The Carrizozo region sits at elevations ranging from 5,400 to 7,000 feet in south-central New Mexico, creating varied camping conditions across seasons. Winter nights can drop below freezing, while summer daytime temperatures typically reach the 90s. The surrounding Lincoln National Forest and BLM lands offer extensive options for yurt camping near Carrizozo, New Mexico, with multiple campgrounds operating year-round.
What to do
Hike White Mountain Wilderness trails: Three Rivers Campground provides direct access to multiple wilderness trails. "Beautiful and secluded in mid-October. Camp hosts are super friendly and love to chat, definitely recommend stopping by to say hi," notes Noah B. about his Three Rivers Campground experience.
Explore historical sites: Fort Stanton's historical grounds are minutes from nearby camping areas. "High country campground. Very quiet little park with just a few spots, has water and electricity and a dump site. Close to Lincoln, NM. Historical Fort Stanton just down the road," explains Oscar D. about Fort Stanton Cave Campground.
Wildlife watching opportunities: Dawn and dusk provide prime viewing times across the region. "This RV resort is hidden away near Ruidoso and adjacent to Lincoln National Forest. This park is quiet and peaceful with lots of birds and nightly visits by elk," shares Michele S. about Moonflower Meadows RV Resort.
What campers like
Dark skies for stargazing: The remote location creates exceptional stargazing conditions. "Best stars we have seen in a long while. High clearance would be needed and for a trailer a creative turn around could be required," reports Elena C. about dispersed camping near Fort Stanton Cave Campground.
Convenient year-round access: Several campgrounds remain open through winter months. "I have been to this campground many time. It's one of my favorites because it's open all year! It is 4 miles from the Three Rivers Petroglyph National Park and the portal to the White Mountain Wilderness area in the Lincoln National Forrest," explains Angela C. about Three Rivers Campground.
Family-friendly amenities: Playgrounds and open spaces keep children entertained. "Smaller campground with plenty to keep the kids entertained. Playground. Some of the campsites back up to a nice running creek. Beautiful bridge crossing over the creek," shares Charles B. about Bonito Hollow RV Park & Campground.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Coverage varies significantly between campgrounds. "No ATT or Verizon cell service at my site, but I did find a weak signal up near the office. The wifi was a struggle. It was barely adequate the first day, but absolutely miserable the second day," reports Jan R. about Bonito Hollow RV Park.
Wildlife precautions required: Bears frequent some camping areas. "Good little camp ground..stow your food away from tent had a bear visit while there..also the road getting there is prone to flash floods," warns AJCOOK about Three Rivers Campground.
Water access varies seasonally: Creek levels change throughout the year. "My family and dog tent-camped at Three Rivers campground on Labor Day weekend 2014. There were shaded spots. The water in the river was running and fresh. There were a couple nice bathing holes," explains Jacob W.
Reservation requirements vary: Some yurt camping options near Carrizozo need advance booking. "We were able to get in last minute for a two night stay. We stayed in Site 604. Pull through, level spot. Very close to neighbor RVs. But, nice and quiet," shares Jody J. about Boot Hill RV Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Bonito Hollow offers dedicated play areas. "This campground has it all. Beautiful surroundings, not far from downtown shopping in Ruidoso, most helpful hosts on site. There are horseshoe pits and sand volleyball available for entertainment," notes Sue G.
Educational opportunities: Nearby petroglyphs provide learning experiences. "We visited White Sands NP and Three Rivers Petroglyph Area from this spot, and each was about equal distance. Not that far from Alamogordo so we splurged and ate out one night," shares Dennis P. about Boot Hill RV Resort.
Safety considerations: Some campgrounds offer increased security. "This seems to be a super secure location as hosts are on duty 24/7. No one comes into the campground without stopping at the office and checking in, anyone failing to do this, will be followed in and information gathered or asked to leave," explains Sue G. about Bonito Hollow RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Full-service options exist but book early. "We stayed in January and the stay was wonderful. We were greeted by friendly and helpful hosts. Nice office with couches and a book/dvd lending library. You can also refill your propane on site," reports MinnieWinnie A. about Twin Spruce RV Park.
Site spacing considerations: Some parks offer more room between sites than others. "Our site was wide enough for my 32ft travel trailer, my pickup, my partner's car, and his trailer with his motorcycle on it, and we still had room to move. There are mature trees at each site and throughout the park," describes Michele S. about Moonflower Meadows RV Resort.
Road conditions: Access roads vary significantly in quality. "Secluded camping about 1.5 miles in from US Rt 380! On BLM land, the dirt road in is wash boarded in spots, but hey it's free. Three sites with room for bigger rigs, have picnic tables under shelters and trash cans," explains Dave G. about Fort Stanton Cave Campground.
