Dean Cow

For those of us in New Mexico who love to explore the great outdoors, especially in the rugged and inspiring Sangre de Cristo Mountains, finding a truly unique camping spot is always a treat. Dean Cow Camp, located near Cimarron, holds a special place in the lore of outdoor adventure, particularly for those familiar with the Philmont Scout Ranch. While its history has seen significant changes due to natural events, its spirit and the fundamental appeal of its location remain strong. This article aims to provide a clear, engaging, and factual overview of Dean Cow Camp, offering insight into its past as a distinct climbing camp and what local New Mexicans can appreciate about this remarkable area. We’ll delve into its fascinating features, its context within the Philmont landscape, and important considerations for anyone drawn to its unique charm.

Dean Cow Camp is situated in the vast and beautiful wilderness surrounding Cimarron, New Mexico, with its official address being Cimarron, NM 87714, USA. It is specifically described as a "Philmont Staff camp," indicating its historical connection to the renowned Philmont Scout Ranch. This means its location is embedded within the expansive lands of Philmont, which covers nearly 220 square miles of wilderness in the Sangre de Cristo range.

Access to Dean Cow Camp is typically gained via the Philmont Scout Ranch, and it has historically been described as a significant hike (around 4 hours or approximately 13 miles) north and west of the main ranch. This suggests that it is not a drive-up public campground in the traditional sense, but rather a destination accessed by foot within a larger wilderness area. For locals, understanding this distinction is crucial; it implies that Dean Cow Camp is more of a backpacking destination than a roadside stop. Its placement in a "lush narrow valley" further paints a picture of a secluded and scenic setting, characteristic of the pristine backcountry found within Philmont. While the address points to Cimarron, the true accessibility is through the Philmont system, making it a unique kind of camping destination. Those interested in experiencing Dean Cow Camp would likely need to be part of a Philmont program or understand specific access permissions, as it's private land managed for their programs.

Dean Cow Camp, as a former Philmont Staff camp, offered a distinct set of services and facilities, though its status was significantly impacted by the Ute Park fire in 2018. Based on pre-fire descriptions and limited post-fire information, here’s an overview of what was, and potentially what might be, available:

• Climbing Walls and Programs: Historically, Dean Cow was a primary climbing camp within Philmont, featuring "a couple climbing walls." This was a core program offering, indicating specialized structures and potentially climbing gear for participants. However, after the Ute Park fire, the rock-climbing program that was there was moved to Chase Cow Camp. While the rock formations remain, the climbing infrastructure at Dean Cow was lost.
• "Warm" Showers: One review specifically mentions "warm showers," a notable amenity for a backcountry camp, especially after a long day of activities. Philmont has expressed an intent to rebuild structures, including showers, suggesting this amenity might return in some form.
• Volleyball Pit: The camp featured a "volleyball pit where cow ball is played in the evenings." This highlights recreational facilities designed for staff and participants, fostering a sense of community and fun.
• Camp Lodge (formerly): The mention of a "camp lodge" suggests a central gathering point or administrative building, though its status after the fire is uncertain, with reports stating "all structures... were lost."
• Distributed Campsites: The camp is described as "long and narrow," with campsites potentially "a long ways from the camp lodge and showers." This indicates a sprawling layout where individual sites offer a sense of privacy, even if amenities are centralized.
• Water System (Historically): Although details are scarce, the presence of showers implies a water system. However, recent information from summer 2024 indicates issues with wells, with one having run dry after another was replaced, and no immediate plans to staff the camp due to water issues. This is a critical point for any potential visit.

It's vital for prospective visitors to understand that while the "bones" of the camp (like the rock formations) are still there, the facilities and services that made it a staffed Philmont camp were largely destroyed in the 2018 fire and its operational status is currently impacted by water availability.

The true allure of Dean Cow Camp, despite the challenges it has faced, lies in its unique natural features and the memorable experiences it has historically offered.

• Exceptional Rock Formations: A consistent highlight, even after the fire, is the presence of "awesome... rock formations." These natural geological features are the foundation for the camp's climbing and bouldering opportunities and cannot be destroyed by fire. They offer a rugged and visually stunning backdrop for any visit.
• Hippy Climbing Camp Vibe: The description as a "hippy climbing camp" suggests a relaxed, communal atmosphere, particularly among the Philmont staff who would have inhabited it. This implies a unique cultural experience tied to its climbing focus.
• Lush Narrow Valley Setting: Located in a "lush narrow valley," the camp benefits from a verdant environment that offers respite and beauty, even amidst the surrounding wilderness. This natural setting provides a picturesque and tranquil backdrop for camping.
• "Cow Ball" Tradition: The informal game of "cow ball" played in the volleyball pit speaks to the playful and community-oriented spirit of the camp, blending human activity with the ranching heritage of the area.
• Resilience of Nature: The fact that the "rock formations" cannot burn highlights the enduring natural beauty of the site, a testament to the resilience of New Mexico's landscapes.
• Philmont Heritage: For locals familiar with the Philmont Scout Ranch, Dean Cow holds a piece of its rich history, being a former staff camp that played a significant role in their programs, particularly climbing.

While the physical structures may have changed, the spirit of adventure and the natural elements that defined Dean Cow Camp endure, offering a unique opportunity for those seeking an authentic and challenging outdoor experience in New Mexico.

As Dean Cow Camp is primarily a historical Philmont Staff camp located within the expansive Philmont Scout Ranch, direct public contact information like a dedicated phone number for the campground itself is not generally available.

Address: Cimarron, NM 87714, USA

For anyone interested in learning more about Dean Cow Camp's current status, access, or potential opportunities to visit (especially considering its connection to Philmont Scout Ranch and the impacts of the Ute Park fire and water issues), it is strongly recommended to:

• Contact Philmont Scout Ranch directly: Philmont's official website or main administrative office would be the most reliable source for information regarding their camps, access policies, and any ongoing recovery or rebuilding efforts at sites like Dean Cow. Their general contact information can be found on the Philmont Scout Ranch website.
• Check for updates from official Philmont sources: Given the significant impact of the 2018 fire and the ongoing water challenges reported, Philmont's public statements or news releases would provide the most accurate and up-to-date information on the operational status of Dean Cow Camp.
• Understand Philmont's access policies: It is crucial to remember that Philmont is a private ranch primarily dedicated to scouting programs. Public access to backcountry camps like Dean Cow is typically restricted to participants in their programs, staff, or those with specific permissions. It is not generally a public campground in the same way as a national forest campground.

Therefore, while the address points to Cimarron, the true pathway to understanding and potentially experiencing Dean Cow Camp runs through the channels of the Philmont Scout Ranch.

Dean Cow Camp, with its storied past and unique features, holds a distinct appeal for New Mexico locals, particularly those who appreciate the state's adventurous spirit and rugged beauty. While it’s not a traditional public campground open to all, its legacy as a Philmont Staff climbing camp, nestled in a lush, narrow valley near Cimarron, speaks to a very specific kind of outdoor enthusiast. For climbers and boulderers among us, the enduring "awesome rock formations" offer a natural playground, even if the formal climbing structures were lost in the Ute Park fire. The very nature of its remote location within Philmont’s expansive wilderness appeals to those seeking deep immersion in nature, far from the crowds.

New Mexicans who value the authentic, less-developed outdoor experiences and understand the self-sufficiency required for such backcountry adventures will find Dean Cow intriguing. The anecdotes of "cow ball" and encounters with toads highlight a genuine connection to the natural and rural character of our state. While the fire significantly impacted its facilities and recent reports indicate water scarcity and a lack of immediate staffing, the essence of Dean Cow Camp – its natural beauty, its challenging terrain, and its place within the respected Philmont institution – remains. For locals, understanding this history and the current status allows for an informed appreciation. It serves as a reminder of the resilience of our landscapes and the unique opportunities for adventure that exist, even in places that require a bit more planning and a deeper connection to the land. Dean Cow Camp is suitable for those who are prepared for a true backcountry experience, potentially as part of a structured Philmont program, and who are ready to embrace the wild and beautiful heart of New Mexico.

Dean Cow

Cimarron, NM 87714, USA