Juniper Campground (Quemado Lake)

5 Smokey Bear Circle, P.O. Box 170, Reserve, NM 87830

Escape to Apache Creek Campground, where time slows down beneath a cathedral of towering Ponderosa pines in the Gila National Forest's pristine northwest corner. This rustic hideaway offers an authentic back-to-nature experience, where the only sounds you'll hear are birdsong and wind whispering through ancient trees. Once home to hardworking Civilian Conservation Corps crews, today's visitors find solace in its quiet, clean sites scattered through well-shaded groves. Wildlife roams freely here—don't be surprised to spot deer at dawn or hear elk bugling in the distance.

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

Perched along the legendary Continental Divide National Scenic Trail, Valle Tio Vinces Campground offers adventurous souls a rustic mountain retreat where simplicity meets spectacular scenery. This partially developed gem provides essential amenities including vault toilets, sturdy picnic tables, and spacious horse corrals for equestrian explorers. True to its backcountry spirit, visitors should come prepared with their own water supply and pack-out provisions, as the campground embraces a leave-no-trace philosophy without potable water or trash services.

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Hidden like a treasured secret among towering ponderosa pines, Armijo Springs Campground offers an escape into nature's embrace. This partially developed mountain retreat combines the rustic charm of wilderness camping with thoughtful amenities for group gatherings. Picture afternoons filled with friendly volleyball matches and horseshoe tournaments beneath the pine-scented canopy, where cool mountain breezes provide natural air conditioning even on summer's warmest days. This secluded gem invites you to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with the timeless rhythms of the forest.

Gila National Forest

Discover the tranquil El Caso Campgrounds, where ponderosa pines and cottonwoods create a natural cathedral just a quarter-mile east of Piñon Campground. These partially developed sites offer an authentic camping experience in a peaceful valley setting, where an intermittent stream winds through the landscape at the eastern shores of Quemado Lake. Here, you'll find the perfect balance between accessibility and wilderness solitude.

Gila National Forest

Discover your own secret mountain retreat at Piñon Campground, where towering piñon and juniper trees create a natural sanctuary far from the crowds. This hidden gem offers two distinct camping experiences: an intimate family loop perfect for creating memories under starlit skies, and a spacious group area ideal for gatherings near the sparkling waters of Quemado Lake. Here, the gentle whisper of wind through ancient trees replaces the noise of everyday life, offering campers a rare chance to experience the Southwest's untouched wilderness in peaceful solitude.

Gila National Forest

Nestled in the heart of the Quemado Lake recreation area, Pinon Campground offers an enchanting escape into New Mexico's high country. Whether you're seeking a cozy spot for your tent, a spacious RV site, or the comfort of group and premium shelters, this versatile campground welcomes all types of outdoor enthusiasts. Days here unfold with endless possibilities: cast a line into the pristine waters of Quemado Lake, launch your boat for a peaceful morning paddle, or explore winding trails that reveal the forest's hidden treasures. As evening falls, gather around your campfire ring, grill fresh-caught fish on provided grills, and share stories at your picnic table under a canopy of stars. Modern vault toilets ensure comfort while preserving the authentic camping experience.

5 Smokey Bear Circle, P.O. Box 170, Reserve, NM 87830

Gila National Forest

Gila National Forest

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

Gila National Forest