Campgrounds in the Lincoln National Forest near Cloudcroft, New Mexico offer diverse options for equestrians and outdoor enthusiasts. Located at elevations between 7,000-9,000 feet, this area experiences cooler temperatures than surrounding lowlands, with summer highs rarely exceeding 85°F. The mountain terrain features mixed conifer forests and meadows accessible via forest service roads that can become impassable during winter snowfall.
What to do
Trail riding connections: The Upper Bonito Dispersed Recreation Area provides access to numerous riding trails. Campers note: "Good base camp for some of the best hiking around Ruidoso (Big Bonito Trail, Argentina Trail, etc.)" Most trails are accessible from May through October, when snow doesn't block forest roads.
Petroglyph viewing excursions: Located about 45 miles from Cloudcroft, Three Rivers Campground sits near the Three Rivers Petroglyph National Park. A reviewer mentioned: "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." The park contains over 21,000 ancient markings, making it worth the drive.
Sand sledding adventures: For a unique experience, Backcountry Primitive Sites at White Sands National Park offers camping among white gypsum dunes. One camper shared: "The white sand looks like snow but it was hot when I went so that was a new experience for me. A bit of a sensation confusion but oh so worth it." The park rents plastic sleds for sliding down dunes, creating a memorable experience for riders taking a break from horseback activities.
What campers like
Private forest spots: At Upper Karr Canyon Campground, campers appreciate finding secluded areas away from the main camping section. A reviewer noted: "Beautiful area for tent camping. I hiked into the trees a bit so there weren't super close neighbors. Plenty of downed trees for gathering firewood." These more remote spots often work well for setting up temporary horse containment.
Wildlife encounters: The Baca Campground offers opportunities to observe local fauna. "Very remote, lots of wildlife, elk, coyotes, roadrunners," writes one camper. The dispersed camping area provides space for horse trailers while allowing campers to experience the native wildlife of the region.
Night sky viewing: With minimal light pollution, many campgrounds offer exceptional stargazing. At White Sands, one camper described: "the moonlight reflecting off the sand, it almost felt like daytime!" The clear mountain air around Cloudcroft creates ideal conditions for astronomy enthusiasts to observe stars while their horses rest for the night.
What you should know
Water availability: Most equestrian-friendly sites near Cloudcroft require bringing your own water. At Skyline Campground, a camper warns: "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." The exposed nature of this site means water for horses must be carried in.
Road conditions: Access to horse-friendly camping often involves unpaved roads. For Baca Campground, a reviewer cautions: "DO NOT ATTEMPT TO DRIVE HERE IN WET CONDITIONS!" This is especially important for those hauling horse trailers, as wet roads can become impassable and dangerous.
Fire restrictions: During dry periods, fire restrictions may be enforced across the national forest. At Upper Bonito, a visitor notes the area relies on "Fire rings, thanks to previous campers," indicating variable fire management practices. Always check current fire restrictions before planning to camp with horses.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly activities: The immediate area around Cloudcroft offers family-oriented recreation beyond horseback riding. Near West Mesa Trailhead BLM Dispersed camping, a visitor shared: "Lots of things to see and do close. Ruidoso is interesting, Lincoln is interesting." These nearby towns provide historical sites and shopping when children need breaks from trail riding.
Temperature planning: Mountain elevations mean significant temperature changes. A Three Rivers camper advised: "Good little camp ground...stow your food away from tent had a bear visit while there." Families should pack layers for both riders and non-riders, especially for spring and fall trips.
Space considerations: For families bringing both horses and children, choose sites with adequate separation. At Upper Karr Canyon, a reviewer noted: "I hiked off into the trees and find our own spot. There are plenty of trails and campsites in the trees." These more dispersed spots allow families to set up horse areas away from sleeping and play zones.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: RVers seeking services should consider commercial campgrounds rather than forest service sites. A camper at Twin Spruce RV Park mentioned: "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." These amenities often compensate for the distance from immediate trail access.
Parking limitations: Many of the forest service sites have restrictions for larger vehicles. At Upper Karr Canyon, one RVer warned: "This is a parking lot with bathrooms, picnic tables, and fire rings that you cannot drive up to...would not be ideal for RVs or camper vans as the picnic tables/fire rings are not very close to the parking lot." Those bringing horses with larger rigs should scout sites in advance.
Seasonal access: Winter access is limited for large RVs with horse trailers. A visitor to Baca noted: "Wrong time of year too come to Baca, snow covered. Able too park, spent one nite." RVers should plan horse camping trips during summer and early fall to avoid road closures and difficult conditions.
