Lincoln National Forest features rustic and deluxe cabin rentals throughout the Sacramento Mountains at elevations ranging from 4,000 to 9,000 feet. The forest spans 1.1 million acres across three ranger districts, offering cabin accommodations in various mountain settings. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing at higher elevations, while summer daytime temperatures typically range from 60-85°F depending on altitude.
What to Do
Hiking near White Sands: Located about 20 minutes from Alamogordo / White Sands KOA, White Sands National Park offers unique opportunities for exploration. "About 20 minutes to white sands, clean bathrooms, well kept. Maintained a lot of space between campsites during pandemic," notes Kristen in her review.
Explore mountain trails: The Sacramento Mountains provide excellent hiking opportunities directly from some cabin locations. Cloud Climbing Railroad Cabin and RV Park features "On property hiking trail, and an excellent common areas. Fruit trees abound, and picking fruit is allowed in season," according to Timothy C.
Visit historical sites: The region offers access to historical attractions like the Billy the Kid Trail. Janet A. mentioned in her review that KOA's location provides a "Nice central location to visit White Sands and the Billy the Kid Trail."
What Campers Like
Mountain wildlife viewing: Cabin stays often include opportunities to spot local wildlife. At The Camp @ Cloudcroft RV Park, "Local Mule deer and turkeys are no strangers here and visit frequently," according to Chip's review. Another camper, Jessica U., noted: "We took our 8 year old boy and he had such a great time and spotted some deer close to camp."
Stream access: Several cabin properties feature waterways. Jessica U. also mentioned that "Rio Penasco is a nice small river that runs thru camp that was very relaxing to hear in the background and has a walking trail next to it."
Stargazing opportunities: The mountain elevation provides excellent night sky viewing. Brian B. noted at The Camp @ Cloudcroft: "The star gazing is fantastic."
What You Should Know
Train noise at some locations: Some cabin rentals near Alamogordo experience railroad noise. Nick H. noted at Boot Hill RV Resort: "Train tracks not far away and one night I heard it at least 5 different times. 6:45a trash pickup on Tues mornings FYI. Just be aware if you're a light sleeper."
Seasonal considerations: March brings challenging conditions in some areas. Nicholas mentioned at Alamogordo KOA: "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!"
Cell service limitations: Mountain cabin locations may have limited connectivity. Chip noted at The Camp @ Cloudcroft: "The WiFi is good but cell signal is hard to come by."
Tips for Camping with Families
Kid-friendly activities: Several cabin locations offer features specifically for children. Elena C. reviewed Alamogordo KOA: "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."
Stream play opportunities: Cabins near waterways provide natural entertainment for children. Caleb & Stephenie B. mentioned: "My daughters played in the stream that runs along side the camp."
All-season cabin options: Some locations offer heated accommodations for winter stays. Naythin H. reviewed Slow Play RV Park: "I had I great time including my family the place was so nice everyone there was respectful and friendly I slept in the wall tent and omg it was so warm we went when it got down to 32 degrees so it was nice for the heater and heated blankets."
Tips from RVers
Water pressure considerations: Some cabin and RV locations have unusually high water pressure. Christian M. noted at Alamogordo KOA: "water pressure is really high at around 155 psi. So definitely bring a regulator."
Site selection for privacy: Some campgrounds offer premium sites with additional privacy. Nick H. shared: "We paid extra for a site with swing, paver patio, table and chairs. Site was very large, private, and well worth the extra $."
Fully-equipped accommodation options: For travelers seeking furnished cabin rentals, several properties offer comprehensive setups. Stephanie P. noted about The Camp @ Cloudcroft's accommodations: "When you rent these, you basically can come with clothes and food. They think of everything else from utensils, grills, stoves, linens, seasonings ... even a deck of cards!"
