How much does camping cost at Springtime Campground?

Camping fees at Springtime Campground range from Free. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Fees are typically paid at the campground entrance.

Can I see photos of campsites at Springtime Campground before I book?

Yes! Springtime Campground has 12 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 Springtime Campground?

Springtime Campground is open null. 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 Springtime Campground?

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

Can I have a campfire at Springtime Campground?

Fire policies at Springtime Campground: Fire pits are available at each site, as noted in a user review: 'They have fire pits for each site.'. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Springtime Campground have?

Springtime Campground has 6 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Arrive early for the best site selection.

Are dogs allowed at Springtime Campground?

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

What amenities are available at Springtime Campground?

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

What activities can I do at Springtime Campground?

Popular activities at Springtime Campground include Hiking, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Springtime Campground

Q: Is Springtime Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Springtime Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. The 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.'

3.85

30 reviews

203 First St., Magdalena, NM 87825

Featured in:Hiking Camping New Mexico

Quick Facts

7,441 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

6 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

7,441 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

6 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Springtime Campground

$0.00 - $0.00 / night

Campsite Fees

The campground is free to use, as noted in a user review: 'This place is free so it's really nice.'

No paid fee categories listed.

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

256,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

USFS

Provider

575-854-2281null

I manage this campground

Plan a trip to Springtime Campground

Compare with similar sites, watch availability, and build a packing list — Camp Sage handles all of it.

Campground Map

203 First St., Magdalena, NM 87825

Springtime Campground

203 First St., Magdalena, NM 87825

Nearby places

Magdalena, NM (approximately 12 miles south)

Nearby supplies

null

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.'

Weather at Springtime Campground

Current alert: No current alerts were mentioned in the authoritative or user reviews.

Best Time to Camp at Springtime Campground

Summer delivers mid-60s to low-80s°F days and 40–50°F nights, with fully melted trails and long daylight for hiking. Occasional afternoon thunderstorms roll through. Winter drops temperatures to 25–30°F with snowfall. Spring transitions between the extremes, typically 40–80°F. The elevation keeps nights cool year-round.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Summer temps mid-60s to low-80s; trails melted and reviewers prefer warm seasons.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: null. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open year-round.

About Springtime Campground

Springtime Campground sits at 7,441 feet in Cibola National Forest, offering six primitive sites with Adirondack shelters and free camping. The rough access road on FR225 demands a high-clearance vehicle, but rewards drivers with a remote basecamp for trails into Apache Kid Wilderness and up to San Mateo Peak Lookout. No water or electricity on-site.

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 Significance

San Mateo Peak Lookout is a historic landmark in the area. The surrounding Apache Kid Wilderness carries its name from frontier-era stories, though specific historical details about the campground itself aren't documented in available records.

Weather and SeasonsSummer delivers mid-60s to low-80s°F days and 40–50°F nights, with fully melted trails and long daylight for hiking. Occasional afternoon thunderstorms roll through. Winter drops temperatures to 25–30°F with snowfall. Spring transitions between the extremes, typically 40–80°F. The elevation keeps nights cool year-round.

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 SceneryMountain peaks and deep forests surround the campground, with recovering vegetation following past wildfires. Recent visitors confirm the forest is greening up with minimal sediment issues. Wildlife sightings include deer, black bears, mountain lions, and free-roaming cattle. The terrain is rugged, with ridges and canyons defining the landscape. San Mateo Peak Lookout provides summit views for hikers willing to make the climb from camp.

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.

Scenic ViewsScenic views of the surrounding mountains and wilderness, providing a visually stimulating drive and a peaceful environment.

Lodging & AccommodationsSpringtime Campground provides only primitive camping accommodations and does not offer lodge or hotel-style facilities.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are mentioned as being offered.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

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 camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutSix sites spread in a secluded arrangement, each with an Adirondack shelter, fire ring, picnic table, and standard spacing. Vault toilets serve the campground. The remote location keeps crowds minimal.

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

Site SizeStandard-sized campsites with Adirondack shelters.

PrivacySites are described as secluded and remote, offering a high degree of privacy.

Total Campsites6 campsites

Recommended SitesAdirondack shelters are available at each site, offering a level gravel foundation and some protection from the elements.

Amenities available

Potable water is not available at this site. Restrooms are not available at this site.

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

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

Wildlife viewing

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include bears, mountain lions, and rough road access. Wildlife sightings are common, and campers must store food securely.

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 at this campground. Restrooms in the form of vault-style latrines are present.

Fire PolicyFire pits are available at each site, as noted in a user review: 'They have fire pits for each site.'

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are null

Emergency ServicesMagdalena Ranger District Office (Address: 203 First St., Magdalena, NM 87825, Phone: 575-854-2281).

Water FeaturesNo nearby water features were mentioned in the source materials.

Cell CoverageCell phone service availability is not explicitly mentioned. User reviews suggest the site is remote, which may imply limited reception.

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

Rate Springtime Campground

Been here? Tap a star to start. Takes about a minute.

Sign-in required only if you want your name on it.

From Booking Sources

3.9

30 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Springtime Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% 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 30 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 30 reviews

Common 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 30 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Specific site numbers are not mentioned, but all sites are equipped with Adirondack shelters, fire pits, and picnic tables.

Based on 30 reviews

Pro 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 30 reviews

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 30 reviews

Camper 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 30 reviews

Accessibility Features

No reviews specifically addressing accessibility features are available.

Based on 30 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pet policies are not discussed in the user reviews.

Based on 30 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

Be the first to review this campground

Every adventure creates another. Share what you learned so the next camper feels a little more prepared heading out.

Go if

Hikers targeting San Mateo Peak Lookout or the Apache Kid Wilderness will find this the ideal basecamp. Every site comes with an Adirondack shelter, fire ring, and real solitude. Summer and fall score best; nights stay cool at elevation even in July.

Skip if

No potable water on-site means you carry everything in. FR225 is genuinely rough, so low-clearance cars and trailers shouldn't attempt it. Bears and mountain lions are active here, and with no host or cell signal, you're on your own if something goes wrong.

Nearby Campgrounds

Less Visited