Pinon Campground (Quemado Lake)
4.3810 reviewsPinon Campground (Quemado Lake)
$15.00 - $125.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$15.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$125.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$50.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Reservations during peak season range between $15.00 for standard non-electric sites to $125 for shelter non-electric premium accommodation. Payments for first-come-first-serve are cash/check only. Reservation fees applied online ($8), contact center ($9), or in-person ($3). Additional fees for late cancellations and modifications will apply.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of the Quemado Lake recreation area, Pinon Campground offers an enchanting escape into New Mexico's high country. Whether you're seeking a cozy spot for your tent, a spacious RV site, or the comfort of group and premium shelters, this versatile campground welcomes all types of outdoor enthusiasts. Days here unfold with endless possibilities: cast a line into the pristine waters of Quemado Lake, launch your boat for a peaceful morning paddle, or explore winding trails that reveal the forest's hidden treasures. As evening falls, gather around your campfire ring, grill fresh-caught fish on provided grills, and share stories at your picnic table under a canopy of stars. Modern vault toilets ensure comfort while preserving the authentic camping experience.
Pinon Campground supports a variety of camping options. It offers tent camping, RV sites, and reservable group shelters, emphasizing flexibility for both individual campers and larger groups.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 7,899 feet above sea level, Pinon Campground offers a refreshing mountain retreat where summer temperatures remain delightfully cool. This high-altitude haven provides welcome relief from desert heat, though visitors should remember to stay hydrated and take it easy during their first day as they adjust to the thinner air. The elevation creates perfect conditions for comfortable camping even during peak summer months.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a pristine forest sanctuary where towering pines frame breathtaking vistas and the night sky explodes with countless stars unobscured by city lights. As dusk settles over the campground, the haunting bugle of elk echoes through the trees, creating an unforgettable wilderness soundtrack. Just moments away, Quemado Lake sparkles like a jewel in the forest, where majestic ospreys circle overhead, diving gracefully to catch their prey. This remarkable landscape offers photographers and nature lovers endless opportunities to capture the raw beauty of the Gila wilderness.
Geological RegionSet within the magnificent expanse of Gila National Forest, Pinon Campground serves as your gateway to one of New Mexico's most treasured landscapes. The surrounding forest creates a natural amphitheater of towering conifers, while nearby Quemado Lake adds a stunning aquatic dimension to the terrain. Adventure beckons along lakeside paths perfect for morning strolls and forest trails that wind deeper into the wilderness. Here, where the forest meets the water, you'll discover why the Gila region has captivated outdoor enthusiasts for generations, offering some of the darkest, most spectacular night skies in the Southwest.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThere is no specific mention of features catering to campers with disabilities.
Sites SizeUser reviews suggest spacious sites, as MARIE P stated, "We fit two RV’s and a few tents with plenty of room to spare."
Sites PrivacyUser reviews indicate good privacy, as MICHAEL T commented, "Very private. Lots of room for kids to play."
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCertain sites offer lake views; consider those for scenic experiences.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
- 14 consecutive nights per visit during open months
- a total of 14 nights allowed per month.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Varies by site type.
Groups
Group shelters are available at rates of $50.00 and $125.00 per night, depending on the shelter type. No specific details about group size limits are mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Open and Closed SeasonMay 10, 2025 - September 29, 2025 (Peak Season).
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov. Payments can be processed online, via the contact center, or in person.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-serve camping is available with payment via cash/check only and requiring exact amounts at fee stations.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled up to scheduled arrival day with incurred $10 fees. Late cancellation penalties lead to forfeiture of the first night's fee. On-site discretion for late changes varies.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Recreational activities include fishing, boating, hiking, mountain biking, wildlife viewing, and stargazing. Quemado Lake offers opportunities for non-motorized boating and fishing, and the surrounding forested area provides trails for hiking and biking.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities include both forested and lakeside trails. Specific trail details such as lengths or difficulty levels are not provided.Fishing
Fishing is available at Quemado Lake. Bobbi Griffith shared that their campsite offered views of ospreys fishing, enhancing the natural experience.Biking
Mountain biking is listed as one of the available activities, but no further details are provided about trails or terrain.Boating
Boating activities include canoeing, kayaking, and paddle boating on Quemado Lake. Non-motorized boating is highlighted as a preferred option.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a highlight, with Bobbi Griffith noting, "we could see ospreys fishing," and Kylie Brooke mentioning, "there's so many elk!!"Winter Activities
No winter-specific activities are mentioned.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as canoeing, kayaking, and paddle boating are available.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires permitted within designated rings only.
Hazards
General hazardsVault toilets may have unpleasant odors, as per reviews. Gravel road access might challenge certain vehicles.
Weather forecast
73
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 26%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 1.6 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
The nearest emergency contact is Quemado office reachable at 575.773.4678. Specific emergency locations for hospitals, police stations, or ranger posts are not listed.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 10, 2025 - September 29, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities appear to be inconsistent. THERASA C mentioned, "1 trash can topped full of trash," and reported having to clean their fire pit upon arrival.
Proximity to water featuresLess than 2 miles from Quemado Lake, providing opportunities for fishing, boating, and lakeside activities.
Common complaintsMultiple reviews mention lacking cleanliness in bathrooms and trash stations. "Bathrooms were absolutely disgusting and smelled horrendous." Other complaints include absence of water access and quiet enforcement at nights.
HostUsers' experiences with camp hosts vary. "No camp host available all throughout our four-day stay." Versus "The camp host was a very nice lady!"
Campground Map
Driving directionsThe campground is located 14.2 miles south of Quemado. Take 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 1.4 miles to reach the Pinon Campground. Turn left into the campground.
The campground can be accessed by taking NM 32 south and then onto NM103. NM103 transitions into a gravel road (Forest Road 13), which may indicate that certain vehicles could face challenges. The road remains accessible, although caution should be exercised on gravel terrain.Nearby places
Quemado (14.2 miles south)
Nearby supplies
No specific nearby grocery, camping supply, or fuel locations listed, but self-pay stations for fees are available at the campsite entrance.
Camper Reviews
4.4
10 reviews
Pinon Campground (Quemado Lake) is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the scenic beauty and spacious sites of Pinon Campground but express concerns about cleanliness and maintenance. "Pinon campground at Quemado Lake is a beautiful place," noted Bobbi Griffith. However, reviews like THERASA C's raise significant issues with trash and bathroom conditions.
Review Summaries
Based on 10 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include scenic views, spacious sites, and helpful camp hosts (when available). MARIE P wrote, "We fit two RV’s and a few tents with plenty of room to spare." Bobbi Griffith praised...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include unclean bathrooms and inconsistent maintenance. Helen Hunt stated, "the bathrooms were absolutely disgusting," while THERASA C criticized poor preparation, "we swept and...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own water and cleaning supplies, as water availability has been inconsistent, and bathrooms may require extra attention. Hooee Corina advised, "Bring lots of water to wash with and to...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Spring and summer reviews emphasize the beauty of the lake and wildlife. Winter-season feedback is absent; however, the campground appears to operate primarily during warmer months.
Based on 10 reviewsCamper Quotes
- "The lot that we were on was spacious!" - Hooee Corina
- "Fishing, camping, the sunsets were beautiful and there's so many elk!!" - Kylie Brooke
- "We dumped the trash that wasn't ours." - THERASA C
Based on 10 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
No specific site numbers are highlighted. However, lake-view sites are praised for their scenic beauty.
Based on 10 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically address accessibility features or experiences of users with disabilities.
Based on 10 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and no negative experiences regarding pets are mentioned in reviews.
Based on 10 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025