Ben Lilly Campground
4.278 reviews5 Smokey Bear Circle, P.O. Box 170 Reserve, NM 87830
Ben Lilly Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The campground is a fee-free site, meaning there is no charge for overnight use.
About this campground
Tucked away along the gentle waters of Willow Creek, Ben Lilly Campground beckons travelers seeking authentic wilderness solitude. This hidden gem in the Gila National Forest welcomes visitors without fees or fanfare, offering instead the simple luxury of creekside camping beneath towering pines. Here, where the mountain air whispers through the forest canopy, you'll discover the perfect basecamp for summer adventures or a tranquil retreat from the desert heat below.
Ben Lilly Campground provides basic camping facilities. There are no RV hookups, no group sites, and no cabins or glamping accommodations. The campground is noted for its remoteness and suitability for escaping summer heat.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Ben Lilly with its own dramatic brushstrokes. Winter transforms the campground into a snow-laden wonderland, though accessing this alpine paradise requires careful planning and proper equipment. As spring awakens the forest, melting snow creates muddy passages that test your vehicle's mettle. Summer arrives as the campground's golden season, delivering sun-warmed days perfect for creek exploration and refreshingly cool nights that demand a cozy sleeping bag. Autumn's arrival brings crisp air and a painter's palette of colors, punctuated by early snowflakes that dust the surrounding peaks.
ElevationPerched at 8,012 feet above sea level, Ben Lilly Campground offers a natural air conditioning system that provides welcome relief from summer's intensity. This lofty elevation creates a unique microclimate where afternoon thunderstorms can roll in without warning, and temperatures can plummet once the sun dips below the ridgeline. The thin mountain air reminds visitors they've entered a different world, one where proper hydration and sun protection become essential companions.
Natural Features and SceneryNature's artistry surrounds every campsite at Ben Lilly, where ancient ponderosa pines and Douglas firs create a living cathedral overhead. Willow Creek serves as the campground's liquid heartbeat, its crystalline waters dancing over smooth stones while providing a soothing soundtrack for your stay. The encompassing mountain landscape reveals itself in layers - from intimate forest glades to distant peaks that pierce the sky, creating a backdrop that transforms with each passing hour of light.
Geological RegionDeep within the legendary Gila National Forest, Ben Lilly Campground occupies a special corner of one of America's most rugged and pristine wilderness areas. This vast expanse of mountains and canyons represents millions of years of geological storytelling, where volcanic forces and patient erosion have sculpted a landscape of extraordinary diversity. The surrounding terrain challenges and rewards in equal measure, offering everything from gentle streamside strolls to demanding backcountry expeditions into the heart of the Southwest's last great wilderness.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not specified. However, the terrain and road difficulty suggest limited accessibility for individuals requiring assistive devices or vehicles without high clearance.
Sites SizeSite sizes are not detailed; descriptions focus on natural surroundings and an ability to accommodate a maximum of two vehicles.
Sites PrivacyNo direct mention of site privacy, though the remote location and reviews such as 'very few people' suggest some seclusion.
Total Campsites5 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor privacy and proximity to the creek, choose campsites closest to Willow Creek.
Best CampsitesUser reviews praise campsites near the creek for their scenic views and relaxing ambiance.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
14 days
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of two vehicles per campsite
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of five campsites located along Willow Creek with no specific loops or sections.
Open and Closed SeasonGenerally open year-round, although road access may become difficult or impossible during periods of heavy snow or spring thaw.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservation required; walk-in sites available.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Cancellation PolicyNot applicable for a fee-free site.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Activities you can enjoy
Ben Lilly Campground offers activities such as hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Some trails are difficult due to downed trees or fire damage. Specific seasonal considerations, such as early snow, are mentioned in user reviews.
Hiking
Day hikes are available, though some trails may be rough due to obstacles such as downed trees or fire damage.Fishing
Fishing is supported in the nearby river or stream. No detailed descriptions of fish types or quality are provided.Wildlife viewing
Described under 'Outdoor Science and Learning,' wildlife viewing is a key opportunity. No specific wildlife species are mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- No specific fire policies mentioned; standard fire safety procedures likely apply.
Hazards
General hazardsChallenges include rough dirt roads that may become muddy during rain, steep grades, loose gravel on paved sections, and sudden drops in night temperatures.
Active alertsFederal Highway Administration projects and ongoing road alerts for NM 159 may affect access.
Weather forecast
75
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 25%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 4.9 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Reserve Ranger District at 5 Smokey Bear Circle, Reserve, NM provides ranger services. Additional emergency services are located in Reserve, which is approximately 34 miles away.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingTrash services are not available, and users must pack out all trash, as emphasized in the authoritative source materials.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located along Willow Creek, providing access to a scenic water feature.
Common complaintsUser reviews consistently highlight the difficulty of road access for non-4x4 vehicles and the potential dangers of the terrain during inclement weather.
Campground Map
5 Smokey Bear Circle, P.O. Box 170 Reserve, NM 87830
Driving directionsFrom Reserve, follow New Mexico Highway 435 south to Forest Road 141 for about 34 miles. Turn south onto Forest Road 28 and follow it to its end at Willow Creek. Follow Forest Road 507 past Willow Creek Campground approximately 2 miles upstream along Willow Creek to Ben Lilly Campground. Note that Forest Road 141 has many potholes and gravel patches. A resurfacing project is expected in 2026, and NM 159 has steep grades and numerous tight turns.
The road access to the campground is challenging due to rough dirt roads past the town of Mogollon and tight turns along NM 159. High-clearance or 4x4 vehicles are highly recommended. Seasonal conditions like heavy snow or spring thaw can make access difficult or impossible.Nearby places
Reserve (approximately 34 miles)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies, including potable water, are available at Snow Lake Campground. Reserve offers gas, groceries, and other amenities, but it is a long drive away.
Camper Reviews
4.3
8 reviews
Ben Lilly Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the rough and remote terrain, recommending high-clearance vehicles for access. The campground is praised for its natural beauty, seclusion, and tranquil setting, though the lack of amenities like potable water is a common concern.
Review Summaries
Based on 8 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praise the remote and tranquil environment, the running creek providing natural ambiance ('the running water is amazing to fall asleep to'), and the scenic views. Campers appreciate its...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints focus on the difficult access roads, especially during wet weather ('the road turns to rough dirt...if it happens to rain...nothing but a 4x4 will get you out'). The lack of potable water,...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring a high-clearance vehicle or 4x4. Pack out all trash and carry sufficient water. Stock up on supplies before arrival due to limited nearby resources. Be prepared for sudden weather changes,...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Early snow and heavy rain can make access challenging during some seasons. Summer is praised for its cooler temperatures, making it a retreat from heat.
Based on 8 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'This is a beautiful campground tucked up in the mountains.' 2. 'So I followed a path that Google Maps recommended and I was literally in fear of my life.' 3. 'Great place to camp and relax. The...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No specific site numbers are mentioned, but users highlight the general well-placed sites near the creek.
Based on 8 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews mention accessibility features, and the rough terrain suggests the campground may not be easily accessible for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 8 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed. No specific reviews address experiences with pets.
Based on 8 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025