It was named after a famous attorney and Santa Fe political leader, Thomas B. Catron. Reserve, county seat and largest town in Catron County, has a population of about 650, and retains the true flavor of a western town. The climate in Catron County is not gentle, but is never dull.
Summer here is like summer in most of New Mexico, warm sun, refreshing air, chilly nights.
There is no such thing as smog or heavy, humid atmosphere in Catron County. The Apache and Gila National Forests border each other in this area, and the two forest combined cover much of Catron County. The Continental Divide zig-zags through this mountain complex, which is characterized by rugged slopes, narrow canyons, rocky formations, clear mountain streams and evergreen forests. Most sportsmen use four speed pick-ups or four wheel drive vehicles. There are many forest service camps with facilities, and many other places where those who enjoy being on their own can find a place under the pines to set up camp.