Camping Near Snow Lake

Camping near Snow Lake in the Gila National Forest offers a peaceful, remote experience surrounded by rolling hills, ponderosa pines, and abundant wildlife.

Dispersed camping is also allowed in the surrounding Gila Wilderness for those seeking a more rugged experience. Fishing for Gila trout, hiking, and wildlife viewing are popular activities, and the area is home to elk, deer, and various bird species. Be prepared for rough roads and changing weather conditions, as the area is remote and services are limited.

NM 159 has extremely difficult driving conditions from milepost 12, just past the town of Mogollon to mile marker 17. High clearance, 4-wheel drive vehicles are strongly recommended. An alternate route is south from Reserve, via FR 141 and south on FR 28. This is an unpaved, improved two-track road.

Cell service is limited to non-existant, have all maps downloaded and it is highly recommended to have a paper map.

These Campgrounds are operated by the Gila National Forest. please call them for more information and conditions of the Campgrounds. (offices closed on weekends).

Reserve Ranger District: (575) 533-6231

Dipping Vat Campground

This is a fantastic place to get away from it all!

Dipping Vat Campground is located adjacent to the west side of Snow Lake. Snow Lake is approximately 52 miles southeast of Reserve, New Mexico. The campground offers a variety of activities to the visitor, including fishing, overnight camping, and hiking. Dipping Vat Campground has a potable water system including a well with a pump.

Snow Lake is stocked with trout three times a year, early spring, early summer, and late fall. If you wish to fish at Snow Lake you must have a New Mexico fishing license and more information is available at NM Department of Game and Fish.

• First come, first serve. All Gila NF campgrounds have a 14-day stay limit.
• Camping trailer: No hook-ups. Over 19 feet not recommended.
• Picnic tables: Each site
• Tent camping: 40 mainly flat sites
• Toilets: Vault toilet
• Fee charged for some activities: $10/night/vehicle
• Drinking water: Water will be turned off around 11/1 annually for the winter. ( Call the Forest Service for more information)

Aeroplane Mesa Campground

Aeroplane Mesa Campground is a great location for hikers and horseback riders to access the wilderness. The area is relatively open and 'park-like' with grass interspersed with trees.

• First come, first served. 14 day stay limit.
• Camping trailer: Self-contained only. Max size is 32'
• Tent camping: 6 Sites
• Toilets: Vault toilet
• There is no drinkable water at this site

Willow Creek Campground

Willow Creek Campground provides a quiet, peaceful area in the pines.

Willow Creek is located approximately 55 miles from the town of Reserve. Willow Creek is a very beautiful campground nestled in the canyon under tall pines. The camp sites run along both sides of the stream.

NM 159 has extremely difficult driving conditions from milepost 12, just past the town of Mogollon to mile marker 17. High clearance, 4-wheel drive vehicles are strongly recommended. An alternate route is south from Reserve, via FR 141 and south on FR 28. This is an unpaved, improved two-track road.

• First-come, first serve. All campgrounds on the Gila National Forest have a 14-day stay limit.
• Tent camping: Four (4) sites
• Toilets: Two vault toilets
• No drinkable water is available at this site

Ben Liley Campground

This campground is an ideal area to escape the summer heat. Reserve is the closest town with all amenities. The campground at Snow Lake is the closest place to get potable water. There is no trash service, so you must pack out your garbage. Night temperatures may drop suddenly. Please be properly equipped.

• First-come/first-serve. All Gila National Forest Campgrounds have 14-day stay limit.
• Picnic tables: 5 Tables
• Tent camping: 5 Sites
• Toilets: Vault toilets
• Accessible: 5 Sites