Lower Scorpion Campground

Introduction / Overview

Lower Scorpion Campground, situated on NM-15 near Glenwood, New Mexico, is an ideal destination for those who appreciate a rustic and straightforward camping experience. Unlike more developed campgrounds, this is a primitive site that caters primarily to tent campers looking for a quiet place to rest and enjoy the wilderness. Its unique setup with a paved parking lot and walk-in campsites sets it apart, offering a balance between accessibility and a secluded feel. This is a place where you can truly get away from it all, with one visitor noting it's about "40 miles from nowhere," a testament to its remote and peaceful location.

The campground’s appeal lies in its simplicity and its proximity to major natural and historical attractions. It's a spot where you can set up a tent and immediately feel immersed in the natural beauty of the area. Reviewers often mention its quiet atmosphere, which is a significant draw for those seeking a break from crowded recreational areas. While you must be prepared for the changing weather and to pack in some supplies, the rewards of a stay at Lower Scorpion Campground, including its quiet charm and access to the surrounding Gila National Forest, are well worth the effort.

Location and Accessibility

Lower Scorpion Campground is located on NM-15, in the beautiful area near Glenwood, NM 88039, USA. Its remote location is a major part of its character, as it is found within the Gila National Forest, just a short distance from the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument. The drive to the campground takes you through scenic, winding roads, so it is crucial to be prepared for the journey.

For accessibility, the campground features on-site parking in a paved lot. The campsites themselves are walk-up, meaning you park in the lot and walk a short distance to your chosen spot. This design helps maintain the peaceful atmosphere of the individual sites, as they are separated from the vehicles. The campground is best suited for tent camping, with some room for car or van camping in the lot. It is not designed to accommodate larger RVs or trailers. This setup, along with its first-come, first-served policy, makes it a great spot for a spontaneous and intimate camping trip in the heart of New Mexico's wilderness.

Services Offered

• Public Restrooms: The campground provides vault toilets, which are often noted to be clean and well-maintained, a significant convenience in a primitive setting.

• Running Water: Running water is available on-site, a valuable amenity for drinking, cooking, and sanitation.

• Tent Sites: The campground is primarily designed for tent camping, with several sites available that offer a flat space for setting up your tent.

• Camping Fee: The campground is free to use, which makes it an excellent, budget-friendly option for campers.

• On-site Parking: A paved parking lot provides a designated space for vehicles, ensuring convenient access to the walk-in campsites.

Features / Highlights

• Primitive and Quiet Atmosphere: Lower Scorpion Campground is praised for its tranquil environment and sense of seclusion, making it an ideal place to escape the noise and crowds of more developed areas.

• Walk-up Sites: The unique layout, where you park in a lot and walk to your campsite, creates a more private and peaceful setting for each individual camp, away from vehicles.

• Well-Equipped Sites: While primitive, each site is thoughtfully designed with a high-walled fire ring and a picnic table on a slab, making it easy and comfortable to cook and gather.

• Kid and Dog-Friendly: The campground is considered good for kids and allows dogs, so the entire family can enjoy the outdoor experience together.

• Proximity to Gila Cliff Dwellings: The campground is located less than a mile from the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, offering a fantastic opportunity to explore this significant historical site with ease.

• Access to Gila River: The campground is within walking distance of the West Fork of the Gila River, providing opportunities to enjoy the water, and some visitors have even noted the presence of hot springs in the area.

• Stunning Natural Beauty: The campground and its surroundings offer beautiful scenery, from the forested area to the unique rock formations and the nearby river.

Contact Information

For more information about Lower Scorpion Campground, you can contact the Gila National Forest via the number associated with this region.

• Address: NM-15, Glenwood, NM 88039, USA

What is worth choosing

Choosing Lower Scorpion Campground is choosing a truly authentic and peaceful New Mexico camping experience. What makes this primitive spot particularly worth choosing is its incredible location and the unique, quiet atmosphere it provides. It is perfect for those who want to disconnect from the digital world and connect with nature, as it is far from the conveniences and noise of urban life. The walk-in nature of the campsites, while requiring a bit more effort, provides a sense of privacy and seclusion that is a rare luxury.

The fact that this campground is free is a major bonus, making it an accessible and budget-friendly option for anyone looking to camp in the Gila National Forest. The presence of basic but well-maintained amenities like vault toilets and running water is a testament to the care of the site, ensuring that you can have a comfortable stay without a lot of frills. Its proximity to the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument is another significant draw, offering a perfect opportunity to combine a relaxing camping trip with a fascinating historical excursion. For a genuine, tranquil, and beautiful camping trip in New Mexico, Lower Scorpion Campground is a fantastic choice that promises an experience that will feel a world away from the everyday.

Lower Scorpion Campground

NM-15, Glenwood, NM 88039, USA