Coal Mine

Coal Mine Campground is situated in the upper portion of the Cibola National Forest in west-central New Mexico, near the Continental Divide Trail and Mt. Taylor. Visitors can enjoy hiking, picnicking and scenic driving. The Lobo Canyon Trail begins in the campground and leads hikers into a network of trails in the area; some trails are still under construction. Visitors also enjoy picnicking in the surrounding area. The campground offers more than a dozen sites for tent or RV camping, each accommodating up to 10 people. Utility hookups are not available. Parking spurs are paved, and each site is equipped with a table and campfire ring with grill. Accessible vault toilets are provided. Drinking water is not available in the campground; visitors must bring their own supply. The campground is located northeast of the town of Grants at an elevation of 7,400 feet. It lies on the top of a hill, with campsites situated on gently sloping ground, and a forest of mature pine, juniper and oak trees surrounds it. The El Malpais National Monument and Conservation Area can be accessed from various points within a short drive of the campground. Its extensive, ancient lava flow landscape and other scenic features draw tourists year-round, and points of interest include the Northwest New Mexico Visitor Center, Sandstone Bluffs Overlook and La Ventana Natural Arch. A portion of the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail parallels the Zuni-Acoma Trail as it passes through the monument. The city of Grants is about 12 miles from the campground, offering dining and lodging options as well as a mining museum with gem and mineral displays and a self-guided tour into an underground world.