Cabin camping near Mescalero, New Mexico offers convenient access to Lincoln National Forest and the Sacramento Mountains at elevations ranging from 5,700 to 9,000 feet. The region experiences significant temperature variations with summer days reaching 85°F while nights can drop below 50°F. Winter accommodations require proper heating as overnight temperatures frequently fall below freezing from November through March.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Slow Play RV Park (formerly Circle B) provides easy access to Lincoln National Forest hiking routes. "The park is adjacent to Lincoln National park. I literally walked out of my door and up the road," notes a camper who appreciated the direct trail connections.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Cabin stays at Eagle Creek RV Resort offer excellent wildlife spotting. "Look out for wild turkeys, deer, elk, bears, and even wild horses! Drive up the mountain to SkiApache, there are awesome overlooks on the drive," shares one visitor who enjoyed the diverse wildlife.
Fishing spots: The Camp @ Cloudcroft RV Park features the Rio Penasco River running through the property. "The Rio Penasco River runs right through the park and offers the opportunity to catch a trout or 2," mentions a review, highlighting the fishing potential directly from the campground.
What campers like
Mountain elevation cooling: Cabins at Lincoln National Forest Slide Group Campground offer relief from summer heat. "We have rented Slide Campground several times for group RV & tent camping. It features vault toilets, a tent area, a very large covered pavilion for those rainy days," explains a reviewer who appreciates the group facilities.
Stargazing opportunities: The Camp @ Cloudcroft provides exceptional night sky viewing. "The star gazing is fantastic," shares a reviewer who enjoyed the clear mountain skies away from urban light pollution.
Security features: Bonito Hollow RV Park & Campground maintains 24/7 staff presence. "This seems to be a super secure location as hosts are on duty 24/7. No one comes into the campground without stopping at the office and checking in," notes a guest who valued the security measures.
What you should know
Winter planning requirements: Twin Spruce RV Park operates year-round but requires preparation. "We stayed here in January and the stay was wonderful. We were greeted by friendly and helpful hosts. Nice office with couches and a book/dvd lending library," reports a winter visitor who found the accommodations suitable for cold weather.
Cellular coverage limitations: Bonito Hollow has minimal connectivity. "No ATT or Verizon cell service at my site, but I did find a weak signal up near the office. The wifi was a struggle," explains a guest, warning others to plan accordingly for limited communication options.
Seasonal facilities: Several campgrounds including Eagle Creek RV Resort operate only from April through October. Outside these months, year-round alternatives like The Camp @ Cloudcroft should be considered.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Alamogordo/White Sands KOA offers dedicated play areas. "Our kids enjoyed the playground," mentions a family who appreciated the dedicated recreation space for children after days of exploration.
Stream activities: Bonito Hollow provides creek-side recreation. "Some of the campsites back up to a nice running creek. Beautiful bridge crossing over the creek," notes a visitor who found the water features engaging for children.
Group facilities: Lincoln National Forest Slide Group Campground accommodates large family gatherings. "It easily held 3 RVs and 20 people. They provide 300 gallons of water in a tank," states a reviewer who successfully hosted a multi-family camping event.
Tips from RVers
Water pressure awareness: Alamogordo/White Sands KOA requires pressure regulation. "Water pressure is really high at around 155 psi. So definitely bring a regulator," cautions an RVer who discovered the unusually strong water pressure.
Site selection strategy: Boot Hill RV Resort offers premium sites with 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 $," suggests a camper who found value in upgrading their site.
Train noise considerations: Multiple RV parks near Alamogordo experience railroad noise. "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 the KOA.
