Lincoln National Forest surrounds Mescalero, New Mexico with tent camping opportunities at elevations ranging from 7,000 to 9,500 feet. The Sacramento Mountains create distinct microclimates where temperatures can drop 20-30 degrees compared to nearby lowland areas. Most campgrounds in this region operate seasonally from May through September due to winter snowfall that can make access difficult.
What to do
Hike nearby trails: Lower Karr Canyon Campground offers access to hiking trails that showcase seasonal color changes. A camper mentioned that it's "one of my favorite roads to drive down in fall" with "plenty of hiking trails" throughout the area.
Wildlife spotting: Upper Bonito Dispersed Recreation Area serves as a good base camp for wildlife viewing. One visitor reported seeing "elk, wild turkey, and mule deer" while camping in the region.
Photography excursions: White Sands National Park backcountry tent sites offer unique photography opportunities on gypsum dunes. A camper described it as having "one of the prettiest sunsets we've ever seen" with conditions where "the moonlight reflecting off the sand, it almost felt like daytime!"
What campers like
Solitude and quiet: Lower Karr Canyon Campground provides secluded tent camping despite its proximity to towns. A reviewer noted it's a "very secluded experience despite being so close to Cloudcroft/Alamogordo" and another mentioned they "didn't see a single other soul" during their stay.
Stargazing opportunities: The clear mountain air and limited light pollution create excellent night sky viewing. One camper at Monjeau Campground stated "I have never seen so many stars" making it ideal for astrophotography.
Accessible primitive sites: James Canyon Campground offers walk-in tent camping that's easily accessible from the highway. A reviewer appreciated that "all of the spots have nice level areas for tents, and picnic tables and fire rings" despite being a dispersed camping area.
What you should know
Weather extremes: Mountain camping near Mescalero experiences rapid weather changes and strong winds. A camper at Skyline Campground called it "absolutely stunning to camp at the peak of a mountain" but warned "the wind can get quite torrential."
Water availability: Most tent sites in this region lack drinking water. At White Sands backcountry sites, rangers emphasize "BRING ALL YOUR WATER! This is primitive backcountry camping" as there are no water sources available.
Site accessibility: Skyline Campground offers tent camping with variable terrain. Campers note sites are "very slanted" and you should be prepared for limited shade as "there is not a ton of shade but there is some!"
Tips for camping with families
Choose sheltered sites: The mountain terrain creates wind tunnels in certain areas. At Lower Karr Canyon, a family camper mentioned they "had a blast because we were able to stay secluded and enjoy it! Plenty of trees!" which helped buffer winds.
Pack for temperature swings: Mountain elevations cause significant day-to-night temperature changes. A camper at James Canyon reported that "surrounding area was up to 110 and was 85 when we pulled in here and thankfully down to 55 at night."
Consider White Sands for unique experiences: Dry Canyon Near Hang Glider Launch provides unique terrain for family adventures. A reviewer described it as having "great camping" with "amazing" views, though warned about the "steep, washed out, and tight" trail to reach camping spots.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most tent camping areas near Mescalero have restrictions for larger vehicles. At James Canyon Campground, an RVer noted "there are only two sites when you can accommodate an RV" and warned "much over 22' would be difficult."
Road conditions: Mountain roads can challenge RVs with switchbacks and narrow passages. A visitor to Monjeau described "narrow switchbacks that you just hope and pray nobody else happens to be coming around at the same time as you are" though "most any vehicle can navigate it."
Consider seasonal closures: Higher elevation campgrounds close during winter months. Lincoln National Forest Slide Group Campground operates "May to October" with amenities including "a very large covered pavilion for those rainy days" and "bear proof garbage and food storage."
