Black Range Ranger District
Overview
The Black Range Ranger District is located in the eastern most portion of the Gila National Forest in southwest New Mexico, and comprises 557,573 acres. A large portion of the Aldo Leopold Wilderness lies within the Black Range Ranger District, as well as a small portion of the Gila Wilderness.
The Black Range Mountains stand as a prominent landmark on the district. Elevations here range between 4,200 feet to over 10,000 feet. Precipitation varies from 12 inches in the southern woodlands to over 20 inches in the higher elevations. The district features a great diversity of habitats, from desert and arid grasslands to a mixed conifer forest of spruce and fir above 9,000 feet. Pinon and juniper woodlands and ponderosa pine dominate the landscape between 6,500 and 8,000 feet.
There are numerous recreation opportunities on the Black Range District. It is best known for access to the rugged Aldo Leopold Wilderness although the Black and Silver fires have changed the landscape of some areas. The Continental Divide National Scenic Trail and a large portion of the Geronimo Trail Scenic Byway crosses the district. Dispersed camping opportunities abound.

Area Description
Location
Truth or Consequences is located in the Rio Grande Valley of southern New Mexico. Originally Palomas Hot Springs, the town changed its name to Truth or Consequences in 1950. Ralph Edwards, producer of "Truth or Consequences", a popular radio program, challenged any town in the United States to change its name to the same as the program in return for national advertising. As a result of the name change, Truth or Consequence (T or C) has enjoyed the yearly arrival of Hollywood celebrities to celebrate the Ralph Edwards Fiesta.
Climate and Current Conditions
Located at approximately 4,200 feet, the community experiences warm summers with daytime temperatures reaching 80-90 degrees and mild winters with daytime temperatures of 40s and 50s.
For current conditions, call 575-894-6677. Always be prepared for forest visits with water, food, first aid kit, warm clothing, spare tire and a full tank of fuel. Be aware that weather conditions can change quickly.
Cultural and Recreation Opportunities
The community of T or C is a full service community of approximately 7,000 friendly people. Elephant Butte Lake State Park located just east of town and Caballo Lake State Park located just southeast of town provides residents and visitors with exquisite recreational opportunities including skiing and fishing. Culturally and historically unique, T or C and the surrounding areas offer a multitude of recreational opportunities including water sports, golfing, natural hot springs, hunting, fishing, and sight seeing. The picturesque Gila National Forest is on the western horizon inviting people to explore its rugged peaks and canyons.
Recreation - N.M. Highway 152: The Kingston Campground is open for day use only - July 1 until September 3 due to the possibility of flooding. For a spectacular view of the eastern slope of the Black Range Mountains, stop at Emory Pass Vista. The day use area has a picnic table and restroom facilities.
Recreation - N.M. Highway 59: Beaverhead Work Center is open with potable water and restroom facilities. There is no public phone service. Wolf Hollow Campground has picnic tables, grills, restroom facilities and a livestock corral. Access to the campground depends on favorable road/weather conditions.
Medical
Local medical and fire emergencies can be handled by Sierra Vista Hospital and the fire department.
Transportation
Public transportation within T or C is limited; however, with T or C’s excellent location, Las Cruces can be reached with little more than an hour drive.
Contact Information
District Ranger: Bret Mellot
Address: 1804 North Date Street, Truth or Consequences, New Mexico, 87901
Phone: 575-894-6677
Fax: 575-894-3597
Directions: Exit 79 from I-25. The district office is located one mile south in the Lakeway Shopping Center.
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