Cosmic Campground International Dark Sky Sanctuary
Cosmic Campground International Dark Sky Sanctuary (CCIDSS) is the first International Dark Sky Sanctuary located on National Forest System lands and also in North America. It is also one of only 14 certified IDA Sanctuaries in the world. International Dark Sky Sanctuaries are lands possessing an exceptional or distinguished quality of starry nights. For more information on dark skies, light pollution, or the International Dark Sky Association.
The CCIDSS offers a 360-degree, unobstructed view of the night sky for exceptional stargazing opportunities. This site is situated where there nearest significant source of artificial light is more than 40 miles away, and across the state line in Arizona.
Night vision is necessary to enjoy the night sky. If you look at white light from either your flashlight or your cell phone, you will not be able to enjoy the wonders of the natural night sky for 20-30 minutes. In order to respect your fellow stargazers, the Forest Service recommends:
- No parking on the observation/telescope pads
- No campfires on observation pads
- Use a red filter over your flashlight lens
- Try to arrive before dark so that your headlights won’t distort your night vision
- Quiet times (no generator use) between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.
CCIDSS is a primitive campground with minimal site amenities including an information kiosk, a pit toilet, and four concrete telescope/observation pads. Currently, there is very minimal shade available however, future planning developments intend to erect a shade pavilion as well as improve individual campsite amenities as funding comes available.
Reservations
All sites first come, first served.
General Information
Cosmic Campground is one of many sites on the Gila National Forest where night sky photography is at its best. Late May - late October are the best times to see the Milky Way and get some premium photos.
Year round
Courtesy suggestions include arriving and setting up camp prior to dusk and discourages the use of bright lights/campfires when other visitors are enjoying the night sky.
No pass required
Permits are required for commercial or organized uses.
- No parking on the telescope observation pads.
- No campfires on the telescope observation pads.
- Use a red filter over your flashlight lens
- Try to arrive before dark to minimize light pollution from headlights
- Quiet hours are (recommend no generator use) between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.
- Use of OHV and ATVs is prohibited in the campground.
- Hunting and shooting are prohibited in the campground.
- Stock animals are not allowed in the immediate campground.
- A 14-day stay limit applies.
No fee for this campground
Pets must be leashed in the campground
Please contact the Gila National Forest Supervisors Office at 575-388-8201 for information about outfitters and guides who are authorized to operate on the forest.
Address: Hwy 180 S, 18 Ranger Station Rd., P.O. Box 8 Glenwood, NM 88309
Phone: (575) 539-2481
Hours: Mon. - Fri. 8:00 am - 4:30 pm (Closed on federal holidays)
Getting There
Latitude / Longitude
Latitude: 33.47994
Longitude: -108.9228717
Elevation
5,364 feet
Directions
The campground is located 8 miles north of Alma, NM off US Highway 180, between mileposts 37 and 38. There is a brown Forest Service sign opposite the entrance; and there are two other signs along US Highway 180 indicated the campground is ahead. Turn, cross the cattle guard, and drive about 1.3 miles. Cosmic CG Locator Map
Parking
Maximum two vehicles per campsite
Facility and Amenity Information
Accessibility
Restrooms
Restrooms are available at this site.
Water
Potable water is not available at this site.
Picnic Tables
Picnic tables are available at this site.
At each campsite
Horse/Pack Animal Information
Horse/Pack animals are not allowed at this site.
