About Little Walnut (Group Picnic Sites)
Overview Located just outside Silver City, the Little Walnut-Gomez Peak picnic grounds provide a pleasant day use area for small or large groups and individuals/families. The area is generally open from 8:00 a.m. until sunset during spring, summer and fall; winter hours vary according to weather conditions. The Little Walnut West Group Area can accommodate up to 50 people, with parking for 10 vehicles. Facilities include eight (8) tables, three (3) pedestal grills, vault toilets and trashcans. The Little Walnut East Group Area can accommodate up to 75 people, with parking for 15 vehicles. Facilities include 10 tables, one (1) serving table, four (4) pedestal grills, vault toilets and trashcans. For all group use areas, no firewood is available and camping is prohibited. Recreation The popular Gomez Peak/Little Walnut Trail System can be accessed from the Little Walnut Group Sites. Numerous loops of trails can be hiked from this location and is a popular attraction for mountain bikers and hikers alike. Facilities The Little Walnut West Group Area can accommodate up to 50 people, with parking for 10 vehicles. Facilities include eight (8) tables, three (3) pedestal grills, vault toilets and trashcans. The Little Walnut East Group Area can accommodate up to 75 people, with parking for 15 vehicles. Facilities include 10 tables, one (1) serving table, four (4) pedestal grills, vault toilets and trashcans Natural Features The Little Walnut Group Sites offer views of Gomez Peak and is surrounded by a Ponderosa and Pinyon-Juniper landscape. Deer, squirrels and a variety of birds can often be seen at the site.
How to Get There
Little Walnut Group Sites can be accessed from Silver City by driving north on Little Walnut Road from US Highway 180 for approxiamatley 5 miles.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
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Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
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Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
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Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
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High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to Little Walnut (Group Picnic Sites)
Heading to Little Walnut (Group Picnic Sites)? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Little Walnut (Group Picnic Sites)?
No central reservation system listed for Little Walnut (Group Picnic Sites). Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/10134111) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Little Walnut (Group Picnic Sites)?
Little Walnut Group Sites can be accessed from Silver City by driving north on Little Walnut Road from US Highway 180 for approxiamatley 5 miles.
How do I contact Little Walnut (Group Picnic Sites)?
You can reach the park at phone: 575-388-8201 or email: SM.FS.GilaForest@usda.gov.
References & Official Resources
