Tent campsites near Coyote, New Mexico range from 6,000 to 9,500 feet in elevation with significant temperature variations between locations. Lower elevation sites typically remain accessible year-round while higher mountain locations experience seasonal closures due to snow. The area features diverse camping options within the Lincoln National Forest with most primitive sites requiring campers to bring their own water.
What to do
Hiking nearby trails: The Cedar Creek Recreation Area offers easy access to hiking paths directly from camp. According to Nathan S., "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."
Trail riding opportunities: During summer months, horseback riding becomes available near Upper Bonito Dispersed Recreation Area. As Kala J. notes, "In the summer there are horse riding camps set up to provide trail rides."
Wildlife observation: New Canyon Campground provides chances to spot local wildlife. One camper reports, "Drive the additional 5 miles to the top & visit that campground & enjoy all of the deer & other wildlife."
Gold panning: Some campers visit creek areas for recreational gold panning, though water levels can be unpredictable. Jaedee B. observed at Upper Bonito, "Went to this area to camp and pan for gold. Creek near by that didn't have much water in it."
What campers like
Solitude on weekdays: Less crowded conditions exist midweek at most tent sites around Coyote. Alex G. notes about Upper Bonito Dispersed Recreation Area, "It's a nice area to spend with another person and even with kids, restrooms are clean, there's some privacy if you find a good spot, could be busy during the weekend."
Accessible primitive camping: Many sites offer basic amenities while maintaining a wilderness feel. K&S Adventures shares, "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."
Off-road exploration: The network of forest roads provides opportunities for 4x4 adventures. At Skyline Campground, Michael notes, "It's absolutely stunning to camp at the peak of a mountain. You have 360 views of the region."
Stargazing conditions: The minimal light pollution creates exceptional night sky viewing. Cal K. describes Aquirre Springs: "Mountain view and view of valley is amazing. Gorgeous alligator juniper trees. Vault toilets - no other amenities."
What you should know
Limited water availability: No potable water exists at most sites. At Monjeau Campground, Noah K. advises, "Beautiful area under the lookout. Pretty quiet but limited areas you can go, at least for a RTT. Can be windy and cold at night."
Variable road conditions: Access roads range from paved to rough dirt tracks with seasonal deterioration. Elissa E. reports, "We have a Tacoma with a rooftop tent and the road leading to the campsite wasn't an issue at all. In fact, most vehicles are more than likely to make it if they aren't too long or pulling a trailer."
Tent durability considerations: High winds affect many sites, particularly at elevation. Lev experienced this at Skyline Campground: "Terribly windy and open but worth the view. All in all a decent one night or two campground, very close to the road, and very slanted."
Vehicle size restrictions: Many campgrounds cannot accommodate large vehicles or trailers. Rachel C. observed at Aquirre Springs, "I would definitely not take a long vehicle on the road. Camp host was one of the best I've seen."
Tips for camping with families
Best sites for children: Look for areas with flat terrain and some recreational space. At Aquirre Springs Campground, Butch K. observed many families prefer weekends: "There were kids running all through the campsites. Every picnic table was heaped high with food."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children often enjoy animal sightings which are common in early mornings and evenings. At New Canyon Campground, one camper reported, "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."
Bathroom facilities: Sites with vault toilets provide more convenience for families with young children. Kala J. notes about Upper Bonito, "A lot of dispersed camping areas don't have toilets, but this one does."
Space considerations: Some campgrounds offer more room between sites than others. K&S Adventures found at Upper Bonito, "We had plenty of space for them [children and dogs] to roam. Lots of trails nearby and the lake of course!"
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Most tent campgrounds near Coyote have uneven parking areas. At Cedar Creek Recreation Area, Nathan S. advises, "The lot is mostly flat and has a three night limit."
Access limitations: Many forest roads have tight turns and steep sections. At Monjeau Campground, Chad D. 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 is absolutely no room for trailers at all."
Generator etiquette: In shared camping areas, generator use can be controversial. Butch K. shares his experience: "First morning I wake up in site 13 at 8 o'clock in the morning, sure as feces, some jerk fires up the generator."
