Campgrounds near Bent, New Mexico range in elevation from 4,500 to 9,000 feet, creating distinct temperature zones for camping throughout the year. Between desert floors and pine-covered mountains, temperature variations can exceed 30°F within a 30-minute drive. Dispersed camping options often require high-clearance vehicles, especially after periods of rain when forest roads develop washouts.
What to do
Petroglyph viewing: 1-mile hiking trail at Three Rivers Petroglyph Site features over 20,000 ancient carvings. "Great hike to see 20,000 plus Jornada Mogollon petroglyphs, 1 mile round trip. Fee area, $5 cash only. Dogs leashed in campground/picnic areas and no dogs on trail," notes a visitor.
Mountain biking: Roads from Cloudcroft lead to numerous trails. "There was a dry water run off that ran the entire length down the mountain and a tree lined bluff across from there. I bet it's pretty cool to see the water run when the snow melts," shared a camper at Forest Road 568 - Dispersed Camping.
Wildlife viewing: Early morning and dusk provide best opportunities. "We drove in around 10pm and the small town of Cloudcroft was beautiful for anyone needing a place to stop before heading into the forest. We saw more elk than we could count! Just glowing eyes everywhere and all in the road," reports one camper.
Sledding at White Sands: Borrow equipment from local campgrounds. "They even provide sleds and wax for free to use at White Sands. There's an arroyo behind the RV park to explore, along with some off‑road trails leading toward the mountains and various nearby hiking spots."
What campers like
Cooler mountain temperatures: Saddle Campground in Cloudcroft provides relief from desert heat at 9,000 feet elevation. "My husband and I wanted a cool getaway during the heat of Texas summer, and although Cloudcroft was 9.5-10 hours from home, it was worth it. Being from Colorado I was seeking the cool evenings, crisp air, pine tree smells and sounds."
Solitude in forest settings: Many dispersed camping areas offer privacy. "There was lots of really nice people staying at the sites at the entrance, but if you go further you can find some privacy. Less than a 5 minute drive from Cloudcroft. We also found a lot of bones from dead animals which was pretty cool."
Stargazing opportunities: Clear night skies away from city lights. "The starry night skies are absolutely beautiful. Facilities are decent—nothing to complain about. Strong cell service with both Verizon and T-Mobile. Great location for day trips to the mountains or White Sands."
Clean facilities at established sites: "The bathroom facilities were very clean and well kept. This was a great place to camp and we really enjoyed the petroglyphs and the nearby village ruins. As a bonus our kids could run around and play where we could still see them."
What you should know
Train noise affects some campgrounds: Alamogordo / White Sands KOA has passing trains throughout night. "Site was very large, private, and well worth the extra $. We had a great time, the only reason not 5 stars was overnight/early morning noise. Train tracks not far away and one night I heard it at least 5 different times."
March brings strong winds: Spring conditions can make camping challenging. "BEWARE: 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 and could possibly expect a bumpy night in a camper there!"
Limited cell coverage in mountains: Service varies drastically by location. "About 5 min drive to main road and 8 minutes to cloudcroft. Cell service barely exists, on and off 1 bar AT&T. It's a Forest road so check it out before pulling you trailer up it."
Fire restrictions change seasonally: Check current regulations before planning campfires. "The good: it was enjoyable out in the night sky and the stars were very clear and beautiful. Fire pits were all over the place and area had a lot of spots to set up camp."
Tips for camping with families
Free sledding equipment: Mountain Meadows RV Park offers sleds for White Sands. "This campsite was awesome! 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. They even provide sleds and wax for free to use at White Sands."
Accessible kid-friendly activities: Some sites offer playgrounds. "After half a week of boondocking we were in need of showers and laundry. This was our first time at a KOA. It was clean, quiet, and extremely convenient to White Sands National Park. The staff were super helpful and friendly. Our kids enjoyed the playground."
Temperature planning for comfort: Consider elevation differences when packing. "We visited on spring break with our 6 and 4 year olds. We scored one of the pull through sites with hookups after not finding a spot at Valley of Fires. The view was breathtaking (mountains by day and clear stars by night)."
Water availability limitations: Many dispersed sites require bringing your own. "There are infinite spots on this road. It's quite long and the road conditions aren't all that bad, so anyone can access it. You can tell where other people have been due to campfires. There was no trash, and also no amenities."
Tips from RVers
Site selection and sizing: Boot Hill RV Resort accommodates larger rigs. "If you are looking for a safe, easy stop with easy check-in for a night or two this will fit the bill. Easy to pull into sites. No scenery. Clean bathrooms and showers. Nice laundry and book exchange."
Turnaround challenges on forest roads: Check before traveling down narrow roads. "This was a beautiful location, near the town of Cloudcroft. We enjoyed the cooler weather up in the mountains. We should have have just stayed in the first location we found though. We went to the end of the road to find out that there was no way to turn our 29 ft trailer."
Water pressure variations: Bring regulators for hookup sites. "Local to everything in Alamogordo. Propane available, laundry, cabins, hot as hell showers, water pressure is really high at around 155 psi. So definitely bring a regulator."
Midweek arrival recommended: Weekend traffic limits available sites. "Big trees, level camp site and for the most part spaced out. Absolutely beautiful. First come first serve I would suggest arriving Thursday's around lunch to snag your self a beautiful camp site."
