Lincoln National Forest tent campsites near Sunspot, New Mexico sit at elevations between 7,000-9,000 feet in the Sacramento Mountains. This region features a mix of developed and dispersed camping options, with many sites requiring campers to navigate dirt roads that can become impassable after rain. Winter temperatures frequently drop below freezing at higher elevations, while summer evenings typically cool to 50-60°F.
What to do
Trail access from campsites: Upper Bonito Dispersed Recreation Area provides direct access to some of Ruidoso's most popular hiking trails. "Good base camp for some of the best hiking around Ruidoso (Big Bonito Trail, Argentina Trail, etc.)," notes one Upper Bonito visitor.
Fall foliage viewing: Several forest roads with camping spots become scenic drives during autumn. "Fairly quiet dirt road with camping spots all along it. Has hiking trails," reports a camper who visited Lower Karr Canyon Campground, calling it "one of my favorite roads to drive down in fall."
Stargazing from mountain peaks: Monjeau Campground sits at approximately 9,500 feet elevation, offering 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," explains a Monjeau Campground visitor.
What campers like
Mountain temperature relief: The higher elevation provides significant cooling during hot months. One Monjeau camper noted, "Make sure you have a sturdy setup. If you can deal with all that though, the view is unsurpassed. Its just a small hike up to the tower where you can see in every direction forever it seems."
Wildlife encounters: Many Sacramento Mountain campsites provide opportunities to observe native species. According to one visitor, Upper Bonito offers spaces where "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!"
Secluded campsites: Several primitive camping areas offer isolation from crowds. A camper at Skyline Campground reported, "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
Road conditions vary widely: Many tent camping areas require driving on unmaintained forest roads. A visitor to James Canyon Campground mentioned, "This a small campground with only 6 sites. The pit toilets were clean. The site stayed at had a fire ring/grill, picnic table and a tent pad."
Wind exposure at high elevations: Sites on peaks or ridges experience strong winds. One Skyline camper wrote, "All in all a decent one night or two campground, very close to the road, and very slanted."
Limited facilities at dispersed sites: Most areas have minimal or no amenities. A Cedar Creek camper noted, "Not a lot to say 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."
Tips for camping with families
Group sites available: For family reunions or larger gatherings, dedicated group sites offer more space. A visitor to Slide Group Campground shared, "We have rented Slide Campground several times for group RV & tent camping. It 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."
Educational opportunities: The diverse ecosystem provides learning experiences. "This spot saved us at the end of our drive from Texas. It was one of the first stops in and we were pleasantly surprised. Easy access and a nice paved road, bathroom, fire ring, and picnic table," noted a James Canyon visitor.
Safety considerations: Varying weather conditions require preparation. A camper at Monjeau warned, "Beautiful area under the lookout. Pretty quiet but limited areas you can go. Can be windy and cold at night. Road up there was somewhat rough but I think any car can make it without issues."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV access at most sites: Few tent camping areas near Sunspot accommodate larger vehicles. An RVer at James Canyon Campground explained, "This is right off the highway, so easy access. There are only two sides when you can accommodate an RV. A couple folks parked in the parking lot overnight. Adjacent highway noise is very noticeable, however, traffic is pretty light and very late at night time."
Boondocking preparation required: Dispersed sites lack hookups or dump stations. At Upper Bonito, "A lot of dispersed camping areas don't have toilets, but this one does. Lots of first come first served campsites along the little creek. Not much privacy when it's busier."
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds feature uneven terrain. One RVer noted about James Canyon, "Both RV sites are back in. A little bit of extra work is required to back the trailer down to go to one of the two site."
