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El Caso V Campground
This is an equestrian camping area adjacent to Quemado Lake Recreation Area.
El Caso V (Five) Campground is a partially developed campground located just outside of Quemado Lake Recreation Area. It is primarily for equestrian use since horses may not be taken into the recreation area. Corrals and water are not provided. Cottonwoods and ponderosa pines provide shade throughout the campsite.
At a Glance
| Reservations: | First-come/first-serve. All Gila National Forest Campgrounds have 14-day stay limit. |
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| Area Amenities: |
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| Fees: | There is no fee for this campground ($0.00) . |
| Usage: | Medium-Heavy |
| Restrictions: |
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| Closest Towns: | Quemado, NM |
| Water: | No water |
| Restroom: | Vault |
| Information Center: | Quemado Ranger District Phone: (575) 773-4678 |
General Information
General Notes:Good camping area for equestrians that is close to the lake. It is also good for hunters when Juniper and Piñon Campgrounds close.
ATVs generally are allowed on the forest but they must be licensed and users must follow all state laws regarding use. ATV use is not allowed in Quemado Lake Recreation Area.
Directions:
From turn off on NM 32 to Quemado Lake Recreation Area, continue along NM 103 past the lake. NM 32 becomes FR13 (gravel). Follow FR 13 and the campground is on the right approximately two miles after the lake and after crossing the cattle guard past El Caso III.
Activities
Mountain Biking
Bikes are allowed but no specific trails exist. However, dirt roads in the area provide good riding opportunities with views across the lake.
| Status: | Open |
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| Difficulty Level: | Difficult |
Campground Camping
The ground is uneven and can be muddy after rain or snow. There is plenty of room between sites.
| Status: | Open |
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RV Camping
No RV specific sites but there are sites suitable for self-contained RV camping. The nearest dump station is at Piñon Campground (May-September). Dump fee is $15.00. Maximum RV size is 32'.
| Status: | Open |
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Backpacking
Largo Trailhead (Trail #14) is approximately 1.5 miles from the campsite towards the recreation area. Largo Trail connects with other trails in the recreation area.
| Status: | Open |
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| Difficulty Level: | Difficult |
Horse Camping
This is a good equestrian campground.
| Status: | Open |
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Horse Riding
The campground provides a good base for horse riding in the area. Horse riding is not allowed in the recreation area. See Horse Riding on the Gila.
| Status: | Open |
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Big Game Hunting
Hunting in New Mexico is regulated by New Mexico Department of Game & Fish. http://www.wildlife.state.nm.us/ Hunting proclamations and licensing information for both in-state and out-of-state residents.
| Permit: | |
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| Usage: |
Viewing Wildlife
Occasional elk may be seen. Be careful driving at night since elk are often on the roads. The upper end of the lake provides ideal habitat for wildlife watching.
| Status: | Open |
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Boating - Motorized
Quemado Lake is approximately two miles from the campground. Boats may be launched from available boat ramps, however, only boats with electric motors or non-motorized are allowed.
| Status: | Open |
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Boating - Non-Motorized
Quemado Lake is approximately two miles from the campsite. Boats may be launched from the boat ramps. Only boats with oars or electic motors are permitted on Quemado Lake.
| Status: | Open |
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| Rental info: | Boats may be rented from Snuffy's General Store. |