Tent campsites near Nogal, New Mexico offer diverse camping experiences within Lincoln National Forest at elevations ranging from 5,500 to 9,500 feet. Weather can shift dramatically between seasons, with summer highs in the 80s and winter temperatures frequently dropping below freezing. The area receives approximately 20 inches of precipitation annually, with most campsites located within ponderosa pine and mixed conifer forests.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Cedar Creek Recreation Area connects to multiple trail systems. "Small parking lot at the end of the road. Two trails lead from the lot there are a few good tent sites right by the lot," notes Nathan S.
Stargazing opportunities: The high elevation campgrounds provide exceptional night sky viewing. A camper at Monjeau Campground shared, "I have never seen so many stars. It is a beautiful scene, there are a lot of trees burned down but we saw wild horses, deer, and massive dropping either of Elk or Bear."
Wildlife viewing: The forests around Nogal camping areas support diverse wildlife. At Lower Karr Canyon Campground, a visitor reported, "Saw plenty of wildlife including elk, wild turkey, and mule deer."
Gold panning: Some creeks in the area attract prospectors. One camper at Upper Bonito Dispersed Recreation Area stated, "Went to this area to camp and pan for gold. Creek near by that didn't have much water in it."
What campers like
High elevation cooling: Summer temperatures can reach 110°F in surrounding areas, but mountainside tent sites remain cooler. A James Canyon camper noted, "Surrounding area was up to 110 and was 85 when we pulled in here and thankfully down to 55 at night."
Rustic facilities: Many tent campers appreciate the basic amenities provided at established sites. One reviewer of James Canyon Campground commented, "There are vault toilette (no sinks-so bring your hand sanitizer), there is a fire pit with metal rack at every site along with picnic tables. Best of all, there is NO FEE to stay here!"
Solitude: Off-season camping offers particularly secluded experiences. A camper at James Canyon Campground shared, "Although this site is right next to the highway, it feels very secluded. There are lots of pine trees which is great for hammock campers like us and there are mountains to either side of you which help a lot with keeping the wind out."
Vehicle accessibility: Many tent sites are accessible without specialized vehicles. At Skyline Campground, a visitor remarked, "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 and there is not a ton of shade but there is some!"
What you should know
Winter access limitations: Many forest roads become impassable during winter months. One Upper Bonito camper noted, "Can get snowed in in the Winter months."
Wind exposure: Higher elevation sites experience significant wind conditions. A Skyline Campground reviewer cautioned, "All in all a decent one night or two campground, very close to the road, and very slanted."
Fire restrictions: Fire regulations vary by site and season. At Monjeau Campground, fires are prohibited year-round, while other sites have seasonal restrictions.
Road conditions: Access to some primitive campsites requires navigating rough terrain. A visitor to Dry Canyon reported, "The trail up to the camping spots is steep, washed out, and tight. Can be navigated with a stock 4x4 pick up."
Water availability: Few camping areas provide drinking water. A James Canyon Campground reviewer advised, "There are vault toilette (no sinks-so bring your hand sanitizer)... NO FEE to stay here!"
Tips for camping with families
Group camping facilities: For larger family gatherings, some dedicated group sites offer enhanced facilities. A visitor to Lincoln National Forest Slide Group Campground shared, "It features vault toilets if you need them, a tent area, a very large covered pavilion for those rainy days, large firepit area, cooking grills & a large parking lot for RVs & kids to play."
Family-friendly spacing: Some sites provide good separation for families with children. At Upper Bonito, a camper observed, "It's a nice area to spend with another person and even with kids, restrooms are clean, there's some privacy if you find a good spot."
Weather preparation: Temperature fluctuations can be significant, especially at higher elevations. Pack layers even for summer camping trips.
Activity planning: Family camping can involve nearby hiking trails. A K&S Adventures visitor to Upper Bonito noted, "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. Lots of trails nearby and the lake of course!"
Tips from RVers
Length restrictions: Most tent camping areas near Nogal have very limited space for RVs. A Monjeau Campground reviewer cautioned, "Whoever set the speed limit at 30 miles per hour must have been a daredevil before they found employment as a civil engineer. However the road is decent enough that most any vehicle can navigate it. I had zero issues in my truck with a camper in the bed. A class B could get in there as well, but there's no room for anything bigger and good luck getting level. There is absolutely no room for trailers at all."
Site selection: The few RV-accessible sites fill quickly during peak season. At James Canyon, a camper noted, "There are only two sides when you can accommodate an RV. A couple folks parked in the parking lot overnight."
Road access challenges: Many forest roads have tight switchbacks and steep grades limiting RV access. Most campgrounds near Nogal restrict vehicle size to under 22 feet.
