Tent camping near Lemitar, New Mexico provides opportunities for backcountry experiences in remote desert and mountain settings. Most sites are situated between 7,000-8,500 feet elevation, creating significant temperature variations between day and night, particularly in transition seasons. The region features a mix of juniper, piñon pine, and ponderosa forest zones with distinct wildlife habitats.
What to do
Rock climbing access: New Canyon Campground offers tent camping with excellent rock climbing opportunities nearby. "Great hikes, rock climbing & tons of great trails. Drive the additional 5 miles to the top & visit that campground & enjoy all of the deer & other wildlife," notes Mike R. about New Canyon Campground.
Wildlife viewing: The higher elevation camping areas provide opportunities to observe native wildlife in their natural habitat. At New Canyon, 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."
Fall foliage exploration: Seasonal color changes transform the landscape, particularly at higher elevations. One visitor to Bear Trap Campground shared, "We stopped here after the Hot Air Balloon Fiesta. Didn't think we'd find anything but glad we were wrong. Lovely colors here with fall!"
What campers like
Solitude and remoteness: Tent campers appreciate the lack of crowds at many sites around Lemitar. One reviewer describes the area as having "beautiful sunsets every night, the low vegetation sort of takes away from privacy, but it seemed like it was not too busy when we went."
Scenic drives: The journey to these remote campgrounds often provides memorable experiences. A camper at New Canyon Campground mentioned it was the "Most beautiful drive into the campsite. Some of the campsites had concrete picnic tables and bear containers."
Diverse landscapes: The Lemitar area camping options showcase New Mexico's varied terrain. "This place offers a beauty of its own kind. It is not like timber forest that I am used to camping in (I'm from the northwest with huge trees)... Definitely offers a beauty in its own way," explained one tent camper.
What you should know
Road conditions vary dramatically: Access to many campgrounds requires planning and appropriate vehicles. At Springtime Campground, "The road in may require 4x4 depending on any precip or how one drives. Once there, you're rewarded with Adirondack shelters and shaded sites."
Wildfire impacts: Always check current conditions before planning a trip. Some areas have experienced significant damage. A recent report for Bear Trap noted: "The area has been burned in the 2022 fires. The road was closed for a long time, and if it is open now, there will be floods in the burn scar. Check with the Forest Service for more info before you go."
Amenities are minimal: Most sites maintain primitive conditions with few services. Campgrounds like New Canyon offer "Vaulted toilets available" but lack other facilities. At Springtime Campground, expect "No water, toilets, or other amenities, but clean sites w/ picnic tables."
Tips for camping with families
Plan for elevation changes: Temperatures at higher elevation campsites can drop significantly at night, even in summer. Pack appropriate clothing layers, especially when camping at sites like Hughes Mill Campground which sits at higher elevations.
Bring all supplies: With no stores or markets near most campgrounds, families need comprehensive packing lists. New Canyon Campground reviewers note the area is "very rocky" and has "10 great campsites" but requires self-sufficiency for all camping needs.
Select sites based on shelter needs: Some campgrounds offer structural advantages. At Springtime Campground, "you're rewarded with Adirondack shelters and shaded sites. We even had split firewood at our site courtesy of a fire crew."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions are significant: Large RVs will find few suitable options near Lemitar. At Bear Trap Campground, the access road is described as "rough and narrow with some hair-pin turns... I would not recommend trying the road with an RV."
Consider dispersed options: Due to limited developed facilities for RVs, boondocking on public lands may provide better alternatives than attempting to access the tent-focused campgrounds in the mountains surrounding Lemitar.
Small trailers only: If bringing a trailer, keep it minimal. One camper at Bear Trap noted, "The drive up to the camp ground is rough and narrow... but it is passable (we have an old Honda CRV AWD and pull a small trailer)... just don't plan on getting there fast."
