Water Canyon Group Campground
4.3531 reviewsWater Canyon Group Campground
$10.00 - $10.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$10.00
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 facility rates for RV non-electric sites during the first-come-first-served season are $10 nightly, as per the authoritative source. Displayed rates do not reflect taxes, discounts, or incremental charges.
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Recreation.gov
Provider505-287-8833
About this campground
Tucked away in the breathtaking upper reaches of west-central New Mexico's Cibola National Forest, Coal Mine Campground offers a refreshing escape at 7,400 feet above sea level. This mountain retreat near Grants welcomes both tent campers and RV enthusiasts seeking solitude among towering pines, ancient junipers, and stately oaks. The campground's gently sloping terrain creates natural privacy between sites, each equipped with fire rings, picnic tables, and grills for memorable outdoor meals. While the facilities maintain a rustic charm with vault toilets and well-maintained parking spurs, visitors should note that the campground's remote location means bringing your own water supply is essential for your mountain adventure.
Water Canyon Group Campground is specifically designed as a group camping area. It offers basic facilities suitable for tent and RV camping, although there are no utility hookups.
Historical SignificanceCoal Mine Campground rests on lands steeped in New Mexico's rich logging heritage, where the echoes of sawmills and timber operations once filled these forests. The nearby historic town of McGaffey tells the story of hardy pioneers who carved out livelihoods from these pine-covered slopes, leaving behind tales of determination and community that still resonate through the surrounding wilderness.
Weather and SeasonsAt Coal Mine Campground, the high-elevation climate creates a delightful escape from desert heat, with optimal camping conditions featuring crisp mountain air and temperatures peaking around 46°F during the best weeks. These prime camping periods reward visitors with spectacular clear skies 77% of the time, perfect for stargazing through the pine canopy. The dry mountain air keeps humidity low, creating comfortable conditions for hiking and exploring while ensuring cozy evenings around the campfire.
ElevationPerched at 7,400 feet in the cool mountain air, Coal Mine Campground serves as your gateway to high-country adventures. This elevation provides a natural respite from summer heat while positioning you perfectly for exploring the network of trails that wind through the surrounding forest, offering everything from leisurely walks to challenging hikes through diverse mountain ecosystems.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living cathedral of mature pines, where ancient junipers twist skyward and oak trees paint the landscape with seasonal colors. The campground's forest setting creates an intimate connection with nature, where morning light filters through the canopy and evening shadows dance across your campsite. Scenic forest roads invite exploration by vehicle or bicycle, while hiking trails lead deeper into this mountain wilderness, revealing hidden meadows and panoramic vistas that capture the essence of New Mexico's high country.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground features accessible vault toilets and generally accessible picnic areas.
Sites SizeThe sites are designed to accommodate up to 10 people each and are equipped with basic amenities such as tables and campfire rings.
Sites PrivacyCampsites are surrounded by mature trees, offering some level of privacy. 'Sites are shady and feel secluded.'
Total Campsites12 campsites
Recommended CampsitesGuests recommend arriving early to secure a campsite due to its popularity and first-come-first-served policy. Reviews highlight that smaller RVs and vehicles are better suited for navigating the steep road.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
14 nights
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 10 guests per individual campsite.
Groups
The group sites can accommodate up to 10 people per site, but do not meet the criteria for larger groups.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutSites are well spaced and situated on gently sloping ground. Parking spurs are paved.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground operates from May 15–October 14, 2025. Peak season dates are included within this range.
Reservation PlatformsReservations not available; first-come, first-served only.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe campground operates entirely on a walk-up basis during the season; there are no online or phone reservations.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made prior to the arrival date are subject to a $10 fee. Late cancellations may additionally incur a penalty of forfeiting the first night's use fee. No modifications are possible on the check-in date unless facility-specific rules allow them.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a range of recreational activities including hiking, scenic drives, and picnicking. The Lobo Canyon Trail begins in the campground and connects to a network of trails in the area.
Hiking
The Lobo Canyon Trail starts in the campground and provides access to multiple trails in the Cibola National Forest. 'A lot of trails to explore,' and 'Some trails are still under construction,' according to reviews.Wildlife viewing
The area is home to a variety of wildlife. 'A lot of wildlife in this small mountain range,' as one reviewer noted.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are described, although one review noted a winter visit with grazing cattle and temperatures staying above freezing.Water Sports
The campground does not support any non-motorized water sports.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted; visitors must bring water to extinguish them properly. Following 'Don't Move Firewood' guidelines is advised to prevent tree-killing pests.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include steep/narrow road access to the campground, occasional extreme winds, and wildlife such as bears and cattle.
Active alerts"Campground closed (gates and restrooms locked) as of 4/18/2020," per a user review.
Weather forecast
81
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 25%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 6.5 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
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Daily & Hourly Insights
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Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
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Weather Summaries
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Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 15–October 14, 2025.
Trash and recyclingBear-proof trash receptacles are available, but there is no mention of recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresNo drinking water or natural water features available; visitors must bring their own water supply.
Common complaintsUsers frequently mention the lack of cell service, steep/narrow road access, and the need for visitors to be self-sufficient with water and supplies.
Host"Volunteer host onsite" per historical records. No further details provided.
Campground Map
Camper Reviews
4.4
31 reviews
Water Canyon Group Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the natural beauty, seclusion, and cleanliness of the campground. However, multiple users mention the lack of cell service and potable water as drawbacks.
Review Summaries
Based on 31 reviews
What Campers Love
- Scenic views and natural beauty.
- Clean and well-maintained vault toilets.
- Shady and secluded campsites.
- Opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing.
- Free or very low cost.
Based on 31 reviewsCommon Concerns
- No cell phone reception.
- No potable water on-site.
- Narrow and steep roads leading to the campground, making access difficult for some vehicles.
Based on 31 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
- Bring your own drinking water.
- Ensure your vehicle can handle steep and narrow roads.
- Arrive early, especially on weekends, as it can get crowded.
Based on 31 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews indicate the campground is enjoyable in spring, summer, and early fall. Winter visits are possible but may be challenging due to unpredictable weather and winds.
Based on 31 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'This campground is really awesome! Just wish there was cell phone reception.'
2. 'Sites were well spaced and fairly level. Would have liked to explore more.'
3. 'The views are spectacular, the...
Based on 31 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific sites are not identified by number, but one reviewer mentioned a site suitable for a Class A motorhome, and others noted that sites are level and spacious.
Based on 31 reviewsAccessibility Features
Vault toilets and picnic areas have been noted as accessible. No additional details on accessibility are available.
Based on 31 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are not specifically mentioned in reviews.
Based on 31 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025