If you’ve been reading our articles for some time now, you know we love highlighting places that are perfect for quick getaways. There are so many to choose from, whether you’re looking for a hot springs resort, a tiny mountain town, or a place that lets you get in touch with your hippie side.
If you prefer escaping into nature the old-fashioned way with a tent and sleeping bag, then you’re going to love the place we’re featuring today! It just happens to be one of the darkest spots in New Mexico and its remote location is perfect for those looking for a quiet night away from home.
The place we’re checking out today is Cosmic Campground, an International Dark Sky Sanctuary located in the Gila National Forest just a few miles from the New Mexico-Arizona border.
Gila National Forest/Flickr
The campground earned its designation in 2016 and the nearest major source of evening light is about 40 miles away from an Arizona town. When you visit, you’ll find the dark skies are perfect for watching and photographing the stars.
Gila National Forest/Flickr
The campground is located just off Highway 180 via a little dirt road that looks like this, near milepost 37. You’ll also be happy to find that the trees in this area are low, meaning they won’t block your view of the night sky!
Gila National Forest/Flickr
The campground also has a designated area to set up telescopes, so you don’t have to worry about your tripod getting too dirty or getting in the way of other campers.
Gila National Forest/Flickr
As for the campground itself, it’s considered primitive, meaning there are few amenities. Since it is an International Dark Sky Sanctuary, there are also a few rules for staying here.
Gila National Forest/Flickr Among them are to avoid using white flashlights; instead, they recommend placing a red filter over the light. The campsite also discourages generator use between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.
Are you ready to watch the skies at this campsite?
Bureau of Land Management/Flickr
Cosmic Campground is located in the Gila National Forest, approximately 8 miles north of Alma via Highway 180. You can find more details about the campground by visiting the U.S. Forest Service website.
Gila National Forest/Flickr
Among them are to avoid using white flashlights; instead, they recommend placing a red filter over the light. The campsite also discourages generator use between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.
Bureau of Land Management/Flickr
Looking for other fun things to do at night in New Mexico? Check out 14 Magical New Mexico Attractions You Can Only Experience In The Dark.
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