Royal John (FR 886) — Black Range in NM -- Free Camping & Overnight Parking in New Mexico
Royal John (FR 886) — Black Range in NM
A 3.5-mile stretch of dirt National Forest road in Grant County, NM. The road serves Thompson Cone.
Gila National Forest, Black Range Ranger District allows dispersed camping here -- 14-day limit in any 30 days.
All 3.5 miles in are maintained only for high-clearance vehicles. Dirt the whole way in (3.5 miles). Climbs 980 ft over 3.5 miles -- sustained grades near 14%, with pitches to 25%. Stretches run along a shelf with a drop of up to ~140 ft on the downhill side. Little level ground alongside -- few of the stretches measured have a flat spot to pull onto. Winds through 16 switchbacks. Water crossings 2.9, 3.4 and 4.3 miles in.
Sawyers Peak stands 2,388 ft above the site, 3.0 miles north. Private here -- the nearest through road is 1.4 miles off. Ackin Tank lies 0.9 mi off. The nearest town, Bayard, is 21 mi off.
September normals 51–75°F, 2.8″ rain. Monthly averages, PRISM 1991–2020.
Set by Gila National Forest, Black Range Ranger District. Stage 1 and 2 orders change within days -- check the current order before you build a fire.
fs.usda.gov