Coal Mine

Summary

Coal Mine Campground is located in the Cibola National Forest in west-central New Mexico, offering visitors a range of outdoor activities like hiking the Coal Mine Canyon Nature Trail and scenic driving. The campground has more than a dozen sites for tent or RV camping, complete with fire rings, grills and accessible vault toilets. Nearby attractions include El Malpais National Monument and Conservation Area, as well as a mining museum in the town of Grants.

Overview

Coal Mine Campground is situated in the upper portion of the Cibola National Forest in west-central New Mexico. Visitors enjoy hiking the Coal Mine Canyon Nature Trail, as well as picnicking and scenic driving.

Recreation

The Coal Mine Canyon Nature Trail begins in the campground and leads hikers less than half a mile on a path through the forest. A variety of additional hikes and points of exploration are nearby.



Visitors also enjoy picnicking in the surrounding area. The Sandia and Manzano Mountains offer extensive stretches of scenic drives.

Facilities

The campground offers more than a dozen sites for tent or RV camping. Each site can accommodate up to 10 people. Utility hookups are not available. Some parking spurs are paved, while others are gravel.

Each site is equipped with a table and campfire ring with grill. Accessible vault toilets are provided. Drinking water is not available in the campground; visitors must bring their own supply.

Natural Features

The campground is located northeast of the town of Grants at an elevation of 7,400 feet. It lies on the top of a hill, with campsites situated on gently sloping ground. A forest of mature pine, juniper and oak trees surrounds the campground.

Nearby Attractions

The El Malpais National Monument and Conservation Area can be accessed from various points within a short drive of the campground. Its extensive, ancient lava flow landscape and other scenic features draw tourists year-round.

Points on interest within the monument and conservation area include the Northwest New Mexico Visitor Center, Sandstone Bluffs Overlook and La Ventana Natural Arch. A portion of the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail parallels the Zuni-Acoma Trail as it passes through the monument.

The city of Grants is about 12 miles from the campground, offering dining and lodging options. The city also boasts a mining museum with gem and mineral displays and a self-guided tour into an underground world.

Charges & Cancellations

A $10.00 service charge will apply if you change or cancel your reservation. Late cancellations are subject to additional fees. For full details see NRRS Reservation Policy.