Hughes Mill Campground
01 reviewQuick Facts
8,100 ftPrice
Free
Booking
Walk-in Only
Sites
2 campsites
Season
No notes
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
Quick Facts
8,100 ftPrice
Free
Booking
Walk-in Only
Sites
2 campsites
Season
No notes
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
Hughes Mill Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
No fees are explicitly stated for campsites. It is probable that this campground operates as a free-use site.
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
Total Campsite Fees$0.00
Get Notified When Available
We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.
Free with account · Checks every 2 minutes
167,000+ sites monitored · Email, SMS, or in-app notifications
Share this campground
USFS
ProviderWhat Campers Say
N/A
Limited Reviews
Based on 1 reviews
1 Google reviews
Most mentioned
hiking
"The campground is generally viewed as a functional base for hiking, but it lacks standout features or extensive amenities."
Fees & Passes at Hughes Mill Campground
Free
Campsite fees
Stay Limit: Nothing
Prices verified November 17, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official reservation website.
Best Time to Camp at Hughes Mill Campground
At over 8,000 feet elevation, Hughes Mill experiences dramatic seasonal shifts that transform the landscape throughout the year. Summer brings warm days perfect for hiking, though afternoon thunderstorms can roll in quickly across the peaks. Fall paints the mountainsides in golden aspens and crisp, clear skies. Winter blankets the area in snow, creating a pristine wonderland for those equipped for cold-weather camping. Spring arrives late at this elevation, with wildflowers emerging as snow melts into rushing streams.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm days. Most facilities open. Reserve ahead.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: No data. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: No notes
About Hughes Mill Campground
Perched high in the rugged terrain of New Mexico, Hughes Mill beckons adventurous souls seeking an authentic backcountry experience. This challenging trail system has earned its reputation among seasoned hikers and dispersed camping enthusiasts who relish the raw beauty of the wilderness. As you begin your journey, the majestic Withington Lookout dominates the horizon from the trailhead, offering a breathtaking preview of the mountain vistas that await those brave enough to tackle this demanding terrain.
Hughes Mill Campground is a small, remote camping area offering primitive and dispersed camping opportunities.
Historical SignificanceThe Hughes Mill area carries whispers of New Mexico's rich past, from ancient indigenous peoples who traversed these mountain passes to the later settlers who established mills and mining operations in these remote highlands. The trail itself follows historic routes that connected isolated mountain communities, and remnants of the area's industrial heritage can still be discovered by observant hikers exploring off the beaten path.
Weather and SeasonsAt over 8,000 feet elevation, Hughes Mill experiences dramatic seasonal shifts that transform the landscape throughout the year. Summer brings warm days perfect for hiking, though afternoon thunderstorms can roll in quickly across the peaks. Fall paints the mountainsides in golden aspens and crisp, clear skies. Winter blankets the area in snow, creating a pristine wonderland for those equipped for cold-weather camping. Spring arrives late at this elevation, with wildflowers emerging as snow melts into rushing streams.
ElevationAt a breathtaking 8,100 feet above sea level, Hughes Mill Campground offers visitors a true high-altitude adventure. This significant elevation places you among the clouds, where the air is crisp and thin, and the views stretch endlessly across the surrounding peaks and valleys. The altitude creates a unique ecosystem where hardy mountain flora thrives and wildlife adapted to the harsh conditions makes their home.
Natural Features and SceneryThe ecological tapestry of Hughes Mill showcases the diverse beauty of high-elevation environments. Ancient ponderosa pines give way to stands of aspen that shimmer in the mountain breeze, while meadows burst with wildflowers during the brief summer season. Rocky outcroppings provide perfect vantage points for spotting golden eagles soaring on thermal currents, and the pristine mountain streams support delicate ecosystems teeming with life. This untouched wilderness offers photographers and nature enthusiasts endless opportunities to witness the raw beauty of the American Southwest.
Geological RegionNestled within the magnificent Cibola National Forest at 8,100 feet elevation, Hughes Mill occupies a fascinating geological crossroads where ancient volcanic activity meets sedimentary formations millions of years in the making. The forest's ecological significance extends far beyond its boundaries, serving as a critical watershed and wildlife corridor in the Sky Islands region of New Mexico. This unique positioning creates diverse microclimates and habitats that support an extraordinary array of plant and animal species found nowhere else in the Southwest.
Advertisement
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo information is provided about accessibility features for campers with disabilities.
Sites SizeThe campground provides two designated sites and dispersed camping areas.
Sites PrivacyNo explicit details on privacy; however, some user reviews indicate occasional noise issues, especially during busier times.
Total Campsites2 campsites
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
Reveal picks
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Nothing
Groups
No group sites are specifically mentioned.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Open and Closed SeasonNo notes
Walk-in AvailabilityNo info
Activities you can enjoy
Hughes Mill Campground offers limited recreational opportunities primarily centered around hiking and picnicking.
Hiking
The campground serves as a trailhead for a challenging seven-mile hike to the Mt. Withington Lookout. The trail is described as 'tough' and suitable for experienced hikers.Winter Activities
No specific details on winter recreation are provided.Water Sports
No non-motorized water sport opportunities are documented.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
Hazards
Weather at Hughes Mill Campground
45
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 20%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 11.1 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
Powered by AI weather analysis
Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
Emergency services location is not clearly detailed.
Good to know
Peak season datesNo data
Trash and recyclingNo details about trash or recycling facilities are provided.
Campground Map
Driving directions26 miles southwest of Magdalena via US 60 & FR 549
Access involves driving 26 miles on US Highway 60 and Forest Road 549. Type of road surface and seasonal access restrictions are not explicitly mentioned.Nearby places
Magdalena is the nearest city, located approximately 26 miles away.
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are not specified.
Reviews from booking and map sources
0.0
1 reviews
Hughes Mill Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground is generally viewed as a functional base for hiking, but it lacks standout features or extensive amenities.
Review Summaries
Based on 1 reviews
What Campers Love
The campground’s proximity to the trailhead for Mt. Withington Lookout is highly appreciated by hikers. 'Good spot to start your hiking' is a common sentiment.
Based on 1 reviewsCommon Concerns
Some users expressed concerns about the noise level, with mentions of 'drunkards,' particularly during busy periods.
Based on 1 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers should be prepared for a lack of potable water and carry sufficient supplies. It may be quieter during weekdays or less busy seasons.
Based on 1 reviewsSeasonal Insights
No specific seasonal trends were discussed in user reviews, but the lack of water and potential noise issues might make off-peak visits preferable.
Based on 1 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'The campground isn't anything special, but it's a good spot to start your hiking.' 2. 'Sometimes it's busy and noisy from the drunkards but usually it's not too bad.'
Based on 1 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
There are only two designated sites and dispersed camping areas. No specific reviews on individual sites are available.
Based on 1 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically addressing accessibility were found.
Based on 1 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No user reviews or data on pet policies were available.
Based on 1 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
0
0 review
1
2
3
4
5
Last updated November 17, 2025
Advertisement