Dispersed camping near Sunspot, New Mexico occurs primarily at elevations around 9,400 feet, creating distinctly cold overnight conditions even during summer months. The Sacramento Mountains' pine forests provide abundant natural camping areas within Lincoln National Forest, with most sites accessible via forest service roads between Cloudcroft and the Sunspot Observatory. During fall months, campers may encounter abundant wildlife activity including elk bugling season.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: At Dog Canyon, you can enjoy excellent wildlife spotting from your campsite. "We saw more elk than we could count! Just glowing eyes everywhere and all in the road," reports one camper at Forest Road 568. The area supports diverse bird populations, with one camper noting, "Elk, hummingbirds, all tucked away in aspen grove. This is a special spot."
Hiking local trails: Several trails connect directly from camping areas, making day hikes convenient. At Alamo Peak Rd, "Rim Trails and Alamo Peak Trails in walking distance." Many dispersed sites have access to forest paths. "We took a short 1-mile hike from the Bluff Springs trailhead to the Willie White trailhead. There are longer hikes too," notes a camper from Bluff Springs.
Stargazing: The limited light pollution provides exceptional night sky viewing. "The stars are amazing at nighttime!" reports a visitor to Red Sands. Another camper at Forest Road 568 mentioned, "It was enjoyable out in the night sky and the stars were very clear and beautiful."
What campers like
Cooler temperatures: The high elevation provides relief from summer heat. "We parked on the side of a hill with the tall trees up the sunset and wind. Never felt so in tune with nature," notes a camper at Forest Rd 568 Dispersed. Another visitor mentioned, "You can't deny the stark temp difference coming from Roswell to LNF."
Secluded camping spots: Many locations offer privacy despite popularity. "There were other campers nearby but it was quiet and beautiful," reports a visitor at Alamo Peak Rd. Another camper mentioned, "We got a nice little private spot under a huge tree. There was lots of really nice people staying at the sites at the entrance, but if you go further you can find some privacy."
Natural water features: Some sites offer access to seasonal creeks and waterfalls. "Bluff Springs features a small waterfall that we could see and hear from our campsite and a creek for kiddos to play in," notes one camper. Another mentions, "The spring waterfall was great. Forest Ranger was super helpful."
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Many forest roads require appropriate vehicles. "Road is a little rough but flattens out as you go up the hill. After the fork, sites big enough for a van or larger Class B but that's it," notes a visitor at Forest Road 568 - Dispersed Camping. Another camper states, "I drive a little, low-clearance hatchback and was able to make it all the way to the end of the road and back out while scoping out sites."
Cell service is inconsistent: Coverage varies by location and carrier. "I had AT&T 3-4 bars of signal, enough to work my remote job and stream You-Tube," reports one camper. Others note complete absence of service: "No cell service except for a few bars down the road toward Alamo Peak."
Limited facilities: Most dispersed camping areas have no services. "No amenities. I highly recommend this spot if you need somewhere free to stay extended or even one night if you're visiting Lincoln," states a camper. Another notes, "No water or bathrooms though so be prepared to bring a shovel and your own survival supplies."
Tips for camping with families
Look for creek access: Water features provide entertainment for children. "The spot was amazing right next to the little creek. We will definitely be going back soon," shares a visitor to Bluff Springs Dispersed Camping. Another camper mentioned, "There is a small waterfall that we could see and hear from our campsite and a creek for kiddos to play in."
Pack for cold nights: Even summer camping requires warm gear. "We tent camped in mid September 2022 in the Lincoln National Forest south of Cloudcroft, NM off Forest Service Road 64. Over 9,400' and it got cold at night," notes a camper. Another mentioned, "It got cold at night. Saw one elk and heard more bugling."
Bring entertainment: Limited connectivity means traditional entertainment. One family notes, "With one camper, two tents, two jeeps, two dogs, six kiddos and 10 adults it was a chore to get everything out and set up but worth every minute to enjoy the next three days worry and technology free."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller rigs only. "We have a 30 foot motor home and were so glad to find a dispersed spot in the mountains we could fit!" notes a camper at Dog Canyon. Another RVer cautions, "We should have just stayed in the first location we found though. We went to the end of the road to find out that there was no way to turn our 29 ft trailer."
Unlevel sites: Come prepared with leveling equipment. "Rocky unlevel sites," notes one RVer. Another mentions, "One of our favorites. Room for big rigs prior to road intersection pretty rough beyond that. Able to get our 31' class C with no issues other than unevenness."
Turnaround challenges: Scout ahead before driving large rigs down narrow roads. "We had to go in reverse about 1/4 mile to find a place to turn around," warns one RV camper. Another advises, "It was gated and locked about 1.5 miles in no room to turn a rig around there. Larger than vehicle should stay at beginning of road."
