How much does camping cost at Cherry Creek Campground?

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

Is Cherry Creek Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Cherry Creek Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. First-come, first-served availability with limited sites. Users recommend arriving early to secure a spot.

What is the best time to visit Cherry Creek Campground?

Cherry Creek Campground is open Year-round, but subject to occasional closures in winter due to ice buildup.. 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 Cherry Creek Campground?

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

Can I have a campfire at Cherry Creek Campground?

Fire policies at Cherry Creek Campground: Campfire rings are available; users must bring their own firewood.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Cherry Creek Campground have?

Cherry Creek Campground has 10 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Arrive early for the best site selection.

Are dogs allowed at Cherry Creek Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Cherry Creek 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 Cherry Creek Campground?

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

What activities can I do at Cherry Creek Campground?

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

Cherry Creek Campground

4.46

102 reviews

3005 E Camino del Bosque Silver City, NM 88061

Peace & Quiet

Featured in:Primitive Camping New Mexico Hiking Camping New Mexico RV Camping New Mexico +2 more

Quick Facts

6,800 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

10 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

6,800 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

10 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Cherry Creek Campground

$0.00 - $0.00 / night

Campsite Fees

There are no fees for use. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

No paid fee categories listed.

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USFS

Provider

575-388-8201

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

3005 E Camino del Bosque Silver City, NM 88061

Cherry Creek Campground

3005 E Camino del Bosque Silver City, NM 88061

Nearby places

Silver City: 14 miles (~30 minutes)

Nearby supplies

Silver City has grocery stores, gas stations, and restaurants. Campground users are advised to bring water and firewood.

Weather at Cherry Creek Campground

Current alert: Winter closures due to ice buildup may occur.

Best Time to Camp at Cherry Creek Campground

Fall offers the most reliable conditions. Daytime highs from mid-September through October typically range from the mid-50s to mid-60s°F with nights dropping into the 20s and 30s°F. Trails see less traffic after summer, and elk rutting activity makes wildlife viewing productive. Summer brings cooler mountain air than the desert below but also afternoon thunderstorms. Spring can deliver heavy rains and flash flooding in nearby washes. Winter snow closes or limits access. Late October and November overlap with hunting seasons, which increases activity in the forest.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Aspens turn gold; fall foliage and reliable conditions make autumn a top season.

Planning Tips

Operating Season: Year-round, but subject to occasional closures in winter due to ice buildup.

About Cherry Creek Campground

Cherry Creek Campground offers 10 free campsites tucked into mixed conifer forest at 6,800 feet in the Gila National Forest. Sites accommodate tents and smaller RVs up to 17 feet, with vault toilets, fire rings, picnic tables, and bear lockers. The campground sits along the Trail of the Mountain Spirits Scenic Byway near Silver City.

Cherry Creek Campground provides free, first-come, first-served camping options suitable for tents, small RVs, and pop-ups. Group camping is possible, though there are no designated group sites.

Weather and SeasonsFall offers the most reliable conditions. Daytime highs from mid-September through October typically range from the mid-50s to mid-60s°F with nights dropping into the 20s and 30s°F. Trails see less traffic after summer, and elk rutting activity makes wildlife viewing productive. Summer brings cooler mountain air than the desert below but also afternoon thunderstorms. Spring can deliver heavy rains and flash flooding in nearby washes. Winter snow closes or limits access. Late October and November overlap with hunting seasons, which increases activity in the forest.

ElevationAt nearly 7,000 feet above sea level, Cherry Creek Campground exists in that magical elevation where the air feels lighter and the stars seem closer. Here, summer temperatures rarely climb above the comfortable 70s, while nights require cozy sleeping bags even in July. The thin mountain air carries the scent of pine resin and wildflowers, and on clear mornings, you'll wake to sweeping vistas that stretch across multiple mountain ranges, reminding you just how high you've climbed.

Natural Features and SceneryDense mixed conifer forest surrounds the campground, primarily ponderosa pine with scattered oak and aspen. The setting creates natural shade and a quiet, enclosed atmosphere. Fall brings color as aspens turn gold and oaks shift to bronze and rust tones. Cherry Creek itself runs through the area but often dries up outside of snowmelt season. The forested terrain limits long-distance views but provides a secluded woodland feel. Wildlife includes elk, mule deer, black bears, and javelinas.

Geological RegionDeep within the Gila National Forest, Cherry Creek Campground sits at the intersection of ancient geological forces and modern natural beauty. The surrounding landscape tells a story written in stone and forest, where volcanic activity and erosion have sculpted dramatic ridges and peaceful valleys. This pristine pocket of wilderness along the Trail of the Mountain Spirits Scenic Byway showcases the remarkable diversity of Southwest mountain ecosystems, from towering ponderosa pines to delicate meadow flowers that bloom in protected glades.

Scenic ViewsViews include forested landscapes with occasional sightings of hummingbirds, squirrels, butterflies, and javelinas. Seasonal aesthetics such as autumn foliage enhance the environment.

Lodging & AccommodationsThe campground does not offer hotel-style lodging or accommodations.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are offered.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

14-day consecutive stay limit applies.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Various user reviews suggest site capacity for tents and smaller RVs within approximately 15-22ft.

Groups

While group camping is possible, there are no specific group sites or details on vehicle limits per site.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutThe 10 sites spread along a winding forest road with spacing that provides decent privacy when the campground isn't full. Parking is tight and the road is rough, making access difficult for large RVs or trailers. Sites sit in wooded areas with natural shade.

Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability with limited sites. Users recommend arriving early to secure a spot.

Cancellation PolicyAs reservations are not required, cancellations do not apply.

Site SizeSites vary in size, generally suitable for tents and smaller RVs (up to 17 feet).

PrivacySites are noted to be well-spaced, offering a decent level of privacy. However, some user reviews mention that the proximity to other campers can vary.

Total Campsites10 campsites

Recommended SitesUsers recommend scouting sites for level ground and accessibility before parking.

Best CampsitesSite #1 receives consistent mentions in reviews as the most desirable spot. Sites throughout the campground are well-spaced, though proximity to neighbors varies depending on which sites are occupied.

Amenities available

Cherry Creek Campground offers basic amenities suitable for a rustic camping experience in a serene, wooded environment. The campground provides picnic tables and fire pits at each site, and there are two vault toilets on-site. However, there is no potable water available, so campers must bring their own. Bear-proof trash receptacles are provided for waste disposal. The campground lacks electricity, sewer, and water hookups, making it more suitable for tent camping or small RVs.

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Cherry Creek Campground offers a range of outdoor activities that cater to nature enthusiasts and those seeking a quiet retreat. Activities include hiking, wildlife viewing, and mountain biking.

Hiking

Biking

Wildlife viewing

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include poison ivy, flash floods during heavy rain, and occasional wildlife encounters like javelinas and bears.

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. The campground provides two vault toilets, which are generally clean but may have odor issues, as noted in some user reviews.

Food Storage RequiredBear-proof trash cans available; no mention of dedicated food storage lockers.

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 PolicyCampfire rings are available; users must bring their own firewood.

Emergency ServicesSilver City Ranger District (address: 3005 E Camino del Bosque, Silver City, NM 88061; phone: 575-388-8201) provides supervisory services.

Trash & RecyclingThe campground provides bear-proof trash receptacles for waste disposal. Recycling facilities are not mentioned.

Water FeaturesSeasonal creek runs through the campground but is often dry.

Camp HostRangers check in regularly, especially during periods of fire danger.

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

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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

4.5

102 reviews

Recommended

Cherry Creek Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews highlight the serene environment, spacious sites, and cleanliness of facilities. Positive aspects include the peaceful setting, abundance of trees, and well-maintained vault toilets. Some users noted issues such as the lack of potable water, occasional bear or javelina sightings, and road conditions.

Review Summaries

Based on 102 reviews

What Campers Love

- Free camping - Clean and well-maintained vault toilets - Spacious and shaded campsites - Proximity to hiking trails and scenic views - Wildlife viewing opportunities - Bear-proof trash receptacles

Based on 102 reviews

Common Concerns

- Lack of potable water on-site - No electricity or water hookups - Small campsite sizes not ideal for large RVs or trailers - Occasional odor from vault toilets - Reports of bears and javelinas in...

Based on 102 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site #1 is noted as the best spot by one reviewer: 'I went straight to #1 at Cherry Creek, the best site IMO.'

Based on 102 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

- Bring your own water and firewood (if wood fires are permitted at the time of your visit). - Arrive early to secure a site, especially during peak seasons. - Be prepared for wildlife, including...

Based on 102 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring: Visitors appreciate the blooming wildflowers and cool weather. Summer: Popular for its shaded sites and escape from the heat. Autumn: Colorful foliage makes this season a favorite for scenic...

Based on 102 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Great campsite. No fee. Bathrooms were clean and well stocked.' 2. 'The snorting was from a small pack (4 or 5) of javelinas. They generally just ignore you.' 3. 'No drinking water is available,...

Based on 102 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific user reviews explicitly address accessibility features.

Based on 102 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are welcome but must be leashed. No specific issues or highlights about pets from user reviews.

Based on 102 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

Be the first to review this campground

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Go if

Tent campers and van-lifers who bring their own water will find Site 1 worth the rough access road. Fall is the standout season: elk rutting, aspen color, cooler temps, and fewer people on the trails.

Skip if

RVs over 17 feet won't fit the tight sites or rough road. No water on-site, no hookups at all, vault toilets that reviewers flag for smell, and a creek that runs dry most of the year limit who should rely on this place.

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Campgrounds

Gila National Forest

Cherry Creek Campground

From the U.S. Forest Service

Reference information about Cherry Creek Campground sourced from official USFS records and forestcamping.com. View official recreation.gov page →

Overview

<p>Cherry Creek Campground is a great place for a picnic or overnight camping.</p><p>Cherry Creek is by one of the most scenic parts of the Trail of the Mountain Spirits Scenic ByWay. The campground is located along NM Highway 15 and is surrounded by dense mixed conifer. It is a cool place in the summer for people to enjoy a day's outing or for those wishing to camp overnight. If there has been a little snow during the winter, you will find a trickle of water in the small stream that runs through the campground. In the autumn hillsides turn into a beautiful mosaic of golden aspens, rusty oaks, and bright red sumac. If you are seeking springtime wildflowers, the Cherry Creek CG is the place to stop. You might also see hummingbirds, and ladybug nurseries.</p>