Cosmic Campground/Sacatan Falls Dayhike

This is the closest to a new moon I could get for a weekend. This is not a backpack and will just be car camping and a dayhike.

Jump on waitlist and I will move over.

Cosmic Campground is a relatively new campground meant for stargazers. Last time I was there I was amazed at the amount of stars. It is a pretty small campground, So I have to limit the number of people. If for some reason the campground has got popular in a year then we will just primitive camp, or go over to my favorite campground at Pueblo Park.

The hike is an 8 mile round trip off trail hike up Sacatan Creek. Sacatan is a 300 foot falls and is quite impressive. It is crazy to think of a waterfall like this in the Gila. The hike is in burn scar and there is no sure footing. There was several times the ground just gave out under me. Trekking poles will be helpful. Make sure you are comfortable with your steps. Do not attempt this hike if off trail hiking is not your thing. There was a nasty patch of cat claw that was so thick not even the dogs could make it through it at the base of the falls. We may benefit from a machete if you want to make it to base of falls. I viewed from afar last time.

The Plan:

Friday: Drive to campground and set up. Arrive whenever you can.

Saturday take the drive to trailhead and hike. Go back and enjoy some stars.

Sunday. Drive Home

Both the campground and the trailhead can be reached by any car.

Hike is about 1700 ft elevation change

Happy puppy dogs only. Mine will be our guides on the hike.

Driving Directions: I-25 south to Socorro. Take Highway 60 to Datil. NM 12 down to reserve and beyond to Highway 180. There is a sign for cosmic campground. If you reach Glenwood you went to far. Follow dirt road about a mile or so. Cant miss the campground.

Drive time about 4 hours.

I will take gummy bears as tips.