AEROPLANE MESA

About

Aeroplane Mesa Campground sits at 7,984 feet in a relatively open, park-like setting with grass interspersed among trees. The campground serves as the primary access point for Aeroplane Mesa Trail #705, a 3.8-mile route that drops 500 feet into the canyon of the Middle Fork Gila River and connects to the Middle Fork Trail 157 and the broader Gila Wilderness trail network. This is a primitive, no-fee campground operating on a first-come, first-served basis year-round. Vault toilets are available, but there is no potable water, so campers must bring their own supply. Parking is limited to two vehicles per campsite, and stays are limited to 14 consecutive days. OHVs, ATVs, and pack/saddle animals are prohibited within the campground, though equestrians can stage nearby. Access requires navigating Forest Roads with variable conditions. From Reserve, take NM Highway 435 south to Forest Road 141 for about 34 miles, then Forest Road 28 south for approximately 11 miles to Forest Road 142. Turn left and continue 10.2 miles past Snow Lake to reach the campground.

Directions

From Reserve, take NM Highway 435 south to Forest Road 141 for approximately 34 miles. Turn south onto Forest Road 28 for about 11 miles to Forest Road 142. Turn left onto FR 142 and continue approximately 10.2 miles past Snow Lake to the campground.