Little Walnut Group Picnic Sites
This is a day-use picnic area only; overnight camping is prohibited. Open 8:00 a.m. until sunset during spring, summer, and fall. Winter hours vary by weather. Group sites are reservable via Recreation.gov. No potable water available; visitors must bring their own.
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Campground and the Willow Creek Campground, in effect from 6 a.m. on July 21, 2026 through October 16, 2026 (or until rescinded).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
Located approximately 5 miles north of Silver City via Little Walnut Road, the Little Walnut Group Picnic Sites provide day-use facilities within the Gila National Forest's Silver City Ranger District. This is strictly a day-use area; overnight camping is prohibited. The Little Walnut West Group Area accommodates up to 50 people with parking for 10 vehicles and includes eight picnic tables, three pedestal grills, vault toilets, and trash receptacles. The Little Walnut East Group Area is larger, accommodating up to 75 people with parking for 15 vehicles, featuring 10 tables plus a serving table, four pedestal grills, vault toilets, and trash service. The sites offer views of Gomez Peak amid Ponderosa and pinyon-juniper woodland, with wildlife including deer, squirrels, and various bird species. The popular Gomez Peak/Little Walnut Trail System is accessible from here, making it a favored destination for group gatherings before or after hiking and mountain biking outings.
Directions
From Silver City, drive north on Little Walnut Road from US Highway 180 for approximately 5 miles.
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | No |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | — |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $75 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | — |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| SM.FS.GilaForest@usda.gov | |
| Phone | +1 (575) 388-8201 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | Yes |
Availability
Photos
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