 bars of 1x signal. Texting is reportedly unreliable. T-Mobile reception is unavailable. Some campers report success with boosters for limited internet access.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.1

67 reviews

Satisfactory

Coal Mine is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

Coal Mine Campground is widely appreciated for its serene atmosphere, cleanliness, and proximity to natural attractions. While many reviewers praise its quietness and scenic beauty, some raise concerns about occasional noise from large groups and issues with trash left behind by other campers.

Review Summaries

Based on 67 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 67 reviews.

Site 006Loved
Site 006 is highlighted as desirable for its shade and space, though some reviewers note challenges with leveling trailers.
Site 011Mentioned
Site 011 is noted for convenience in backing in larger vehicles.
Site 002Issues noted
Site 002 is described as excellent, though tall vehicles faced issues with tree growth.

What Campers Love

Positive aspects include clean and accessible vault toilets, well-maintained campsites with fire pits and grills, and scenic surroundings. Many reviewers highlight the peaceful atmosphere and the...

Based on 67 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include the lack of drinking water, occasional noise disturbances from large groups, and issues with trash not being properly disposed of by some campers. Limited cell service is...

Based on 67 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers should bring their own water, as none is available on-site. Reviews recommend early arrival for the best site selection, especially on busy weekends. Visitors should be prepared for a lack of...

Based on 67 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is most popular during summer months when weather conditions are favorable. Winter closures limit access during colder months. Noise levels may increase during holiday weekends,...

Based on 67 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Awesome little campground by Mt. Taylor. Plenty of camping spots, super clean and well maintained." - Jeremy Meeks. "Sites are mostly spread out and secluded. Nice area." - Jeremy Stephens....

Based on 67 reviews

Accessibility Features

Vault toilets are described as accessible, and some paved parking spurs make the campground partially suitable for individuals with disabilities. No other specific accessibility features are noted.

Based on 67 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Reviews do not provide specific information regarding pet policies or experiences with pets.

Based on 67 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

You want quiet mountain camping with stargazing and hiking access at a seasonal Forest Service site.

Skip if

You need a camp host, hookups, or want to avoid occasional generator noise from other campers.

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Campgrounds

Cibola National Forest and Grasslands

Coal Mine

From the U.S. Forest Service

Reference information about Coal Mine sourced from official USFS records and forestcamping.com. View official recreation.gov page →

Overview

<p>The campground is located in a setting of pinon, juniper, gambel oak, and mature ponderosa pine trees, approximately 10 miles northeast of Grants.  A loop road winds through the area providing access to the campsites and the 0.25 mile nature trail.  A historic bridge built by the Job Corps in 1967-1968 provides entrance to the trail.  The 11,301 feet peak of Mount Taylor, the highest point in northwest New Mexico, can be seen if you drive past the campground on State Highway 547 (FR239).  Remember to pay attention to road conditions and your vehicle's abilities before driving off of the main road.  </p><p><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="800" src="https://cdn.recreation.gov/widget/fs/camping/index.html?id=231886" width="100%"></iframe></p>

Open Season: May 15 – October 15