The best cabin rentals in Gila National Forest, NM
88% (25)
Explore some of the most secluded regions of the American Southwest.
88% (25)
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Gila National Forest adventure.
Top-rated campsites near Gila National Forest
Casita on Sapillo Creek Escape
1. Casita on Sapillo Creek Escape
90%
(77)
20mi from Gila National Forest · 1 site
Sapillo Creek Escape is a truly unique gem in the Gila Wilderness. It sits at 6,000 feet above sea level, was custom designed and built by the creator of the Bear Creek Motel and Lodge in Piños Altos, and took 7 years to construct. Everything from the saltillo tiles to the wood latilla ceilings are custom built and exquisitely hand-laid. With over 3,000 square feet in the home at your disposal, this place is made for just you, or you and your family and friends, to enjoy the Gila Wilderness, Silver City, and Grant County. Fishing, birding, biking, hiking, horseback riding and more await you in the Gila, with dining, arts, culture and more in Silver City. The Casita at Sapillo Creek Escape sits on 20 acres, so camping is welcome. Pets are permitted with prior review and approval. All pets must be friendly and get along with other pets, and must be fully vaccinated (proof of vaccinations is required, especially rabies, parvo virus and kennel cough). We purchased Sapillo Creek Escape in early 2019. We are thrilled and honored to own it, and be the caretakers of this gem, which was so dear to the owner’s heart.Welcome to our home! Tommy & Jennifer
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Remote Lobo Lodge/N Bar Ranch
2. Remote Lobo Lodge/N Bar Ranch
19mi from Gila National Forest · 1 site
Lobo Lodge located in the Gila National Forest of New Mexico at a cool 8,000ft elevation on the historic N Bar Ranch in a secluded mountain valley.
This cabin is the perfect base for hikers, bikers, photographers, wildlife lovers, birders, wolf watchers, Jeepers and any other lovers of wild places and things.
We are about the most remote place in the lower 48 accessible by vehicle. The cabin is a front-row seat to one of the greatest wildlife success stories in North America. We are Ground Zero for the Mexican Gray Wolf (Lobo) reintroduction.
It’s almost a guarantee you will hear wolves howling with yipping coyotes in the evenings and early morning. Sightings in the meadow are very common. Other wildlife include pronghorn antelope, mule deer, fox, badger, bear, mountain lion and all kinds of other critters.
The valley is a birders delight! The porch overlooking the meadow is the perfect place. All day you can be entertained by our two pair of resident redtail hawks along with 300+ other species
For you bikers right out the front gate is some of the best “Gravel Grinding” in the world. The NMBDR (New Mexico Backroad Discovery Route) runs right past here. Off road trekkers there are literally thousands of miles of two track to explore.
Hikers we are right off the CDT (Continental Divide Trail) and access to the three northern trail heads into the Gila Wilderness area (The worlds’ first designated wilderness area!)
Star Gazers it’s the best here! We are in a "Bortle 1" zone. Bring your telescope
THE CABIN
The Cabin has 2 bedrooms, one bedroom has a queen bed and a sitting area, the small bedroom has twin bunk beds. It’s perfect for up to 4 people.
The clean kitchen is fully stocked with all the cooking and eating utensils you need, 4 burner gas stove and oven. No microwave. Refrigerator is mid sized with SMALL freezer.
Living room has a couple comfortable chairs and a sofa.
Full bath shower/tub combo plenty of hot water.
Heat from two propane heaters.
Two porches front and back overlooking the meadows, one for morning coffee, one for evening beverages. Cabin just renovated and is clean and comfortable.
The Cabin located near the ranch barns and corrals so there is daily activity there. The cabin is solar powered, limited internet available.
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Burro Mountain Homestead
3. Burro Mountain Homestead
46mi from Gila National Forest
Burro Mountain Homestead stands out as a unique destination, nestled among the towering pines of the Gila National Forest. This historic lodge, built in 1914, has welcomed two U.S. presidents, adding a touch of history to your stay.
Our campground offers a range of amenities designed for your comfort, including full hook-ups, a shower house, and laundry facilities. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or simply looking to relax, you’ll find plenty to do here. Explore the extensive ATV/UTV trails, embark on scenic hikes, or enjoy horseback riding through the picturesque landscape.
In addition to our beautiful surroundings, the area is rich with natural features and outdoor activities. Discover nearby swimming holes, local restaurants, and charming shops that enhance your experience. At Burro Mountain Homestead, you can immerse yourself in nature while enjoying the comforts of home.
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
J
Joe
1 week ago
With pets
Very nice, quiet location. The hosts are very friendly and accommodating.
See moreS
Stephan
May 2026
3 nights at Casita on Sapillo Creek Escape
Nice small casita in a beautiful are. Good base for hiking nearby or in the Gila Wilderness. Friendly host and easy communication.
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Maria
February 2026
With pets
Really cute little casita. Bigger than I expected. Jennifer warned me that it was rustic and indeed it was. Comfortable bed, camping like cooking and washing capabilities. That is what I was looking for. The night sky was amazing as were all the hikes around. The hot springs are 30 mins away on a beautiful drive and well worth it. Daily.
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A
Angela
December 2025
With pets
A little slice of quiet rustic heaven in a very noisy world. Jennifer & Tommy were great hosts, very helpful & hospitable. The location was perfect for exploring The Gila Natl Forrest with my pup. We visited the Gila Cliff Dwellings Visitor Center & received his Bark Ranger badge, hiked on numerous dog friendly trails & soaked in the hot springs.
The Casita had everything we needed to stay comfortably & even though our trip was in mid December, we stayed toasty warm & cozy. I felt safe & very at peace here. The casita was very clean, as is the property & very dog friendly. We both slept better than we have in a while, coming from the city.
Lake Roberts is beautiful, with the casita so close. I look forward to another trip so I can bring my kayak & enjoy the mountain lake.
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Sarah
August 2025
Weekend Trip to Casita on Sapillo Creek Escape
Loved that it was simple, rustic, and off the grid. Beautiful scenery and hiking options. The instructions left by the host were super clear and helpful. Would definitely recommend to anyone looking for a quiet getaway nestled in nature :) the Gila is breathtaking!
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M
Malerie
May 2025
Weekend Trip to Casita on Sapillo Creek Escape
I had a nice, relaxing time during my stay at the Casita. Beautiful property in the Gila wilderness and the hosts were very gracious. I would definitely stay again
See moreReviews for Gila National Forest Campgrounds
88%
25 ratings · 16 reviews
Recommends
· August 2021
This is a great campground, on our way there it rained but we managed to arrive before night fall. It is deep in the forest and it is very secluded. I did call and talk to the ranger who gave me directions and also told me the best time to arrive so that I could get a spot. Sunday afternoon when the weekend campers were leaving, He was correct.We only spent one night there and it was very quiet and only a few other campers were there.
There is no cell service!! So be prepared to be cut off from everything. It is well kept and clean. Unfortunately when we left all electricity was out in the local towns, so we had to wait a couple of hours to get diesel. But we waited at an RV camp and filled the water tanks and dumped for $18.00
Vernon O.
5 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· July 2021
The river is beautiful!
Jillian R.
4 years on Hipcamp
July 2021
Super kick butt place. Lots and lots of Elk, Turkey, Great Fishing. No no cops come by. Good water. Local rancher has great bud for tip trade. We stayed two months. No issue.
Go east up canyon past farm house. All public. Lots a camp areas with water. Three hot springs about three miles in. Hot springs are our thing. Come join the Party
Camp Free. Live Free!
G
George P.
4 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· July 2019
I have camped here several times over the past ten years. The campground is large with only 10 designated sites all with good separation and a bit of privacy. Every site could be occupied yet I still have the feeling of not being crowded at all.
No water, No host and No Fee. Pit toilets.
Tom S.
6 years on Hipcamp
March 2019
Beautiful free campground on the way to the Cliff Dwellings. There is NO potable water on site. There was a trench latrine that was well maintained, but you have to bring your own water source. Unless I missed the spigot or something.
Blakeley P.
7 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· October 2018
Best in spring or fall
J
James K.
7 years on Hipcamp
August 2018
Please do not repost my photos without permission. Thank you.
Tara G.
7 years on Hipcamp
August 2018
Its pretty and its free but it was also insanely loud when i was there, with an ATV trek around the camp ground and RVers playing cowboy music till 3 am.. i would go again but I would camp far out of earshot of the main area.
Tara G.
7 years on Hipcamp
September 2017
Great campground! Quite large and well groomed for free camping! There is a little gas station to re-fill on conveniences should you need them, otherwise it feels very secluded. Don't expect cell service!
Kate M.
8 years on Hipcamp
September 2017
This campground is really nice and Lake Roberts is beautiful. There's a little store nearby so you can stock up on ice etc as needed.
Kate G.
9 years on Hipcamp
September 2017
Nice campground with plenty of grass. The sites are well spaced.
Kate G.
9 years on Hipcamp
September 2017
I don't think you have to be part of a group to camp here. When I visited there were several groups but plenty of space. There are little spots scattered everywhere you look. I love all the grass here!
Kate G.
9 years on Hipcamp
September 2017
The first site you see on the right is a little more secluded. Big trees, water and no fee made this place perfect.
Kate G.
9 years on Hipcamp
September 2017
Free Campground on the way to Gila Cliff Dwellings. Nice sites and it wasn't too crowded when I was there.
Kate G.
9 years on Hipcamp
September 2017
On the plus side, Bighorn is convenient for exploring the Catwalk Recreation Area. It wouldn't be my choice for scenery. The campground is basically a parking lot with a vault toilet. The sites look worn & tired. Shade is a little sparse. If you need a place for 1 night close to Glenwood it's just fine.
Kate G.
9 years on Hipcamp
January 2017
Quite the drive, but extremely worth it. Very secluded spot of two primitive campsites. No water, but there is a vault toilet nearby and picnic tables. Great spot to listen to the creek babbling nearby and watch wildlife in the surrounding area. A 4WDis recommended as the road to the campsite can be challenging especially after a storm. This is bear country so make sure to lock your food up in your car, truck, or hanging cache. There are no bear boxes at this site.
Overall this is a great campsite to do some hiking, pan for gold (seriously!), or just kick back and enjoy the peace and seclusion.
Pete B.
9 years on Hipcamp
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