South Elk Mountain (FR 143) in NM -- Camping Rules & Access
South Elk Mountain (FR 143) in NM
Road corridorGila NF, Reserve Ranger District
53 mi from Little Walnut Village
Maps 8,386 ft
Dispersed camping generally allowed
U.S. Forest Service default; a local order can restrict it.
Stay limit: 14 days · within 30 days
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Road Access
Difficult
- All 9.2 miles of this road are maintained for high-clearance vehicles, dirt the whole way.
- Near Turkey Spring.
- Estimated climb: 980 ft over 9.2 miles through 4 switchbacks, with sustained grades near 12% and pitches to 17%.
- Terrain estimates suggest level ground alongside most of this road; parking areas are not verified.
- Dead-end road; turnaround space is not mapped.
Setting
Fairly secluded
- Well separated here, with the nearest through road 1.9 miles off.
- Eckleberger Spring lies 0.7 mi off.
Rules
Climate averages
October normals 36–63°F, 1.8″ precipitation. Monthly averages, PRISM 1991–2020.