Best Tent Camping near Luna, NM
Tent camping options around Luna, New Mexico provide access to both established sites and dispersed areas within the surrounding mountain terrain. Upper Bonito Dispersed Recreation Area offers primitive tent camping with basic amenities, while Monjeau Campground provides a high-elevation experience at 9,500 feet with panoramic views of the region. Both locations support tent-specific camping within Lincoln National Forest, though facilities remain minimal.
Most tent sites in the Luna area feature dirt or gravel surfaces with variable leveling. Upper Bonito includes vault toilets, which is uncommon for dispersed camping areas in the region. One camper noted that "lots of dispersed camping areas don't have toilets, but this one does." The Monjeau Campground access road contains narrow switchbacks and steep grades but remains passable for most vehicles, though RVs and trailers cannot access the area. Fire restrictions vary seasonally, with some campgrounds prohibiting fires entirely. Water sources are extremely limited, requiring campers to bring adequate supplies.
Walk-in tent sites at Skyline Campground provide a distinctive ridge-top camping experience with 360-degree views, though wind exposure can create challenges for lightweight tent setups. A review mentioned that "it's absolutely stunning to camp at the peak of a mountain" but warned that "the wind can get quite torrential." Cedar Creek Recreation Area offers a small parking lot with nearby tent sites and trail access, operating under a three-night stay limit. Monjeau Campground features approximately five walk-in tent sites with fire rings. In spring and summer, wildlife sightings include wild horses and deer, particularly at higher elevations. Forest recovery from past wildfires creates a unique landscape contrast between burnt areas and new growth, adding visual interest to the backcountry tent camping experience.
