Dispersed camping opportunities near Luna, New Mexico provide primitive outdoor experiences within Lincoln National Forest's diverse terrain. Elevations in this region range from 7,000 to 9,500 feet, creating distinct camping environments throughout the year. Winter access can be challenging at higher elevations with seasonal snow closures affecting road conditions.
What to do
Hiking accessible trails: Upper Bonito Dispersed Recreation Area serves as an excellent base camp for exploring nearby hiking routes. "Good base camp for some of the best hiking around Ruidoso (Big Bonito Trail, Argentina Trail, etc.)," notes one camper at Upper Bonito Dispersed Recreation Area.
Rock climbing opportunities: The rocky terrain at New Canyon provides natural climbing features. One visitor reports that the area is "very rocky good for climbing," making it a destination for those seeking vertical challenges in a less-developed setting.
Wildlife viewing: Larger mammals frequent the higher elevation camping areas, particularly in warmer months. "We didn't go all the way to the peak because it was windy but the site we stopped at had picnic tables, a bathroom with pit toilets, and the ground was level. Our view was beautiful! There were also some horses roaming around," shares a visitor at Monjeau Campground.
What campers like
High-elevation views: The ridge-top camping near Ruidoso offers expansive panoramas, though campers should prepare for exposure. At Skyline Campground, one reviewer notes: "Honestly this site is now one of my favorites. Lots of camping spots and great hiking trails to go on! Gets a little windy since you're at the top, but totally worth it!"
Secluded camping spots: Many visitors appreciate the quieter dispersed sites away from developed campgrounds. "We had a great night drove through the entire area and off roads to find a nice quiet area we had our son and two big doggos and had plenty of space for them to roam. Lots of trails nearby and the lake of course!" reports a camper at Upper Bonito.
Star visibility: The minimal light pollution at higher elevations creates exceptional stargazing conditions. "I have never seen so many stars. It is a beautiful scene, there are a lot of trees burned down but we saw wild horses, deer, and massive dropping either of Elk or Bear," shares a visitor at Monjeau Campground.
What you should know
Limited water availability: Many dispersed camping areas have little to no water access, requiring campers to bring adequate supplies. A visitor to Upper Bonito notes: "Creek near by that didn't have much water in it. But over all pretty (Dry) Area."
Road conditions vary seasonally: Mountain access roads can become difficult in winter or during wet conditions. "Can get snowed in in the Winter months," warns a camper about Upper Bonito Dispersed Recreation Area.
Facilities at dispersed sites: While most dispersed camping lacks amenities, some areas provide basic facilities. "It's a nice area to spend with another person and even with kids, restrooms are clean, there's some privacy if you find s good spot, could be busy during the weekend, but it's worth visiting," explains a reviewer at Cedar Creek Recreation Area.
Tips for camping with families
Plan for weather variability: Higher elevation tent camping near Luna experiences significant temperature drops at night, even in summer. At Skyline Campground, a camper advises: "All in all a decent one night or two campground, very close to the road, and very slanted."
Wildlife encounters: Prepare children for possible wildlife sightings with appropriate safety protocols. "We were approached by a guy letting us know there was a boar and a bear coming down the canyon. He said they were about 700 yards away," reports a visitor to New Canyon Campground.
Choose sheltered sites: Wind exposure can affect comfort levels, especially with children. "It's absolutely stunning to camp at the peak of a mountain. You have 360 views of the region, but beware, the wind can get quite torrential and there is not a ton of shade but there is some!" shares a Skyline Campground visitor.
Tips from RVers
Vehicle restrictions: Larger RVs and trailers face significant access limitations on mountain roads. A Monjeau Campground visitor cautions: "The drive up is full of narrow switchbacks that you just hope and pray nobody else happens to be coming around at the same time as you are. There are some quite steep grades as well. A class B could get in there as well, but there's no room for anything bigger and good luck getting level. There is absolutely no room for trailers at all."
Parking lot camping: Some recreation areas offer flat parking areas suitable for small RVs or truck campers. At Cedar Creek, a visitor explains: "Small free camping site...Not a lot to say a small parking lot at the end of the road. Two trails lead from the lot there are a few good tent sites right by the lot. The lot is mostly flat and has a three night limit."
Access road research: Always research current road conditions before attempting mountain access in an RV. "Road up there was somewhat rough but I think any car can make it without issues," notes one Monjeau camper, though this applies mainly to standard vehicles rather than larger RVs.
