Forks Campground
Open — Open year-round on a first-come, first-served basis. No reservations. 14-day stay limit enforced.
Fireworks, Explosives and Sparks Restrictions
To prevent fires and for public safety order 03-00-23-001 prohibits to 1) possess, discharge, or use any kind of firework or other pyrotechnic devices; 2) use explosives; or 3) operate an internal or external combustion engine without a spark arresting devic
Motor Vehicle Order Road Restrictions
The purpose of this Order is for the protection of public health and safety and prohibits:
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 s
Small Business Timber Sale 5-year Recomputation
Under provisions of the Small Business Timber Sale Program, Forest Service and Small Business Administration (SBA) policies provide for recomputation of the small business share of National Forest timber sale offerings every five years.
Quemado Lake Closure
Quemado Lake and nearby recreation areas are closed due to harmful algal blooms. See full alert for more information.
Harmful algae detected in Quemado and Snow lakes
The New Mexico Environment Department is warning visitors to use caution at Quemado Lake, Snow Lake, and Hopewell Lake due to the formation of harmful algae blooms.
Gila National Forest to begin prescribed fires
Gila National Forest is planning prescribed fire operations this fall, pending all required approvals. We estimate this work to continue through the spring as weather conditions allow.
About
Forks Campground offers a primitive camping experience in the heart of Gila National Forest along the scenic West Fork of the Gila River. The campground features dramatic cliff formations and sandy ground, making it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding wilderness. Located approximately 40 miles north of Silver City on Highway 35, the campground serves as a convenient stopping point for visitors heading to Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, which is 15 miles to the north. The campground is divided into two sections: the upper portion is designated for overnight camping, while the lower section along the West Fork of the Gila River is restricted to day-use only. The lower section has a steep access road and is not recommended for RVs. The sandy terrain and riverside location make this a popular spot, particularly during summer weekends when visitors come to float down the river. Doc Campbell's General Store is located about 4 miles south and offers gas, groceries, hunting and fishing licenses, and hot springs showers for a fee. This is a pack-in, pack-out facility with no potable water or trash service. Campers should come prepared with their own water and supplies. The campground operates on a 14-day stay limit and prohibits OHV/ATV use, hunting, and shooting within the camping area. Stock animals are not permitted in the immediate campground area.
Directions
From the intersection of New Mexico Highways 15 and 35, follow Highway 35 north toward Gila Hot Springs. Forks Campground is located on the east side of Highway 35 near milepost 38, approximately 40 miles north of Silver City.
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) 536-2250 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Useful Links
| Forks Campground | |
| View on Recreation.gov |
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