Camp in Silver City for a trip full of hot springs, volcanic formations, and wild west history.
Silver City is the southern gateway to the Pinos Altos Mountains and Gila National Forest. Campers visit Silver City for its archaeological sites and old western culture that make up its unique character. Convenient cabin rentals with art galleries, campgrounds that overlook Gila National Forest, or RV parks in apple orchards make it easy for Hipcampers to enjoy the town’s features. Then set off into nature and visit canyons in the nearby Gila Wilderness. Or boat and fish on New Mexico’s largest body of freshwater at Elephant Butte Lake State Park before setting up at a lakeside casita or campsite. For a unique hike, take a day trip to the ancient volcanic formations of City of Rocks State Park and then head back to town for cabin rentals with sauna facilities.
Encompassing more than 3.3 million acres of mountains, valleys, meadows, forests, and canyons, the vast Gila National Forest also features hot springs, waterfalls, mountain trails, and unique geological formations like gorges and flat-topped mesas. Hike the Purgatory Chasm Trail, finding natural hot springs and waterfalls in the canyons. Or explore historic Gila cliff dwellings, fish in Mogollon Creek, or raft the Gila River during the spring snowmelt. Rustic campsites and cabin rentals dot the area, but keep in mind that no motorized vehicles, including motor bikes, are allowed in the wilderness.
Beachgoers flock to Elephant Butte Lake State Park for sandy shores, boating, fishing, and water sports in New Mexico’s largest lake. Named for the elephant-shaped island in the reservoir, the state park features two marinas, including Dam Site Marina with a nearby lodge and lakeside casitas. Hikers can traverse the 12-mile West Lakeshore Trail and shorter Yost Escarpment for views of the surrounding Sierra County. Some private campsites and RV parks in the area include amenities like electrical and water hookups, though OHVs (Off-Highway Vehicles) are prohibited within park borders.
A short day trip takes campers to City of Rocks State Park, where ruins of volcanic eruptions from 30 million years ago resemble a craggy city—hence the park’s name. Campers can enjoy mountain biking, strolling through the desert botanical garden, and viewing local wildlife, such as mule deer and golden-mantled chipmunks. Table Mountain Trail and Hydra Trail offer hikers and mountain bikers arresting views of the volcanic pinnacles. Stop by the visitor center for trail information or to use its restroom and shower facilities.
Most campers prefer to visit Silver City during the spring when temperatures are most comfortable and the weather is dry. Expect springtime and autumn highs between the low 60s to high 80s F. During summer, temperatures routinely soar above 90°F. Winter campers will find cooler weather that seldom dips below freezing. Many of the area’s RV parks, cabin rentals, and campgrounds remain open year-round, so campers can visit Silver City in any season.