Best Tent Camping near Mescalero, NM
Lincoln National Forest provides several tent campgrounds near Mescalero, New Mexico, with options ranging from established sites to dispersed camping areas. Lower Karr Canyon and Skyline Campground offer tent-specific sites, while James Canyon Campground provides walk-in tent camping with designated tent pads. White Sands National Park, located about an hour west, features a unique backcountry tent camping experience on gypsum sand dunes.
Most tent sites in this region are primitive, with basic amenities limited to vault toilets and occasional picnic tables. James Canyon Campground offers fire rings, picnic tables, and designated tent pads, but no running water. A review mentioned that "the pit toilets were clean" at James Canyon. Upper Bonito Dispersed Recreation Area provides toilets but little else for tent campers. During high fire danger periods, campfires may be prohibited throughout Lincoln National Forest. Tent campers should bring adequate water supplies, as drinking water is scarce at most locations.
Tent camping areas in this region provide access to hiking trails and varied terrain. Higher elevation sites like Monjeau Campground sit at 9,500 feet with expansive views but can experience strong winds that challenge tent setups. A camper noted that "your $40 Wally World tent will probably beat you to death in the night" at Monjeau due to mountain winds. For those seeking unique tent camping experiences, White Sands National Park offers backcountry camping among white gypsum dunes with sites located approximately one mile from the trailhead. The backcountry tent sites require permits and provide complete solitude, though they lack shade, water, or facilities of any kind. Tent campers frequently use these areas as base camps for exploring nearby forest trails or photographing the distinctive landscapes.
