Juniper Campground (Quemado Lake)
4.3241 reviewsJuniper Campground (Quemado Lake)
$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
Peak season rates range from $15 for standard non-electric sites to $25 for RV electric sites. First-come, first-served sites require exact cash or check payment at a self-pay fee station.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of the Quemado Ranger District, Juniper Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of mountain serenity and lakeside adventure. This beloved basecamp offers thoughtfully leveled tent sites and electric RV hookups (though no sewer connections), all within easy reach of sparkling Quemado Lake. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, exploring forest trails, or simply soaking in the mountain air, Juniper provides the ideal setting for your wilderness escape.
Juniper Campground accommodates RVs, tents, and offers a mix of first-come, first-served and reservable sites.
Historical SignificanceYour stay at Juniper places you within the storied expanse of the Gila National Forest, where centuries of human history intertwine with ancient landscapes. This protected wilderness has long served as a crossroads of cultures, from indigenous peoples who first called these mountains home to the pioneers and settlers who followed. Today's visitors become part of this continuing story, experiencing the same awe-inspiring vistas and natural wonders that have captivated generations.
Weather and SeasonsFrom May through September, Juniper Campground basks in near-perfect camping weather. Picture yourself waking to crisp mountain mornings that warm to comfortable mid-70s by afternoon, all under brilliantly clear New Mexico skies. The dry climate means you'll spend more time exploring and less time dodging raindrops. While winter transforms the landscape into a snow-dusted wonderland, the colder months typically see the campground quiet down, making summer and early fall your prime windows for adventure.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 7,712 feet above sea level, Juniper Campground offers a refreshing escape from desert heat and crowded lowlands. This lofty elevation delivers naturally air-conditioned comfort during summer days and crisp, star-filled nights that demand a cozy campfire. The thin mountain air and panoramic views remind you just how far you've climbed from everyday life, creating that perfect high-country camping experience.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to the gentle lapping of Quemado Lake through a forest of whispering pines and junipers. By day, the campground serves as your gateway to pristine waters perfect for fishing and paddling. As darkness falls, the absence of city lights reveals a celestial theater overhead – the Milky Way stretches across the sky in all its glory. Keep your camera ready for close encounters with majestic elk grazing in meadows and magnificent birds of prey soaring on mountain thermals.
Geological RegionJuniper Campground sits within the remarkable Gila National Forest, where dense coniferous forests meet the shimmering waters of Quemado Lake. This unique geological setting creates a diverse ecosystem where mountain meadows give way to timbered ridges, all beneath some of the darkest, most star-studded skies in the Southwest. The landscape tells a story millions of years in the making, from volcanic origins to the gentle sculpting of wind and water that created today's stunning terrain.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not detailed in the provided data.
Sites SizeRV sites are described as cramped, with three RVs sharing a single parking pad. Tent sites are more spacious and nicely spaced.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is limited for RV sites due to close proximity. Tent sites offer more space and are better suited for privacy.
Total Campsites18 campsites
Recommended CampsitesOpt for tent sites for privacy or RV sites with odd numbers for better layout. Avoid middle slots in RV site pods to prevent crowding.
Best CampsitesSite 11 is noted for its lake views and privacy when adjacent sites are vacant.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in starts at 11:00 AM
Check-out
Check-out required by 12:00 PM
Stay Limit
14 consecutive nights allowed during a visit to this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
RV electric site pods contain up to 3 slots per area. Tent sites are described as having more spacing and privacy.
Groups
No specific group camping sites are mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutFeatures leveled tent sites and RV site pods arranged in groups of 3 slots. Tent sites have larger spacing.
Open and Closed SeasonMay 10, 2025 - September 29, 2025
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served sites are available; exact payment must be made at the self-pay station.
Cancellation PolicyReservations canceled on the day before arrival incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's use fee. One-night reservations canceled late will forfeit all fees paid.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Juniper Campground offers a range of recreational opportunities, including fishing, boating, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The nearby Quemado Lake is a hub for these activities, and the forested surroundings provide a serene setting.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities include forest and lakeside trails. Katy Bradford mentioned, 'Trails nearby were easily driven in our Toyota 4Runner.'Fishing
Quemado Lake is popular for fishing. Reviews highlight catching trout and encountering crawfish. James Dalleska noted, 'Good fishing and all of the even campsites are first come, first served.'Biking
Biking is listed as an activity, but no specific trails or details on terrain are provided.Boating
Boating is supported with access to a boat ramp. Canoeing and kayaking are popular activities, as noted by Guillermo Loubriel and Regina Headings.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife sightings include elk, bears, and mule deer. James Grein mentioned 'Lots of Elk and birds of prey,' and Katy Bradford also noted seeing 'elk, a bear, mule deer.'Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly detailed in the provided data.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as canoeing and kayaking are popular activities at Quemado Lake.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are permitted only in designated fire rings.
- Quiet hours are Enforced during nighttime hours.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include rocky and steep terrain leading to the lake, wildlife sightings such as bears and elk, and restricted water/sewer amenities for RVs.
Active alertsNo current alerts.
Weather forecast
77
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 26%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 2.8 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
Nearest emergency services available at Quemado, 14.2 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 10, 2025 - September 29, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are limited. One user review pointed out the lack of trash bins in Juniper Campground, requiring campers to cart out their trash. Guillermo Loubriel noted 'PLEASE ADD TRASH CANS' and mentioned seeing them piled together in the nearby Piñon Campground.
Proximity to water featuresLocated 500 feet above Quemado Lake, with access via steep and rocky paths. Quemado Lake is suitable for fishing and kayaking.
Common complaints"Sites are cramped in pods of 3 RV slots, leading to lack of privacy." "Trash bins not available; visitors must pack out trash." "Reservation system struggles with expired signs and inadequate management."
HostHosts occasionally present; noted to be friendly and helpful, though some reviews mention need for improvement in site management.
Campground Map
Driving directionsTake NM 32 south to Quemado Lake/NM 103 sign. Turn left onto NM 103 and drive 4 miles to Quemado Lake/Forest Road 13. NM103 ends when the paved road turns to gravel. The gravel road is an indication that you are now driving on Forest Road 13. Continue driving on Forest Road 13 for 1 mile to reach the Juniper Campground. Turn right into the campground.
The road to the campground includes both paved roads (NM 103) and gravel roads (Forest Road 13). The gravel road may require caution for vehicles with limited clearance, and changes between seasons could potentially impact access.Nearby places
Quemado - 14.2 miles
Nearby supplies
Supplies, including fuel and groceries, can be found in Quemado, the nearest town located 14.2 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.3
41 reviews
Juniper Campground (Quemado Lake) is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews are generally positive, highlighting the campground's natural beauty, clean facilities, and recreational opportunities. Complaints focus on the cramped layout of RV sites and limited trash facilities.
Review Summaries
Based on 41 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include clean vault toilets, access to electricity, beautiful views, abundant wildlife, and proximity to Quemado Lake. Katy Bradford described the campground as 'gorgeous' with...
Based on 41 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include the cramped layout of RV sites, limited trash facilities, and the need to cart out garbage. Guillermo Loubriel criticized the tight spacing and lack of trash bins, while...
Based on 41 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Tips include bringing exact change for first-come, first-served sites, being prepared to cart out trash, and visiting on weekdays for a quieter experience. Diane G. advised those preferring privacy...
Based on 41 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews emphasize the campground's popularity for fishing and boating. Crowds can lead to noise and encroachment on camping spaces, as noted by Diane G.
Based on 41 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'This is a gorgeous campground with reliable water and electric and clean as possible vault toilets.' - Katy Bradford. 2. 'Nice place to camp and fish. Sites are roomy.' - Howard Polley. 3. 'The...
Based on 41 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site reviews highlight differences within the campground. Site 9 is noted for being uneven, while site 11 offers nice views. Steven R. mentioned, 'Nice view from #11. Tight spaces but well kept.'
Based on 41 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features are not explicitly reviewed.
Based on 41 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet policies are mixed, with some reviewers noting that leash rules are not always followed. Louis V. stated, 'Always clean. People don't follow instructions on keeping their dogs on a leash.'
Based on 41 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025