Tent camping near Ruidoso, New Mexico offers diverse experiences at elevations ranging from 6,500 to 9,500 feet in the Sacramento Mountains. The region experiences significant temperature fluctuations between day and night, often dropping 30 degrees after sunset even in summer months. Campgrounds typically maintain seasonal operations from May through September, with several high-elevation sites closing during winter snowfall periods.
What to do
Hiking from camp: Upper Bonito Dispersed Recreation Area provides excellent access to some of Ruidoso's best hiking trails. As Kala J. notes, it's a "Good base camp for some of the best hiking around Ruidoso (Big Bonito Trail, Argentina Trail, etc.)." The trailheads start directly from the camping area, eliminating the need for additional driving.
Wildlife viewing: The mountains surrounding Monjeau Campground host diverse wildlife throughout the camping season. According to Hasan A., "we saw wild horses, deer, and massive dropping either of Elk or Bear." Early mornings offer the best viewing opportunities when animals are most active.
Stargazing: The high elevation and minimal light pollution make for exceptional night sky viewing, especially at remote sites. Hasan A. reports about Monjeau: "I have never seen so many stars." Plan your stargazing sessions on clear, moonless nights for optimal viewing conditions.
Photography: The contrast between burned and recovering forest areas creates unique photographic opportunities. The lookout tower at higher elevations provides 360-degree vistas. As Chad D. mentions, "the contrast between the burnt old and the growing new is beautiful."
What campers like
Mountain breezes: The higher elevation campgrounds provide natural cooling during summer months. Noah K. notes about Skyline Campground: "Can be windy and cold at night," which many campers appreciate during hot summer days when temperatures in nearby valleys can exceed 90°F.
Privacy options: Several camping areas offer secluded spots away from crowds. Alex G. describes Upper Bonito: "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."
Accessibility: Some campgrounds accommodate various vehicle types despite mountainous terrain. Elissa E. reports about Monjeau Campground: "We have a Tacoma with a rooftop tent and 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."
Tent-friendly terrain: Most campgrounds feature level tent pads designed for comfortable setup. Michael mentions about Skyline Campground: "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
Wind conditions: High-elevation campsites often experience significant wind, especially at Skyline. Lev reports: "Terribly windy and open but worth the view... very slanted." Bring additional tent stakes and select sheltered spots when possible.
Limited water availability: Most dispersed camping areas have minimal or no water sources. Jaedee B. notes about Upper Bonito Dispersed Recreation Area: "Creek near by that didn't have much water in it. But over all pretty (Dry) Area." Pack in all drinking and cooking water.
Fire restrictions: Regulations vary by season and location, with complete bans common during dry periods. Check current restrictions before departure, as enforcement is strict during high fire danger periods.
Weather variability: Mountain weather changes rapidly, with afternoon thunderstorms common in summer. Temperature drops of 30+ degrees occur frequently between day and night, requiring layered clothing even in summer.
Road conditions: Access roads to some sites require careful driving. Noah K. states about Monjeau: "Road up there was somewhat rough but I think any car can make it without issues." Allow extra travel time when visiting remote sites.
Tips for camping with families
Simple sites for beginners: Cedar Creek Recreation Area offers accessible camping for families new to tent camping in Ruidoso. Nathan S. describes it as a "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. The lot is mostly flat and has a three night limit."
Wildlife education opportunities: Campgrounds with visible wildlife provide natural learning experiences. K&S Adventures reports about Upper Bonito: "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!"
Group facilities: For larger family gatherings, consider dedicated group sites. Ron G. recommends: "Lincoln National Forest Slide Group Campground features vault toilets, 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. Also has bear proof garbage and food storage. It easily held 3 RVs and 20 people."
Food storage requirements: Bear activity requires proper food management at all sites. Use provided bear-proof containers or store food in vehicles overnight to prevent wildlife encounters.
Tips from RVers
Limited space for larger vehicles: Most campgrounds accommodate smaller RVs only. Chad D. cautions about Monjeau: "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 leveling challenges: Come prepared with leveling blocks as many sites have natural slopes. Colin M. notes about James Canyon Campground: "Good level one spot of two total drive-in. Also had parking lot a car parked all night (they may have tented). Very easy access and directly off the road."
Dispersed options: Several forest roads offer pull-offs suitable for smaller RVs and vans. Mark G. describes Dry Canyon: "The camping is great and the views are amazing. However, the trail up to the camping spots is steep, washed out, and tight. Can be navigated with a stock 4x4 pick up."
Generator etiquette: While generators are permitted at some sites, noise restrictions apply. Many campers report negative experiences with generator noise, so limit use to daytime hours and consider solar alternatives for tent camping in Ruidoso's abundant sunshine.
