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FacilityCampgroundRecreation.gov

Upper Scorpion Campground

Pinos Altos, New Mexico · Catron County · Campground

Upper Scorpion Campground is a partially developed campground within walking distance of the West Fork of the Gila River. The campground is located less than one mile from the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument just off of NM State Highway 15. Drinking water is available, tables and grills are provided at select si…

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33.23050, -108.26100
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5-Day Forecast

Weather at Upper Scorpion Campground

Live forecast for the park. Plan your visit accordingly.

Avg High86°F
Avg Low54°F
Peak Rain Chance26%
Humidity28%
UV (avg)9
Air Quality57 · Moderate
Today
☀️
Clear
82°/48°
🌬 17mph
6:05 AM8:16 PM
Sun
☀️
Clear
86°/53°
🌬 15mph
6:04 AM8:16 PM
Mon
☁️
Overcast
89°/56°
🌬 16mph
6:04 AM8:17 PM
Tue
🌦
Light Drizzle
87°/61°
💧 17%🌬 22mph
6:04 AM8:17 PM
Wed
🌧
Rain Showers
85°/54°
💧 26%🌬 20mph
6:04 AM8:18 PM

Forecast data © Open-Meteo. Refreshed every 6 hours. Always check the most recent forecast before heading out.

About Upper Scorpion Campground

Upper Scorpion Campground is a partially developed campground within walking distance of the West Fork of the Gila River. The campground is located less than one mile from the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument just off of NM State Highway 15. Drinking water is available, tables and grills are provided at select sites. Vault toilets are available on site. Camping is free of charge and first-come, first-served.

What to Pack for Your Stay

Tuned to the live forecast for this park.

👔 What to Wear

  • 👕
    UPF sun shirt (long sleeve)
    Cooler than direct sun on bare skin.
  • 🩳
    Light shorts/skirt
    Loose-fit, breathable.
  • 🧢
    Wide-brimmed sun hat
    Plus a buff/bandana you can wet for cooling.
  • 🕶
    Polarized sunglasses
    Critical for glare from sun + sand/water.

🎒 What to Pack

  • 💧
    Water
    Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
  • 🍫
    High-energy snacks
    A snack for the trail.
  • 🧴
    Sun protection (UV 9)
    SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm w/ SPF, sunglasses, sun hat.
  • 🩹
    First-aid kit
    Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
  • 🗺
    Offline map
    Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.

Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.

Plan Your Visit to Upper Scorpion Campground

Heading to Upper Scorpion Campground? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for Upper Scorpion Campground?

No central reservation system listed for Upper Scorpion Campground. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/10123299) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Upper Scorpion Campground?

Upper Scorpion Campground directions and information are available at https://www.nps.gov/gicl/planyourvisit/camping.htm.

How do I contact Upper Scorpion Campground?

You can reach the park at phone: (575) 536-9461 or email: gicl_information@nps.gov.