The Sacramento Mountains surrounding Alamogordo provide diverse camping options at elevations ranging from 4,300 feet in the basin to over 9,000 feet in nearby forested areas. Winter temperatures in the mountains can drop below freezing while summer nights remain comfortable compared to the basin's heat. Dog friendly campgrounds near Alamogordo vary from primitive dispersed sites to full-service RV parks with designated pet exercise areas.
What to do
Hiking at Dog Canyon: Located at the base of the Sacramento Mountains, this area offers trail access with varying difficulty levels. "This amazing camping spot near cloudcroft nm is a perfect place to stop by and see the beautiful woods and mountains of Lincoln mountains," notes one visitor to Forest Road 568 Dispersed Camping.
Visit Cloudcroft: Just 16 miles from the basin camping areas, this mountain town provides cooler temperatures and dining options. A camper at Mountain Meadows RV Park mentioned, "It's only a 30‑minute drive to White Sands National Park and Cloudcroft. The host is very responsive and helpful via call or text."
Explore Bluff Springs Waterfall: This small waterfall area provides a refreshing stop in the national forest. "Awesome overnight stay at Bluff Springs Dispersed Camping... Easy trip in & out, and the spring waterfall was great. Forest Ranger was super helpful," shares a camper who appreciated the natural features.
What campers like
Mountain views: The dramatic backdrop of the Sacramento Mountains creates scenic camping environments. At Dog Canyon, campers appreciate the "Beautiful view surrounded by trash" - noting that while some areas need cleanup, the "great Mountain View" compensates for shortcomings.
Wildlife viewing: Multiple camping areas offer opportunities to observe native species. "Saw plenty of wildlife including elk, wild turkey, and mule deer," reports a visitor to Lower Karr Canyon Campground, highlighting the area's biodiversity.
Night skies: The region's minimal light pollution creates exceptional stargazing conditions. A visitor to Oliver Lee Memorial State Park described the "Stunning cliffs rise to the east, with a wide-open valley stretching beyond. The starry night skies are absolutely beautiful."
What you should know
Summer heat management: Basin temperatures frequently exceed 100°F during summer months. "March is 'Windy season'. We got caught on the first day of it I think! Big gusty winds at night for us. The drive there can get dangerous," warns a visitor to Alamogordo/White Sands KOA.
Limited water availability: Many dispersed camping areas lack water sources. A Dog Canyon visitor noted: "BLM land with spots to camp. No amenities. Mostly clean but some trash and glass too."
Pet management considerations: While numerous pet-friendly camping options exist, rules vary. At Mountain Meadows RV Park, one camper observed: "We travel with our dogs, and the gravel is large, and the dogs struggled to find potty spots."
Tips for camping with families
Borrow sleds for White Sands: Some campgrounds offer complimentary sled loans. Mountain Meadows provides "grill area and games + sleds to borrow" according to a recent visitor.
Consider camping elevation: Higher elevation sites offer cooler temperatures but require more preparation. A Lower Karr Canyon Campground visitor shared: "Very remote and quiet. We didn't go too far in but plenty of sites available and didn't see a single other soul."
Scout for kid-friendly amenities: Some facilities include playground equipment. An Edgington RV Park camper mentioned: "We stopped for a night passing through and it was great. Very hospitable camp host. My kids also enjoyed the playground and the ducks and chickens by the pond."
Tips from RVers
Road condition awareness: Forest service and BLM roads vary significantly in quality. A Bluff Springs Dispersed Camping visitor warned: "Been camping here several times a year and it just keeps getting busier and busier. Need to find a new place!"
Water pressure monitoring: Some campgrounds have unusually high water pressure. A visitor to Alamogordo/White Sands KOA observed: "Water pressure is really high at around 155 psi. So definitely bring a regulator."
Generator policies: Rules regarding generator use vary by location. At Boot Hill RV Resort, campers appreciate the "quiet and peaceful" environment, which comes from enforced quiet hours and generator regulations.
