Best Tent Camping near Lincoln National Forest

Lincoln National Forest is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Lincoln National Forest, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Lincoln National Forest and user-submitted reviews.

Best Tent Sites Near Lincoln National Forest (12)

    1. Lower Karr Canyon Campground

    5 Reviews
    Lincoln National Forest, NM
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 682-7570

    "Easily accessible and had vaulted toilets available. Saw plenty of wildlife including elk, wild turkey, and mule deer."

    "You just have to look around to find the best one. Be aware of others though. We did have a family show up and start shooting guns in the area without any concern for others around them."

    2. James Canyon Campground

    6 Reviews
    Mayhill, NM
    13 miles

    "Located just a couple miles outside of Mayhill, NM inside the Lincoln National Forest, this primitive camping spot is directly off of US 82 and has a 5 spots total."

    "The site stayed at had a fire ring/grill, picnic table and a tent pad. One of the sites had an Adirondack shelter. This site is close to US 82 which means road noise but I ignored it after 20 minutes."

    3. Lincoln National Forest Slide Group Campground

    1 Review
    Cloudcroft, NM
    2 miles
    +1 (575) 682-2551

    "We have rented Slide Campground several times for group RV & tent camping."

    4. Dry Canyon Near Hang Glider Launch

    1 Review
    Alamogordo, NM
    9 miles

    "However, the trail up to the camping spots is steep, washed out, and tight. Can be navigated with a stock 4x4 pick up. Also, there is a gun range at the bottom, so you'll hear gun shots til sundown."

    5. Backcountry Primitive Sites — White Sands National Park

    23 Reviews
    Holloman Air Force Base, NM
    33 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 479-6124

    "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."

    "Currently the sites are closed due to Covid (as of 10/28/20), but the ranger said they were putting a plan in place. I believe there were 8 spots, all in the Interfunks area."

    6. Hoosier Canyon

    Be the first to review!
    Weed, NM
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 682-2551

    7. Skyline Campground

    4 Reviews
    Ruidoso, NM
    32 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 257-4095

    "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!"

    "Me and two of my buddy's went there and had a great time hiking and just hanging around camp and chilling."

    8. Monjeau Campground

    4 Reviews
    Ruidoso, NM
    33 miles
    Website

    "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 are some quite steep grades as well."

    "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."

    10. Upper Bonito Dispersed Recreation Area

    4 Reviews
    Nogal, NM
    36 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 257-4095

    "Not much privacy when it's busier (warmer months).

    Good base camp for some of the best hiking around Ruidoso (Big Bonito Trail, Argentina Trail, etc.)"

    "It’s a nice area to spend with another person and even with kids, restrooms are clean, there’s some privacy if you find s good spot, could be busy during the weekend, but it’s worth visiting"

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Showing results 1-10 of 12 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Lincoln National Forest

377 Reviews of 12 Lincoln National Forest Campgrounds



Guide to Lincoln National Forest

Tent camping near Lincoln National Forest in New Mexico offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in nature, with a variety of campgrounds that cater to different preferences and needs.

Tips for tent camping near Lincoln National Forest

  • James Canyon Campground provides a primitive experience with clean pit toilets and fire rings, making it a solid choice for those looking to enjoy the outdoors without the frills.
  • Lower Karr Canyon Campground is known for its seclusion and wildlife sightings, perfect for campers seeking peace and a chance to connect with nature.
  • Monjeau Campground offers stunning views and a chance to see wild horses, making it an unforgettable spot for tent campers.

Some prices for tent camping are free

  • James Canyon Campground is a free option, ideal for budget-conscious campers looking for a quick stopover.
  • Lincoln National Forest Slide Group Campground has a fee structure that accommodates larger groups, providing amenities like a covered pavilion and cooking grills.
  • Skyline Campground is another well-reviewed spot that offers a beautiful setting at no cost, perfect for those wanting to enjoy the mountain views.

Tent campers should check out these amenities

  • Cedar Creek Recreation Area features a small parking lot with access to trails, making it a convenient base for hiking adventures.
  • Upper Bonito Dispersed Recreation Area includes clean restrooms and plenty of space for privacy, ideal for families or groups.
  • Backcountry Primitive Sites — White Sands National Park offers a unique camping experience with isolated sites surrounded by stunning dunes, perfect for those looking to escape the crowds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Lincoln National Forest?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Lincoln National Forest is Lower Karr Canyon Campground with a 5-star rating from 5 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Lincoln National Forest?

TheDyrt.com has all 12 tent camping locations near Lincoln National Forest, with real photos and reviews from campers.