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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 star gazers the Forest Service recommends:
- No parking on the observation/telescope pads
- No camp fires 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.
At a Glance
| Operational Hours: | 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. |
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| Reservations: | No reservations are necessary. First come, first served. All Gila NF camping is subject to the 14-day stay limit. |
| Area Amenities: | Tent camping, Camping trailer, Toilets, Parking |
| Fees: | No fee for this campground |
| Open Season: | Year round |
| Usage: | Light |
| Best Season: | Spring/Fall/Winter or dark phase of the moon each month |
| Restrictions: |
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| Closest Towns: | The closest community is Alma, NM about eight miles south of the campground. There is a combination convenience store, gas station and Alma Café there, and there is a combination convenience store/gas station in Glenwood, NM. Silver City, NM is approximately 1.50 hours (60 miles) south of the campground, where there are three grocery stores, multiple gas stations and other amenities. |
| Water: | No |
| Restroom: | Vault |
| Operated By: | Forest Service |
| Information Center: | Glenwood Ranger District Phone: (575)539-2481 |
General Information
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:
Please do not park on the telescope pads.
General Notes:
Cosmic Campground is one of many sites on the Gila NF where night sky photography is at it's best. Late May - late October are the best times to see the Milky Way and get some premium photos.
Activities
Campground Camping
The Cosmic Campground is a relatively primitive campground with eight sites - each with a picnic table, in-ground fire pit/grill and allocated parking stops. There are telescope pads located in the area, please do not park on these pads.
| Fees: | Free |
|---|---|
| Hours of Operation: | Year-round. All Gila NF Campgrounds have a 14-day stay limit. |
RV Camping
In 2018 six (6) concrete pads were added for RVs with a maximum length of 32'.
Dispersed Camping
CCIDSS is a primitive campground with minimal site amenities including an information kiosk, a pit toilet, and four concrete telescope/observation pads. There are eight sites in this campground, all suitable for either tent camping or RVs with maximum length of 32'.
| Reservation info: | No reservations are necessary. First come, first served. All Gila NF camping is subject to the 14 day stay limit. |
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Viewing Scenery
Cosmic Camground International Dark Sky Sanctuary offers a 360 degree, unobstructed view of the night sky. This site is located where there is little light pollution and low development.
| Status: | Open |
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Amenities
| Camping trailer: | Maximum size 36' |
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| Tent camping: | 8 sites |
| Toilets: | Vault |