Lincoln National Forest sits in the Sacramento Mountains of southeastern New Mexico, with elevations ranging from 4,000 to over 9,500 feet. The forest encompasses five wilderness areas spanning 1.1 million acres, creating diverse terrain for equestrian campers. Winter weather significantly impacts accessibility, with higher elevations experiencing snowfall and temperatures below freezing from November through March.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: The West Mesa Trailhead BLM Dispersed area serves as a strategic launch point for horseback riding expeditions. According to a camper, "It was late November and cold so I stayed where I had electric service. But I rode my bike all over the place and there's dispersed camping everywhere. Good cell phone service."
Hiking with views: For non-equestrian hiking, Skyline Campground offers access to mountain trails. One visitor notes, "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 and there is not a ton of shade but there is some!"
Wildlife watching: The Lincoln National Forest area provides habitat for elk, deer, and occasionally bears. At Upper Karr Canyon Campground, a visitor shared, "They're a few areas that have a camp site established there but we chose to hike off into the trees and find our own spot. There are plenty of trails and campsites in the trees... May run into deer or elk while out there."
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: Three Rivers Campground provides access to less-traveled areas suitable for horses and hikers alike. A recent visitor observed, "Three Rivers Campground finally reopened 'for good' at the start of 2024 after some stops and starts due to fires around the area. This place is unique as it is one of the few places you can camp on the Western edge of Sierra Blanca / the White Mountain Wilderness."
Cooler temperatures: Higher elevation sites offer relief from summer heat. At Upper Karr Canyon Campground, a camper noted, "Great place to cool down when coming from the basin and the 95+ degree days in the summer. Does get snow in the winter months and will drop below freezing."
Trail access: Upper Bonito Dispersed Recreation Area offers convenient access to riding trails. One visitor said, "Good base camp for some of the best hiking around Ruidoso (Big Bonito Trail, Argentina Trail, etc.) Be prepared for lots of dust with the dirt road uphill from sites. In the summer there are horse riding camps set up to provide trail rides."
What you should know
Weather conditions: Mountain areas experience significant temperature swings and wind. At Skyline Campground, a visitor warned, "You have 360 views of the region, but beware, the wind can get quite torrential and there is not a ton of shade."
Wildlife precautions: Bears are active in the region, requiring proper food storage for equestrian campers. A Three Rivers Campground visitor advised, "Good little camp ground..stow your food away from tent had a bear visit while there..also the road getting there is prone to flash floods."
Road conditions: Baca Campground and other dispersed sites require careful driving, especially in wet conditions. One camper warned, "DO NOT ATTEMPT TO DRIVE HERE IN WET CONDITIONS!" while another noted, "Slow driving in due to the gravel road. Roads into the campground are rough but accessible."
Tips for camping with families
Horse-friendly locations: Upper Bonito Dispersed Recreation Area offers family-accessible equestrian camping. A visitor shared, "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. Lots of trails nearby and the lake of course!"
Accessible wilderness: For families seeking a unique experience without horses, Backcountry Primitive Sites at White Sands National Park offers something different. A camper noted, "This isn't a campground but backcountry camping with a hike to the site of under a mile, so it's perfect for backpacking trips for families. BUT walking on sand is a lot more tiring than you think it'll be and water is heavier than you think it's be!!"
Camping near activities: When seeking horse campgrounds near Lincoln National Forest with family amenities, consider proximity to towns. At Baca Campground, a visitor noted, "The town of Capitan is only about 15 to 20 miles away there is a grocery a Dollar store, gas station, laundromat and a US Post office."
Tips from RVers
RV accessibility: Many Lincoln National Forest horse camping areas have limited RV facilities. At Three Rivers Campground, a visitor observed, "It would be easy except after a heavy storm where the road was flooded and there are only 2 sites we saw that would hold our camper... Maybe next time we will try as long as it has been dry and no rain!"
Alternative options: For full-service RV camping near equestrian areas, consider Twin Spruce RV Park. A visitor shared, "We stayed here in January and the stay was wonderful. We were greeted by friendly and helpful hosts. Nice office and with couches and a book/dvd lending library. There is a pool in the summer and an area for breakfast."
Dispersed options: Baca Campground offers dispersed RV sites with minimal amenities. A camper explained, "Dozens of spots to park your rig with tree cover along the main loop. Lots of small roads off of the main loop with more camp spots. Some of those roads were not accessible by our van, as they are a little rough."
