Welcome to the Gila National Forest
Visit dark sky parks, canyon catwalks, cave dwellings, majestic mountain scenery and experience the adventure you've been missing!
With over three million acres of forested hills, majestic mountains and range land. It is probably best known for its wilderness areas, in particular the Gila Wilderness - the first wilderness in the United States. The magnificent mountain scenery, cool summer temperatures and relatively warm winters permit a wide range of recreational opportunities during all seasons.
Fire Information
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Black Fire
Evacuation information. The Black Fire is located 24 miles north of Mimbres in a wilderness area on the Gila National Forest.
- New Mexico Fire Information
- Gila National Forest Facebook and Twitter
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Closures and Fire Restrictions
The Gila National Forest has closed the Wilderness Districts surrounding the Black Fire. Stage II Fire Restrictions are in effect across the remaining forest.
Preparing for Your Visit to the Gila National Forest
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Special Places
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Find Your Way
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Passes & Permits
Discover More About the Gila National Forest
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Caring for the Land
Learn more about how the Gila National Forest is managed and cared for, including travel management, grazing management and annual operating instructions (AOIs), forest planning, assessments, and projects, including the Luna Restoration Project.
Southern New Mexico Resource Advisory Committee (RAC) Seeks Proposals for Project Funding
The Southern New Mexico Counties Resource Advisory Committee (RAC) has issued a call for proposals for Title II Special Projects on Federal Lands under the reauthorization of the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act of 2000. The deadline to submit project proposal packets is 5:00 p.m. June 03, 2022.
The primary location for projects is intended to be on federal lands, including the Gila National Forest (all Districts), the Lincoln National Forest (Smokey Bear and Sacramento Ranger Districts), and the Magdalena Ranger District of the Cibola National Forest. However, projects can be on non-federal lands within Catron, Grant, Lincoln, Otero, Sierra, or Socorro counties, where projects would benefit resources or people using a national forest. Learn more on how to submit your proposal to the Southern New Mexico Resource Advisory Committee for potential funding.
Recent News
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Evacuations on the Black Fire Expand - May 21 Update
Release Date: May 21, 2022
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Black Fire Update - May 19
Release Date: May 19, 2022
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Gila National Forest issues Black Fire area closure
Release Date: May 18, 2022
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Gila National Forest moves to stage 2 fire restrictions
Release Date: May 18, 2022
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Black Fire Update - May 18
Release Date: May 18, 2022
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Black Fire Update - May 17
Release Date: May 17, 2022
Features
A Path through the Wilderness: The Story of Forest Road 150

Imagine the world in 1875. The Civil War has been over for five years. The normal mode of transportation in southern New Mexico is either horseback, or a horse-drawn wagon. Black cavalry and infantry troops, known as Buffalo Soldiers, were sent to the American West to take part in the Indian wars and the protection of settlers.