Cherry Creek Campground

Welcome, fellow New Mexico explorers! If you're seeking a serene and picturesque camping experience away from the noise and light pollution, we have the perfect destination for you. Let's talk about Cherry Creek Campground, a wonderful little spot nestled in the canyons of the Gila National Forest near Silver City. This campground is a true gem for those who appreciate natural beauty, quiet surroundings, and the simple pleasures of being outdoors. It's a "nice little spot for an overnight," but you might just find yourself wanting to stay longer.

The unique charm of Cherry Creek Campground comes from its location right next to a beautiful creek, as its name suggests. This feature creates a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere, with the soothing sounds of trickling water providing a natural soundtrack to your stay. While the creek may not always be flowing heavily, especially during drier seasons, a customer review notes that if you follow it north, you can find a spring where water flows. This adds to the sense of discovery and connection with the natural environment. The campground is situated in a canyon, which provides a secluded feel and a break from the expansive New Mexico landscape, offering a different kind of beauty with its mixed conifer forest.

Cherry Creek Campground is part of the Trail of the Mountain Spirits Scenic Byway, one of the most beautiful drives in our state. This means your journey to the campsite is an adventure in itself, with stunning views and winding roads that lead you deeper into the heart of the Gila National Forest. The campground itself is a testament to the care and attention of the local authorities. As one reviewer mentioned, it's "well maintained" and the road was even recently redone, making for easy access. The regular check-ins from the park ranger also add a layer of safety and helpfulness, ensuring you have the information you need, whether it's about fire danger or general questions.

For many New Mexicans, camping is a way to disconnect and find peace. Cherry Creek Campground offers just that. The serene environment, filled with the presence of local wildlife like butterflies and squirrels, provides a perfect backdrop for a restorative getaway. While it's a rustic experience, it provides the essential amenities you need to be comfortable. This article will walk you through all the details, from the services available to the unique features that make Cherry Creek a truly worthwhile choice for your next outdoor adventure right here in our beautiful state.

Location and Accessibility

Cherry Creek Campground is located along NM-15 in Silver City, New Mexico, within the Gila National Forest. The address is NM-15, Silver City, NM 88061, USA. This location places it within a canyon, with the campground's access road crossing a creek and winding further in. The road is well-kept and easily navigated by most vehicles, including vans and even larger campers. A reviewer noted that a 19-foot van and a Class-A camper had no trouble getting in, which speaks to its accessibility for a variety of camping setups. The elevation is 6,800 feet, which provides a cooler and more comfortable climate during the summer months compared to the lower desert regions.

The campground is part of the scenic Trail of the Mountain Spirits Scenic Byway, a significant highlight of the area. This makes the drive to Cherry Creek an enjoyable and picturesque experience. While the road is nearby, it is noted to be "pretty quiet," so noise from passing traffic is not a major concern. The secluded canyon setting ensures a sense of peace and tranquility, even with the presence of other campers. The convenience of its location, about 14 miles north of Silver City, makes it a great spot for both a quick overnight stop and a longer stay for locals looking to explore the area.

Services Offered

Cherry Creek Campground provides a range of basic yet essential amenities that support a comfortable and traditional camping experience.

• Barbecue grill: Each site comes with a barbecue grill, perfect for cooking your meals over a fire.
• Picnic tables: The spots are equipped with sturdy picnic tables, offering a convenient surface for dining or other activities.
• Public restroom: The campground has a public restroom, which is kept "clean" and stocked with "toilet paper," a detail much appreciated by a past visitor.
• Restroom: There is a restroom facility available for campers' use.
• Running water: The campground offers running water, which is a key convenience for staying clean and hydrated.
• Tent sites: There are designated tent sites, noted as being "spacious," which ensures privacy and plenty of room to set up your camp.
• Camping fee: There is a camping fee to stay at the campground, which helps with its maintenance.

It is important to note that while the campground has a clean restroom and running water, a review highlights that there is "no garbage service" and that you should be "prepared to pack out your garbage." The presence of "plenty of dumpsters" suggests that visitors can responsibly dispose of their waste before leaving the area, maintaining the pristine condition of the campground. The presence of a ranger who "checks in regularly" and provides information is another valuable service that enhances the visitor experience.

Features / Highlights

The key highlights of Cherry Creek Campground are what make it a must-visit for many New Mexicans.

• Activities: The primary activity is hiking. The location is an excellent basecamp for exploring the trails of the Gila National Forest.
• Good for kids: The campground is considered "good for kids," and it specifically offers "kid-friendly hikes," making it a great family destination.
• Dogs allowed: Cherry Creek is pet-friendly, allowing you to bring your furry friends along for the adventure.
• Beautiful creek-side location: The campground is situated right next to Cherry Creek in a scenic canyon, providing a tranquil and picturesque setting.
• Well-maintained and spacious sites: Reviews confirm that the campground is well-kept and the sites are roomy enough to accommodate a variety of vehicles and tents.
• Wildlife viewing: The presence of butterflies and squirrels adds to the natural ambiance and provides an enjoyable experience for nature lovers.

The combination of a well-maintained site, key amenities, and a stunning natural environment makes Cherry Creek an attractive option for a relaxing and enjoyable camping trip. The sense of peace and quiet, despite being near a road, is a major highlight.

Contact Information

The contact information for Cherry Creek Campground is:

Address: NM-15, Silver City, NM 88061, USA

Phone: (575) 388-8201

Mobile Phone: +1 575-388-8201

As the campground is located within the Gila National Forest and managed by the Silver City Ranger District, you can use this number to get the most up-to-date information on conditions, potential closures, or fire restrictions.

What is worth choosing

Cherry Creek Campground is absolutely worth choosing for anyone in New Mexico who wants an authentic, peaceful, and convenient camping experience. The location is its greatest asset, with the scenic drive along the Trail of the Mountain Spirits and the beautiful setting within a canyon alongside the creek. This isn't a bustling RV park; it's a quiet, natural retreat that feels secluded without being too difficult to access. For families, the "good for kids" and "kid-friendly hikes" features are a huge bonus, offering a safe and fun environment for children to connect with nature.

The combination of well-kept facilities and a back-to-basics approach is a major draw. While it may not have every modern convenience, it has what truly matters: clean restrooms, running water, and spacious sites with picnic tables and grills. The fact that past visitors have noted the cleanliness and lack of litter speaks volumes about both the management and the respect of fellow campers for this special place. The ability to bring dogs along also makes it a great option for the entire family.

Ultimately, Cherry Creek Campground is a place for those who value tranquility, natural beauty, and a simple outdoor life. It's a place where you can relax to the sound of a creek, watch butterflies flutter by, and enjoy the pristine landscape that makes New Mexico so unique. For a peaceful overnight stay or a weekend full of hiking and relaxation, this campground is a perfect choice that embodies the spirit of our state's wilderness.

Cherry Creek Campground

NM-15, Silver City, NM 88061, USA