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El Caso I-IV Campground
This are partially developed, shady campgrounds within hiking distance of the lake.
The El Caso Campgounds are partially developed campgrounds located at the east end of Quemado Lake, approximately .25 miles east of the Piñon CG. They are nestled in a valley stretching alongside an intermittent stream and are surrounded by ponderosa pine and cottonwood trees. The El Caso Campgrounds are popular with hunters, groups, and campers desiring a more primitive camping experience.
At a Glance
| Operational Hours: | The Quemado RD recommends that if a storm is coming that visitors vacate the campground or risk being stuck. For more information please call 575-773-4678. |
|---|---|
| Reservations: | First come, first serve. All Gila NF campgrounds have a 14 day stay limit. |
| Area Amenities: |
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| Fees: | There is no fee for these campground ($0.00). |
| Usage: | Light |
| Restrictions: |
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| Closest Towns: | Quemado, NM |
| Water: | No water |
| Restroom: | Vault toilet |
| Information Center: | Quemado Ranger District Phone: (575) 773-4678 |
General Information
General Notes:ATV use is not allowed in Quemado Lake Recreation Area.
Directions:
Just southwest of Quemado, NM, go south on NM 32 for 14.2 miles to Quemado Lake/NM 103 sign. At the sign go east on NM 103 for 4 miles to where Forest Road 13 (gravel) begins. Continue past the lake. The campground is on the right.
Activities
Campground Camping
There are 22 sites each with a table and fire ring. The tent sites do not have developed tent pads.
| No. of Sites | 22 |
| Status: | Open |
|---|---|
| Hours of Operation: | Campground season on the Quemado Ranger District normally runs from May 1, to Sept. 30. For more information, contact the Quemado Ranger District at (575) 773-4678. |
RV Camping
There are no RV specific sites but many sites are suitable for self contained RV camping. The nearest dump station is at Piñon Campground (May 1 to September 30). Dump fee is $15.00.
| Status: | Open |
|---|---|
| Hours of Operation: | Campground season on the Quemado Ranger District runs from May 1, to Sept. 30. |
Day Hiking
Largo Trailhead (Trail #14) is at the west side of the campground. Largo Trail connects with other trails in the recreation area.
| Status: | Open |
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| Difficulty Level: | Difficult |
Backpacking
Largo Trailhead (Trail #14) is at the west side of the campground. Largo Trail connects with other trails in the recreation area.
| Status: | Open |
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| Reservation info: | First come, first serve. All Gila NF campgrounds have a 14 day stay limit. |
| Difficulty Level: | Intermediate |
Horse Riding
The campground is adjacent to El Caso V (Five). Horses are not allowed in the Quemado Lake Recreation Area.
| Status: | Open |
|---|---|
| Hours of Operation: | First-come/first-serve. All Gila National Forest Campgrounds have 14-day stay limit. |
Viewing Wildlife
Take Largo Trail #14 to the east end of Quemado Lake and the Lakeshore Trail around the lake.
| Status: | Open |
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Picnicking
Boating - Motorized
The campground is approximately 2 miles from the boat launch and the Quemado Lake spillway. Electric motors only.
| Status: | Open |
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Boating - Non-Motorized
The campground is approximately 2 miles from the boat launch and the Quemado Lake spillway.
| Status: | Open |
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