Equestrian camping near Ruidoso Downs, New Mexico provides access to the Lincoln National Forest's extensive trail system at elevations ranging from 6,500 to 10,000 feet. The area experiences distinct seasonal changes with summer highs averaging 75-85°F while winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing with occasional snowfall. Campers should note that forest roads accessing horse-friendly sites can become particularly challenging after rainfall.
What to do
Trail riding from camp: At Three Rivers Campground, riders can access three separate trail systems directly from the campground. A reviewer noted, "Tons of hiking opportunities with 3 separate trails originating at the campground," making it convenient for day rides without trailering horses.
Explore petroglyphs: Located 4 miles from Three Rivers Campground, the Three Rivers Petroglyph National Park offers a unique cultural experience. One camper mentioned, "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."
Wildlife viewing: The mountains surrounding Ruidoso Downs support diverse wildlife populations. At Baca Campground, a camper reported, "Very remote, lots of wildlife, elk, coyotes, roadrunners. This place was once a CCC camp in the 1930s."
Photography opportunities: The elevated terrain provides excellent photography conditions. One visitor to Skyline Campground shared, "It's absolutely stunning to camp at the peak of a mountain. You have 360 views of the region."
What campers like
Natural water features: Seasonal streams enhance the camping experience in certain locations. A visitor to Upper Karr Canyon Campground remarked, "It leads into a meadow with a very small pond which I'm sure would be good for wildlife viewing if you sat there long enough."
Secluded campsites: Many horse-friendly areas offer privacy between sites. A camper at Upper Bonito Dispersed Recreation Area noted, "Lots of first come first served campsites along the little creek. Not much privacy when it's busier (warmer months)."
Accessible trail networks: The region features interconnected trail systems. One camper shared, "Good base camp for some of the best hiking around Ruidoso (Big Bonito Trail, Argentina Trail, etc.)"
Vault toilets at dispersed sites: Unlike many primitive camping areas, some dispersed sites include basic facilities. A reviewer pointed out, "A lot of dispersed camping areas don't have toilets, but this one does."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to many horse camping areas requires preparedness. A camper at Baca Campground warned, "DO NOT ATTEMPT TO DRIVE HERE IN WET CONDITIONS!" after getting stuck in mud following unexpected snow.
Weather variability: Mountain elevations create rapid weather changes. One visitor to Skyline Campground cautioned, "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."
Water availability: Most dispersed horse camping areas lack water sources. A Baca Campground visitor advised, "No water no trash cans so pack it in pack it out. This said I always have an enjoyable stay."
Winter access limitations: Snow can restrict access to higher elevation camps. A recent visitor noted, "Wrong time of year too come to Baca, snow covered. Able too park, spent one nite."
Tips for camping with families
Find shaded sites: Summer heat can be intense at lower elevations. At West Mesa Trailhead BLM Dispersed, a camper recommended, "Easy to find and not a rough drive. I saw several dirt pull offs surrounded by trees before parking."
Wildlife education opportunities: The diverse ecosystem provides learning experiences. A camper mentioned, "I nearly always see lots of wildlife. The campsite s are large and widely spaced."
Nearby supplies: Provisions are available in surrounding communities. One camper shared, "The town of Capitan is only about 15 to 20 miles away there is a grocery a Dollar store, gas station, laundromat and a US Post office."
Fire safety awareness: Fire restrictions vary seasonally. A visitor to Upper Bonito advised, "Be prepared for lots of dust with the dirt road uphill from sites. In the summer there are horse riding camps set up to provide trail rides."
Tips from RVers
Limited large rig access: Many horse-friendly sites have size restrictions. At Three Rivers Campground, a camper with a large trailer observed, "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."
Leveling challenges: Terrain can complicate setup for larger rigs. One camper mentioned, "All in all a decent one night or two campground, very close to the road, and very slanted."
Dump station locations: Plan ahead for waste disposal. A visitor noted, "No trash faculties, so pack it in, pack it out. Only 15 miles from Capitan to the west and 20 miles to Reuidoso in the north."
RV parking limitations: Some recreation areas restrict RV access beyond parking areas. A camper at Upper Karr Canyon Campground observed, "You cannot drive any where else besides the parking lot and would not be ideal for RVs or camper vans as the picnic tables/fire rings are not very close to the parking lot."
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