Black Canyon Campground - Upper (recgovnpsdata)

For those in New Mexico seeking a truly secluded and peaceful camping experience, Black Canyon Campground - Upper is a perfect choice. Nestled deep within the majestic Gila National Forest near Silver City, this small and quiet campground offers a chance to get away from it all. Despite what some outdated online information may say, this "beautiful campground is open" and waiting for those who are willing to venture off the beaten path. It’s an ideal spot for campers who appreciate a primitive, natural setting and the sounds of a babbling stream instead of the noise of a crowded park.

This article will provide an in-depth look at what makes Black Canyon Campground - Upper a unique and worthwhile destination. We will explore its serene environment, its specific location and the accessibility challenges that contribute to its seclusion, and the features that make it a great spot for families. It’s a place that rewards the adventurous spirit, offering a chance to truly connect with nature in a quiet, undisturbed setting. For New Mexicans who have been exploring the state's wilderness for years, this campground stands out as a genuine "tucked away" treasure, offering a refreshing and authentic outdoor experience.

Black Canyon Campground - Upper is located near Silver City, New Mexico, within the Gila National Forest. Its address is listed as Silver City, NM 88061, USA. The physical location is along Forest Road 150 (North Star Road), a remote area of the forest about 30 miles from the Wilderness Ranger District office. This is a very rustic and primitive location, and accessing it requires a bit of an adventurous spirit. According to local knowledge and camper reviews, the road to the campground can be "pretty rough to get to by car or truck." The Forest Service recommends high-clearance 4x4 vehicles on Forest Road 150, as sections of the road can be "very rough," especially through Rocky Canyon.

The upper campground is the first camping area you will encounter when traveling on Forest Road 150 and is visible from the entrance road. Its remote nature means there is no cell signal (T-Mobile users, in particular, have noted "no coverage"), which is a highlight for those looking to truly unplug. The journey is part of the experience, offering scenic views and a gradual sense of isolation that builds anticipation for the peaceful destination. This level of accessibility ensures that the campground remains uncrowded and retains its quiet, pristine atmosphere, which is a key reason for its appeal among experienced campers.

Black Canyon Campground - Upper is a primitive campground, meaning services and amenities are minimal but sufficient for a true outdoor experience. Campers should be prepared to be self-sufficient and to practice Leave No Trace principles, as there is no garbage pickup.

• Minimal services: While the campground is open and beautiful, it is important to know that there is no running water. Visitors must bring their own water for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.
• Public restroom: The campground is equipped with a vault toilet, which provides a necessary and well-maintained convenience for campers.
• Picnic tables: The sites include picnic tables, providing a dedicated space for meals and preparing food.
• Tent sites: The campground is perfect for tent camping, with sites located next to a small stream.
• On-site parking: There is on-site parking available, though the road can be challenging for some vehicles. RVs may find it very difficult to reach the campground, and long trailers are not recommended due to the steep and rough access.

These basic amenities are exactly what is needed for a simple, quiet camping trip. The lack of extensive services contributes to the peaceful and untouched feel of the area, making it a favorite for those who value authenticity over luxury.

The main highlights of Black Canyon Campground - Upper are its natural features and its quiet, secluded atmosphere, which are precisely what draw visitors to this hidden spot.

• Quiet and secluded: The small size of the campground and the rough access road ensure that it remains a quiet and peaceful place. As one review noted, it is a "small quiet campground" that is "tucked away" from the world.
• Stream-side setting: The campground is located next to a small, babbling stream, which provides a soothing natural soundtrack and a picturesque setting for your camp. This is a major highlight for those seeking a tranquil experience.
• Good for kids: The natural environment is perfect for children to explore. The presence of a small stream and the quiet atmosphere make it a safe-seeming and fun place for kids to play.
• Proximity to nature: The remote location offers a great opportunity to listen to the sounds of nature and "watch wildlife in the surrounding area." It's a place where you can truly feel immersed in the Gila National Forest.
• Free camping: The campground is a developed, free camping site offered by the Gila National Forest, making it a great and affordable option for a getaway.

These features, from the serene stream to the family-friendly atmosphere, make Black Canyon Campground - Upper a truly special place for those who are prepared to enjoy a more rustic and authentic camping experience.

Information for this campground is best sourced from the managing forest service office.

Address: Silver City, NM 88061, USA

What makes Black Canyon Campground - Upper worth choosing? For New Mexicans, it represents a genuine escape into the state’s wild and beautiful landscapes. It is a place for campers who want to disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature. The seclusion and quiet are its greatest assets, providing a level of tranquility that is hard to find in more populated parks. The challenge of the road is a small price to pay for the reward of a beautiful, stream-side campsite that is often uncrowded.

The campground is an excellent option for families who want to introduce their kids to a more primitive camping style, with the safety of a designated site but without the crowds. The lack of amenities like running water and electricity teaches self-reliance and fosters a deeper appreciation for the outdoors. It's an ideal spot for a weekend trip, a chance to relax by the creek, and a basecamp for exploring the rugged beauty of the Gila National Forest. Despite some confusion online about its status, this open and welcoming campground is a true New Mexico treasure, a place where you can find peace, beauty, and a memorable adventure all in one.

Black Canyon Campground - Upper (recgovnpsdata)

Silver City, NM 88061, USA