Horse camping opportunities near Mescalero, New Mexico span across Lincoln National Forest at elevations ranging from 7,000 to 9,000 feet. The Sacramento Mountains provide a cooler summer climate than surrounding areas, with temperatures typically 10-15 degrees lower than nearby Alamogordo. Forest service roads frequently cross through meadows and pine forests, creating natural stopping points for equestrian travelers.
What to do
Trail riding from Three Rivers: The Three Rivers Campground serves as an access point to the White Mountain Wilderness with multiple trailheads originating at the campground. "Beautiful and secluded in mid-October. Camp hosts are super friendly and love to chat, definitely recommend stopping by to say hi," notes Noah B. The area includes three separate trails, making it ideal for day rides of varying difficulty.
Explore high elevation routes: Skyline Campground provides access to mountain trails with panoramic views. "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," says Michael. Horse riders should be prepared for exposed conditions at higher elevations where sudden weather changes occur frequently.
Winter riding opportunities: Lower elevation areas near Mescalero remain accessible for horseback riding during winter months when higher trails become snow-covered. Forest service roads near Baca Campground stay open year-round, though a visitor warns, "DO NOT ATTEMPT TO DRIVE HERE IN WET CONDITIONS!" This area provides winter riding options when mountain trails are inaccessible.
What campers like
Natural water sources: Seasonal streams enhance camping experiences at several horse-friendly sites. "Was very nice hike and it make it for nicer cause the water was running. Been there a few times before but there was no water!" reports Amber N. about Three Rivers Campground. Water availability varies significantly by season, with spring snowmelt creating optimal conditions.
Spacious sites for stock: Upper Bonito Dispersed Recreation Area offers ample room for horse trailers and stock containment. "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," says K&S Adventures. Sites along the creek provide natural water sources for horses during wetter months.
Wildlife encounters: The mountain forests support diverse wildlife that riders frequently encounter. "I nearly always see lots of wildlife. The campsite s are large and widely spaced," mentions Jamie P. about Baca Campground. Dawn and dusk provide optimal wildlife viewing opportunities during summer months.
What you should know
Limited developed facilities: Most equestrian camping areas lack dedicated horse infrastructure. "This is dispersed camping. No water no trash cans so pack it in pack it out," explains Jamie P. about Baca Campground. Riders must bring portable containment systems for horses and practice leave-no-trace principles.
Weather considerations: Mountain weather patterns change rapidly throughout the year. "Beware, the wind can get quite torrential and there is not a ton of shade but there is some!" warns a reviewer about Skyline Campground. Summer thunderstorms typically occur in afternoons, while winter brings snow to higher elevations.
Road access challenges: Forest roads leading to prime horse camping areas can become difficult during wet periods. "The road getting there is prone to flash floods," cautions AJCOOK about Three Rivers Campground. Heavy rains create washouts and soft spots that can strand trailers, particularly on roads to remote campsites.
Tips for camping with families
Choose basecamp locations carefully: When bringing children, select sites with natural shade and water features. "Good little camp ground...stow your food away from tent had a bear visit while there," recommends AJCOOK about Three Rivers Campground. Sites near streams provide both water access for horses and entertainment for children.
Plan shorter trail routes: Upper Karr Canyon Campground offers family-friendly riding options. "There are plenty of trails and campsites in the trees. Not a super popular area so they aren't too many people to fight over campsites with," notes Alex K. Morning rides work best for families with younger children before afternoon heat or storms develop.
Wildlife safety protocols: Teach children proper food storage and wildlife avoidance. "Good nature - 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," reports Carson P. about Upper Karr Canyon. Bear activity increases in summer and early fall, requiring proper food storage in vehicles or bear canisters.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations matter: Most horse camping areas near Mescalero have limited space for larger rigs. "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," says Alisa P. about Three Rivers Campground. RVs under 25 feet generally access more sites than larger units.
Scout ahead when possible: RVers with horse trailers benefit from advance route planning. "We decided to leave our 38foot pull camper down at the petroglyph site and drive up to see if it was going to be easy for us to pull our trailer up," explains Alisa P. This strategy prevents getting large rigs stuck on forest roads with limited turnaround options.
Consider dispersed options: Forest service roads offer more flexibility for larger rigs than developed campgrounds. "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," explains Neal K. about Baca Campground. These areas typically lack amenities but provide more space for horse trailers and RVs together.
