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Dispersed Camping

Bailey Canyon

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Bailey Canyon in New Mexico offers a landscape of rugged terrain with scattered vegetation. Temperatures can range from 30°F in winter to 90°F in summer. Nearby, visitors can explore the Lincoln National Forest and the historic town of Ruidoso.

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Location

Bailey Canyon is located in New Mexico

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

32.9778595 N
105.7562906 W

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Connectivity

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    Excellent Coverage
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    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 1 user
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    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 7 users

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Detours Nearby

LOCAL FAVORITES PRESENTED BYToyota Trucks
Apache Campground

Apache Campground

5 min away

Saddle Campground

Saddle Campground

5 min away

Drive Time

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Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 1 user
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 7 users

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Site Types

  • Dispersed

Features

For Campers

  • Phone Service
  • Fires

DISPERSED CAMPING

Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.


PERMIT might be REQUIRED

We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Bailey Canyon needs a permit.


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Reviews

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5.0

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1 Review

Reviewed Mar. 12, 2024

Great dispersed spot in the mountains

This was a good patch of dirt and trees up in the mountain with a good clearing to park the truck. Very much so dispersed camping with no amenities. The road up was a little muddy but over all smoother and easy. We picked a spot at the highest point along Bailey Canyon Rd. There were several other dispersed spot further down the road. Nobody in sight, no animal sightings either.

Month of VisitMarch
  • Review photo of Bailey Canyon by Nick B., March 12, 2024
  • Review photo of Bailey Canyon by Nick B., March 12, 2024

Frequently Asked Questions

What hiking trails are available near Bailey Canyon in Cloudcroft?

While specific trail names aren't documented for the immediate Bailey Canyon area, the campground's location in the mountains near Cloudcroft puts it in proximity to numerous hiking opportunities in the Lincoln National Forest. The surrounding forest terrain offers both informal paths and established trails. Visitors should bring maps of the area to explore the nearby wilderness, as the mountainous landscape provides excellent opportunities for day hikes through pine forests and scenic overlooks.

Where is Bailey Canyon campground located in New Mexico?

Bailey Canyon campground is located in the mountains near Cloudcroft, New Mexico. This dispersed camping area sits at a high elevation in the Lincoln National Forest region. Bailey Canyon Road provides access to various camping spots, with the highest points offering the best locations for setting up camp. The site is situated among trees and clearings, providing a true mountain camping experience in southern New Mexico.

What amenities are available at Bailey Canyon campground?

Bailey Canyon is a true dispersed camping area with no amenities provided. There are no restroom facilities, running water, trash services, or established fire rings. Campers need to be fully self-sufficient and prepared to pack out all trash. The site offers natural clearings among trees where you can park vehicles and set up camp. This is primitive backcountry camping that requires proper preparation and adherence to Leave No Trace principles.

When is the best time to visit Bailey Canyon in New Mexico?

The best time to visit Bailey Canyon is during late spring through early fall when the mountain weather is most favorable. The road can become muddy during wet periods, which might make access challenging. Summer offers pleasant temperatures at this higher elevation, providing relief from the heat of lower-lying areas. Fall brings beautiful color changes to the surrounding forest. Winter visits are possible but should be approached with caution due to potential snow and cold temperatures at this mountain elevation.