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Reserve Ranger District
Overview
The Reserve Ranger District is one of the largest districts in the northern portion of the Gila National Forest. Grass plains, chaparral, woodland, pine and mixed conifer habitats are found within the 613,119 acres that make up the district. Elevations are moderate to high and range from 5,300 feet to 9,786 feet. There are four developed campgrounds located on the district. The district boasts 155 miles of trail including 55 miles on the Continental Divide. Approximately 2,789 miles of roads occur throughout the area, many of which are primitive (dirt) roads. The district's southern border is the Gila Wilderness, providing several backcountry hiking opportunities. A large portion of the district is relatively untouched, providing the abundance of big game, small game, and fishing, making the area a "hunter's paradise", known worldwide.
Area Description
Location
Reserve is located in western New Mexico near the Arizona border. The elevation is 5,832 feet above sea level. The population of Reserve is approximately 500 and is the county seat of Catron County, the largest in New Mexico. The nearest full-service town is Springerville, Arizona around 63 miles away.
Climate and Current Conditions
The average annual temperature is 54 degrees. May is the driest month of the year while July is the wettest. The annual average precipitation is 15 inches.
For current conditions call (575) 533-6232.
Cultural and Recreation Opportunities
The Gila National Forest and the Reserve Ranger District are renowned for their world class elk hunting areas with good fishing in the nearby streams and lakes The Reserve area offers many opportunities for camping, fishing and hiking, and the gateway to the Gila Wilderness is south of Reserve.
Medical
There is one medical clinic located in the town of Reserve. Hospital services are located in Springerville, Arizona, 60 miles west of Reserve, and in Silver City, New Mexico approximately 100 miles south of Reserve. The community also has an EMS with an ambulance located at the medical center.
Transportation
The nearest commercial airport access is in Albuquerque, New Mexico, 175 miles from Quemado. A small airport is located in Springerville, Arizona which is for private planes only. Boutique Air in Show Low, Arizona (about 2-1/2 hour drive) has flights to/from Phoenix and Albuquerque.
Contact Information
Acting District Ranger: Bret Ruff
Address: 5 Smokey Bear Circle, P.O. Box 170, Reserve, New Mexico, 87830
Phone: 575-533-6232
Fax: 575-533-6605
Directions: The Reserve Ranger District Office is on Highway 12, one mile west of Reserve
View office hours