Black Canyon Campground - Lower
Open year-round for overnight camping, no reservations required. Stage 1 fire restrictions are in effect as of March 23, 2026, meaning campfires are only allowed in permanent fire structures at developed sites. FR 150 has road construction near Diamond Creek with temporary closures possible through early May 2026. Expect rough road conditions and potential flooding during high stream flows.
Flood Watch issued July 20 at 9:32AM MDT until July 21 at 12:00AM MDT by NWS El Paso Tx/Santa Teresa NM
* WHAT...Flooding caused by excessive rainfall is possible. * WHERE...Gila Region and portions of Otero County. * WHEN...Monday afternoon and evening. * IMPACTS...Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS... - http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood
Cannabis Possession Prohibited
Order 03-00-00-21-002 prohibits possessing, storing, or transporting a cannabis plant, any part of a cannabis plant, or any substance derived from a cannabis plant within the Southwestern Region National Forests in the State of New Mexico and the National Grasslands in the states of Texas and…
Ben Lilly and Willow Creek Campground Closure
The Gila National Forest is issuing a temporary closure order for the Ben Lilly Campground and the Willow Creek Campground, in effect from 6 a.m. on July 21, 2026 through October 16, 2026 (or until rescinded). This order serves to protect public health and safety as monsoonal flood events have…
About
Black Canyon Campground - Lower sits at 6,734 feet elevation in a remote section of Gila National Forest, approximately 30 miles from the Wilderness Ranger District office. The campground occupies a scenic meadow adjacent to a stream, offering a secluded camping experience for those willing to navigate the challenging access road. Trail #94 begins at the rear of the campground, providing hiking opportunities into the surrounding wilderness. This is a primitive, no-fee campground with basic amenities including a newer vault toilet and three picnic tables. There is no potable water, and campers must pack out all trash. The 14-day stay limit applies, with a maximum of two vehicles per campsite. While there is room for campers and trailers, long trailers are not recommended due to the steep stream crossing required to access the lower campground. Access requires high-clearance 4WD vehicles via Forest Road 150, which can be very rough, especially through Rocky Canyon. The area experienced flooding damage following the 2022 Black Fire and subsequent monsoon seasons, and potential for flooding exists during periods of high stream flows. The last services available are in Mimbres at La Tienda.
Directions
From Mimbres, take Highway 35 to Forest Road 150 at milepost 15. Turn north (right) and travel 26 miles over improved dirt and rock road to Black Canyon Campground. Turn left and travel 0.5 mile over a steep stream crossing to reach the lower campground. High-clearance 4WD recommended.
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $0 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | — |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (575) 536-2250 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
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