Silver Campground And Amphitheater
4.4058 reviewsNo complete street address provided
Silver Campground And Amphitheater
$10.00 - $36.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$32.00
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
$32 per night for 1-family unit, $10 per night per extra vehicle, $36 per day for amphitheater rental, $7 per person per use of showers, $15 per RV dump use, $0.30 per gallon after first 5 free gallons for water, $3 per bag per day for trash, $9 per bag/bundle for firewood.
About this campground
Nestled among towering pines, Silver Campground welcomes outdoor enthusiasts with 30 thoughtfully spaced campsites, each featuring its own table, fire ring, and parking area. Modern conveniences blend seamlessly with nature here—clean restrooms, hot showers, and convenient waste facilities ensure comfort without compromising the wilderness experience. As evening falls, follow the interpretive trails that wind through the forest, then gather at the adjacent amphitheater where live music and ranger presentations bring the community together under starlit skies throughout the summer months.
The campground is suited for tent camping and RVs, though RVs must be limited to 30 feet in length. Group camping options and primitive camping are not mentioned.
Historical SignificanceWhile the land holds its stories quietly, Silver Campground has evolved into a cultural gathering place where the modern tradition of outdoor storytelling thrives. The summer amphitheater program transforms weekend evenings into celebrations of music, nature, and community, creating new memories and connections between visitors and this special corner of the forest.
Weather and SeasonsFrom May through October, Silver Campground offers a refreshing mountain escape where summer temperatures hover around a comfortable 77°F in July—a welcome reprieve from sweltering valley heat. Early season adventurers and autumn visitors should pack layers, as mountain weather can surprise with crisp mornings and the occasional dusting of snow bookending the camping season. Visitors consistently praise the area's temperate summer climate and notably cooler temperatures that make for perfect sleeping weather under canvas.
ElevationPerched high in the mountain landscape, Silver Campground offers that coveted thin-air experience where the sky feels closer and the stars shine brighter. The elevation provides natural air conditioning and stunning vantage points of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
Natural Features and SceneryA cathedral of pines creates an enchanting backdrop for your camping adventure at Silver. Sunlight filters through the dense canopy by day, while clear mountain nights reveal a brilliant tapestry of stars unmarred by city lights. Scenic trails beckon from your campsite door, leading to overlooks and hidden forest gems. Campers consistently marvel at the serene atmosphere—a place where morning birdsong replaces alarm clocks and the scent of pine permeates every breath.
Geological RegionSilver Campground sits within the majestic Lincoln National Forest, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a dramatic landscape of peaks and valleys. This mountainous terrain, cloaked in pristine pine forests, represents millions of years of natural artistry—creating the perfect backdrop for your outdoor adventure in one of New Mexico's most treasured forest ecosystems.
Campsite details
AccessibilityReviews indicate that there are handicap-accessible campsites, making it easier for individuals with disabilities to access picnic tables and other on-site amenities.
Sites SizeThe campsites are described as closely spaced, with some offering ample room for an 8-man tent or a paved pad for vehicles. One user noted, 'Campsites are pretty close together, but we found a secluded one on the back corner facing downhill.'
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels at campsites are mixed. Several reviews mention that sites are closely spaced, with distances between some tables as little as 10 to 15 feet. One reviewer suggested, 'Take a site outside the ring if you prefer more privacy.'
Total Campsites30 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites away from central loops to minimize noise; site 13 ideal for families due to bathroom proximity; site 26 highlighted for scenic views.
Best CampsitesSite 13 praised for proximity to bathrooms and space for a large tent. Site 26 mentioned for scenic views and privacy.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Not explicitly provided.
Check-out
11 AM enforced.
Stay Limit
- Maximum stay not explicitly specified
- user reviews mention late fees for overstaying check-out times.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 8 people per camping unit.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layout30 campsites closely spaced; some sites have longer parking spurs suitable for RVs.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 9 to October 12, subject to change.
Reservation PlatformsNot applicable as sites are first-come-first-serve.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come-first-serve; sites fill quickly on weekends and holidays as noted in user reviews.
Cancellation PolicyNot applicable as sites are first-come-first-serve.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Silver Campground offers various recreational activities, including hiking, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. The adjacent Silver Amphitheater hosts music and presentations on summer Saturdays.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities include the Little Apache Loop Trail, a 3-mile trail within the campground area. A user review described it as 'fun on a bike and a great hike, with a 400-foot descent and views of beautiful areas.'Biking
The Little Apache Loop Trail is suitable for biking. One reviewer noted, 'For mountain bikes, the first section is a little bit up and down, followed by a 400-foot descent.'Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as elk, deer, and various bird species can be observed in the area. One reviewer shared, 'Plenty of bird varieties, chipmunks, squirrels, deer, and elk.'Cultural and Educational Programs
The Silver Amphitheater hosts music, presentations, and other events during summer Saturdays, accommodating up to 100 people.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires allowed only in provided fire rings; free firewood available to gather, or $9 per bundle.
- Quiet hours are Quiet time starts at 10 PM; complaints noted for enforcement starting earlier.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include nearby wild horses, deer, and occasional noise from neighboring campers. User reviews strongly recommend arriving early to secure preferred sites.
Active alertsNo current alerts mentioned; user reviews note occasional facility outages.
Weather forecast
67
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 43%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 4.4 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
Nearest emergency services are in Cloudcroft, including ranger district offices and medical facilities.
Good to know
Peak season datesSummer months, particularly weekends with amphitheater events.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available, although some reviews highlight issues. One user stated, 'There is nowhere to dispose of the garbage,' while another noted that trash dumpsters are located at the Silver Overflow Campground.
Proximity to water featuresNo lakes or rivers nearby.
Common complaintsCampsites spaced too closely together; hosts described as unfriendly by some users; occasional facility outages; noise from neighboring campers.
HostMultiple reviews mention hosts by name (Monica, Mark) as helpful, though others describe hosts as rude or strict at enforcing rules.
Campground Map
No complete street address provided
Driving directionsTravel east on US82 from Cloudcroft, turn left onto NM244. Approximately 4 miles turn right at the Silver-Saddle-Apache Campground Complex sign (Forest Road 24C).
Accessible via paved roads until reaching Forest Road 24C. RVs are limited to 30 feet. Roads suitable for vehicles and RVs under the stated limit.Nearby places
Cloudcroft - approximately 4 miles
Alamogordo - approximately 25 miles.
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies available in Cloudcroft, including groceries, fuel, and camping essentials.
Camper Reviews
4.4
58 reviews
Silver Campground And Amphitheater is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground receives mixed reviews. Many users appreciate the scenic location, cleanliness, and nearby recreational opportunities. However, complaints often focus on the behavior of campground hosts and the lack of privacy at campsites.
Review Summaries
Based on 58 reviews
What Campers Love
- Scenic views and nature, including wildlife.
- Clean facilities and maintained showers.
- Close proximity to Cloudcroft and hiking trails.
- Camp hosts described as friendly in some reviews.
-...
Based on 58 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
- Closely spaced campsites offering limited privacy.
- Unfriendly or rude behavior from some campground hosts.
- Limited availability of water faucets.
- Facilities sometimes out of order, causing...
Based on 58 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
- Arrive early for better campsite selection.
- Consider sites outside the main ring for more privacy.
- Bring an air mattress due to rocky or uneven ground.
- Be prepared for generator noise during...
Based on 58 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is busiest during summer weekends. Several reviews mention that the site can become overcrowded on holidays like Labor Day. Off-season visits are quieter, but some facilities might be...
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Camper Quotes
1. 'Stayed here 3 nights... plenty of good memories.'
2. 'The area is extremely scenic.'
3. 'Campground hosts are there to sell you firewood.'
4. 'Vault toilets, with the right breeze, can be...
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Site-Specific Reviews
- Site 13: 'Plenty of room for an 8-man tent.'
- Site 26: 'Beautiful location.'
Based on 58 reviewsAccessibility Features
Handicap-accessible sites are available, but no specific reviews detail their usability.
Based on 58 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed at the campground. No specific user reviews address pet-related issues or features.
Based on 58 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025