Equestrian camping near Mayhill, New Mexico offers riders access to diverse terrain in the Lincoln National Forest at elevations ranging from 6,500-7,500 feet. The area experiences mild summers with temperatures typically in the 70s-80s°F and cold winters with occasional snow. Cell service varies significantly throughout the region, with most dispersed sites offering limited 1-2 bar connectivity.
What to do
Trail riding access points: Upper Bonito Dispersed Recreation Area connects to several riding trails suitable for day trips. As Kala J. notes, it's a "good base camp for some of the best hiking around Ruidoso (Big Bonito Trail, Argentina Trail, etc.)" and "in the summer there are horse riding camps set up to provide trail rides."
Mountain exploration: Three Rivers Campground serves as a gateway to mountain riding with three separate trailheads. Jorge G. explains, "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. Tons of hiking opportunities with 3 separate trails originating at the campground."
Wildlife viewing: The Lincoln National Forest area supports diverse wildlife for riders to observe. At Baca Campground, Jamie P. reports, "I nearly always see lots of wildlife. The campsite s are large and widely spaced."
What campers like
Mountain vistas: Skyline Campground offers exceptional views for riders taking breaks. Michael mentions, "It's absolutely stunning to camp at the peak of a mountain. You have 360 views of the region."
Spacious sites: Horse trailers require extra room, and many dispersed sites accommodate this need. At Baca Campground, Jamie P. shares, "This is dispersed camping...Very remote, lots of wildlife, elk, coyotes, roadrunners. This place was once a CCC camp in the 1930s."
Privacy between campsites: Riders appreciate distance from other campers. K&S Adventures reports about Upper Bonito, "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."
Creek access: Several camping areas feature water access for horses. Jaedee B. notes about Upper Bonito Dispersed Recreation Area, "Creek near by that didn't have much water in it. But over all pretty (Dry) Area."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Mountain conditions can change rapidly. At Skyline Campground, Michael warns, "The wind can get quite torrential and there is not a ton of shade but there is some!"
Road conditions: Access roads vary greatly in quality. At Three Rivers Campground, Jorge G. explains, "Well maintained dirt roads lead up to the campground. There's a single spot where water flows over the road but it was only an inch or so deep and padded with concrete."
Fire restrictions: Many areas limit or prohibit fires during dry periods. Jamie P. notes at Baca Campground, "No water on the premises so you must bring your own. No trash faculties, so pack it in, pack it out."
Seasonal closures: Winter weather affects access to horse-friendly sites. At Upper Bonito, Kala J. cautions, "Can get snowed in in the Winter months."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: Upper Karr Canyon Campground offers easier terrain for family riding. Carson P. shares, "Beautiful area for tent camping. I hiked into the trees a bit so there weren't super close neighbors. Plenty of downed trees for gathering firewood. There's an old logging road that makes for an easy hike."
Safety considerations: Some areas require extra vigilance. Jon D. advises at Upper Karr Canyon, "While watching the sunset there, I was attempted to be followed by what seemed like another onlooker once it got dark. I let them know very quickly I knew what they were up to, and they went on their way."
Basic facilities: Most horse camping areas offer minimal amenities. Alex G. reports about Upper Bonito, "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."
Tips from RVers
Accessibility for trailers: West Mesa Trailhead BLM Dispersed accommodates horse trailers and RVs on BLM land. Nikki B. explains, "Easy to find and not a rough drive. I saw several dirt pull offs surrounded by trees before parking. This was a very private remote area in the forest."
Camp setup for equestrians: Sites with both horse areas and RV parking are limited. Teresa T. notes about West Mesa, "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."
Seasonal planning: Winter visits require preparation. Kolby B. shares about Baca, "Quick stop to sleep on our way home. We pulled in at dark, sometime early morning I think, so didn't spend much time here but the spots were easy to find, clean and ours at least had a fire ring."
