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Cibola/McGaffey
Overview
The McGaffey Campground, nestled within the Cibola National Forest near Fort Wingate, New Mexico, offers a serene escape into the Zuni Mountains. Situated at an elevation of approximately 8,000 feet, this park provides a cool, forested environment that serves as a refreshing contrast to the surrounding high desert landscape. Travelers seeking a rustic camping experience will find a quiet atmosphere surrounded by towering ponderosa pines, providing a peaceful retreat from the heat of the lower elevations during the peak summer months.
Location & Surroundings
Located about 22 miles southeast of Gallup, the area is characterized by rugged terrain and lush greenery. The park surrounds the McGaffey Lake area, which remains a focal point for local wildlife sightings and scenic photography despite being seasonal. The drive into the forest via NM-400 offers sweeping vistas of the red sandstone cliffs and unique geological formations typical of the region, providing a profound sense of seclusion while remaining relatively accessible from the Interstate 40 corridor for those passing through the Southwest.
Amenities & Park Features
As a traditional National Forest site, the park focuses on natural beauty over modern luxuries. Visitors should prepare for dry camping conditions as there are no electric, water, or sewer hookups available at the individual sites. The park features essential facilities including vault toilets, seasonal drinking water stations, and sturdy picnic tables and fire rings at each location. Most sites are designed for smaller rigs, so those with camper vans or shorter travel trailers will find navigating the forest roads and spurs most manageable.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the high-quality mountain biking trails that weave through the Zuni Mountains, offering various difficulty levels for riders. Hikers can explore the trails leading toward the McGaffey Lookout Tower for panoramic views of the continental divide and the sprawling forest below. For those interested in regional history, the historic Fort Wingate area is nearby, and the city of Gallup provides access to world-renowned Native American jewelry, art galleries, and cultural exhibits just a short drive away.
Who This Park Is Best For
This destination is ideal for self-contained RVers who enjoy a boondocking-style experience and a deep connection with the natural world. It is a perfect match for active outdoor adventurers looking for immediate access to trailheads and high-altitude recreation. Because of the tighter turns and smaller site footprints, it is best suited for those traveling in smaller rigs, truck campers, or vans who prioritize quiet nights and forest immersion over resort-style amenities and full hookups.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
David Parks
This was such a well constructed campsite, with 29 sites and plenty of space between them. I was expecting the restrooms to be absolutely fowl as most latrine style toilets are, but these are cleaner than most any regular public restroom.
Lawrence Talahongva
Such an amazing area with beautiful scenary, clean air and a hiking trail near by. Restrooms are decent and located throughout the camping area. So much wildlife to see when you take the time to look. Lake near or what's left of one around the corner. Roads are paved forbthe drive in but turn into dirt and you also share the roads with bug rigs hauling earth from here to there.
Shannimoney Money
Love coming out here. You can have a picnic or go hiking or just go for a drive.. Very calming and peaceful. Take my family any chance I get.
David Meyer
Nice campground with plenty of shade, facilities and space.
Lyndall H.
We passed Quaking Aspen campground, which was fairly full. It was only 5 dollars to camp there, with an interagency lifetime pass. MGaffey had 29 sites. When we arrived around 7pm only one other site was taken. No cell service. Signs on the grill and fire circle said "no fire", but the forestry office said we could have a fire, since they had a lot of rain lately. No showers, electricity or flush toilets. However the sites are on mostly wooded lots which is good for shade, hammock camping and privacy. There was no host. We used self pay. It is 10 dollars a night Check out the age to buy the senior pass, it is less than 65 years old. The stars were incredible. Watch out for cows on the road! They are NOT fenced in. No grills, nice high altitude, lovely and cheap.