How much does camping cost at Head Of The Ditch Campground?

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

What is the best time to visit Head Of The Ditch Campground?

Head Of The Ditch Campground is open Usually busy during the Luna Pioneer Days and Rodeo weekend (third weekend of July).. 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 Head Of The Ditch Campground?

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

Can I have a campfire at Head Of The Ditch Campground?

Fire policies at Head Of The Ditch Campground: Fire policies are not specifically mentioned.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Head Of The Ditch Campground have?

Head Of The Ditch Campground has 5 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Arrive early for the best site selection.

Are dogs allowed at Head Of The Ditch Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Head Of The Ditch 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 Head Of The Ditch Campground?

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

What activities can I do at Head Of The Ditch Campground?

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

Head Of The Ditch Campground

Q: Is Head Of The Ditch Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Head Of The Ditch Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. All sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Campground fills up quickly during Luna Pioneer Days and Rodeo weekend.

4.22

41 reviews

#3 Lyle Loop, P.O. Box 159 Quemado, NM 87829

Featured in:Hidden Gem Campgrounds New Mexico

Quick Facts

7,187 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

5 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

7,187 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

5 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Head Of The Ditch 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

575-773-4678

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

#3 Lyle Loop, P.O. Box 159 Quemado, NM 87829

Head Of The Ditch Campground

#3 Lyle Loop, P.O. Box 159 Quemado, NM 87829

Nearby places

Luna (1.5 miles, approximately 5 minutes), Alpine, AZ (distance unspecified, amenities include stores and restaurants)

Nearby supplies

The nearest supplies are available in Luna, NM, which has a small store and restaurant (closed from November to spring). Additional amenities are available in Alpine, AZ.

Driving directionsFrom Luna, NM go west on US Hwy 180 approximately 1.5 miles. The campground is marked with a blue campground sign and is on the left side of the road.

The campground is located directly off US Highway 180, approximately 1.5 miles west of Luna, NM. It is marked with a blue campground sign and is easily accessible year-round. Roads leading to the site are paved and suitable for passenger vehicles.

Weather at Head Of The Ditch Campground

Best Time to Camp at Head Of The Ditch Campground

Fall stands out here. Cottonwoods and oaks turn gold through September and October, with daytime highs in the mid-40s to low-70s°F and nights dropping near or below freezing by late October. River flows stay healthy for wildlife viewing, afternoon monsoon storms taper off compared to summer, and crowds remain light. The campground stays open year-round, though winter brings snow and subfreezing temperatures. Summer offers a cooler mountain retreat from desert heat. Spring brings snowmelt and wildflowers.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Fall is highlighted: cottonwoods and oaks turn gold, ideal temps and scenic conditions in Sept–Oct.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Usually busy during the Luna Pioneer Days and Rodeo weekend (third weekend of July).. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Year-round operation.

About Head Of The Ditch Campground

Head of the Ditch Campground sits in Luna Valley at 7,187 feet, where the San Francisco River meets the historic ditch that early settlers built for irrigation. The campground has 5 small, rustic sites with vault toilets and picnic tables. It's free. Pines, cottonwoods, willows, and oaks create a mix of shade and open meadow, though the sites themselves are mostly exposed except for a few spots near the creek.

Head of the Ditch Campground caters to primitive camping, tent camping, and RV camping. Group camping and cabin lodging are not explicitly mentioned.

Historical Significance

The campground marks the spot where early settlers first diverted the San Francisco River for irrigation, a water-rights landmark in the American West. It later became the home of the Luna New Mexico Barter Faire, a gathering point for counterculture communities trading goods and building community under the stars.

Weather and SeasonsFall stands out here. Cottonwoods and oaks turn gold through September and October, with daytime highs in the mid-40s to low-70s°F and nights dropping near or below freezing by late October. River flows stay healthy for wildlife viewing, afternoon monsoon storms taper off compared to summer, and crowds remain light. The campground stays open year-round, though winter brings snow and subfreezing temperatures. Summer offers a cooler mountain retreat from desert heat. Spring brings snowmelt and wildflowers.

ElevationPerched at 7,187 feet in New Mexico's high country, Head of the Ditch offers that perfect mountain elevation where the air feels crisp and clean, yet breathing comes easy. This sweet spot above 7,000 feet means cooler temperatures year-round, spectacular star-gazing through thinner atmosphere, and that distinctive pine-scented mountain air that makes every breath feel like meditation.

Natural Features and SceneryThe San Francisco River runs through the campground, feeding the irrigation ditch that gave this place its name. Cottonwoods and willows cluster along the water. Ponderosa pines and oaks fill out the rest of the canopy. The valley sits at a geological intersection where volcanic origins meet sedimentary layers, creating the fertile soils that support this tree diversity. The creek-side sites offer slightly more seclusion than the open meadow areas. Clear night skies get mentioned in reviews.

Geological RegionHead of the Ditch sits at a remarkable confluence where water, rock, and time have sculpted Luna Valley into a high-altitude oasis. The campground marks the precise point where early settlers first diverted the San Francisco River's flow, recognizing this natural geography as ideal for irrigation. The surrounding landscape tells a story millions of years in the making – volcanic origins meet sedimentary layers, creating the fertile soils that support the remarkable diversity of trees. From your campsite, you're witnessing the intersection of geological forces and human ingenuity that defines the American Southwest.

Scenic ViewsCampers can enjoy scenic views within the valley, with tranquil streamside areas featuring tall trees and open spaces. Some reviews also mention a creek running through the site.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodge or other accommodations are mentioned for this campground.

Programs & ActivitiesNo mention of cultural or educational programs is provided.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

14 days

Guests Allowed Per Site

Limit of two vehicles per campsite.

Groups

No group camping features or details are provided.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutFive small sites split between a large open meadow and shaded spots near the creek. Most sites are exposed. Some reviews mention trash and long-term occupancy issues, plus construction work nearby at times.

Reservation PlatformsNo reservations are required or available.

Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Campground fills up quickly during Luna Pioneer Days and Rodeo weekend.

Cancellation PolicyNo reservation system in place; therefore no cancellation policy applies.

Site SizeCampsites are described as small and rustic.

PrivacyCampsites are mostly open; however, creek-side sites offer slightly more seclusion.

Total Campsites5 campsites

Recommended SitesReviews recommend creek-side campsites for their privacy and scenic beauty. Avoid areas affected by construction.

Best CampsitesCreek-side sites are the most sought-after according to reviews. They offer more privacy than the open areas and put you closest to the river.

Amenities available

Head of the Ditch Campground offers a rustic, streamside camping experience in a scenic valley with shady campsites amidst pine, oak, cottonwood, and willow trees. The campground is located at the head of an irrigation ditch, providing a unique backdrop. Facilities include 5 picnic tables and restrooms. However, potable water is not available, and trash service is not provided, so campers must pack in/pack out. The campground is marked with a blue sign along US Highway 180, making it easily accessible.

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Head of the Ditch Campground offers a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing. Users have noted the beautiful nature and trails surrounding the campground, with frequent mentions of clear night skies for stargazing.

Hiking

Biking

Wildlife viewing

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsConstruction work at the creek has been noted in reviews, which may limit access to certain areas. Wildlife activity may require precautions.

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 are provided, but specific details about their type or cleanliness are limited.

Fire PolicyFire policies are not specifically mentioned.

Emergency ServicesClosest emergency services are provided through the Quemado Ranger District. Address: #3 Lyle Loop, P.O. Box 159 Quemado, NM 87829. Contact phone: (575) 773-4678.

Trash & RecyclingTrash service is not provided at this campground. Users must pack in/pack out their waste.

Water FeaturesThe San Francisco River runs through the campground, providing a rustic streamside ambiance.

Camp HostNo host availability is mentioned.

Cell CoverageNo explicit details regarding cell phone service coverage or quality are 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

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Tips from campers

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.2

41 reviews

Satisfactory

Head Of The Ditch Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews of Head of the Ditch Campground highlight its rustic charm, beautiful nature, and quiet surroundings. However, some users expressed concerns about cleanliness, long-term campsite occupation, and trash issues.

Review Summaries

Based on 41 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive reviews emphasize the campground's scenic beauty, peaceful environment, clear night skies, and creek-side campsites. "Just a beautiful campground!" - User review by D Lummus.

Based on 41 reviews

Common Concerns

Negative feedback includes reports of dirty restrooms, lack of lighting in facilities, trash accumulation, and concerns about sites being occupied longer than the permitted 14-day limit. "Pretty...

Based on 41 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Creek-side campsites are particularly praised for their beauty and privacy by user reviews. Construction near the creek may limit accessibility, as noted in Leigh Evans' review.

Based on 41 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Users recommend bringing all necessary supplies, as there is no potable water or trash service. Creek-side sites offer more privacy. Visitors should be aware of construction work in the area and...

Based on 41 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Reviews highlight that the campground can be very quiet during off-peak periods, such as winter. Summer visits are marked by frequent rain, as noted by user reviews, and July can be crowded due to...

Based on 41 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Campground is extremely clean... We usually fill bags of garbage, only filled one, and it took an hour." - User review by Bill Bailey. "It was very quiet last night as there were no other people...

Based on 41 reviews

Accessibility Features

No reviews specifically addressing accessibility features are available.

Based on 41 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed but must be leashed; no specific reviews focused on pet-related experiences are available.

Based on 41 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

Fall campers chasing cottonwood and oak color along the San Francisco River will find the creek-side sites genuinely beautiful, and the free price tag with no reservation headache makes a spontaneous October stop easy to justify.

Skip if

Trash accumulation and dirty, unlit vault toilets are recurring complaints, and with no potable water, no host, and sites sometimes squatted well past the 14-day limit, the logistics can outweigh the scenery for anyone expecting maintained facilities.

Nearby Campgrounds

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Upper Blue Campground sits beneath high bluffs in the Blue River Valley of Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, near Alpine at 6,237 feet elevation. The campground has just three primitive sites, two with Adirondack-style shelters. Reviewers consistently mention the scenic location and cleanliness, though some have found trash left by previous campers.

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Alpine Divide Campground sits at 8,500 feet in a ponderosa pine grove at the base of Escudilla Mountain, within Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest near Alpine. This small campground offers four sites with picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets. Fees run $5-10 per night. The location is convenient but comes with highway noise, and half the sites have been closed for disrepair.

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Less Visited

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Cottonwood Campground

West side of US Highway 180, between mileposts 23 and 24, north of Glenwood, NM

Cottonwood Campground sits at 5,816 feet along US Highway 180 in the Gila National Forest, offering four campsites for tents, small RVs, and primitive camping. The small campground is clean and inexpensive, though its location right off the highway means road noise trades off against easy access. No potable water on-site.

$0.00 - $0.00 / night

Less Visited

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Pueblo Park Campground

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$0.00 - $0.00 / night

Less Visited

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Diamond Rock Campground

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Diamond Rock Campground sits at 7,890 feet in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, overlooking the East Fork of the Black River gorge. The 12 sites include three Adirondack-style shelters built by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Fees run $7–$14 per night, and there's no cell service.

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Aspen Campground - East Fork Black River

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Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest

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$7.00 - $14.00 / night

Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest

Raccoon Campground sits at 7,600 feet in Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest near Alpine, where the East Fork creek winds through a forested mountain valley. The single tent site runs $7-14 per night and offers fishing access along a weekly-stocked stream. Camp hosts maintain the site well, though road proximity kicks up dust.

$7.00 - $14.00 / night

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Apache Creek Campground

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Horse Springs Campground

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Horse Springs Campground sits at 7,610 feet in the East Fork valley of Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, offering 27 tent sites among ponderosa pines near Alpine. Sites cost $8-16 per night and include vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables. The East Fork river runs close enough to hear from most spots.

27 campsites

Tents

33.23 km

$8.00 - $16.00 / night

Campgrounds

Gila National Forest

Head Of The Ditch Campground

From the U.S. Forest Service

Reference information about Head Of The Ditch Campground sourced from official USFS records and forestcamping.com. View official recreation.gov page →

Overview

This campground offers an easily accessible rustic streamside camping experience amongst tall pinesHead of the Ditch Campground is located in a scenic valley approximately 1.5 miles west of historic Luna, New Mexico on US Highway 180. The campground is marked with a blue campground sign, not with a Forest Service campground sign. Water from the San Francisco River which runs through the campground is used for irrigation in Luna Valley. The campground is located at the head of the irrigation ditch which gives Head of the Ditch Campground its name. The campground has a large open area and shady campsites with pine, oak, cottonwood, and willow trees.