Silver Overflow Campground
4.4058 reviewsSilver Overflow Campground
$28.00 - $28.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$28.00
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 standard fee for a family unit is $28 per night. Additional fees include $10 per extra vehicle, $15 for RV dump station use, $9 per bag of firewood (when available), $7 per shower use, and $0.30 per gallon of potable water after the first free 5 gallons. Trash disposal is $3 per bag per day if not camping.
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About this campground
Nestled high in the clouds, Silver Overflow Campground welcomes RV adventurers to a mountain community where 52 spacious sites create the perfect basecamp for exploring Lincoln National Forest. This thoughtfully designed campground brings together the comforts of modern amenities—including hot showers, paved parking spurs, and convenient gray water sumps—with the raw beauty of the wilderness. Whether you're piloting a compact camper or commanding a luxury motorhome, you'll find a welcoming spot among the towering pines. Days here unfold with interpretive trail explorations and evening gatherings at the nearby Silver Amphitheater, where stories are shared around crackling fire pits under star-studded skies.
Silver Overflow Campground is primarily designed for RV camping with centralized sites rather than individual camping spurs. While there are no specific tent sites, users have set up tents in available spots. Group camping is not explicitly mentioned.
Historical SignificanceWhile the ancient pines keep their secrets, this corner of Lincoln National Forest carries the quiet legacy of generations who have sought solitude and adventure in these high mountain meadows.
Weather and SeasonsAt 9,000 feet, Silver Overflow offers a refreshing mountain climate that transforms with each season. Summer days bring crisp, pine-scented air that provides sweet relief from the scorching temperatures of lower elevations, though wise campers pack warm layers for surprisingly cool mountain nights. Afternoon thunderstorms roll through with dramatic flair, painting the sky with nature's light show before giving way to crystal-clear evenings. Winter transforms the campground into a snow-dusted wonderland, though access can become challenging when heavy snows blanket the mountain roads.
ElevationPerched at a breathtaking 9,000 feet above sea level, Silver Overflow sits in the thin, pure air of the high country. This lofty elevation means cooler temperatures year-round and air so crisp it seems to sparkle. Visitors from lower altitudes should take it easy their first day, allowing their bodies to adjust to the reduced oxygen while savoring the spectacular views that come with camping among the clouds.
Natural Features and ScenerySilver Overflow Campground rests in a pristine pocket of Lincoln National Forest, where ancient firs and pines create a natural cathedral of green. This high-altitude sanctuary treats visitors to a sensory feast: the whisper of wind through evergreen boughs, the earthy perfume of pine needles warming in dappled sunlight, and panoramic mountain vistas that stretch to the horizon. When darkness falls, the elevation and minimal light pollution transform the sky into a glittering tapestry of stars, making this woodland retreat a stargazer's paradise.
Geological RegionSet within the remarkable ecosystem of Lincoln National Forest, the campground occupies a unique high-altitude environment where hardy firs, pines, and other resilient mountain species have adapted to thrive. This elevated forest represents millions of years of geological uplift, creating the dramatic mountain terrain that defines this spectacular region of the American Southwest.
Campsite details
AccessibilityCampground hosts have indicated that there are several handicap-accessible sites with easier access to picnic tables. However, there is no detailed information on other specific accessibility features.
Sites SizeSites are designed for RVs with no specific length limit mentioned in authoritative sources.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy between campsites is described as poor to fair, with sites being quite close to one another. One user commented, 'Our table was 10 ft from the next table,' while another noted, 'The campsites are equipped with fire pits and picnic tables but are too close together.'
Total Campsites52 campsites
Recommended CampsitesArrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a preferred site. Sites near the edge of the campground or the amphitheater may offer better privacy or views.
Best CampsitesSite 13 is praised for its proximity to bathrooms and spaciousness. Site 26 offers more seclusion and downhill views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
14 nights maximum stay.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 8 guests per site with 1 vehicle. Additional vehicles incur extra fees.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutCentralized layout ideal for group camping. Sites are paved and include fire pits and picnic tables. Privacy between sites is poor to fair.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 9th through October 12th, subject to weather conditions.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not available for this campground.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-serve basis with no reservations. Sites fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Arriving early is advisable.
Cancellation PolicyNo reservations are accepted as sites are available on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Silver Overflow Campground offers a variety of recreational activities, particularly focused on hiking and interpretive trails. The adjacent Silver Amphitheater hosts ranger-led programs, music, and other presentations during the summer months. Nearby attractions include the Cloud-Climbing Rail Trail, Trestle Recreation Area, Bluff Springs, and Sunspot Observatory.
Hiking
The campground provides access to the Silver Nature Trail #259, a short 0.5-mile loop trail suitable for foot traffic. User reviews also highlight the nearby Little Apache Loop Trail, a three-mile trail described as 'really fun on a bike' and offering 'many great areas with nice views.' The hike is described as having a mix of up-and-down terrain with a 400-foot descent followed by a short climb.Biking
Biking is popular in the area, particularly on trails like the Little Apache Loop Trail, which was noted to be 'really fun on a bike' with a mix of terrain suitable for mountain biking.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife commonly seen in the area includes deer, elk, chipmunks, and squirrels. One user commented, 'There were plenty of bird varieties, chipmunks, squirrels, deer, and elk,' adding to the natural appeal of the location.Cultural and Educational Programs
Ranger programs and other presentations are held at the Silver Amphitheater on Saturday nights during the summer months. These programs feature rangers, musicians, and other guest presenters.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed only in designated fire rings. Collecting firewood may be limited to specific areas or prohibited.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsThis is bear country, and campers must follow appropriate food storage guidelines. Other wildlife, including deer and elk, is common. Uneven terrain and rocky campsites may pose some hazards.
Active alertsNo current alerts provided.
Weather forecast
65
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 44%
Comfortable humidity levels
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
Emergency services can be accessed in Cloudcroft, approximately 10 minutes away.
Good to know
Peak season datesEarly May to mid-October.
Trash and recyclingA central garbage depository is available. Trash disposal costs $3 per bag per day for non-campers. However, some users have noted issues with littering, such as, 'The place is a mess from dropped trash.'
Proximity to water featuresNo lakes, rivers, or other water bodies are within the immediate vicinity.
Common complaintsUser complaints include unfriendly campground hosts, lack of water spigots at campsites, and the proximity of campsites leading to reduced privacy.
HostCamp hosts are available, though reviews about their friendliness vary. Hosts handle firewood sales, enforce rules, and assist campers.
Campground Map
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).
The parking aprons are paved. Roads to the campground are accessible and well-marked, including a sign for the Silver-Saddle-Apache Campground Complex. However, seasonal weather conditions may impact access.Nearby places
Cloudcroft (4 miles, approximately 10 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and other essentials are available in Cloudcroft, the nearest population center.
Camper Reviews
4.4
58 reviews
Silver Overflow Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight a mix of positive and negative experiences. While many appreciate the natural beauty, cleanliness, and helpful hosts, others criticize the proximity of campsites, inconsistent availability of facilities, and interactions with some campground hosts.
Review Summaries
Based on 58 reviews
What Campers Love
Frequent mentions of stunning scenery, clean facilities, and the friendliness of some campground hosts. One user stated, 'Stayed here 3 nights... Had a great time there with plenty of good memories.'...
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Common Concerns
Common issues include the close proximity of campsites, making privacy challenging, and occasional rude behavior by certain hosts. For example, one user remarked, 'The campsites are equipped with...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive early to secure the best campsites, as the campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Bring an air mattress for uneven ground and be prepared for limited water access. One user...
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Seasonal Insights
Summer months are particularly popular due to the cooler weather and ranger-led programs. However, the campground can become crowded during peak seasons like Labor Day. Late-season visits may...
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Camper Quotes
'The park host there was very friendly and helpful, checking in on us around once a day, answering questions that we had.' - Michael Ng. 'Although the trail is really nice and the campsite and...
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Site-Specific Reviews
'We stayed in lot 13. I was worried that it was too close to the bathrooms, but this turned out to be more of a blessing.' - Michael Brockett. 'Site 26 was a beautiful location! We’ll definitely be...
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Accessibility Features
Some users noted the availability of handicap-accessible sites. However, trails and other facilities are not wheelchair accessible.
Based on 58 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025