El Caso I-iv Campground
Generally open year-round, first-come first-served. No fees. A toxic algae closure affecting this area ended April 1, 2026. No potable water available; campers must bring their own water and pack out all trash.
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…
Bighorn Campground Temporary Closure
The Gila National Forest is issuing a temporary closure order for Bighorn Campground, in effect from 8 a.m. on August 28, 2026 until rescinded. This order serves to protect public health and safety during construction activities.Alternative developed camping access is available at Cosmic…
FR 141 construction near Reserve - expect periodic delays starting October 2026
Starting early October 2026, 18 miles of Forest Road 141 (FR 141, Reserve-Beaverhead Road) will close periodically for improvements to road surface and infrastructure.
About
El Caso I-IV Campground is a primitive camping area located at the east end of Quemado Lake in the Gila National Forest. The campground sits in a valley alongside an intermittent stream, surrounded by ponderosa pine and cottonwood trees that provide welcome shade during summer months. The partially developed site offers a more rustic experience compared to the nearby Juniper or Piñon campgrounds. The campground is popular with hunters, groups, and campers who prefer primitive camping conditions. Amenities are limited to vault toilets and picnic tables. There is no potable water, so campers must bring their own supply. This is a pack-it-in/pack-it-out area with no trash service. ATV use is not permitted in the Quemado Lake Recreation Area. Camping is free and operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservations. A 14-day stay limit applies. Access is via NM Highway 32 south from Quemado, then east on NM 103 and continuing on Forest Road 13 past the lake.
Directions
From Quemado, NM, go south on NM 32 for 14.2 miles to the Quemado Lake/NM 103 sign. Turn east on NM 103 for 4 miles to where Forest Road 13 (gravel) begins. Continue past the lake. The campground is on the right.
Nearby Campgrounds
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) 773-4678 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Photos
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