Willow Creek Campground
02 reviews5 Smokey Bear Circle, P.O. Box 170 Reserve, NM 87830
Willow Creek 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
There is no fee for use.
About this campground
Escape to Willow Creek Campground, where the gentle murmur of a mountain stream sets the rhythm for your stay. Tucked away in a serene pine-covered canyon, this hidden gem offers campsites on both banks of the creek, creating an intimate connection with nature. Here, the only sounds you'll hear are the whisper of wind through towering pines and the soothing babble of Willow Creek as it winds through this peaceful mountain sanctuary.
Willow Creek Campground is designed exclusively for tent camping and is unsuitable for RVs or trailers due to the washed-out turn-around.
Historical SignificanceWhile Willow Creek's recorded history may be brief, these ancient pines have stood sentinel over this canyon for generations, creating a timeless atmosphere where modern campers can disconnect and find the same solitude that has drawn people to these mountains for centuries.
Weather and SeasonsAt nearly 8,000 feet, Willow Creek experiences the full drama of mountain weather. Cool temperatures prevail even in summer, making it a refreshing retreat from desert heat. Winter transforms the campground into a snow-dusted wonderland, though heavy snowfall or spring snowmelt can temporarily limit access. Pack layers year-round and be prepared for afternoon mountain showers that keep the forest lush and the creek flowing strong.
ElevationPerched at 7,920 feet above sea level, Willow Creek Campground offers that perfect high-country experience. The thin mountain air carries the scent of pine resin and wildflowers, while the elevation provides natural air conditioning and spectacular star-gazing opportunities free from light pollution.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of a classic southwestern mountain canyon, where majestic ponderosa pines stretch skyward, their vanilla-scented bark catching the filtered sunlight. Willow Creek threads through the heart of the campground, its crystal-clear waters creating natural pools and riffles that attract wildlife and provide a constant, meditative soundtrack to your camping experience.
Geological RegionSet within the magnificent Gila National Forest, Willow Creek Campground showcases the rugged beauty of New Mexico's high country. This pine-studded canyon represents millions of years of geological artistry, where water has carved through ancient volcanic rocks to create this intimate mountain refuge, offering campers a front-row seat to the raw beauty of the American Southwest.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not described in the provided documentation.
Sites SizeThe campground has small tent-only sites, and the turn-around has been washed out, making it unsuitable for RVs.
Sites PrivacyUser reviews suggest a secluded and quiet setting. Alejandro Marquez noted the serenity of the spot, stating it was "a serene spot" and that "the other sites were unobtrusive." Carol S. added, "Quiet. On the creek with just a few camp sites."
Total Campsites4 campsites
Recommended CampsitesNo site-specific recommendations provided.
Best CampsitesNo best campsites explicitly mentioned.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
14 days
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of two vehicles per campsite
Groups
There is no information provided about group camping sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutSites run along both sides of a stream in a peaceful canyon setting.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round, but road access becomes difficult during heavy snow or spring thaw.
Reservation PlatformsReservations cannot be made; all but one site operates on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll but one site are first-come, first-serve. The fourth site is the exception.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policy not applicable due to first-come, first-serve policy.
Activities you can enjoy
Willow Creek Campground emphasizes wildlife viewing and fishing in a natural, serene setting. The creek provides opportunities for relaxation and interaction with nature.
Fishing
Fishing is available in the stream that runs through the campground. Carol S. highlighted the presence of water, stating, "There is still water running in the creek where so much of New Mexico is dried up."Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a highlighted activity. Carol S. mentioned, "Deer eating around us," pointing to the abundant wildlife in the area.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not described for Willow Creek Campground.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding are not mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- No explicit fire policies mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include difficult road conditions with steep grades and tight turns (especially on NM 159), and seasonal accessibility challenges during heavy snow or spring thaw.
Active alertsNM 159 between milepost 3 to milepost 9.5 has steep grades and numerous tight turns. Trucks longer than 45 feet are prohibited, and pilot vehicles are required for lengths exceeding 30 feet.
Weather forecast
64
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 29%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 3.4 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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 (Address: 5 Smokey Bear Circle, P.O. Box 170 Reserve, NM 87830, Phone: (575) 533-6232)
Good to know
Trash and recyclingNo trash service is provided at the campground; campers must pack out all garbage.
Proximity to water featuresSites run along both sides of a flowing creek, providing scenic water views.
Common complaintsRoad access is challenging. Federal Highway Administration plans construction on nearby bridge in 2025, which may affect traffic.
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 Campground. Alternately, follow New Mexico Highway 159 from US Highway 180 north of Alma to Willow Creek.
Forest Road 141 was paved at one time. Now it is paved, with many potholes. Slow down before entering corners, especially where there is gravel on the paved road surface. A resurfacing project is expected in 2026. NM 159 between milepost 3 to milepost 9.5 has steep grades and numerous tight turns.Nearby places
Reserve (55 miles, approximate travel time unclear)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are likely available in Reserve, NM, approximately 55 miles away.
Camper Reviews
0.0
2 reviews
Willow Creek Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Willow Creek Campground is consistently praised for its serene and peaceful setting. The presence of a running creek and wildlife adds to the experience, though the remote location and poor road conditions are noted drawbacks.
Review Summaries
Based on 2 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciate the quiet environment, the clean outhouses, and the natural setting along the creek. Wildlife sightings, including deer, enhance the camping experience.
Based on 2 reviewsCommon Concerns
The primary concern raised by users is the difficulty of accessing the campground due to poor road conditions. Alejandro Marquez remarked, "Difficult to get to... Really wish the drive there and back...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Future campers are advised to prepare for the remote location, pack out all trash, and ensure their vehicles can handle rough road conditions.
Based on 2 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is generally accessible year-round, but road conditions can deteriorate during periods of heavy snow or spring thaw, potentially limiting access.
Based on 2 reviewsCamper Quotes
- Alejandro Marquez: "Difficult to get to, but a serene spot. The creek flowing was relaxing, and the other sites were unobtrusive. Outhouses were clean and kept up."
- Carol S.: "Quiet. On the creek...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific site details are not provided in the user reviews.
Based on 2 reviewsAccessibility Features
No user feedback regarding accessibility features is available.
Based on 2 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
The source materials do not mention pet policies or experiences from pet owners.
Based on 2 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025