Lincoln National Forest offers diverse camping options at elevations around 9,000 feet, where temperatures remain cool even during summer months. The surrounding Sacramento Mountains provide a mix of alpine forest settings with Ponderosa Pine and Douglas Fir trees dominating the landscape. Wildlife viewing opportunities include deer, elk, and wild horses that frequently graze near established camping areas.
What to do
Mountain hiking trails: Several well-maintained trails start near Sleepy Grass Campground, with routes suitable for various skill levels. "We saw plenty of deer and even an elk," reports one visitor who appreciated the abundant wildlife viewing opportunities along the trails.
White Sands day trips: Make time for the striking gypsum dunes just 30 minutes from Alamogordo / White Sands KOA. "White Sands National Park is very close," notes a recent camper, making it an ideal base camp for exploring this unique landscape while returning to comfortable accommodations.
Petroglyph exploration: Three Rivers Petroglyph Area contains over 21,000 ancient rock carvings and can be easily accessed as a day trip from nearby campgrounds. "We visited White Sands NP and Three Rivers Petroglyph Area from this spot, and each was about equal distance," shares a camper who used Boot Hill RV Resort as their base camp.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the well-maintained amenities at Oliver Lee Memorial State Park. "Bathrooms got the job done and had warm water. The sites are pretty spread out, but since there isn't much vegetation, not a ton of privacy," explains a visitor who appreciated the spacious layout despite limited natural screening.
Diverse accommodation options: Glamping near Lincoln National Forest ranges from basic to luxury experiences. "The accommodations were great and the views were beautiful. Would definitely come back," notes a guest at El Campo Glamping, which offers three exclusive units with scenic mountain vistas.
Weather variations: The significant elevation changes create distinct climate zones. "Mid October...Amazing little gem located half an hour from White Sands. We used the air conditioner for the hot mid days and heat in the early mornings," explains a camper who appreciated the temperature fluctuations at Oliver Lee Memorial State Park.
What you should know
Reservation planning: Many campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons. "We were there mid-week and chose Site 13 which was great," shares a Sleepy Grass visitor, suggesting weekday arrivals for better site selection.
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies dramatically across the region. "Reviews I'd seen had said the service was passable but we discovered low to no service for both ATT and Verizon (<0.2 mbps) and it dropped frequently," warns a camper who found connectivity challenges at Oliver Lee Memorial State Park.
Seasonal considerations: Winter camping requires preparation while summer offers relief from lower-elevation heat. "Oddly this popped up in my feed as a late 4th of July choice. Good God, no. I like heat and live in New Mexico. Northern new Mexico, in the mountains, where no one needs air conditioning," cautions a reviewer about summer heat at lower elevations.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Look for campgrounds with dedicated facilities for children. "Our kids enjoyed the playground," mentions a family staying at Alamogordo / White Sands KOA, which maintains recreational areas specifically designed for younger campers.
Educational opportunities: The Camp @ Cloudcroft RV Park offers nature learning experiences along the Rio Penasco. "We took our 8 year old boy and he had such a great time and spotted some deer close to camp. 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," shares a parent.
Accessibility features: Sleepy Grass Campground includes a specially designed sensory trail. "This campground also has a special trail that was created for blind and deaf children, so it has signs with sensory additions. It was a really sweet spot," notes a visitor who appreciated this inclusive feature.
Tips from RVers
Water pressure concerns: Check campground utilities before connecting. "Water pressure is really high at around 155 psi. So definitely bring a regulator," advises an RVer at Alamogordo / White Sands KOA.
Railroad noise: Some campgrounds experience train disturbances. "However there is a train close by that blew the horn very loud all throughout the night. Woke me up at 1am, 3am, and 5:30 am," warns a light sleeper who stayed at Alamogordo / White Sands KOA.
Premium site options: Consider upgraded RV sites for additional amenities. "We paid extra for a site with swing, paver patio, table and chairs. Site was very large, private, and well worth the extra $," recommends an RVer who found the premium sites at Alamogordo / White Sands KOA worthwhile despite occasional noise disruptions.
