Iron Gate (FR 223) in NM -- Camping Rules & Access in New Mexico
Iron Gate (FR 223) in NM
Why
U.S. Forest Service opens most of its land to dispersed camping unless a local order restricts it. Check the unit's current orders before you commit.All 6.1 miles in are maintained only for high-clearance vehicles, dirt the whole way. Climbs 1,300 ft over 6.1 miles through 3 switchbacks, with sustained grades near 12% and pitches to 14%. Stretches run along a shelf with a drop of up to ~120 ft on the downhill side. Dead-end road with no mapped turnaround, so expect to back out or unhitch. Gates 0.6, 1.5, 3.2, 4.1, 5.2 and 5.2 miles in. Cattle guards 3.3 and 4.1 miles in.
Pecos River runs 0.1 mi off. Grass Mountain stands 1,600 ft above the site, 2.1 miles northeast.
Santa Fe National Forest, Pecos-Las Vegas Ranger District: Camping for more than 14 days, whether or not consecutive, within any 45-day period.
| Fire restrictions | Set by Santa Fe National Forest, Pecos-Las Vegas Ranger District. Check current orders |
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September normals 39–69°F, 2.8″ rain. Monthly averages, PRISM 1991–2020.