The Lincoln National Forest around Ruidoso Downs offers dispersed camping sites between 6,000 and 9,500 feet elevation. Temperature differences can exceed 25°F between valley and mountain campsites, with peak camping season running mid-May through late September. Local camping areas feature a mix of pinyon pine at lower elevations transitioning to ponderosa and spruce at higher elevations.
What to do
Mountain biking access: At Monjeau Campground, campers can connect to forest trails for challenging rides at 9,500 feet elevation. "The road leading to the campsite wasn't an issue at all. In fact, most vehicles are more than likely to make it if they aren't too long or pulling a trailer," notes Elissa E.
Fishing opportunities: Grindstone Lake offers fishing and paddle sports just minutes from town. "They've really improved this place. They've got a floating play island and 🛶. Good times for the whole family," writes Matthew K. The lake requires reservations on weekends during summer months.
Wildlife viewing: Multiple camping areas provide opportunities to spot local wildlife. "We had regular visits from a group of about 11 male mule deer! Bring your hummingbird feeders you won't be disappointed!" reports Belinda D. from Eagle Creek RV Resort. Wild horses are frequently spotted near Fort Stanton and Monjeau areas.
What campers like
Convenient in-town options: Midtown Mountain Campground & RV Park offers urban camping with full amenities. "If you want to stay in a mountain retreat but close to downtown Ruidoso, NM then this is a perfect place to be. Large abundant pine trees provide lots of shade. Bathrooms with shower are NEW, CLEAN, AND PRIVATE," explains Phillip W.
Creek access: Several campgrounds feature stream access for cooling off during summer months. "There is a small creek that runs along the grounds and nice spots to sit and chill out. There are horseshoe pits, fenced in area for dogs to do their business, playground for kids," shares Bill F. from Bonito Hollow RV Park.
Star viewing: Higher elevation campsites provide exceptional night sky viewing. "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," reports Hasan A. about Skyline Campground. Light pollution is minimal at sites further from town.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to dispersed sites can be challenging. "The drive up is full of narrow switchbacks that you just hope and pray nobody else happens to be coming around at the same time as you are. There are some quite steep grades as well," warns Chad D. about Monjeau Campground.
Limited services: Most forest sites lack water and hookups. "It gets hot here starting in May and not much shade available. As a side note the caves located just by the CG are closed," notes Jeanie P. from Fort Stanton Cave Campground.
Weather challenges: Higher elevations experience significant wind. "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!" warns Michael about Skyline Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Dog-friendly options: Many campgrounds accommodate pets but have specific rules. "The campground is pet friendly, has an enclosed run where you can take them off the leash for a bit, also has several locations with poop bags available," notes Sue G. about Bonito Hollow.
Activity centers: Some campgrounds offer dedicated entertainment spaces. "Amenities are amazing laundry gym fire pit. Very clean and well kept we love it here," shares Michael F. about Midtown Mountain Campground.
Best swimming spots: Riverside RV Park provides direct water access for cooling off. "Had a nice deck overlooking the creek," reports Kerry L. Local swimming holes are limited but essential during summer when temperatures regularly exceed 85°F.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Larger RVs face limitations at most forest sites. "For motorhomes and big rigs the three main campsites are really the only ones I would recommend camping in. There are some small boondocking campsites further up cave canyon trail road but the road was pretty rough in spots," advises TheCampingNerd about Fort Stanton.
In-town hookups: Slow Play RV Park offers convenient full-service sites. "I picked a spot way up at the top - it was very well maintained and clean. Ruidoso is an amazing city that we fell in love with. Great places to eat - cafe rio, hall of flame, and Anaheim jacks being three of them," shares Jerilyn M.
Elevation benefits: Higher elevation campgrounds offer cooler temperatures. "We received a call about 10 minutes prior to our arrival to ensure we knew where they are located. Upon arrival we were greeted and escorted to our site and advised on hookups," notes Ronald from Slow Play RV Park.
