Iron Gate Campground

Star4.42
37 reviews

Quick Facts

9,000 ft

Price

$4/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

14 campsites

Season

May to November, wea...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Opens Santa Fe National Forest site

Official Website
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Iron Gate Campground
$4.00 - $4.00 / night
Campsite Fees
$4.00 per night per vehicle.
Standard Site Fee$4.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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What Campers Say

4.42

Recommended

Based on 37 reviews

32 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewspeacefulhiking

Some mention

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"User reviews of Iron Gate Campground vary significantly. While some campers praise the tranquility, stunning views, and suitability for hiking and horseback riding, others criticize the rough access road, lack of privacy, and poor maintenance, especially regarding trash bins."

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Campground Map

Iron Gate Campground

35.8399, -105.6203

Driving directions23 miles north of Pecos on NM 63 and FR 223. Forest Road 223 is very rough and not recommended for low clearance vehicles or RVs.
Forest Road 223 is described as "rough and not recommended for low clearance vehicles." It may become muddy after rains, as noted in user reviews. The approach road is challenging, as RVs cannot make it up the road.

Best Time to Camp at Iron Gate Campground

From May through November, Iron Gate welcomes visitors to experience the dramatic beauty of high-altitude camping. Spring arrives late at this elevation, often bringing lingering snow patches and crisp mornings that give way to warm afternoons. Summer offers perfect hiking weather with cool nights that demand a warm sleeping bag. As autumn approaches, golden aspens paint the landscape while early snow may dust the peaks. The dry mountain air and afternoon thunderstorms create ever-changing skies, while occasional rain transforms dirt roads into temporary mud tracks—a small price for accessing this mountain paradise.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Open in summer (May–Nov); great hiking though flies can be a nuisance in warm months.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Aspen presence and November opening suggest excellent fall color and vistas.

Spring(Mar-May)
2.0 / 5

Late snow, lingering patches and muddy/rough roads make spring less reliable.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground closed outside May–Nov; winter camping not available.

Planning Tips
  • Operating Season: May to November, weather permitting.

About Iron Gate Campground

Perched high in the mountains above 9,000 feet, Iron Gate Campground serves as your gateway to the magnificent Pecos Wilderness. This intimate mountain retreat offers 14 well-appointed campsites, each equipped with sturdy tables and fire pit grills where evening stories and s'mores come to life. Modern vaulted toilets and convenient trash facilities ensure comfort without compromising the wilderness experience. For equestrian adventurers, four dedicated horse corrals make this an ideal basecamp for exploring the surrounding trails on horseback or foot, where alpine meadows and pristine forests await discovery.
Iron Gate Campground is a primitive, rustic site that caters to tent campers, horseback riders, and backpackers. It is not suitable for large RVs or glamping.
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Best Campsites

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Amenities available

Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Iron Gate Campground offers outdoor activities primarily catering to hikers, horseback riders, and picnickers. It serves as a gateway to the Pecos Wilderness and provides access to various day hikes and horse trails.
HikingThe campground provides access to trails within the Pecos Wilderness, with Hamilton Mesa being specifically mentioned as spectacular by a reviewer. Hiking options include opportunities for both day hikes and backpacking.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsRoad hazards are frequently mentioned. "Do not attempt with a regular car." Risks include "getting stuck" or "bottoming out your vehicle."
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Iron Gate Campground

Reviews

4.4
37 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Iron Gate Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of Iron Gate Campground vary significantly. While some campers praise the tranquility, stunning views, and suitability for hiking and horseback riding, others criticize the rough access road, lack of privacy, and poor maintenance, especially regarding trash bins.
Review Summaries
Based on 37 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive feedback emphasizes the campground's beautiful views, peaceful setting, and excellent access to hiking trails like Hamilton Mesa. One reviewer described it as their 'all-time favorite...
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Based on 37 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include the rough and muddy access roads, lack of privacy at campsites, trash bin overflow, and pest issues such as flies. One reviewer noted, 'Road is almost impassable. Risk...
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Based on 37 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend using high-clearance or 4-wheel-drive vehicles to navigate the rough access road. Additionally, bringing potable water is essential as none is available at the site.
Based on 37 reviews

Seasonal Insights

During rainy seasons, the road conditions deteriorate significantly, making it challenging for low-clearance vehicles. In warmer weather, flies have been reported as a nuisance.
Based on 37 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'My all-time favorite campground in NM. Gorgeous views and peaceful because RVs can’t make it up the crazy approach road.' - Mala Htun 2. 'Beautiful camping spot. We arrived at night and were...
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Based on 37 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

The campground's sites are described as small and not private, with proximity to a parking lot being a downside according to some reviewers.
Based on 37 reviews

Accessibility Features

No reviews specifically address accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 37 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No reviews specifically address pet policies or experiences with pets.
Based on 37 reviews

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Last updated January 5, 2026
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