How much does camping cost at Bighorn Campground?

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

Is Bighorn Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Bighorn Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis, as reservations are not required.

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

Yes! Bighorn Campground has 3 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 Bighorn Campground?

Bighorn Campground is open There is no distinct peak season as the campground operates year-round.. 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 Bighorn Campground?

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

Can I have a campfire at Bighorn Campground?

Fire policies at Bighorn Campground: Fire rings are available at each site for campfires.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Bighorn Campground have?

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

Are dogs allowed at Bighorn Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Bighorn Campground. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Bighorn Campground?

Bighorn Campground offers: Restrooms, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Bighorn Campground?

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

Bighorn Campground

3.91

47 reviews

Hwy 180 S, 18 Ranger Station Rd., P.O. Box 8 Glenwood, NM 88309

Top 10% in NMWinter

Featured in:Hiking Camping New Mexico

Quick Facts

4,757 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

6 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

4,757 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

6 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Bighorn Campground

$0.00 - $0.00 / night

Campsite Fees

There is no fee for use of the campground.

No paid fee categories listed.

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USFS

Provider

575-388-8201null

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

Hwy 180 S, 18 Ranger Station Rd., P.O. Box 8 Glenwood, NM 88309

Bighorn Campground

Hwy 180 S, 18 Ranger Station Rd., P.O. Box 8 Glenwood, NM 88309

Nearby places

Glenwood (0.1 miles, approximately 2 minutes by walking)

Silver City (65 miles, approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes by car)

Reserve (30 miles, approximately 35 minutes by car)

Nearby supplies

Glenwood Trading Post (0.1 miles, immediate vicinity)

Silver City (approximately 65 miles for a larger range of supplies)

Weather at Bighorn Campground

Current alert: No active alerts were provided in the source materials.

Best Time to Camp at Bighorn Campground

Fall brings the best conditions. Daytime highs reach the 60s and 70s, nights drop into the 30s and 40s. The piñon-juniper tones warm, bugs thin out, and fire danger drops compared to summer. Trails around the Catwalk and nearby canyons hit their stride for photography and long hikes. Hunting seasons overlap, so wear blaze orange on multi-use routes. Summer heat is intense, making shaded sites especially valuable. Winter brings crisp air and occasional snow.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Fall noted as best: 60s–70s days, cooler nights, thinner bugs and lower fire danger.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: There is no distinct peak season as the campground operates year-round.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open year-round.

About Bighorn Campground

Bighorn Campground sits at 4,757 feet in Gila National Forest, a free, six-site campground near Glenwood and the Catwalk National Recreation Area. Piñon and juniper trees provide shade at some sites, though the campground's proximity to the highway brings road noise. It fills quickly, and campers pack out their own trash.

This is a small, primitive campground offering free camping with minimal facilities. It is mainly suitable for short stays.

Historical Significance

The nearby Mogollon ghost town preserves remnants of the area's mining boom, its weathered buildings marking where fortune seekers and frontier families once lived. The Catwalk National Recreation Area, a short distance away, follows an engineering marvel that once carried water to ore mills. The walkway now runs suspended through a dramatic box canyon.

Weather and SeasonsFall brings the best conditions. Daytime highs reach the 60s and 70s, nights drop into the 30s and 40s. The piñon-juniper tones warm, bugs thin out, and fire danger drops compared to summer. Trails around the Catwalk and nearby canyons hit their stride for photography and long hikes. Hunting seasons overlap, so wear blaze orange on multi-use routes. Summer heat is intense, making shaded sites especially valuable. Winter brings crisp air and occasional snow.

ElevationPerched at 4,757 feet in the transition zone between desert and mountain ecosystems, Bighorn Campground offers a refreshing escape from the heat of lower elevations. This sweet spot elevation delivers noticeably cooler temperatures than the valley floors below, while still maintaining the characteristic high-desert climate that makes southwestern camping so appealing. Here, the thin mountain air carries the scent of piñon pine and the promise of star-filled nights.

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground occupies a transition zone between the Chihuahuan Desert and the Southern Rocky Mountains, where piñon-juniper woodland dominates rocky terrain shaped by volcanic activity and ancient sedimentary layers. A dry creek bed winds through the sites, attracting mule deer at dawn and dusk. Ravens and red-tailed hawks circle overhead, and smaller songbirds move through the trees. The landscape runs to earth tones and twisted, drought-adapted forms.

Geological RegionBighorn Campground showcases the distinctive character of the Gila National Forest's piñon-juniper woodland ecosystem, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape of rugged beauty. This transition zone between the Chihuahuan Desert and the Southern Rocky Mountains creates a unique environment where drought-adapted trees sink deep roots into rocky soils formed over millennia. The surrounding terrain tells a story written in stone, from volcanic remnants to sedimentary layers that speak of prehistoric seas and dramatic uplift.

Scenic ViewsThe area provides a scenic view of the surrounding pinon and juniper-dominated landscape. Some campers have mentioned observing the Milky Way at night.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodging or accommodations are mentioned.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are mentioned.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Open for overnight use.

Check-out

Open for overnight use.

Stay Limit

14 days maximum

Guests Allowed Per Site

Limited to two vehicles per campsite.

Groups

Group camping is not mentioned.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutSix sites sit close to the road, each with a table, fire pit, and grill. Spacing provides some distance between sites, but privacy remains limited given the small footprint. Vault toilets are in poor condition according to multiple reviews.

Reservation PlatformsReservations are not applicable for this campground; however, inquiries can be made through Gila National Forest Supervisors Office at 575-388-8201.

Walk-in AvailabilityThe campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis, as reservations are not required.

Cancellation PolicyCancellation policies are not applicable as reservations are not required.

AccessibilityNo accessibility features are noted in the source material.

Site SizeThe sites appear to be moderately sized, as noted by a user who commented that site #2 was suitable for their 32-ft trailer. Another user mentioned that larger rigs, such as a 36-ft motorhome, might face leveling issues.

PrivacySites are somewhat spaced apart, providing some degree of privacy. A user noted 'good distance between spaces,' but as a small campground, privacy may still be limited.

Total Campsites6 campsites

Recommended SitesAvoid sites 4, 5, and 6 if tent camping due to fire ant infestations.

Best CampsitesSite 2 works for 32-foot trailers. Larger rigs, like 36-foot motorhomes, may face leveling problems. Some sites have fire ant infestations, so check the ground before setting up. Shaded sites go first when the campground fills.

Amenities available

Potable water is not available at this site. Vault toilet

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Activities for campers primarily include access to nearby outdoor attractions. The campground's proximity to Catwalk National Recreation Area is a major highlight, with hiking being the most notable activity.

Hiking

Wildlife viewing

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsSome sites (e.g., sites 4, 5, and 6) have significant fire ant infestations, as noted by campers. Lack of potable water and proximity to the highway might pose minor hazards for some visitors.

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

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 PolicyFire rings are available at each site for campfires.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are not explicitly stated.

Emergency ServicesGlenwood Ranger District (0.1 miles, immediate vicinity); Gila Regional Medical Center in Silver City (65 miles, approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes by car)

Trash & RecyclingUser reviews indicate there are no garbage bins on-site, requiring campers to pack out their trash. Recycling services are not mentioned.

Water FeaturesThe campground is adjacent to a dry creekside.

Cell CoverageCell phone service availability is not mentioned in the information provided.

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

3.9

47 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Bighorn Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

The campground is described as free, basic, and conveniently located near the Catwalk National Recreation Area. Users appreciate its simplicity and proximity to outdoor activities. However, some complaints include road noise, limited shade, and poor toilet conditions.

Review Summaries

Based on 47 reviews

What Campers Love

Proximity to Catwalk National Recreation Area; free camping; shaded areas in certain sites; bird watching and occasional wildlife viewing; functional facilities such as fire pits and picnic tables.

Based on 47 reviews

Common Concerns

Proximity to the road leading to traffic noise; lack of potable water; no garbage disposal; poor toilet maintenance; limited facilities for larger RVs due to leveling issues.

Based on 47 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site #2 is recommended for RVs up to 32 ft. Sites 4, 5, and 6 have issues with fire ant hills, making tent camping uncomfortable.

Based on 47 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Arrive early as there are only six sites, and it fills up quickly; be prepared to pack out trash; carry potable water; check for fire ant hills in certain sites.

Based on 47 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Fall and winter seasons seem to be favored due to cooler temperatures. Limited shade and summer heat may make warmer months less ideal. Winter was noted as a better fit by one user: 'Definitely a...

Based on 47 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Great Campsites !! 1/4 Mile from Catwalk National Monument.' 2. 'Nice shady spaces with tables and fire rings.' 3. 'Basic campground, table, firepit and a grill.' 4. 'The Milky Way was visible...

Based on 47 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility concerns are not mentioned by users.

Based on 47 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but they must be leashed. Specific reviews on pet-related experiences are not provided.

Based on 47 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

Be the first to review this campground

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Go if

Hikers targeting the Catwalk National Recreation Area who can arrive early and pack in water. Site #2 works for RVs up to 32 feet. Fall is the clear sweet spot: 60s and 70s during the day, thin bugs, good light for canyon photography.

Skip if

Bring a tent and plan to camp near sites 4, 5, or 6? Fire ant colonies are a real problem there. The vault toilets are in rough shape, there's no potable water, and highway noise carries all night. Campers who've felt unwelcome in small, rural New Mexico communities may find the

Nearby Campgrounds

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Cosmic Campground International Dark Sky Sanctuary

4.4

(217)

Cosmic Campground International Dark Sky Sanctuary

Hwy 180 S, 18 Ranger Station Rd., P.O. Box 8 Glenwood, NM 88309

Cosmic Campground sits at 5,364 feet in Gila National Forest, certified as North America's first International Dark Sky Sanctuary and one of only 14 worldwide. The 12-site campground (six RV back-ins, six tent sites) exists for one purpose: viewing the night sky without light pollution. Dispersed camping is available along the entrance road for visitors who want more space.

Bighorn Campground

Quick Facts

Quick Facts

Get Notified When Available

Plan a trip to Bighorn Campground

Campground Map

Weather at Bighorn Campground

Best Time to Camp at Bighorn Campground

Planning Tips

About Bighorn Campground

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Amenities available

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews

Go if

Skip if

Overview

Plan a trip to Bighorn Campground

Best Time to Camp at Bighorn Campground

Planning Tips

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Amenities available

Activities you can enjoy

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews