Mesa Campground
4.6552 reviews3697 Hwy 35 N., HC 68 Box 50 Mimbres, NM 88049
Mesa Campground
$15.00 - $25.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$15.00
Hookup Site Fee$25.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
$25 per night fee for sites with water and electric hookups; $15 per day for single sites without hookups; $16 for double sites without hookups. 'America the Beautiful' Interagency Senior and Access Passes are accepted for half-price camping.
About this campground
Perched majestically on a bluff above the shimmering waters of Lake Roberts, Mesa Campground invites you into a tranquil world where juniper and pinon trees frame your perfect escape. Each thoughtfully spaced campsite offers its own private sanctuary, with sweeping lake views that transform from misty morning panoramas to golden sunset spectacles. Here, the gentle rustling of pine needles and distant calls of wildlife replace the noise of everyday life.
Mesa Campground accommodates a mix of camping preferences with provisions for primitive, RV, and tent campsites.
Historical SignificanceYour stay at Mesa Campground places you at the crossroads of ancient history and frontier legacy. Journey along the enchanting Trail of the Mountain Spirits National Scenic Byway, where each curve reveals new wonders. Explore the remarkable Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, where 13th-century Mogollon people once made their homes in natural caves. Step back in time at Fort Bayard's historic grounds, discover the Old West charm of Pinos Altos ghost town, and witness ancient stories etched in stone at the mysterious Spirit Canyon pictographs.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the magic of four distinct seasons at Mesa Campground, where crisp mountain mornings give way to sun-drenched afternoons. Summer brings warm, golden days perfect for lake activities, followed by cool evenings ideal for campfire stories under star-filled skies. As autumn arrives, the landscape transforms into a tapestry of amber and rust. Winter visitors should pack warm layers, as temperatures often dip below freezing, creating a wonderland of frost-kissed mornings and peaceful, snow-dusted trails.
ElevationAt 6,100 feet above sea level, Mesa Campground offers the perfect high-country retreat where the air is crisp, the stars shine brighter, and every breath feels refreshingly pure. This ideal elevation provides comfortable temperatures and stunning vistas while remaining accessible year-round.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a living gallery where towering Ponderosa Pines mingle with sturdy Pinon Pines and aromatic junipers, creating a diverse forest ecosystem that changes with every step. Keep your camera ready for magical wildlife encounters – majestic elk grazing in meadows, white-tailed deer stepping delicately through morning mist, wild turkeys strutting through camp, and an impressive variety of birds that fill the forest with their songs from dawn to dusk.
Geological RegionRising from the heart of the legendary Gila National Forest, Mesa Campground crowns a scenic hilltop overlooking Lake Roberts, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape of remarkable beauty. This elevated perch among Ponderosa Pines, Pinon pines, and weathered junipers offers a front-row seat to millions of years of natural history, from volcanic formations to carved canyons that tell the story of the Southwest's dramatic past.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground is wheelchair friendly for toilet facilities, ensuring accessibility for those with mobility issues.
Sites SizeThe sites include a mix of small and large pads to accommodate a variety of camping setups, from tents to large RVs.
Sites PrivacyCampsites are widely spaced with minimal understory, providing good to excellent privacy. Some sites are located on a bluff with lake views.
Total Campsites24 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites with electric and water hookups for convenience or bluff sites for lake views.
Best CampsitesSites along the bluff are highly rated for their lake views.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Stay limited to 14 consecutive days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of two cars per campsite.
Groups
No group sites are explicitly mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutCampground consists of a single loop with pull-through sites on the outside of the loop and hookup sites inside.
Open and Closed SeasonMid-March through December, depending on weather conditions.
Reservation PlatformsContact Gila National Forest Supervisors Office at 575-388-8201.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served camping only.
Cancellation PolicyPermits required for commercial or organized uses.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors to Mesa Campground can enjoy a variety of engaging outdoor activities. The area is famous for scenic birdwatching, hiking trails, and fishing opportunities. With its proximity to Lake Roberts, the campground also offers limited water-based activities.
Hiking
Several hiking options exist, including a 0.25-mile connector trail to Purgatory Chasm and a one-mile Purgatory Chasm loop. Additionally, adventurous campers can explore Spirit Canyon for its unique pictographs, accessible by a short bushwhack trail.Fishing
Fishing in Lake Roberts is a popular activity, with opportunities to catch brown trout, rainbow trout, and catfish.Boating
Lake Roberts allows for boating with electric motors only. A convenient boat ramp is located 0.3 miles from the campground entrance.Wildlife viewing
The campground and surrounding areas offer excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, including elk, white-tailed deer, and wild turkeys. Birdwatching is particularly popular during migration seasons.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not supported due to seasonal closures from mid-March through December, depending on weather conditions.Water Sports
Kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding are not specifically mentioned, but the lake offers a no-wake environment suitable for calm boating activities.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are permitted only in provided fire rings.
- Quiet hours are Partying is not allowed after 10 PM.
Hazards
General hazardsDrivers should be cautious of steep grades and tight turns along NM Hwy 152. Wildlife such as bears and deer are common.
Active alertsTrout Fire Closure Order Number: 03-06-07-25-002.
Weather forecast
79
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 23%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 11.2 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
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
Emergency services are available at Wilderness Ranger District, 3697 Hwy 35 N., HC 68 Box 50 Mimbres, NM 88049; Phone: (575) 536-2250, operational Mon.-Fri. 8:00 a.m to 4:30 p.m.
Good to know
Peak season datesMid-March to early December.
Trash and recyclingGarbage facilities are available onsite for waste disposal. Recycling-specific options were not mentioned, and users are encouraged to minimize waste.
Proximity to water featuresLocated on a bluff above Lake Roberts; a boat ramp is 0.3 miles from the campground.
Common complaintsIssues such as loud music, inconsiderate campers, and tree cutting have been reported.
HostHosts are praised for their cleanliness and hospitality. One user said, 'Camp hosts were amazing!!! Very helpful.'
Campground Map
3697 Hwy 35 N., HC 68 Box 50 Mimbres, NM 88049
Driving directionsFrom Silver City, follow U.S. Highway 180 east approximately 9 miles to New Mexico Highway 152, turning left (east) onto Hwy. 152 for about 15 miles to New Mexico Highway 35. Turn left/north on Highway 35, following it for 25 miles to Lake Roberts, following the sign Mesa Campground. Turn left into the signed campground.
New Mexico Highway 152 between San Lorenzo and Kingston has steep grades and numerous tight turns. Trucks longer than 40 feet are prohibited on this section. Consider alternate routes such as New Mexico Highway 26 to US Highway 180.Nearby places
Silver City (approximately 49 miles/1 hour 15 minutes travel time)
Nearby supplies
Lake Roberts General Store (approximately 5 minutes away) offers limited groceries and hot showers
Mimbres has gas stations and restaurants.
Camper Reviews
4.7
52 reviews
Mesa Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Mesa Campground receives high praise for its cleanliness, friendly camp hosts, and serene environment. Reviewers frequently highlight the scenic views, well-maintained facilities, and proximity to Lake Roberts.
Review Summaries
Based on 52 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean restrooms, quiet environment, exceptional camp hosts, scenic views, and excellent opportunities for birdwatching and fishing.
Based on 52 reviewsCommon Concerns
Frequent noise from inconsiderate campers, lack of cell phone reception, no RV dump station, and limited electric hookups.
Based on 52 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring all necessary supplies as the nearest town, Silver City, is over an hour away. Be cautious if driving Route 15 with an RV due to sharp curves and steep grades. Also, prepare for temperature...
Based on 52 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Spring and fall are the most positively reviewed seasons, with mild temperatures and active wildlife. Summer can be warm during the day but offers cool nights.
Based on 52 reviewsCamper Quotes
'Gorgeous campground. Got great views and is very quiet at night,' said one reviewer. Another mentioned, 'Clean accessible bathrooms but no showers. Not a 5 because they closed their RV dump site.'
Based on 52 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Users mention that campsites on the bluff offer the best views of Lake Roberts. Site 14 is notable for its threaded water spigot.
Based on 52 reviewsAccessibility Features
Wheelchair-accessible toilet facilities were highlighted positively by reviewers.
Based on 52 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcome but must be leashed at all times. One reviewer noted, 'Great place for all ages and pet friendly as well.'
Based on 52 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025