Quemado Lake - Pinon Group Sites
The campground operates seasonally from mid-May through late September. Water systems are turned on around mid-May and shut off October 1. Stage 1 fire restrictions are in effect, but campfires are still permitted in provided fire rings.
Flood Watch issued July 21 at 5:59PM MDT until July 21 at 9:00PM MDT by NWS Albuquerque NM
* WHAT...Flash flooding caused by excessive rainfall continues to be possible. * WHERE...Portions of northwest and west central New Mexico, including the following areas, in northwest New Mexico, Chuska Mountains and Northwest Plateau. In west central New Mexico, San Francisco River Valley, Southwest Mountains and West Central Plateau. * WHEN...Until 9 PM MDT this evening. * IMPACTS...Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS... - Storms with heavy rainfall rates of 1 to 2 inches per hour will move off to the northwest at 5 to 15 mph this afternoon. Storms may continuously move over the same areas, creating localized rainfall totals over 2 inches. - 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Campground and the Willow Creek Campground, in effect from 6 a.m. on July 21, 2026 through October 16, 2026 (or until rescinded).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
Pinon Group Sites occupy the western loop of Pinon Campground within the Quemado Lake Recreation Area of Gila National Forest. Two reservable group shelters can each accommodate up to 75 people, making them suitable for family reunions, scout troops, and organized group outings. The sites feature gravel back-in driveways (35 feet), multiple picnic areas with tables and grilling stations, fire rings, and access to accessible vault restrooms. The campground sits at 7,899 feet elevation in a pinon-juniper woodland setting, providing natural shade and cooler summer temperatures. Quemado Lake is less than 2 miles away, offering fishing and non-motorized boating opportunities. A dump station is available when the campground is operational. Reservations are required for group sites and can be made through Recreation.gov. The campground observes a 14-day stay limit. Pets are welcome but must remain leashed. Hunting, target shooting, and OHV/ATV use are prohibited within the Quemado Lake Recreation Area. Stage 1 fire restrictions may be in effect seasonally, though campfires remain permitted in provided fire rings.
Directions
From Quemado, take NM 32 south approximately 14 miles to the Quemado Lake/NM 103 sign. Turn left onto NM 103 and drive 4 miles to Forest Road 13, then continue 1.4 miles to Pinon Campground. The group sites are on the west loop.
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | Yes |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $50 - $125 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 35ft |
| Max Trailer Length | 20ft |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (575) 773-4678 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Photos
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